Staying at The Old Granary Archives - The Old Granary Lincolnshire

Summer in Lincolnshire: Finding your perfect adventure from The Old Granary

May 29, 2026/by The Old Granary

One of the things we love most about Lincolnshire is its variety.

Whether you’re happiest exploring the countryside on foot, discovering local food and drink, immersing yourself in history, or simply finding a quiet spot to enjoy the view… there’s something for everyone within easy reach of The Old Granary.

To help inspire your next stay, we’ve put together a few different ways to experience Lincolnshire this summer, whatever you fancy!

For the explorers and sports lovers

If getting outdoors is your kind of holiday, you’re in the right place.

There are miles of walking and cycling routes to explore, all not too far from us. From peaceful strolls along our permissive rights of way and out into the rolling Wolds, to longer walks like the Caistor to Tealby route along the Viking Way and beyond, there’s plenty to discover on foot… including a few local pubs well worth planning your route around for a little pit stop.

For those on two wheels, country lanes lead you through the Wolds towards some of the prettiest villages like Tealby and Rothwell, or out towards Market Rasen and the surrounding countryside for flatter, and a little more easy-going rides. If you’re looking to go further, Lincoln and the coast are both within reach, offering a real mix of landscapes in one day.

And if you like to keep active in a different way, you’ll also find local Parkruns like Brigg Park Run on a Saturday morning, along with a variety of running events hosted by Curly’s Athletes.

Visit Lincolnshire offers a great insight into cycling and walking routes in the area if you fancy planning ahead.

For the foodies (and beverage lovers)

There’s plenty to discover here in Lincolnshire for those after some local flavours and a little slice of Lincolnshire foodie heaven.

From farm shops to the best breakfast spot in Lincolnshire at The Sycamore, to cosy pubs (all across the county) and independent cafes, there’s definitely not a shortage of places to stop and eat well along the way.

And it doesn’t stop there. You’ll also find a growing mix of distilleries and breweries across the county, with everything from Mayfield Vineyard to Pin Gin Distillery, offering something a little different if you fancy making a day of it.

For the history lovers

If you like a bit of history with your days out, there’s LOTS to get stuck into.

A trip into Lincoln is a must – a city shaped by so much history… where Roman foundations, medieval streets and layers of heritage sit side by side.

At the top of Steep Hill, you’ll find Lincoln Cathedral and Castle, home to the world-famous Magna Carta.

And for history that goes beyond the city, there are plenty of places that tell the story of the county’s past, from the Georgian character of Louth to Gainsborough’s Old Hall, Tattershall Castle, and so much more.

For family fun

There’s plenty to keep all ages busy during a stay in Lincolnshire.

From farm parks, local attractions and animal attractions like Uncle Henry’s, Lincoln Zoo and Whisby Park to coastal days out, filled with ice cream and amusement fun. As well as woodland walks and hands-on museums, it’s an easy place to keep the entire family entertained, no matter the age.

For slowing down

Of course, not every day needs to be planned.

One of the best things about staying here is simply taking things at your own pace – a coffee in the garden, a slow walk along the countryside, a picnic with a view or an afternoon doing absolutely nothing at all.

Sometimes even the simplest moments can be the most memorable.

However you choose to spend your time in Lincolnshire, there’s always something new to get exploring, no matter what you fancy.

Book your summer stay today!

Celebrating 50 years of the Viking Way from The Old Granary

May 14, 2026/by The Old Granary

This year marks a very special milestone for one of Lincolnshire’s most loved walking (and cycling) routes – the 50th anniversary of the Viking Way. First opening back in 1976, this route stretches almost 150 miles through some of our favourite woodland landscapes, pretty villages and, of course, those rolling hills.

At The Old Granary, we’re indeed very lucky to have Viking Way pretty close to our front door, giving you the perfect excuse to get those walking boots and head out and explore in celebration of 50 years.

Places worth exploring nearby

There are so many lovely spots along and around the Viking Way that make brilliant day trips during your stay with us.

Lincoln – Always, always worth a visit, especially if you fancy combining a countryside stroll or cycle with a wander around the cathedral, castle, or a stop for some tasty food.

Tealby – Another firm favourite of ours, Tealby is a beautiful village along the route, with a rich Viking history still reflected in both its name and heritage.

Caistor – Just a stone’s throw from us, it’s a great stop on the route, with independent cafes, businesses, and plenty going on as part of the anniversary.

Bigby – Keep an eye out for the Bigby Monument as you follow the route towards the Humber.

Easy to explore at your own pace

One of the best things about the Viking Way is that it’s super easy to dip in and out of across different sections. You don’t need to tackle all 150 miles (we hope you’ve got some good shoes if you’re planning that one) – even a short stroll or cycle gives you a real sense of the landscape, and the history.

A landscape that changes with the seasons

No matter when you visit, the Viking Way always feels a little different.

Spring and summer bring wildflowers, the buzz of animals, and long, light evenings perfect for exploring. Autumn transforms the route into warm shades of gold and amber, while winter offers crisp skies and wide-open views that stretch for miles.

Part of the celebration

Across the celebration, there are lots of events taking place, making it a brilliant time to get out and explore a little. The Wolds Outdoor Festival are playing a big part, having arranged lots of events across the route. From guided walks and cycling routes to outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, it’s a fantastic way to experience the landscape in new and exciting ways.

Whether you’re a keen walker, a casual explorer, or simply looking for a peaceful countryside escape, the Viking Way is a wonderful reminder of just how special Lincolnshire’s landscapes really are – and there’s no better time to discover it than during its 50th year.

Wildlife around The Old Granary: What you might spot in the Lincolnshire Countryside

April 20, 2026/by The Old Granary

A countryside stay, surrounded by nature…

One of the joys of staying at The Old Granary is just how much wildlife there is to spot. From quiet hedgerows to open fields and woodland edges, it’s a landscape full of so much life – we’re very lucky to have it all right on our doorstep. That’s also why we try to do our bit across the farm to support and encourage local wildlife wherever we can.

Wildlife you might spot during your stay…

You don’t have to go too far to spot wildlife here; many of our guests notice birdsong and movement across the fields as soon as they arrive… a lovely welcome to the countryside.

Around the farm and surrounding countryside, you might be lucky enough to spot a roe deer or two moving quietly around the fields, foxes at dawn or dusk, or maybe even the occasional badger in quieter spots.

Birdlife is a real highlight too! Look out for buzzards overhead, woodpeckers across the Viking Way and even our resident barn owl, who has set up home in our owl box!

The countryside changes beautifully with the seasons. Spring and summer bring hedgerows full of colour, with bees, butterflies and other pollinators buzzing about.

Seasonal Wildlife…

In autumn and winter, things feel a little quieter, but if you’re lucky, you might spot or hear the twit-twoo of our resident barn owl and maybe even catch a glimpse of bats flying overhead on a still evening.

Get exploring…

One of the best ways to experience the wildlife here is simply to head out on foot. We have permissive rights of way across the farm, giving you direct access to quiet walks through the surrounding fields and into the wider Lincolnshire countryside.

It’s often on these walks that guests notice the most, from birds in the hedgerows to deer in the distance and the changing sounds of the landscape around you.

And that’s really the beauty of it all… no two stays ever feel the same.

If you have any questions ahead of your stay, just get in touch! We’re always happy to help.

Easter in Lincolnshire: Fun, Countryside & Relaxation

March 27, 2026/by The Old Granary

If you’re staying with us over Easter (or perhaps local and fancy a few new ideas), Lincolnshire really does come to life at this time of year. The days are a little longer, the fields and flowers are starting to bloom, and there’s plenty going on nearby to fill your weekend – whether you’re visiting as a couple or bringing the whole family along.

Here are just a few ideas to help you plan your Easter stay at The Old Granary…

Family Fun

If you’re visiting with little ones, there’s plenty to keep them entertained this Easter.

Rand Park Farm are hosting their Easter Extravaganza, with animal encounters, outdoor fun and their immersive Easter experience. Over at Elsham Hall (just a 15-minute drive from us), their Lambing Weekend is always a favourite with the little ones, offering the chance to see newborn lambs up close!

For something a little different, you can head into Lincoln, where the Usher Gallery are running creative workshops, from stop motion animation to LEGO printing, perfect to keep young and creative minds busy for an hour or two! Or take a trip to the New Theatre Royal Lincoln to see their Easter Production of ‘The Jungle Book’ over the Easter holidays.

Get Out and Explore

Spring is the perfect excuse to get outside, and you don’t have to go far. Step straight out from The Old Granary and be greeted by quiet lanes, rolling views, and the Viking Way just a short walk away.

For a day out, why not plan a longer walk with a well-earned pub stop along the way? The nearby villages offer just that – scenic routes paired with cosy spots to sit down and enjoy a relaxed Easter Sunday lunch.

If you fancy venturing a little further, Wilder Doddington is a lovely place for a wander, especially with their ‘A Peek in the Pond’ activity bringing a bit of seasonal nature spotting into the mix this Easter.

Events and Local Finds

There’s also plenty happening across the county over the 2-week holiday period.

Countryside Lincs at the showground (19th April) is a brilliant day out for families, with loads for little ones to get stuck into – from animals and hands-on activities to tasty local food and a proper celebration of Lincolnshire’s countryside.

For something a little livelier, Easter Sunday Racing at Market Rasen Racecourse makes for a fun (and family-friendly) day out – and they’re also hosting their Classic Vintage Car Rally, which little ones will love too.

A Taste of Easter

No Easter weekend is complete without good food.

Whether it’s a relaxed pub lunch after a countryside walk or something a little more special, you’re spoilt for choice nearby. Book in for an Easter Sunday lunch at Healing Manor, enjoy Sicilian flavours at San Pietro, or make a trip to the Michelin-starred Pipe & Glass for something truly memorable.

After a day out and about, head back to The Old Granary to relax and unwind. Whether you’re here for family fun, countryside walks or simply a bit of time to switch off, Easter in Lincolnshire offers the perfect balance of it all.

Lincolnshire Wolds Cycling Weekend: Routes, Rides & Relaxation at The Old Granary

March 11, 2026/by The Old Granary

If two wheels and an open road are your idea of the perfect retreat, The Old Granary is the ideal base for a cycling break right in the heart of The Wolds.

Cycling right from your doorstep

Whether you’re after a gentle ride or a challenging loop, we’re surrounded by a wide variety of routes suitable for all abilities, from easy breezy spins to routes that really test your legs.

The Farm Loop

Take advantage of the quiet lanes around the farm, heading towards Kelsey Moor, across the green lane to Grasby Village and back along the Viking Way. It’s a great way to explore locally without going too far afield!

6km in total

Brigg Adventures

A quiet countryside ride that takes you through the neighbouring villages of Howsham and Cadney. Many rolling lanes, hedgerows and no hills! Pubs, shops and cafes await in Brigg for you to enjoy lunch or a snack before heading home!

16km in total

National Cycle Route 1

Just a short ride from The Old Granary, this section of National Route 1 offers longer rides through Lincolnshire and beyond. Perfect for a long ride, offering a lovely mix of quiet lanes, countryside scenery, and a touch of coastal charm, depending on your chosen route.

km – you choose

The Lindsey Trail

For those looking for a real, heavy on the legs cycling adventure. This trail stretches across Lincolnshire, from Willingham Woods to Horncastle, and combines a mixture of challenges with scenic views of the Lincolnshire countryside.

111km in total

And after a day of exploring the Wolds, it’s a bonus to return somewhere comfortable, with underfloor heating for those cold toes, space to unwind and kick up those aching legs. We also have secure storage for your bikes, a tap to wash your bike down after a muddy ride and heated driers to help you get your cycling gear prepped for another day on the road!

If you have any questions about staying at The Old Granary or want tips on cycling routes, just drop us an email – as keen cyclists ourselves, we’re always happy to share our favourite rides and pit stops!

Explore Lincolnshire: A must-visit for RAF history enthusiasts

February 27, 2026/by The Old Granary

Lincolnshire is often known as “Bomber County”, after playing such a central role in the British air operations during the Second World War and that legacy is still very much alive today.

Here are just a few highlights nearby for you history buffs and heritage lovers…

RAF Ingham Heritage Centre

We thought we’d start with one of the most unique attractions in the area, the world’s first museum dedicated specifically to the Polish Bomber Squadrons who served with the RAF during WWII. It’s filled with stories of the air and ground crews who were stationed there during the time. It’s a great visit to connect with Lincolnshire’s contribution to the wartime story.

North Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

Just a short drive from us, this former RAF fighter base offers a real glimpse into wartime life. There’s original buildings, reconstructed Nissen huts and memorials.

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre

A real must-visit for aviation lovers, here you can see iconic aircraft, including the Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane up close. They even host guided tours to take you inside the hangar and share how their historic planes are still preserved and flown today.

Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

This is where the famous Lancaster Bomber, ‘Just Jane’, calls home. An unmissable experience for aviation enthusiasts, as the restored airfield offers guided tours and aircraft displays.

International Bomber Command Centre

Located in Lincoln, the powerful memorial tells the wider story of RAF Bomber Command, with interactive exhibits, peace gardens and digital archives. It’s both an educational and emotional visit.

And while exploring Lincolnshire’s RAF heritage, why not take a break at a real Historic Stop, The Dambusters Inn.

In the heart of Scampton, this cosy pub is an absolute must, full of history and named after the legendary Dambusters Squadron.

Lincolnshire really is a treasure for RAF history enthusiasts. At the height of the Second World War, the county hosted more RAF stations than almost anywhere else in Britain, and today that remarkable history is preserved through museums, memorials, iconic aircraft, and historic pubs like The Dambusters Inn.

Staying at The Old Granary puts you right in the heart of it all, with a comfortable base to return to after a day of exploring. Whether you’re visiting heritage centres, following wartime airfields, or simply enjoying the beautiful countryside, Lincolnshire offers a truly unforgettable experience for anyone fascinated by aviation and history.

Image source: visitlincoln.com

Celebrate Mother’s Day Weekend at The Old Granary.

February 20, 2026/by The Old Granary

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day? What about a weekend celebrating with true countryside charm, flavour and fun right here in the Lincolnshire Wolds?

Whether you’re after indulgence, family-friendly activities, or an explore around the countryside, The Old Granary can be the perfect base.

Walking & Cycling

We’ve got stunning views right on our door step with scenic walks and cycle routes to enjoy, running through local villages. The Viking Way is just a 5-minute walk from us, with 13 different routes to choose from depending on the length of adventure you’re after, or take National Cycle Route 1 for a gentle ride with plenty of stops on the way, whether that be a glass of fizz or a coffee and cake (for extra energy, of course).

Looking for Something Sweet for Mum?

Treat her to a trip to Doddington Hall, for their Mothering Sunday Afternoon Tea to close your weekend off, in their beautiful coach house, followed by a wander around their gardens for their Spring Bulb Pageant.

For a Little Luxury

Louth Wine Cellar is just a short drive away from us, and they offer appointment-only browsing sessions perfect for a wine-loving lady in your life. They also host private wine tasting sessions once a month… the perfect excuse for a return visit. Afterwards, you can enjoy a stroll around this charming little market town. Pop into The Cheese Shop, explore the independent shops, or visit their Saturday Market!

Family Fun

If you’re planning a family-fun visit, Rand Farm Park offers plenty of fun for the little ones, from animal encounters to tractor rides, and this Mother’s Day, they’re even treating mums to free entry on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March.

After a day of adventure, indulgence, or family fun, return to your apartment, where you’ll find everything you need to relax and unwind.

Plan your Mother’s Day weekend, and have a browse at our apartments!

The Perfect Spring Getaway

January 23, 2026/by The Old Granary

Spring is on its way, the days will soon be getting longer, the first flowers will start to bloom, and it makes for the perfect time for a visit to the Lincolnshire Wolds.

There’s always lots to do, whether you’re wandering the hills on foot, cycling between country pubs or discovering local villages and scenic spots; the Wolds really do come alive in the next few months. Here are our recommendations for a visit this spring!

If you are bringing your bikes (we have a secure shed for you to store them in), one of our favourite easy cycle routes is from The Old Granary along the lanes to Howsham, through the small village of Cadney, joining the Old River Ancholme as you head into the old market town of Brigg. Here you can enjoy a pint in The Yarborourgh Hunt, head to Shipley Curiositeas for a vintage afternoon tea or enjoy a light lunch in The ATRIUM in the Market Place.

At 7 miles each way, on quieter lanes, this is an ideal ride for older children and teenagers; the treats at the end always help to motivate!

As for walking in the Wolds, head to the Nettleton Ramblers Car Park (4 miles away – W3W cartoons.flick.words), there are plenty of walks through the hills. Our favourite is to follow The Viking Way up to Acre House, on to Normanby le Wold and then to the village of Rothwell. The Blacksmith’s Arms is a fabulous country pub, well worth a visit for a drink or some of their excellent food – they have a lovely beer garden for those sunnier days. After you are refreshed, head back to the Ramblers Car Park. This is a hilly, sometimes boggy walk.

If you are looking for a shorter amble, head into the fields local to The Old Granary, where you can use the Permissive Rights of Way to wander around the beautiful fields, spotting the hare, red kite and deer that frequent our land. There is a picnic bench at the top of the hill with the most beautiful views across the Valley towards Lincoln Cathedral!

For those who love a bit of local flavour…

March sees the return of In Good Hands Artisan Farmer’s Market, a must-visit for all the very best local produce and handmade goods, and it’s right by the seaside!

Blooms and brunching

Celebrate spring at Doddington Hall with their Spring Bulb Pageant, showcasing a stunning array of snowdrops, daffodils and other seasonal blooms. Make a morning or afternoon of it with a delicious breakfast or Sunday lunch in the Grain Store, and don’t forget to explore the fabulous farm shop for local treats to take home.

History and Heritage

Lincoln’s Free Walking Tour gives you the chance to explore the castle, wander the cobbled streets and discover all the rich history this fabulous city has to offer!

With so much to see and do, spring really is a wonderful time to plan your escape to the Lincolnshire Wolds!

Things to do near The Old Granary

July 29, 2022/by The Old Granary

When you visit our rural bolthole, we like to think the high standards we set out from the very first time The Old Granary doors opened – alongside our guest’s feedback – speak for themselves. We are confident that when you book to stay with us you know exactly what to expect from your accommodation.

But what about our surrounding area? The rest of Lincolnshire? After all, as a county, it is vast – the biggest county in England in fact, after Yorkshire. There is so much to experience, so much to take in, to savour, you may need some help deciding how and where to spend your time.

Welcome to The Old Granary - Clare and Louise

If you’re looking to experience the very essence of rural Lincolnshire, you’ll be staying in the right place. Not only are we nestled right on the very last barrow that forms the ever-impressive Lincolnshire Wolds, when you arrive at The Old Granary you are also arriving on a working, family, farm.

Home to the Knapton’s – us, hello! – Manor Farm is toiled today by second and third generations of the family. Growing potatoes, cereals and sugar beet, the farm has also been part of a successful environmental scheme for the last 15 years, encouraging biodiversity and developing soil health across its hectares.

A living, breathing example of the rural way of living, staying with us will put you at the heart of Lincolnshire farming, surrounded by a patchwork of sunshine-yellow rapeseed flowers, wheat that slowly turns fields from rippling emerald to whispering gold in a heartbeat, and row upon row of potato plants, hiding their bounty beneath the ground.

The daily work that has taken place on our farm for countless decades has contributed – alongside our fellow farmers – to the preservation of The Lincolnshire Wolds themselves. Unlike most Areas of Natural Beauty, the Lincolnshire Wolds has intense and careful farming to thank for its unbeatable landscape.

But, enough about us, it’s time for you to discover all the experiences Lincolnshire has in store for you…

Walking

Although there are 46 AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, there is currently only one in the East Midlands: The Lincolnshire Wolds. In 1973, 216 square miles of the Lincolnshire Wolds was designated an AONB, and what’s unique about it, is that the whole area can be explored using The Old Granary as your base.

Our friends over at the Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service know every route and every furrow, and have a huge variety of walks to help you explore. From those that are accessible for all – pushchair and wheelchair inclusive – to market town gateway walks, Wolds walks and information about local walking clubs, they have the expertise to help you find your perfect stroll in such a glorious setting.

Cycling

We touched on two-wheels in our renewables post but taking to two wheels is such a fun way to explore the surrounding area – and get a little further afield too.

One of the UK’s most welcoming but least discovered cycling destinations, Lincolnshire is an incredible county to explore by bike. A county of contrasts, Cycle Lincolnshire’s cycling routes will help you take it all in – from the rolling chalk hills of The Wolds on our doorstep, to the flatlands on the Fens and the marshes in the south, with miles of stunning coastline to the east to. And there are plenty of places where you can hire bikes too – so there’s no need to bring them with you – unless you want to, of course.

History

Full of history, and the incredible architecture that goes with it, Lincolnshire boasts some beautiful churches, both large and small. Not far from The Old Granary is All Saints Church in Walesby, also known as ‘The Ramblers Church’, such is its popularity with those exploring the area on foot.

The National Churches Trust lists 12 historic churches in the Wolds alone, with the area also boasting the Lincolnshire Wolds and Coast Festival, an annual celebration of rich architecture, heritage, and beautiful tranquillity, in the first two weekends in September.

Horse Riding

As we’ve discussed already, The Lincolnshire Wolds offer breath-taking scenery to be enjoyed by walkers and cyclists. But what better way to experience these views than from horseback? From permissive bridleways to set trails and organised pleasure rides, the Lincolnshire Wolds truly has something for all riders. We’ve rounded everything up in another blog post, where you can find out all you need to know about exploring the bridleways and trails that meander and mosey nearby.

Refuelling

The nation’s greenhouse, there are of course countless award-winning pubs, cafes, restaurants and coffee shops which you can walk, cycle or drive to – depending how far you’d like to travel. Championing local ingredients and the phenomenal array of artisan producers in the county, foodie hotspots can be found even in the smallest villages and market towns.

Right on our doorstep is Caistor, a Georgian market town brimming with great places to eat and drink. Ted’s is one of the newest additions, a little treasure of a find and true coffee shop heaven. Run by Heidi and Maddie expect hot coffee, incredible ice cream and milkshakes and toasties that will remind you of childhood. Another favourite spot is Caistor Arts and Heritage Centre, a converted Methodist chapel this place combines classic café food and drink with art – and there’s a sunny terrace too.

For a meal out, we always recommend our neighbours at The Cross Keys, Grasby. Walkable, head across the fields to indulge in the team’s award-winning food and views that you won’t be able to get enough of. And, if you’re out cycling or walking one of the Wolds routes, you are bound to come across The Kings Head, Tealby. Believed to be Lincolnshire’s oldest thatched pub, it has made quite a reputation for itself. And for a cocktail or two, The Side by Side in Caistor has become hugely popular with locals and visitors alike since it opened last year (2021).

In our nearby town of Brigg too, it’s hard to count the number of eateries, pubs and restaurants. The Steel Rooms is a favourite of ours, a fantastic coffee shop cum art gallery cum interior store, it’s as unique as they come, with phenomenal homecooked food and plenty of options for those with dietary requirements. The town will be getting some new additions soon as well, with the town’s oldest pub – The White Hart – currently undergoing renovation work with a view to open this year, alongside The Vault cocktail bar, which will make its home in the former HSBC building.

For a wider overview of the county, and the must-see tourist hotspots in the city of Lincoln in particular, you can find all our recommendations here.

Renewables and The Old Granary

July 22, 2022/by The Old Granary

There’s no escaping the need for green credentials in today’s climate. For us, it has never been more important, and we are striving to do more than our fair share when it comes to keeping The Old Granary, and the working farm surrounding it, very much in the green.

From the get-go, everything we have done here has been considered. It has had to be given the nature of the old farm buildings. The bricks and mortar our accommodation sits in were repurposed, as part of our farm diversification project, back in 2018. The very foundation of the business we have created here at The Old Granary was built upon environmental consciousness and conservation.

We’ve never really seen ourselves as owners of the land, more its custodians – we just happen to live and work here every day. Taking care of it while it’s under our watch, we’re making sure every effort is being made to protect the landscape so that there is something here for future generations.

It’s a responsibility, an honour and sometimes a labour of love. But we wouldn’t have it any other way. Combing heritage and tradition with diversification and innovation, for us, renewables have formed a huge part of our journey here. Both the farm and The Old Granary run very much more economically thanks to the installation of solar panels and air source heat pumps.

Solar Power

Here on Manor Farm, we have 50kW of ground-based solar panels, the energy from which feeds into the farm – serving the storage of potatoes through the winter and spring seasons – as well as all the electrical needs of The Old Granary accommodation.

While it’s hard to put exact numbers to this investment, a typical 50kW solar system will yield approximately 42,887kWh per annum – that’s around about enough energy to power four homes for a year. Not to be sneezed at!

Air Sourced Power

Air source heat pumps live very happily on Manor Farm too. They supply the office and accommodation with hot water and heating as well as cater to all of the barn’s needs.

Combining solar and air sourced power, we know we are saving energy as well as driving revenue – so in our eyes it’s a win-win. It makes our life easier, eases our conscience, and gives our guests a greener, more environmentally friendly experience. Something we know people are now actively looking for in such a competitive market.

Protecting Pollinators and Wildlife

But even that isn’t quite enough for us. Biodiversity has to come into it, after all we are farmers. And, sometimes, the traditional methods are the best – with a little modern technology thrown in for good measure of course.

On the farm we sow wildflower mixes, not only to make the rolling hills and grassy knolls pretty as a picture but to actively increase the biodiversity here so that pollinators such as bees, hoverflies and ladybirds, can be as productive and protected as possible.

Winter bird feed mixes are grown too – with fields of sunflowers on the farm providing food for the birds during the winter months. This year too we put down piles of seed rather than just sowing it, to encourage more birds into the area. Another technique we have been utilising is winter stubbles. Rather than cultivating the ground following our wheat harvest, we leave it be. A simple gesture, it actually creates a safe environment for ground nesting birds.

Local wildlife

Barn owls – we already have nesting owls in the horse chestnut tree, and additional owl boxes will be going up this year
Buzzards
Foxes
Badgers
Roe Deer

Green Living

Inside the accommodation itself, guests benefit from considered purchasing and the environmentally-minded folk living close-by, in the way of fantastic local producers.

No matter which hampers guests opt for, be it the Welcome Hamper (containing local bread, butter, milk and jam) enjoyed by everyone, or the ‘on request’ Breakfast Hamper and Taste of Lincolnshire Hamper, local produce and all of the green credentials that come with it takes centre stage. Fruit bowls too take pride of place on each kitchen table, brimming with local and seasonal produce.

Keeping everything as local as possible, we always make considered purchases. By buying local we reduce food miles, increase traceability and accountability as well as offer support to other small businesses across the county. That even goes for maintenance – from cleaning to repairs and decorating, the more local, the better.

Laundry too is now greener, as we are committed to only using Ecover products – plant-based and eco-friendly. And long-term guests are now given the option for fresh bedding, rather than its replacement being a matter of course.

Stay Green During Your Stay

As for staying green while you’re staying with us, well, it’s a breeze. The local market towns and villages, foodie hotspots and stunning landscape are accessible by two wheels, or two feet.

If biking is your thing you won’t be disappointed. Rather than bringing your own – and risk added emissions driving bikes around atop roof racks or tricky travel on public transport with a bike in tow – why not opt to hire a bike locally? With locations peppered across the county, from Giant Store at Doddington Hall & Gardens and Bike Hire at Woodhall Spa to the Cycling Hub at Grimsby and Cleethorpes, whether you opt for a traditional push bike or an e-bike, book a bike to collect on your way to us or enjoy a day out. Prices from as little as £10/day.

For lovers of a good old wander – as we are – The Old Granary sits right on the last ridge of The Lincolnshire Wolds, so accessing this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and the miles of stunning walks within it, couldn’t be easier.

The farm itself is just over 4km of Permissive Rights of Way too, meaning you are free to explore. These walk-ways act to join up the surrounding villages so exploring your new, immediate, surroundings truly is as simple as putting one foot in front of the other – what’s more, they can take you over to The Cross Keys pub at Grasby, renowned for its award-winning food offering, and unbeatable views out across the patchwork, Lincolnshire landscapes.

These paths also ensure the local community remain engaged with what is afoot at The Old Granary, an utter godsend during the pandemic, with plenty of residents taking to two feet to explore what was on their doorstep. We sincerely hope you’ll do the same during your next visit, to leave a physical, rather than carbon footprint, of your travels.

Looking to the future, and in the next 6-12 months, things will be getting even more of a green boost with the installation of an EV charging point for electric vehicles very much on the horizon. More on that one when installation is complete!