What do you give someone who has “everything”? Or someone who doesn’t want any more “clutter”? How about the gift of time? We can’t actually enable you to buy units of time, but, following numerous requests from people who have stayed with us and people who would like to stay with us, we can now offer you…gift vouchers!
Over the past three years or so, we have welcomed many wonderful guests, from all over the world, and have been pleasantly surprised at the number of people who have stayed with us as part of a present they have been given. The challenge when giving someone a holiday as a gift is finding the right time; gift vouchers take away that pressure, leaving your joyful recipient to choose a time that suits them!
Whether this has been a Christmas present, a birthday gift or a thank you, our guests always seem delighted to have been gifted an experience rather than an traditional present, I suppose because it offers quality time together with loved ones, something many of us are short of given how busy our lives all seem to be with work, family, wellbeing and socialising. Making the decision to dedicate time to spend with family and friends shouldn’t be hard, we all love getting together to celebrate milestones, enjoy a catch up and share some food and drink, but actively making the decision to do so can be hard. I wonder whether having the decision made for you and being forced to take some time away from home is really the biggest present, the stay itself comes a close second!
We’ve even had a handful of guests who were either given a short break as a reward for performance at work, or who have won a short stay in a competition, and chose to stay with us here in lovely Lincolnshire.
We have decided to offer Gift Vouchers following numerous requests, as an alternative to booking a full stay to give to a loved one – giving even more flexibility to the person receiving it; they can choose which apartment suits them best and when they wish to travel. And if they need to cancel, any refund applicable (within terms and conditions) would go straight back onto a voucher again for them to use whenever they choose.
So, if you are looking for a wedding present, a retirement gift, a thank you present or simply want to say ‘I love you’, consider the gift of a voucher for The Old Granary, to give the experience of Lincolnshire’s countryside and big skies this year!
Bookings must be made direct with The Old Granary, Lincolnshire; Terms and Conditions apply, subject to availability.
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/23-Jan-19-Snow-flight-36-1-scaled.jpg17072560Louise Wrighthttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgLouise Wright2021-12-02 14:33:202021-12-02 14:37:39Why not choose Gift Vouchers as this year’s Christmas present of choice?
We are absolutely delighted to announce that The Old Granary has been shortlisted in two categories for the Lincolnshire Tourism Awards 2020.
The awards are split into 12 accolades, and we are finalists in the following categories:
Self-Catering Accommodation
New Tourism Business
What are the Lincolnshire Tourism Awards?
The Lincolnshire Tourism Excellence Awards showcase the best of Lincolnshire’s £1.5 billion tourism industry. From beautiful hotels to popular attractions and places of interest, they are an impressive display of everything we love about the area.
Split into 12 categories, the ceremony celebrates those leading the way in sustainability, tourism and attracting visitors to Lincolnshire from outside the local area.
In the words of Lincolnshire Live (who run the awards in conjunction with Lincolnshire Echo and VisitLincoln), the ceremony highlights “the people who shine a spotlight on everything our great county has to offer.”
Each individual award recognises and rewards independent businesses that stand out from the crowd, which is why we are so proud to be considered.
New Tourism Business Award 2020
Sponsored by DoubleTree by Hilton, the ‘New Tourism Business’ award “recognises high performing new tourism businesses, demonstrating excellent understanding of their market, exceeding expectations of their customers with clear plans for future development.”
To be recognised as one of the county’s best New Tourism Businesses so soon after opening is something we are extremely thrilled about!
Self Catering Accommodation Award 2020
The ‘Self Catering Accommodation’ category acknowledges accommodations that “provide truly memorable guest experiences and demonstrate excellence across every aspect of the business”.
Everything about our self-catered accommodation has been delicately chosen and carefully crafted with our visitors in mind, so to be nominated for an award that celebrates self-catering excellence is great.
When is the Lincolnshire Tourism Awards 2020 Ceremony?
The ceremony takes place on the 3rd March 2020, where the winners of each award will be announced. From there, the winners of some categories will automatically be entered into the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2020.
We’re extremely proud to be considered amongst so many wonderful local businesses and to be part of an enterprise that promotes the magnificence of Lincolnshire. We would like to thank everyone who has made our first year of opening such an enjoyable experience for both me and Clare.
To our suppliers, our friends and family, and especially our guests, we are so grateful to you for helping us get The Old Granary to where it is today. We couldn’t have done it without each and every one of you!
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Lincolnshire-Tourism-Excellence-Award.jpg3501000Oliver Wilkinsonhttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgOliver Wilkinson2020-02-19 10:50:052020-02-19 10:59:35Lincolnshire Tourism Awards 2020 Finalists: The Old Granary
Whether you prefer making a home-from-home or want the space and flexibility to have a more independent trip away, a self-catered holiday is the perfect opportunity to unwind in peace and privacy. No matter where you go, it’s always best to keep in mind:
How long you’re going for
What the accommodation provides
Any activities you have planned
What food you want to eat
What the local area provides (e.g restaurants, supermarkets and pharmacies)
In order to make your self-catered stay all the more relaxing, we’ve put together a handy little guide of what to pack to make sure you’ve got all your bases covered in preparation for your trip.
Don’t forget the essentials!
Nobody wants to finish a long journey with a trek to find the nearest open supermarket, particularly after a long flight or drive. On the other hand, you also want to avoid using vital suitcase space for huge packs of tea and washing up liquid! Packing what you need for the first 12 hours of your stay is a great idea.
If you’re anything like us, the first vital step once you’re in your accommodation is to put the kettle on. Tea (of your preference) and coffee are essentials, and a small carton of milk (pre-frozen) will see you through until the shops are in sight.
Most reputable accommodations will supply a welcome pack or starter kit with all essential hot drink supplies, but if you’re travelling in a large group or you’re unsure of what is being provided, taking your own is always worth doing.
What does the kitchen usually include?
It’s important to always check with your future accommodation what utensils you will have to use – you can expect most places to have basic items like a kettle, toaster, pots, pans and crockery – but always check beforehand so you can plan your meals accordingly. You don’t want to find yourself trying to find a large casserole dish in the middle of nowhere!
The kitchen supplies you’ll want to remember are the pantry heroes we often take for granted: things like cling film, foil, plastic containers for any leftovers, salt, pepper and oil will get you off to a flying culinary start.
Getting together a collection of dry cupboard items is also an excellent idea: breakfast essentials like bread, jams, marmite or cereal are worth taking, and even cooking basics such as onions and potatoes if you have the room to spare.
Depending on what time you’re arriving, how much room you have and where the nearest supermarket is, you might also want to take your cold food items in a cooler box / bag. Bits such as butter, milk, eggs, bacon, vegetables, cheese, any meat required for meals (particularly in BBQ weather!), drinks or nibbles could save you a lot of time and money.
In popular tourist areas this is a particularly good idea, as prices for even the essentials can be steep. If you’re driving (and you can spare the room) you could save yourself a lot of spending money.
Do I need to pack bed sheets for self-catering accommodation?
Almost all self-catering accommodation will come with sets (and usually spares) of bed linen and bath towels. The usual culprits for you to pack are flannels, face cloths or beach towels (if needed). Checking what your accommodation provides is essential, as you’ll need to add bed sheets, towels and linen onto that list if they’re not provided with the property.
Those all-important bathroom supplies
It goes without saying that toiletries are essential for any stay. From shampoos and toothbrushes to shaving cream and toner, make sure you’ve got your wash bag stocked full with everything you need. Again, checking if your accommodation provides essentials such as toilet paper and hand soap is never a bad idea.
Information about the local area
Whether you’re staying in a bustling city or a secluded rural area, finding out what the local area provides is a wonderful way of getting excited about your upcoming stay. It also gives you a valuable opportunity to get a feel for the culture and cuisine of the area.
Finding out where people go to get their local produce, any markets that take place, and learning about the best local pubs or restaurants provides you with a huge list of things to do, see and experience.
A few extras
Another little tip to make any self-catered stay a wonderful trip is to schedule a food shop delivery – giving you more travelling time and saving the supermarket hassle. The last very valuable piece of advice we love to give, is to remember that your stay should be a relaxing one.
Once you’ve got your basics covered, make sure you’ve packed a few little luxuries to make the most of your stay away!
What do we at The Old Granary provide?
We supply a welcome pack that includes fresh bread, butter, milk, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, biscuits, sugar, a selection of cereal and some locally produced Pipers Crisps! All linen and basic cleaning products are provided. To see the full list of what we provide, see our FAQs and our apartments.
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/kitchen-unsplash-scaled.jpg9642560The Old Granaryhttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgThe Old Granary2020-02-03 15:15:322020-02-03 15:15:35What to Pack for a Self-Catered Holiday
Luxury travel blogger Gemma Goes Global recently came for a wonderful stay at none other than The Old Granary! During her stay, Gemma explored the luxury that Lincolnshire has to offer.
Who is Gemma Goes Global?
Gemma Goes Global is a travel obsessed luxury travel blogger! Gemma loves travelling and exploring new places whilst giving tips about luxury travel for her 30k followers!
Gemma has visited the Maldives, Uzbekistan, Poland, Sri Lanka, Jordan, Thailand just to name a few!
So we were obviously delighted when Gemma wanted to come and visit us for a luxury stay at The Old Granary!
What did Gemma do during her stay at The Old Granary, Lincolnshire?
The quaint Vintage Tearooms in Tealby. Photo Credit: Gemma Goes Global.
Located in Tealby, The Vintage Tearooms is the perfect spot for a delicious afternoon tea, featuring a gorgeous tea garden with picturesque views of the countryside.
Less than a mile away from The Old Granary situates The Cross Keys in Grasby, where Gemma had a fabulous meal whilst staying with us! The Cross Keys menu includes a range of pub classics as well as modern twists meaning there truly is something for everyone.
Delicious Whitby Scampi and hand-cut Chips at The Cross Keys, Grasby. Photo Credit: Gemma Goes Global.
This is just a snapshot of the sumptuous treats Lincolnshire has to offer.
What other luxuries are available in Lincolnshire?
With a wealth of hidden gems across the county – from restaurants to produce – there is a piece of luxury for everyone to enjoy.
Just a half hour drive away down the lovely countryside roads, Winteringham Fields is the first restaurant in Lincolnshire to gain a Michelin star thanks to Colin McGurran’s ‘mastery of flavours and cooking techniques’.
Unique to Winteringham Fields is their ‘One Mile Menu’, which exclusively features food grown on their small farm or sourced from local purveyors, making it a uniquely ‘Lincolnshire’ experience.
If you’re staying for more than one night, we also recommend treating yourself to a trip to the Hope and Anchor. Situated on the Humber estuary, this cosy establishment was voted the Lincolnshire County Winner at the National Pub and Bar Awards 2019.
Slawomir Mikolajczyk, Chef Patron of the Hope and Anchor, was a previous head chef at Winteringham Fields, and has worked with the biggest names in the industry, including Tom Kerridge and Gordon Ramsey. This traditional pub and restaurant’s unique and timeless take on food makes it a must-visit if you’re staying in Lincolnshire.
Spectacular views & Mouth-wateringly tasty produce
Located halfway between Lincoln and York, luxury is never too far away from The Old Granary. A drive over the Humber Bridge, for instance, not only provides spectacular views, but also fantastic delights from the quaint market town of Beverly.
Beverly has many lovely restaurants and boutique shops for the fashion conscious. The Westwood restaurant, in particular, offers a fine dining experience as one of East Yorkshire’s most popular places to dine.
Lincolnshire boasts a wealth of local, luxury produce. Pipers Crisps, a luxury crisp brand, uses locally grown potatoes to create the highest quality and best-tasting crisps. At the Old Granary, we provide all our guests with Pipers Crisps in their welcome hamper!
Grimsby fishing docks produce some of the highest quality fish, too. Although luxury and Grimsby may not traditionally go hand in hand for some of you, Alfred Enderby proves otherwise! Their traditional smokehouse creates award-winning smoked fish, which is simply delicious!
Our county is famous for its sausages, with the sage and black pepper Lincolnshire sausage one of the Nation’s favourites. If you want to taste the best of the best, we recommend Redhill Farm Lincolnshire sausages, which were rated in Top 3 sausages in the UK by the BBC Good Food magazine!
The world-famous Lincoln Christmas Market
With the festive season just around the corner, what better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to visit a Christmas market?!
The award-winning Lincoln Christmas Market is on this year from Thursday 5th December To Sunday 8th December 2019.
With over 250 market stalls selling traditional crafts and stocking fillers, lining the streets around the beautiful Lincoln Cathedral. The market makes for a truly high-quality festive trip for all members of the family.
Book your luxury Lincolnshire stay
The Old Granary is the perfect place to base yourself whilst experiencing all the luxuries the surrounding areas have to offer.
With a choice of one and two-bedroom high-quality apartments, the bespoke cottages are perfect for you and your loved one to come for a romantic getaway and experience some of Lincolnshire’s finest things.
Hoping to follow in Gemma Goes Global’s well-travelled footsteps by exploring the hidden luxuries that Lincolnshire has to offer? Book your stay at The Old Granary, Lincolnshire’s high quality, self-catered accommodation, now. We’d love to have you!
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/gemma-goes-glabal.jpg43192880Alex Wrighthttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgAlex Wright2019-11-26 09:35:182019-11-26 09:35:21Luxury in Lincolnshire? Gemma Goes Global thinks so!
Despite being one of the largest counties in the UK, Lincolnshire was, until relatively recently, rarely considered as a holiday destination, beyond Butlins in Skegness of course! That is changing, thanks in many ways to the tireless work of organisations such as Love Lincolnshire Wolds.
When we initially had the idea to create self-catered accommodation on our farm, we had no idea there were so many groups of people – some paid, others not – working together to promote the area as not only a great place to visit, but also to live and work. Over the course of the first year of The Old Granary being open, we’ve been incredibly lucky to welcome guests from all over the world, including Tennessee, Beijing, Canada, Germany and, of course, plenty from within the UK.
The beautiful village of Tealby. Photo Credits: Gemma Goes Global.
Welcoming journalists and bloggers to The Old Granary
In the past few months in particular, Owmby has hosted a couple of travel writers, courtesy of Love Lincs Wolds’ efforts to showcase the area. First, in early summer came Claie, a journalist from The Sun, and her family, whose trip featured in Fabulous magazine. Whilst The Sun may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it was amazing to see our accommodation in full colour in a national publication – something we’d worked so hard to bring to life being seen by hundreds of thousands of readers, who’d have thought it!
Following that we were delighted to have Gemma, a blogger whose Gemma Goes Global series has over 30k followers on social media and an even greater reach from her website. Her trip took in lots of lovely spots around the area – you can read all about it here – including our fabulous local pub The Cross Keys, recently shortlisted for a couple of Taste of Excellence awards, and visits to places which hold great memories for us, too.
The picturesque Chapel Six Marshes Beach. Photo Credit: Gemma Goes Global.
Finding hidden gems in the Lincolnshire Wolds
Given that my sister Clare and I grew up in Lincolnshire, then left for ten years, returning a few years ago to enjoy more space with our respective families and to use our business skills to help the farm diversify, it’s sometimes a surprise that people don’t realise what the county, and the Wolds in particular, has to offer. From challenging hills for cyclists, my husband tells me Nettleton, Walesby and Claxby are his favourites, to long, rambling walks such as the Viking Way, there’s plenty in the great outdoors to keep everyone interested. Gemma visited Tealby, one of the most sought after villages in the top half of the county, and somewhere I spent many happy hours running with friends (and our dogs!) before moving closer to the farm a couple of years ago. Coincidentally, Tealby is home to a chap who once gave my husband a piece of advice: “if you don’t go, you’ll never know”. This applies in spades to the Lincolnshire Wolds, you just need to get out there and find out what is hidden around the next corner.
Did you know about the Lincolnshire flag?
The Lincolnshire Flag in all its glory!
A little bit of extra info for you as you come to the end of this entry, do you know why the Lincolnshire flag looks as it does (see picture above)? I shall enlighten you:
The yellow represents the crops grown in the county (fantastic potatoes, of course!), as well as the nickname “Yellowbellies” given to people born and bred in Lincolnshire.
Blue represents both the sea of the East coast and the wide skies of Lincolnshire
Green symbolises the rich lushness of fenland fields
The fleur de lys is a recognised symbol of the City of Lincoln
And the red cross is the Saint George’s Cross, representing England.
You’ll find plenty of big, blue skies and glorious crops when you wander across, through or around the Wolds, the lush green fields aren’t reserved for the fenland in the south, either, and the sea is only a short drive away – well worth it to visit Cleethorpes, Donna Nook (for seals, particularly at this time of year) and Sandilands, the scene of many happy summer days in my youth!
Live, work and stay in Lincolnshire
We consider ourselves incredibly lucky to live and work where we do. Hopefully, by being part of the increasing network of accommodation and visitor attractions across the county, we will see more and more people enjoying the fresh air, beautiful scenery and rich history Lincolnshire has to offer. For more ideas of places to go and things to do, take a look at our journal entry from April: Visiting Lincolnshire: Ten Things You Have to See and Do! And you can follow us and say hello on Instagram and Facebook for more lovely views, stories about farming and ideas for trips in and around Lincolnshire.
Finally, I must thank the team at Love Lincolnshire Wolds for their support and all the work they do promoting the area. Great views and wonderful countryside is a great starting point, but it’s the people who really make an area great. Come and see for yourself, you won’t regret it!
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/lincolnshire-wolds-hubbards-hills-1.jpg19192880Alex Wrighthttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgAlex Wright2019-11-14 10:08:482019-11-14 10:08:50Lots of love for the Lincolnshire Wolds!
The Lincolnshire Wolds offer breathtaking scenery 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.
Lincolnshire Horse Riding Routes
Lincolnshire County Council has partnered with the British Horse Society to provide some excellent routes for horse riding around Lincolnshire.
In the Lincolnshire Wolds alone, there are 5 routes, ranging from 7 miles all the way up to 18 miles, for the dedicated rider. The Lincolnshire County Council’s downloadable maps, allow you to compare what each route has to offer. This can make for a great day out, especially with a picnic in tow!
The Lindsey Trail, offered by Lincolnshire County Council, in partnership with the British Driving Society and the British Horse Society, is a 69-mile, circular trail through breathtaking parts of Lincolnshire and the Wolds. It is also one of the first trails in the country that is carriage driver-friendly.
If 69 miles seems too much, parking along the way allows for riders to choose an area they wish to explore! The beautiful trail gives the riders a tour of some of the most beautiful areas Lincolnshire has to offer, extending from Market Rasen to Horncastle.
How to go horse-riding on a Lincolnshire holiday
Coming on holiday to the Lincolnshire Wolds will often mean leaving your four-legged friend at home. However, there are a couple of places where you can borrow horses to enjoy the rolling hills of the Wolds from the top of a horse.
Brook House Farm offers both short and long hacks to the more experienced riders. Alternatively, if you prefer a beach ride, you can also canter along the sands of the Lincolnshire Coast.
Horse riding on the coast
For many, riding a horse along the beach is a bucket-list staple. The Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe Dunes – a National Nature Reserve that stretches 8 kilometres along the Lincolnshire coastline. This makes for the perfect place to achieve this dream! Theddlethorpe beach is not only great fun for you as a rider but can provide many benefits to your horse.
Cantering along the sands can help to build up your horse’s fitness while giving them a change of scenery. It is important to check the beach guidelines online before planning a beach trip to ensure access is permitted.
Throughout the year, the North Lincs Riding Club host pleasure rides across the Wolds. Often covering the Brocklesby Estate and Pelhams Pillar, these rides are open to non-members for just a small extra cost, making it a wonderful way to ride through beautiful countryside that is not usually permitted.
Pony Clubs in Lincolnshire
Alongside local riding clubs, Lincolnshire is the home to 8 Pony Club branches, 2 of which are in the Wolds. The Brocklesby Hunt Branch occasionally have pleasure rides similar to those offered by the North Lincs Riding club, offering a superb opportunity to meet new people as well as experience some beautiful countryside,
The Old Granary has a plethora of bridleways in the surrounding areas, just a stone throw away. The permissive bridleways attract local riders, dog walkers and cyclists from surrounding villages.
The Hendale woods are located a 5-minute drive from The Old Granary! The woods are usually open from April till October and allow people to ride through the forested area.
From here you can ride around the undulating landscape and head towards Searby, Bigby or even Barnetby alongside the end of the runway at Humberside Airport (one for the well-behaved horses!). With no roads to be seen, it makes for a great hack out!
Explore the Lincolnshire Wolds from horseback, book your stay today!
The Lincolnshire Wolds present wonderful adventures for walkers, cyclists and horse riders alike. With the beautiful scenery and vast number of bridleways and trails, why not book your next holiday and explore the beautiful Wolds from horseback?
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Horseriding-Lincolnshire.jpg28795118Oliver Wilkinsonhttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgOliver Wilkinson2019-10-14 10:22:342019-10-14 10:38:23Horse Riding in Lincolnshire? You must be horsing around!
With quiet lanes, fresh country air and plenty of designated cycle paths to pick and choose from, Lincolnshire is a great spot for cycling! The Old Granary, our cosy barn tucked away in the Lincolnshire Wolds in the little village of Owmby, is surrounded by rolling acres of undiscovered woodland, countryside and coastlines to explore by foot or bike.
The arrival of warmer days and a cool summer breeze sees the much-awaited return of a handful of cycling events in Lincolnshire, so if getting a few miles under your belt is your kind of thing then why not join in the fun and peddle away! The Lincoln Grand Prix Sportive takes place on the 11th May 2019 and is a ride that consists of up to 1000 cyclists who have a choice of four distances to choose from, all of which finish in the buzzy city of Lincoln, the perfect final stop for a well-deserved tipple or two! Or, if you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge and think it’s time to put the training to practice, the C2C2C is a bike ride that guarantees adrenaline highs! The C2C2C is a charity bike ride that takes place on the 27th June 2019 and although quite a distance, it’s a ride for all abilities to get involved in, giving cyclists a choice between two routes; 100 miles or a 124-mile journey. The journey begins just outside Lincoln, which isn’t too far a drive (or ride!) from us at The Old Granary. Taking place midweek, the ride aims to get local businessmen and women out of the office and onto their bikes in the great outdoors, raising money for a charitable cause in the process. With plenty of friendly faces around you to cycle, cheer and guide the way and with all proceeds going towards local charities, we think it’s a pretty good way to get a seriously good view or two of the surrounding Lincolnshire landscape!
As well as a mix of exciting events to get involved in, there are also plenty of meandering lanes and countryside roads that are the perfect places for getting lost! In late spring and throughout summer, the fields glow like a never-ending yellow brick road with yellow oilseed rape flowers towering high beneath the warm summer sun and golden wheat fields that stretch for miles on end. And what better, there are plenty of country pub-gardens dotted around the lanes which are great pit stops for retreating to the shade and refuelling alfresco! Although our northern east country has always been considered somewhat flat, don’t let the gentle rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds fool you, as they’re sure to crop up every now and again and make you peddle that little bit harder!
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/lincolnshire-sunset-36616-1.jpg32404320The Old Granaryhttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgThe Old Granary2019-05-02 12:16:462019-05-03 16:43:21Cycling in the Lincolnshire Wolds: Who Said the County Was Flat?
Go down-under and explore the hidden wonders of The Deep, one of the UK’s most spectacular aquariums found water-side just across the Humber Estuary. Easily reached by crossing the Humber Bride, The Deep is just under an hour’s drive from us at The Old Granary and a place that provides a fish-eye view into the mysteries and wonders of Earth, leaving you to experience icy kingdoms, tropical habitats, creepy crawlies and the secret lives of deep-water dwellers! Explore over four billion years of ocean history from giant fossils to creatures of the sea’s past, as well wandering around an eclectic mix of outstanding-in-size fish tanks that range from the Lagoon of Light to an Amazon Flooded Forest, all of which vibrantly burst with colourful life. A seriously good indoor mooching spot, The Deep is perfect for if the sun is hiding and the weather’s a little drizzly!
28 miles from The Old Granary to Lincoln Cathedral
Not only is the City of Lincoln famous for its steep, narrow and cobbled streets, but it’s home to the fourth largest Cathedral in the UK that, once upon a time, was considered the largest building in the world for 200 years! Considered a pinnacle of Gothic Art and architecture, Lincoln Cathedral’s timeless interior is filled with intricate detail, much of which represents the history of the city and urban myths and legends, including that of the mischievous Imp that was turned to stone for getting up to no good! Truly a spectacle of Lincolnshire that’s certainly not to be missed!
18 miles from The Old Granary to Normanby Hall Country Park
Normanby Hall Country Park is a classic English mansion right in the heart of Lincolnshire. Set within 300 acres of estate, the grand house comes with plenty of leafy green grounds to explore to your heart’s content, so whether it’s taking to the trees for a treetop adventure with Go Ape, fishing in Normanby Lake or sitting back and relaxing alfresco, there’s so much for all to enjoy. The country park is home to a mix of wildlife, from herds of both red and fallow spotted deer found grazing in the Deer Park to a party of peacocks that strut freely around the grounds!
From atmospheric city pubs to cultural cocktails bars, the narrow and cobbled streets of Lincoln are dotted with plenty of spots perfect for sitting back with a tipple in hand! Depending on the night of the week, live music can be heard throughout a mix of the city’s quirky venues, meaning the bang of a drum and string of a guitar is never too far. Lincoln’s The Engine Shed has played host to plenty of well-known musicians and comedians, so be on the look-out for your favourites and expect a good mix of events from live music to stand-up comedy.
For those after an exclusive insight into the illustrious history of Lincoln, the Hidden Lincoln Tours are intimate outings that unveil the secrets and surprises of the charming little city, allowing you to closely explore and recognise the chronicles of Lincoln that have made it the buzzy city we see today. With a close emphasis placed upon the city’s iconic urban landmarks, unearth the need-to-know history of Lincoln Cathedral and get up close and personal with the genuine ancient manuscripts secured and displayed within the timeless building.
Mablethorpe is a seaside town situated just off the sandy shores of the East Lindsey district of Lincolnshire. As the summer months are well and truly on their way and with stretching sand dunes to mooch along, what better time than now to soak up some summer sun and venture over for a bag of salt ‘n’ vinegar fish and chips paired perfectly with a fresh sea-breeze! Whether you’re after a day out sun-seeking or fancy seeing what else Mablethorpe has to offer, there’s plenty to get up to around the area’s natural surroundings and wildlife conservation centres. A few scenic top spots to look out for include The Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary and Wildlife Centre, Queens Park Boating Lake and Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary, all just a short drive from the seaside!
Lincolnshire Aviation Centre, Spilsby
36 miles from The Old Granary to Lincolnshire Aviation Centre
Restored to its original design on a historic World War II airfield, take a step back in time with the Lincolnshire Aviation Centre, a family-run museum tucked away in the market town of Spilsby. The Lincolnshire Aviation Centre honours the heroic efforts and many lives lost during World War II, exhibiting an array of classic mid-twentieth century aviation vehicles that strive to educate and engage visitors with the fascinating and unforgettable extremes of wartime aviation. A museum with an edge, the aviation centre is home to ‘Just Jane’, an original Lancaster Bomber and the only wartime plane today that is able to take you up and down the runway.
30 miles from The Old Granary to Hartsholme Country Park
The City of Lincoln is a top spot for those after the best of both worlds – what better than the buzz of urban life with the air of the countryside sitting right on your doorstep! A Grade II listed park, Hartsholme Country Park sits just 3 miles south west of the city centre and covers around 200 acres of undiscovered woodland waiting to be explored. The country park is made up of Victorian landscaped gardens, a spectacular reservoir amidst endless grasslands and a Visitor Centre with exhibitions and interactive features on the surrounding Hartsholme wildlife. As the leaves change colour with the seasons, the park is a vision to behold year round and the perfect spot for escaping the city for a little birdsong and some peace and quiet!
Looking for your latest thrill? Look no further than Lincolnshire’s own roller-coaster ride of a circuit! Guaranteed to get your heart rate going and adrenaline pumping, Cadwell Park is a circuit set back in the Lincolnshire Wolds and a place for fast-pace! From exhilarating motor events to general track days, Cadwell Park is an absolute gem for any motor enthusiast, and being located just five miles south of the market town of Louth, it’s within easy reach of us! Whether choosing to put your foot down on the tracks or spectate from the Grandstand, a day at Cadwell Park is an experience like no other.
As well as being celebrated for its sausages, Lincolnshire is well-known for RAF Scampton, a Royal Air Force station just outside Lincoln. Home to the world-famous RAF Aerobatics team, the Red Arrows are a team of ever-changing dedicated pilots who over decades have been performing year in year out since 1965. With annual performances at their base in Scampton, this summer expect a colourful display of action-packed routines and death-defying manoeuvres! www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-scampton/
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/4141514_87966d82.jpg512640The Old Granaryhttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgThe Old Granary2019-04-03 13:13:382019-05-03 17:01:51Visiting Lincolnshire: Ten Things You Have to See and Do!
When getting around Lincolnshire, one might argue that over time local systems of transport in and around the county have been largely forgotten about. However, it’s safe to say that over the past few decades the means of getting to and from various spots in Lincolnshire and bordering counties have boomed; meaning that travelling in our east northern region is now more accessible than ever before. With airports dotted around the district and ferries ready to take you to wherever it is you wish to be, the world really is your oyster no matter when you find yourself based!
There’s nothing better than knowing you’re close to your departure gate the night before travelling, which is why we think The Old Granary is such a great spot to rest your head before the buzz of travelling begins. The Old Granary is a converted barn on a family-run potato farm that has been renovated into three bespoke and carefully hand-picked apartments, described as “maximum convenience with added luxury, suiting your every need.” Perfectly situated in the northern region of Lincolnshire’s countryside, you can find our rural hideaway tucked away within the picturesque village of Owmby just under thirty miles outside Lincoln and fourteen miles from Humber Bridge, famously known for being suspended higher than the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco! The Old Granary is a convenient base for all, benefitting from both quiet rural countryside living and the hustle and bustle of surrounding cities and towns. High quality, self-catered luxury accommodation, we like to think that The Old Granary is our guests’ “home away from home”, ideal for both long and short stays and a space completely for you to enjoy alone, or share with friends and family.
If you’re after a cosy bed to rest your head before jet-setting off, a handful of airports are within close proximity and in easy reach of our base in Owmby. Humberside Airport is just a short ten minute journey from The Old Granary, whilst travelling to Doncaster Airport takes just under an hour. Although small airports, flights from both Humberside Airport and Doncaster Airport can nip you over to a mix of cultural hotspots within all parts of Europe in no time!
As well as airports, there is a choice of ports to choose from depending on where you’re journeying. Hull Ferry Port is just over half an hour’s drive whilst Immingham Ferry Port and Grimsby Ferry Port both take just under half an hour. With the growth of transport in Lincolnshire growing right on our doorstep at The Old Granary, exploring has never been easier! So, whether you’re taking to the skies or voyaging off into the sunset by boat, there’s no denying that Lincolnshire really isn’t a bad spot for getting about after all!
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/airport-3511342_960_720.jpg640960Oliver Wilkinsonhttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgOliver Wilkinson2019-03-21 11:33:592019-05-03 16:42:15Lincolnshire and the Humber’s Direct Links with Europe
How does a place become is an Area of Natural Beauty?
Before proposing an area to be designated as an AONB, Natural England must consider the landscape quality, the scenic quality, the relative wildness, the relative tranquility and the natural and cultural heritage of the area. It’s no wonder The Lincolnshire Wolds has retained its status for 45 years as it meets all of the required criteria in spades.
If you know The Lincolnshire Wolds, you’ll know that there are few more beautiful landscapes in the whole of the UK. The best part is, relatively few people do visit this area so the tranquility required is assured.
The rolling hills with the church spires of isolated settlements punctuating the scenery look wonderful in the spring and summer, with the fields glowing with brilliant oilseed rape flowers and golden wheat fields. In the winter, they become a frost-tipped wonderland with ancient bare branched trees silhouetted against the pale, crisp sky.
Unlike most Areas of Natural Beauty, the Lincolnshire Wolds has intense and careful farming to thank for its majestic landscape. Over the last couple of centuries, the careful management of the area by farmers has conserved its distinctive round and long barrows.
Such agricultural progress has also helped to feed the nation – something we continue to be a part of at The Old Granary, growing tonnes of potatoes and combinable crops every year. If you come and stay you can see us in action!
How to explore the Lincolnshire Wolds
Many visitors choose to explore the area by foot. Set out from nearby Caistor towards Market Rasen or Louth, or explore the 4km of Permissive Rights of Way across our own farmland.
Don’t forget the famous Viking Way, which you can join 5 minutes walk from The Old Granary. It runs all the way from the Humber Bridge, through the Wolds, past Lincoln and down to Rutland.
The Wolds is also home to some fantastic cycle routes, though be warned – despite what you might have heard, Lincolnshire is far from flat! Even a drive across the Bluestone Heath Road from Caistor to Candlesby (near the coast) is a great way to spend the afternoon. On a clear day you’ll see Boston Stump, Lincoln Cathedral and the sea!
Places of interest in the Lincolnshire Wolds
Whilst exploring the Wolds, you’re bound to come across something of archaeological interest. As well as the Romans, who set out much of our great road network within the county, early humans lived in The Lincolnshire Wolds over 300,000 years ago. Flint hand axes were found in glacial gravel at Welton le Wold.
Some beautiful churches, both large and small, provide a little more ‘modern’ history. Not far from The Old Granary is All Saints Church, Walesby, also known as ‘The Ramblers Church’, such is it’s popularity with those exploring the area on foot!
There are 14 Sites of Special Scientific Interest within The Lincolnshire Wolds AONB. The Lincolnshire Biodiversity Action Plan and Natural England support landowners to maintain and improve these sites all year round. Our famous chalk streams not only look beautiful, but are home to some incredibly rare plants and animals, including water voles, otters and brown trout.
All this activity is bound to work up an appetite. There are some wonderful pubs, cafes and visitor centers across The Lincolnshire Wolds AONB providing delicious meals created with a wealth of local ingredients. The Old Granary recommends:
We’re always happy to answer any questions you have about our accommodation or the local area before you book a stay at The Old Granary. Get in touch for all the information you need before your trip.
We look forward to seeing you in our beautiful part of the world!
https://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ramblers-church-small-thin.jpg6111198Louise Wrighthttps://theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Old-Granary-Logo-Green.svgLouise Wright2019-03-08 14:53:052019-03-08 14:53:08What is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and how do The Lincolnshire Wolds meet the criteria?
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