Nestled at the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, Horncastle is a town full of hidden treasures. Known for its antique shops, market-town charm, and easy access to breathtaking countryside, it’s a brilliant choice for a slow-paced, character-filled break. With its mix of independent shops, heritage buildings, local food and stunning walks, Horncastle is often described as “the gateway to the Wolds” – and 2025 is the perfect year to explore what makes it so special.
We’ve gathered our favourite experiences in and around Horncastle, including local highlights, scenic trails, foodie favourites and places full of character. For more information on Horncastle, check out our Horncastle destinations page.
Horncastle’s Character and Heritage
Wander the Antique Shops and Yards
Horncastle is famously one of the best places in the UK for antiques. Whether you’re after Georgian furniture, vintage signage, rare records or simply a nostalgic browse, its treasure-filled emporiums are a joy to explore. Don't miss The Trinity Antique Centre, Laurence Shaw Antiques, or Great Expectations.
Quick Tip: Come midweek for a quieter rummage - many shops are closed on Sundays but open Monday - Saturday.
Visit St Mary’s Church
This Grade II* listed church has dominated the Horncastle skyline for centuries. Step inside to see medieval stonework, 19th-century stained glass, and peaceful pews perfect for a quiet moment of reflection. Guided heritage tours often run during festival weeks and open days.
Quick Tip: Look for the 15th-century angel carvings inside the chancel - a beautiful hidden detail.
Explore Horncastle History at the Sir Joseph Banks Centre
Learn about Lincolnshire’s most famous botanist, Sir Joseph Banks, who sailed with Captain Cook and helped change botanical science forever. This welcoming centre houses a mini museum, shop, and lovely garden inspired by Banks’ global plant discoveries.
Quick Tip: Book onto a Banks Trail guided walk in the summer - it’s a fun way to explore the town's history outdoors.
Highlights of the 2025 Events Calendar
Horncastle Horse Fair – 9 August 2025
The revived community version of Horncastle’s historic August fair, centred around “The Mane Event.” Expect a parade, craft workshops, street food, performances, and family-friendly fun. Free entry.
Quick Tip: Arrive by mid-morning to catch the parade and enjoy food stalls before the busiest part of the day.
Stourton Woods - Artisan Markets & Farmers’ Markets
Mini Farmers’ Market – 6 July, 3 Aug & 5 Oct 2025
Lincolnshire Makers Summer Artisan Market – 17 Aug 2025
These vibrant markets feature local artisans, producers, farm safaris, woodland trails, lawn games, and food stalls - all set in the enchanting Roundhouse and surrounding woodland
Quick Tip: All events are free to enter, with a £5 per‑car parking charge - cash only. Arrive early to catch the best stall picks and quieter trails.
Outdoor Adventures Near Horncastle
Walk the Spa Trail
This traffic-free walking and cycling route follows the old railway line between Horncastle and Woodhall Spa. Along the way, you'll find sculptures, wildflower meadows, and scenic views of the Wolds.
Quick Tip: It’s flat and accessible - ideal for families and gentle afternoon rides.
Explore Hubbard’s Hills, Louth (25 minutes away)
This stunning glacial valley offers steep wooded slopes, a bubbling chalk stream and beautiful walks all year round. Well worth the short drive.
Quick Tip: Bring wellies or walking boots - it can get muddy underfoot.
Visit Snipe Dales Country Park
Just 10 minutes’ drive away, Snipe Dales is a peaceful escape of rolling hills, heather-clad slopes and rare wildlife. Part of the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB, it’s a walker’s paradise.
Quick Tip: Pop into the visitor centre for trail maps and seasonal wildlife info.
Where to Eat in Horncastle
The Kings Head
This 16th-century coaching inn is packed with atmosphere and serves up classic pub dishes with flair. Expect hearty meals made using Lincolnshire produce and a roaring fire in winter.
Quick Tip: Try their Sunday roast - it’s a local favourite.
Montebello Ristorante
A family-run restaurant offering fresh and authentic Italian food.
Quick Tip: They offer a 20% discount on lunches (food only) from Wednesday to Saturday between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM
Just One More Bike Café
Perfect for a post-ride refuel. This cyclist-friendly café serves great coffee, cakes and light lunches – and the staff are full of local tips for exploring the Wolds.
Quick Tip: Their cheesecakes are delicious!
The Bridge Tea Room
The Bridge Tea Room in Horncastle is a charming riverside spot known for traditional afternoon teas, vintage china, and a quirky gift shop. Its scenic setting by the River Bain makes it ideal for a relaxed treat.
Quick Tip: Ask for a downstairs riverside table for the best experience.
Places to Shop and Discover
Perkins Newsagents & Bookshop
A wonderfully old-school independent bookshop with a good mix of local history, fiction and gifts. They also sell vintage postcards and maps of the area.
Quick Tip: Ask the owner for their favourite Wolds walk – they know them all.
The Old Stables Craft Gallery
This collective of local makers and artists sells everything from ceramics to textiles to turned wood. A brilliant place to pick up a gift with a Lincolnshire twist.
Quick Tip: Check for workshops - they often run felt making, pottery and painting days.
Horncastle Market
Held every Thursday and Saturday, this traditional market spills through the streets with local produce, flowers, handmade gifts and more.
Quick Tip: Bring cash - not every stall takes card, especially the smaller traders.
Countryside Culture and Rural Heritage
Wolds Wildlife Park
Just outside Horncastle, this impressive, family-run wildlife park is home to lions, tigers, zebras, lemurs and more. Set in a peaceful rural location, it’s an unexpected safari-style experience in the heart of Lincolnshire.
Quick Tip: Check their website for animal encounter days - booking ahead is essential and well worth it.
Lincolnshire Wolds Railway
Hop aboard a vintage steam or diesel train and roll through the beautiful Wolds landscape. Located near Ludborough (about 30 mins from Horncastle), it’s a nostalgic trip through Lincolnshire’s railway heritage.
Quick Tip: Themed days like the 1940s Weekend and Santa Specials are family favourites – plan ahead!
The Walled Garden Baumber
This lovingly restored 19th-century walled garden is a hidden gem just outside Horncastle. Open for free most of the year, it’s a quirky, peaceful space full of art installations, plants and picnic spots.
Quick Tip: Look out for their moonlit evening events in summer – lanterns, music and a magical atmosphere.
Jubilee Park Lido, Woodhall Spa
A short drive from Horncastle, this heated open-air pool is a local summertime favourite. Surrounded by trees and next to tennis courts and a café, it’s perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Quick Tip: Booking in advance is highly recommended during school holidays.
Scenic Walks and Nature Escapes
Viking Way: Horncastle to Donington-on-Bain
This section of the long-distance Viking Way trail takes you deep into the Wolds via field paths, quiet lanes and sweeping hills. It's a peaceful and picturesque day walk.
Quick Tip: Pack snacks and enjoy a lunch stop in the lovely village of Donington-on-Bain - there’s a cosy pub and village shop.
Horncastle Canal Walk
Follow the route of the disused Horncastle Canal towards Woodhall Spa. This flat, tranquil path is popular with walkers, cyclists and wildlife-watchers.
Quick Tip: Visit in early spring or late summer when wildflowers and dragonflies line the route.
Hemingby Circular Walk
Starting just north of Horncastle, this 4-mile loop explores quiet countryside, open farmland and sleepy villages like Goulceby and Scamblesby.
Quick Tip: Time your visit for lambing season in early spring – it’s postcard-perfect rural Lincolnshire
Belchford & Fulletby Ridge Walk
This route offers some of the best views in the Lincolnshire Wolds. The hills around Belchford are surprisingly steep – and incredibly rewarding. Great for more experienced walkers.
Quick Tip: Bring binoculars – you’ll spot kestrels, red kites and far-reaching views across to the Fens.
Historic Curiosities & Local Legends
Horncastle Roman Wall
Tucked away behind the library and along Wharf Road, sections of Horncastle’s Roman wall still stand – part of a Roman fort that once guarded this strategic settlement.
Quick Tip: Look for the interpretation boards near the library to get a sense of the town’s ancient past.
The Joseph Banks Tribute Garden
This quiet, leafy pocket behind the Sir Joseph Banks Centre celebrates his botanical legacy with beds planted from his voyages. A peaceful spot for a mid-shopping sit-down.
Quick Tip: Spot the sundial and bust – a lovely tribute to Horncastle’s most famous son.
Horncastle War Memorial Centre
A poignant reminder of the town’s past, the memorial centre includes a peaceful garden and occasional pop-up exhibitions on local military history and Horncastle’s wartime stories.
Quick Tip: Open most weekends in summer – check local listings for guided talk dates.
Local Shopping & Artisan Finds
Myers Bakery, Café & Deli
A Lincolnshire institution, the Myers family bakery has been serving the town since 1901. Famous for their plum bread and Lincolnshire sausages, it’s a must-stop for local flavour.
Quick Tip: Take home a loaf of plum bread – it makes a great gift or picnic snack.
Magpies Restaurant & Gift Shop
Part tearoom, part stylish boutique, Magpies is a go-to for elegant homeware, country-inspired gifts and hearty homemade lunches. Set in a 300-year-old building, it oozes character.
Quick Tip: The tearoom’s upstairs seating offers a lovely view across the rooftops of Horncastle.
Just One More Bike (Shop)
More than just a café, Just One More Bike is a bike shop and service centre catering to Wolds cyclists. It’s a great place to hire or fix bikes and pick up local cycle route maps.
Quick Tip: Ask the staff about their top gravel cycling loops – they’re passionate and super knowledgeable.
Hidden Experiences & Local Surprises
Take a Self-Guided Blue Plaque Trail
Horncastle is dotted with informative blue plaques that reveal stories of historic buildings, residents and key moments in the town’s past. Pick up a trail leaflet from the Sir Joseph Banks Centre or download it online and walk your way through the centuries.
Quick Tip: Combine this with a coffee or cake stop and take your time – the town’s heritage is best uncovered slowly.
