10 favourites from a history and culture buff

The towpath of the Grantham Canal. Walking beside water is always especially peaceful, many canals are very straight and urban, this one is curvaceous and surrounded by lovely countryside. Canal-side pubs and nearby Belvoir Castle are an added bonus. 

The Spa Trail offers a gentle, accessible walk through Lincolnshire's countryside, beginning in the antique-loving town of Horncastle and following the route of a former railway line through seasonal woodland and open fields.

Exhibited at Lincoln Cathedral is the William the Conqueror Writ, dating from 1072. Basically this tiny piece of parchment says ‘Build me a Cathedral at Lincoln’ and boy, did they!

St. James' Church in Louth boasts Lincolnshire's tallest parish church spire, soaring to 295 feet above the market town's medieval streets, offering visitors who climb its tower breathtaking views across the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Stamford, so historically perfect. Great retail therapy too, particularly if you like an antique shop….. The magnificent Burghley House and parkland literally on the edge of town.

Lincoln Castle. Three highlights of a visit: climb the walls to get the best view of the West front of the Cathedral; walk into the Victorian Prison and stop a moment to take in this huge space – almost church-like; and from archaeological digs seven tiny dice made from bone in the 12^th century, so small they’d all fit onto a £1 coin.

The tapestries at Doddington Hall took years to get from their raggedy state full of coal dust to cleaned, restored and back on the walls. A great story of skill and determination.

Paddling in the river at Hubbard's Hills, on the outskirts of Louth. This wooded valley is a delight, great for walking and bird watching. But Oh the paddling! Happy Days.

The farmland of Frampton Marsh before it was transformed into the RSPB nature reserve. Almost unrecognizable now and hugely popular with both visiting birds and people. Lovely new café, its picture windows give great views.

Anderby Creek... but there are many miles of unspoilt and glorious beaches the length of the Lincolnshire coast.

A boat trip into The Wash. The landscape and perspective is extraordinary – very memorable.

Heckington Show, held in July. Old fashioned in a good way, great fun.