destinations
Bourne
small market town on the north edge of the Lincolnshire Fens
The delightful market town of Bourne sits on the eastern side of the South Kesteven district, bordering the Fens. The town probably began as a small settlement around a natural well supplied by several underground springs. The Romans almost certainly established a camp here. Wellhead Gardens, 21 acres of parkland and waterways is particularly worth a visit in the spring when the pathways are lined with trees in blossom. Bourne is also noted for its impressive summer flower displays.
The Red Hall was built in 1605 by Gilbert Fisher, a London grocer who moved to the country. The red bricks that give it its name were made in Bourne. Neglected for many years the Red Hall was nearly knocked down and for a time served as the rather grand railway station booking office. The Bourne Heritage Centre can be found at Baldock’s Mill. This old mill, dating back over 200 years, now has a new electric water wheel which generates power. On the outskirts there is Bourne Woods, 400 acres to be explored by foot or bike.
SPECIAL TO Bourne
- Hereward the Wake
- The Red Hall
- Baldock’s Mill Heritage Centre
things to do in the Bourne area
Nearby
Grimsthorpe Castle
Close to Bourne is Grimsthorpe Castle, not really a castle, but definitely a very grand stately home. Each side looks very different, reflecting architectural styles since building began in the 13th century. Henry VIII came to visit in the 16th century prompting a flurry of building, much of it so hasty it had to be redone. Inside there is a collection of paintings, furniture and tapestries. Gardens surround the castle on three sides and the undulating parkland extends to 3000 acres, five miles across at its widest point. There are trails suitable for both walkers and cyclists with excellent birdwatching opportunities. The parkland consists mainly of oak trees planted in the 17th century, their predecessors having been felled during the Tudor period for ship building.
Did you know?
The great Fen hero, Hereward the Wake was born and died in Lincolnshire.
He was venerated for his leadership of the guerilla forces who made the last stand of the English against the Normans in 1071. Information about him is sketchy but it is thought that he was born in the market town of Bourne, as a teenager he led a gang of youths who so terrified the Fens that his father asked the King to banish him. As a hired sword Hereward had adventures both in England and in Europe, before returning to Bourne to take his inheritance. Hereward was probably reconciled with William the Conqueror.
Shopping
Sophie Allport
Homeware and lifestyle brand Sophie Allport was founded in 2007 by designer Sophie and her brother Jem. Inspired by her love of nature, Sophie creates and paints all the designs from her countryside home in Lincolnshire. Begun on the kitchen table, before moving to a garage in Stamford, in 2014 she hit the milestone of selling 100,000 mugs and tea towels. Sophie Allport’s full range can be seen at her outlet store in Bourne and there is also a store in Stamford.
our Bourne food & drink picks
places to stay in the area
more about the South Countryside
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