Things to do in the Wolds

As you may imagine, being an area of outstanding natural beauty the Lincolnshire Wolds (ANOB) is peppered with market towns, family activities and foodie destinations just awaiting discovery. 

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Alongside the 216 square miles of unspoilt countryside that is crying out to be explored either on foot or two wheels, the beautiful rolling green hills are home to no end of little treasures to explore. Making it the perfect destination for lovers of the great outdoors, active adventurers, heritage enthusiasts and staycationers keen to explore every corner of the UK.

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Many a Market Town

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Although much of the Wolds is cultivated farmland, pretty villages and market towns are dotted amongst the hills. These residential regions would once have been the control centres of the area, providing a place to buy and sell local produce. 

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Today, they still sit at the heart of the community, and most have small shops, pubs and cafes. Many of the towns also host seasonal events, some of which recognise traditions set centuries ago.

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Louth

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Situated at the foot of the Wolds, Louth was once named ‘Britain’s Finest Market Town’ by BBC’s Countryfile. The town is famous for its fantastic selection of independent retailers - around 70% of the businesses here are independently owned.

That’s not the only accreditation the town has received either; Louth was also hailed as a ‘food mecca’ by TV chefs The Hairy Bikers. The weekly markets here offer some of Lincolnshire’s finest produce, much of which is grown in the surrounding Wolds. Even if you don’t visit on a market day, there are several independent food shops here, selling everything from meat and fish, to cakes and coffee.

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Unlike many market towns, Louth has retained its original medieval street plan. Around the town centre, you will find some impressive Georgian and Victorian houses, alongside a variety of inns and cafes. If that wasn’t reason enough to visit, the church here also boasts the tallest parish spire in the country!

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Market Rasen

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Famed for its racecourse, Market Rasen is another bustling market town in the Wolds. There has been a weekly market in the town since 1219, and it is still an integral part of the area today. The High Street here also boasts a great number of independent shops, many of which are long-standing, family-run businesses.

As Market Rasen has such a rich heritage, they have created a brilliant virtual tour which covers all the historic landmarks in the area. This interactive map will help you explore the town, and delve into some of the fascinating stories behind the buildings.

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Market Rasen also has a ‘Walkers Are Welcome’ status so you will find a wealth of walking trails around the surrounding area. The nearby Willingham Woods is particularly popular with walkers, and a regular stop-off for people heading to the Lincolnshire coast.

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Caistor

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Nestled on a hillside, Caistor is situated on the northern edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds. This area was one of the most significant Roman settlements in the county; it is believed that it was once the site of 1st Century military occupation and a 2nd Century Roman fortress.

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Today, the market square lies at the heart of a conservation area that contains 56 listed buildings, making it one of Lincolnshire’s most important towns. Most of the Georgian houses here were built as Caistor became a major centre for the wool trade. The town used to host huge sheep markets, attracting farmers from across the country. In 1858, 60,000 sheep were sold here!

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As the Viking Way walking trail runs through the town, Caistor is extremely popular with hikers. The Civic Society here also hosts regular guided walking tours, which will give you a great insight into the history of the area.

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Find more inspiration for places to see and do In the Wolds over on Visit Lincoln. 

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Walking in the Lincolnshire Wolds

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With 216 square miles to explore, the Wolds are incredibly popular with those who enjoy taking to two feet to experience the countryside. 

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Over on Love Lincolnshire Wolds, you’ll find countless walks that have been created for serious ramblers as well as happy amblers alike. 

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A fond favourite of ours in Hubbard's Hills. Located close to Louth - a gorgeous town in the heart of the Wolds brimming with activity, local food and drink and shopping experiences for all - the picturesque hills are the result of a highly unique glacial overspill channel formed during the last ice age, over 40,000 years ago. Today, it's a wonderfully popular spot for picnics, play and walking - even with the dog!

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Local food and drink

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With initiatives such as Taste Lincolnshire flying the flag for the county and its local produce, you can be sure of endless options when it comes to satisfying your appetite for independent, artisan and unusual food and drink producers, growers and makers. 

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From VisitEngland award-winning hotels and restaurants, to champion growers and globally successful producers, not forgetting the humble and delicious Lincolnshire sausages and the various purveyors of it - your tastebuds won’t regret stumbling into Lincolnshire. 

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Discover exactly what the Lincolnshire Wolds has to offer with Taste Lincolnshire’s Wolds Food Map. This self-guided trail will take you on a journey of culinary discovery around the Lincolnshire Wolds, so you can explore and indulge at the same time. 

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