Unusual attractions to keep the visitors coming
LINCOLNSHIRE is beloved by tourists for a gauntlet of reasons. There’s the scenic Woodhall Spa, with its boulevards frozen in time, and the spectacular views from the Skegness coast.
Then there’s Steep Hill, lined with independent shops and popular bars, and the countless market towns propped up by traders from across the country.
According to reports from Global Tourism Solutions, more than 3.5m people visited Lincoln in 2022 - up by almost 22 per cent on 2021’s numbers.
But while millions flock to the capital every year, some of Lincolnshire’s hidden gems can go overlooked by tourists.
Of course, market towns and coastal views aren’t unique to Lincolnshire - but the Yellowbellies’ home county has its quirks, too.
The Bowthorpe Oak, Bowthorpe Farm
Lovers of the countryside will find plenty to like about the Bowthorpe Oak. Situated at Bowthorpe Park Farm near Bourne, historians reckon it could be the oldest oak tree in England and one of the oldest in Europe - clocking in at more than 1,000 years old.
The legend goes that it was hollowed out by the Squire of Bowthorpe, who built a room inside that was capable of entertaining up to 20 guests. It certainly wasn’t your typical venue, nor your typical tree.
The Bubblecar Museum, Langrick
The Bubblecar Museum is home to more than 50 small cars made by
Bond, Isetta, Reliant, Frisky and d Bamby - manufacturers that are syn- onymous with 1950s Britain.
The museum, based near Boston, , also has lots of other 1950s memorabilia such as household items, toys, scooters and games.
Historians at the museum said the small, fuel-efficient vehicles were powered by engines of less than 700cc in size. According to TripAdvisor, it’s a ‘small museum, but very interesting’.
Tickets are £4 for adults and £1 for children.
Newport Arch, Lincoln
The Newport Arch is a Roman n gate in Lincoln and could be the old- est in the country still used by traffic. . It dates back to the third century, , when the county’s capital was s known as Lindum Colonia.
It’s one of many remnants of the empire’s occupation of Britain. The Romans also contributed greatly to the county’s road network, building Ermine Road and parts of the A15, which would have carried Roman travellers to and from the capital.
There isn’t too much to do there, but it’s a worthy bit of Lincolnshire’s history - and a cheap excursion.
Kinema in the Woods, Woodhall Spa
The Kinema in the Woods is not your average cinema - as the name would suggest. It started life as a sports and entertainment pavilion in the 18th century.
With its three screens and historic veneer, it gives moviegoers a chance to step back in time.
It was described in a five-star TripAdvisor review as a ‘wonderful, if slightly quirky place’ by one enchanted visitor.
Films of all genres and varieties - from blockbusters to indie comedies - are screened throughout the week, complete with intermissions.
You can catch a matinee on a weekend or a late-night showing.
Homefield Alpacas, Louth
There are plenty of places to walk your dog in Lincolnshire, but how about a hike with a different furry companion? Based near to Louth, Homefield Alpacas runs a variety of alpaca trekking experiences.
They also run husbandry workshops, where you can learn how to handle alpacas. The treks, which are available to book by appointment, take single or group bookings and are routed through the local countryside, usually lasting up to two hours.
Wool and various items are for sale from their rather unique gift shop.
The Village Church Farm, Skegness
Previously known as the Church Farm Museum, the Village Church Farm offers a glimpse into 300 years of history. Set in three acres of gardens, d the Skegness speciality museum boasts a mud-and-stud cottage, historic farm machinery, and even a Richard Hornsby traction engine in full working order.
They say it is the oldest house in the seaside town, with an evergrowing collection of artefacts and memorabilia. o Open every day except Thursdays, the museum has proven a hit with visitors, who have described it on TripAdvisor as an ‘amazing hidden gem’.
Entry to the museum is charged by donation, though some events have a small charge.
Parrot Zoo, Friskney
The parrot enclosure at the Lincolnshire Wildlife Park in Friskney, near Boston is a rather talkative section with its haven for bird enthusiasts and nature-lovers.
The Parrot Zoo Trust was launched in 1993 and has become the largest parrot sanctuary in the UK. More than 1,000 birds call it their home, the trust says.