A new item for your bucket list
Otby Lake Boat House is now fully up and running and the response has been amazing. The feedback from guests has been so much more than we ever expected.
The Bucket List Item You Never Knew You Needed…
It’s been far too long since our last blog post and we have skipped past the final days of building to the finished Boat House — but with good reason! The opening of Otby Lake Boat House has kept us incredibly busy through our very first Spring and Summer season.
Now that Winter is settling in, things are slowing down just enough to let us reflect, make a few tweaks, and give some extra TLC to the little details that matter most.
We’ve been completely blown away by the response to the Boat House. What started as a dream has become a reality we’re incredibly proud to share. The feedback from our guests has been more than we ever imagined — not just kind words, but genuine stories of how time spent here has helped them truly reset.
We often hear how a stay at Otby Lake goes beyond a relaxing break — guests talk about the mental health benefits of switching off, reconnecting with nature, and simply being. No screens, no schedules — just the sound of birds, wind in the trees, and water gently lapping at the shore. These are the moments that can’t be planned — they just happen, thanks to the peaceful, beautiful location we’re lucky to call home.
So, if you’re ready for your own reset, you know where to find us.
We’re excited to welcome more guests through the rest of the year and continue growing and improving everything the Boat House has to offer.
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.
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.
Many a Market Town
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.
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.
Louth
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.
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!
Market Rasen
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.
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.
Caistor
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.
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!
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.
Find more inspiration for places to see and do In the Wolds over on Visit Lincoln.
Walking in the Lincolnshire Wolds
With 216 square miles to explore, the Wolds are incredibly popular with those who enjoy taking to two feet to experience the countryside.
Over on Love Lincolnshire Wolds, you’ll find countless walks that have been created for serious ramblers as well as happy amblers alike.
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!
Local food and drink
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.
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.
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.
As a county, Lincolnshire boasts an incredibly full events calendar that covers everything from country shows and annual markets to seasonal activities and cultural curiosities. Visit Lincoln – despite sounding like a Mecca for city-centre activities – is a great port of call for a full rundown of what’s going on when, as is Love Lincolnshire Wolds and Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service.
To help you plan your trip, however, we’ve rounded up our favourite annual events -those which take place every year and bring together everything there is to love about Lincolnshire…
Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival
The Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival is an ideal way to explore and appreciate all that the Lincolnshire Wolds has to offer. With the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape providing the perfect backdrop, during this 2-week festival, there are usually over 100 amazing events and activities taking place, across a multitude of locations, with many of the activities free of charge or at a reduced cost. From paddleboarding and chalk stream experiences to gliding and walking – of course!
Alford Craft Market
Founded in 1974, Alford Craft Market promotes quality Lincolnshire arts and crafts via its events, shop and art and crafts classes. The stunning Alford Manor House provides the focal point for this established crafty event, which has just celebrated its 50th year.
Lincolnshire Show
Celebrating its 140th year in 20925, the Lincolnshire Show is a must-visit if you’re heading to the county during June. The Lincolnshire Show is organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, a registered charity whose aims are to educate about food, farming and the environment. The Show is the county’s flagship event, welcoming over 60,000 visitors, 5,000 school children and 500 exhibitors every year. An action-packed day out for all of the family, the Show offers an eclectic mix of shopping, horticulture, live music, equine and livestock classes, children’s activities, local food and drinks, and breathtaking entertainment.
Spilsby Show
Traditionally held on the second Sunday in July, The Spilsby Show is organised by a group of dedicated volunteers hoping to give visitors a great day out with their family and friends.
The proceeds of the Spilsby go to local charities and other worthwhile organisations as agreed by the committee annually and requests from local organisations are considered for donations. Having begun in 1880, and held over two days until 1994 when it became the one-day event it is today, the Show is held on the Spilsby Recreation Ground and has been since 2002.
Revesby County Fair
A great day out for all the family, the Revesby Country Fair usually takes place in early August every year (for 2024 it will be taking place on Sunday 4th August. This much-loved Lincolnshire country show includes a line-up of entertainment, activities and country pursuits, including traditional equine favourites such as show jumping and shire horses.
Local produce, cooking and flower arrangements are all judged by a local panel in the competitions which anyone can enter, plus live music to entertain as you enjoy the food and trade stands. Dogs are also welcome, so dog lovers are invited to bring along their well-behaved, four-legged friends and get them involved in dog agility events and dog shows. And of course, the day wouldn’t be complete without the traditional ‘Revesby style’ terrier racing!
Summer Plate Ladies Day at Market Rasen Racecourse
An event which brings thousands of visitors to the area, if you’re yet to experience the Unibet Summer Plate Ladies Day at Market Rasen Racecourse, it’s worth hedging your bets. Bringing the style to Lincolnshire, the Summer Plate Ladies Day usually takes place in July, with jumps, plenty of action and fabulous fashion, it’s the perfect day to enjoy with friends and family.
Lincolnshire Food & Gift Fair
Shop unique gifts, handmade crafts and delicious treats with exhibitors and pick up everything you need for your Christmas celebrations at the Lincolnshire Showground’s Food & Gift Fair. The Lincolnshire Kitchen will be brought to life with top chefs and producers sharing their top tips to help you cook up a festive feast and samples to try – of course! Experience all of this while enjoying live performances from a number of talented local choirs alongside a bite to eat from one of our delicious hot food stands. The annual event with free car parking, promises Christmas treats and festive inspiration for all of the family.