The Lincolnshire Wolds

Nestled on the southern edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, Shepherds Retreat is an ideal base for exploring one of England’s most beautiful but often overlooked landscapes.

The Lincolnshire Wolds, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), combine gently rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and picture-postcard villages with a surprising number of visitor attractions that can be easily reached within a short drive from Skendleby.

For history enthusiasts, one of the nearest sites of interest is Bolingbroke Castle, about ten minutes from Skendleby. This 13th-century fortress was the birthplace of Henry IV and played a role in the English Civil War. Today, it is a romantic ruin managed by English Heritage, free to explore, with interpretive boards bringing its turbulent past to life.

A little further west lies Snipe Dales Country Park and Nature Reserve, combining open valley views with pockets of woodland and streams. It’s a favourite spot for walkers, with waymarked trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging circuits. The contrast between the wet valley bottom and the dry chalk hillsides makes it particularly rich in wildlife.

Close by is Gunby Hall and Gardens, a National Trust property often described as a “country house perfectly situated.” The red-brick, 17th-century mansion is surrounded by Victorian walled gardens and parkland, and inside visitors can admire period rooms filled with art, books, and antiques. Seasonal events, from open-air theatre to craft fairs, add extra reasons to visit.

Those with a taste for aviation heritage will find the Wolds particularly rewarding. The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre at East Kirkby, about 15 minutes from Skendleby, houses an impressive collection of wartime memorabilia and is home to “Just Jane,” one of the few remaining Lancaster bombers capable of taxiing. Regular demonstration runs provide a stirring reminder of the county’s role in the Second World War.

For a gentler day out, the nearby market towns provide charm and character. Spilsby, only a couple of miles away, offers independent shops, pubs, and weekly markets, while Horncastle, famous for its antiques, makes for a rewarding browse. Louth, regarded as the “capital of the Wolds,” is to the north but well worth the journey, with its striking St James’ Church spire, independent food shops, and regular farmers’ markets.