Lincolnshire is a predominantly rural English county known for historic towns, seaside resorts, nature reserves, and rich cultural heritage.
3 Sep, 10 Sep…
Join a knowledgeable Garden Volunteer for a detailed 45-minute tour of the beautiful and accessible gardens at Grantham House. The tours take place on accessible pathways and do not require advance booking, with limited spaces added on the day.
Grantham House is a historic town house built in 1380, owned by the National Trust, featuring architectural elements from several centuries and set within extensive gardens. Open daily as a community space with free entry, a café, and a second-hand bookshop, it offers visitors a blend of indoor and outdoor experiences with rich historical significance.
Grantham is a historic market town in Lincolnshire known for its rich heritage including the birthplace of Margaret Thatcher and education of Isaac Newton. It offers cultural attractions, historic architecture, riverside walks, and a lively town centre with shops, pubs, and restaurants.
2 Sep
Nature & Nurture: An Evening Stroll is a gentle evening walk through Sandilands Nature Reserve where attendees can reconnect with nature, enjoy soothing sights and sounds, and learn about the future vision for the reserve. The walk focuses on wellbeing and offers a chance to slow down and reflect as the day winds down.
18 Jul–6 Sep
Summer of Play at Gunby is a family-friendly outdoor trail event at Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens featuring playful challenges and games for children and families to enjoy during the summer from 18 July to 6 September. The event celebrates play, nature, and adventure with various physical and creative activities across the grounds.
7 Oct, 14 Oct…
Little Lambs is a weekly session for under-fives and their parents or carers, featuring a seasonal story followed by themed play or activities in the Grantham House bookshop.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
Participants learn to create a fresh flower arrangement in a pumpkin, making an autumn-inspired centrepiece to take home. The workshop is led by the Fairview Floristry team at Grantham Arts.
26 Nov
Join a ranger for a 3-mile circular walk to Londonthorpe Village, with a guided tour of the village and church. The route may include Bellmount Plantation and Tower, or Londonthorpe and Alma Woods, with views of Grantham and the former RAF camp.
7 Oct, 13–14 Oct…
Explore an exhibition about the risks to Belton’s collection and how the conservation team cares for it. Visitors can also handle specialist conservation tools and see specimens of pests that threaten the collection.
18 Nov
In this workshop, Jane Wallace from Grantham Arts will teach attendees to design, punch and assemble a collapsible Scandinavian paper star lantern. Paper, tools and templates are provided, along with Swedish Christmas tea and gingerbread.
Belton House is a Grade I listed English country house in Lincolnshire, surrounded by formal gardens and a deer park. It offers indoor attractions including historic rooms, exhibitions, and a restaurant in the restored stables, alongside outdoor experiences in its extensive gardens, parkland, and adventure playground for families.
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A free knitting session at Gainsborough Old Hall where craft volunteers help attendees learn the basics or build their knitting skills and confidence. Materials are provided.
Gainsborough Old Hall is a well-preserved Tudor manor house in Lincolnshire, showcasing medieval architecture, historic interiors including a medieval kitchen, and intriguing features like witches' marks and a reputed haunting. It is managed by English Heritage and open as a museum for visitors.
Gainsborough is a historic market town in Lincolnshire, England known for its medieval Old Hall, riverside charm, historic churches, cultural venues, and river heritage.
4 Dec
A one-woman play set in Chawton, featuring Jane Austen and characters from her novels as they compete to be heard. The play is written and performed by Beckis Cooper.
Harlaxton Manor is a large Victorian-era manor house in Lincolnshire, renowned for its unique blend of Elizabethan, Jacobean, and Baroque architectural styles, with accessible interior facilities and historic tours available by appointment.
11 Oct, 25 Oct…
Visitors join a guide for a tour of Gainsborough Old Hall featuring accounts of its reported ghostly happenings.
Beckingham Marshes is a nature reserve featuring wet grassland and hay meadows supporting breeding wading birds, diverse wildlife, and native hedgerows in the Trent Valley. It offers outdoor walking trails and wildlife watching with free public access.
7 Nov
An intermediate photography workshop at Belton, where participants can learn tips from a professional photographer and take photographs during a two-hour walk around the parkland and gardens.
19 Dec
A Christmas circus show featuring professional circus artists and young performers in aerial acts, acrobatics, comedy and juggling.
12 Nov
A ranger-led 5 km circular walk around Belton Gardens, the parkland and the river Witham, exploring local habitats, wildlife, conservation work and stories from the estate’s past.
18–19 Dec
A one-person, candlelit performance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, staged in Belton House’s Marble Hall. The production tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his encounters with a series of ghosts.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Children follow a trail inspired by Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar™, spotting fruit and snacks, discovering facts, and taking part in games and activities in Belton’s Italian Garden.
3 Oct
Beginner Photography Workshops at Belton is a day-long workshop led by professional photographer Jon Pear, suitable for beginners. Participants will explore the gardens and parkland of Belton Estate, including the Fishing Lodge, while learning photography tips. The workshop includes a 2-hour walk and sessions within the Fishing Lodge and offices.
4 Oct
Apple Day at Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens on Sunday 4 October 2026 features over 50 varieties of apples on display from the gardens and orchards. Visitors can explore a Makers Market with over 25 craft and trade stalls throughout the garden, chat with apple experts, visit the historic house, stroll the gardens and estate, and see an art display in the Orchard Gallery. The event is suitable for dogs on leads and no pre-booking is needed. Standard admission prices apply, with free entry for National Trust members and children under 5.
Gunby Hall is a Grade I listed historic country house in Lincolnshire featuring significant art collections and Victorian walled gardens set within a Capability Brown styled park. The estate includes a clock tower, a stable block, and an active parish church on site, offering a combined indoor and outdoor visitor experience.
29 Nov
A Christmas market in the grounds of Grantham House featuring handmade arts, crafts and festive gifts from local makers and crafters.
5 Sep
A guided 3.5K river walk along the River Witham on Belton Estate featuring scenery, woods, fields, wildlife, and discussions about local wildlife including Ratty from Wind in the Willows, bats, conservation work, and deer. The walk is part of the Belton Community Festival and takes place outdoors along varied terrain including grass and muddy paths.
4 Oct
The 3 Good Things Autumn Day Retreat is a five-hour event held inside the walled garden of Grantham House where attendees participate in a vinyasa yoga class, a mindful garden walk to appreciate flowers, mindful arts and crafts, and partner yoga and massage, concluding with a light, nutritious, plant-based picnic/afternoon tea.
31 Aug–2 Sep
Pokémon joins Belton Estate's Summer of Play with an outdoor family event featuring a Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail and various active games and activities. Attendees can participate in a trail to find Mega Evolution Pokémon, play Explorer Mini Golf, badminton, swingball, giant board games, and enjoy a sensory zone. The event runs from 18 July to 2 September with no booking needed but normal admission charges to the estate apply.
18 Jan
Join a volunteer-led Blue Monday walk at Gunby Estate, with a three-mile countryside route to Bratoft Manor. The walks take place at two start times and include entry to the gardens.
Monksthorpe Chapel is a unique late 17th-century chapel designed to look like a barn, set within the extensive Gunby Estate offering both historical indoor exploration of Gunby Hall and vast outdoor gardens and grounds for visitors to enjoy.
31 Aug–6 Sep
Shedding Light on Personal Narratives is an event at The Workhouse and Infirmary that explores how sunlight moved through the site and shaped life, highlighted by secret sundials, candlelit corners, and architecture, featuring a handcrafted sunflower made by textile volunteers. Visitors can discover stories of residents through the property in this exploratory tour.
The Workhouse in Southwell, Nottinghamshire, is a well-preserved 19th-century workhouse museum operated by the National Trust, showcasing historic rooms and offering educational programs for children. It highlights historic poor law practices and Victorian-era workhouse life.
Southwell is a historic cathedral and market town in Nottinghamshire, England, known for its beautiful Southwell Minster, rich history, and vibrant cultural festivals such as the Southwell Music Festival and Gate to Southwell Festival.
8 Nov
An 8km Remembrance Day walk with Belton Estate rangers explores local military history, including a First World War machine-gun site, Commonwealth War Graves, Bellmount Tower and hospital ruins. The itinerary includes an Act of Remembrance service and a short talk in the tower.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Create a floral pumpkin display with dried flowers, foliage and other natural materials during a relaxed drop-in decorating session with Side Farm Flowers. Pumpkins can be decorated in a range of sizes and styles.
Langford Lowfields is a nature reserve in Nottinghamshire transformed from a quarry into a thriving wetland habitat, featuring the largest reedbed in the East Midlands. Visitors can enjoy extensive outdoor nature trails, birdwatching including rare species like Bitterns and Marsh Harriers, and a visitor welcome hut. The reserve focuses on wildlife conservation and offers scenic viewpoints and picnic areas for visitors.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
As part of The Big Draw Festival, visitors can take part in drawing activities at Gunby Estate during October 2026. Pencils and paper can be borrowed from Visitor Reception.
Monksthorpe is a hamlet in East Lindsey, Lincolnshire, featuring a Grade II* listed Baptist chapel and an open air baptismal font, both cared for by the National Trust. It is notable for its historic religious architecture and outdoor heritage setting.
7 Oct, 11 Nov
A five-week pottery course with Grantham Arts covering wheel throwing, turning, slab building, coil pots, slip casting, porcelain tiles and decorating with oxides and glazes.
21 Oct
A member of the gardens team leads a tour exploring the history of The Workhouse’s kitchen garden and its recreated Victorian vegetable plots and heritage varieties.
20 Oct, 3 Nov…
Belton Acorns is a session for children under five featuring themed crafts, play, songs and occasional outdoor activities. Themes include planting an acorn, caterpillars, autumn and Christmas.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Photographers are invited to enter images of Gunby’s gardens and parkland, featuring plants, wildlife or nature at the historic estate. Selected winning images will be displayed at the IGPOTY 20 exhibition at Gunby in 2027.
25 Nov
A festive wreath-making workshop led by Fairview Floristry at Grantham Arts. Participants use seasonal foliage, decorative accessories and ribbons to create a fresh wreath.
12–13 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Tattershall Castle offer free admission on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026. Attendees can explore the historic castle, enjoy guided tours, an archaeology show and tell, participate in crafts, and play lawn games. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, and picnics are allowed. The event is family-friendly and celebrates culture and heritage.
Tattershall College is the ruin of a 15th-century grammar school founded by the 3rd Baron Cromwell in Lincolnshire, featuring remains of Gothic architecture and an adjacent almshouse, now managed as a heritage site.
5 Dec
An advanced photography masterclass led by photographer Jon Pear, with tips to improve participants’ photography. Attendees take photographs during a two-hour walk around Belton’s gardens and parkland, with part of the workshop held in the offices and Fishing Lodge.
6 Sep
A leisurely and informative outdoor guided walk around Belton Estate, exploring parkland including the site of the lost village of Towthorpe, a battlefield of Cromwell, and woodland areas. Attendees will learn about the natural surroundings and local conservation work on this 5.2 km walk.
9 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Walls of Wonder is an exhibition of Laura Andrew’s paintings inspired by the historic wallpapers and textiles of Gunby Hall. The works reinterpret their patterns, colours and stories through contemporary art.
31 Aug
Medieval Reenactment Weekend at Tattershall Castle features The Plantagenet Medieval Society portraying the French and English courts of the Hundred Years War era (1360-1400s). Activities include archery practice and display, squire training with axe, mace and sword, a talk on dressing knights with armour, courtly dancing with a have-a-go session, medieval foot combat tournament, and an interactive show and tell with knights, ladies, archers, and squires. The event is family suitable and takes place both indoors and outdoors in the castle grounds.
Tattershall Castle is a historically significant 15th-century brick castle in Lincolnshire featuring a Great Tower with interior rooms and rooftop views, surrounded by moats, and preserved by the National Trust for public visits and events.
26 Sep
Wellness Retreat Day at Gunby Hall and Gardens is a day-long event inspired by the Autumn Equinox focused on rest and wellbeing. It includes yoga, Pilates, stretch and release sessions, meditation, guided wellness walks in the gardens, wellbeing workshops, and a sound bath experience. Refreshments, healthy snacks, and lunch are provided. Booking is essential, and admission applies.
11 Oct (this Sunday)
A morning workshop with medical herbalist Kate Morgan-Owen discussing home remedies for winter and making throat pastilles and cough syrup to take home.
31 Aug, 2–6 Sep…
The Garden of Hope is a powerful outdoor installation at Grantham House featuring 98 handpainted steel butterflies representing lives lost to suicide in Lincolnshire. Created by local schools and community groups, it encourages open conversations around mental health, suicide awareness, and hope. The event is free, does not require booking, and takes place on specific dates in late August and September 2026.
13–19 Feb
Take a guided walk of up to 1.5 miles to see the snowdrops, followed by a hot drink and cake in the Gunby tea-room. The ticket includes the walk, refreshments and entry to the gardens.
21 Oct
Join a two-hour guided walk with Wilder Doddington’s Conservation Adviser to explore the changing estate landscape and learn how grazing animals support nature recovery. The walk includes a visit to meet the piglets.
Doddington Gardens in Lincoln feature restored Elizabethan gardens with formal East Front and West Garden, a Wild Garden, and a productive Kitchen Garden, alongside wildlife planting and seasonal colors. The gardens offer accessible facilities, refreshments, and parking, with free access for RHS members on specified days.
22 Jul–1 Sep
Summer of Play at Peckover House is a family-friendly event running from 22 July to 1 September 2026, featuring a variety of fun and interactive activities including performances, games, crafts, and outdoor play in the gardens. Visitors can enjoy singing, dancing, story corner, hula hooping, nature crafts, crazy golf, croquet, and more during open hours from 10:30 to 16:00 on Thursdays to Mondays.
Peckover House & Garden is a National Trust property in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, featuring an elegant Georgian interior, a Victorian walled garden with rare trees and historic features, and a barn now serving as a restaurant and gift shop. It offers a blend of indoor historic charm and outdoor natural beauty for visitors.
Wisbech is a historic Georgian market town and inland port in Cambridgeshire, known for its fine architecture, riverside setting, cultural festivals, and rich history including connections to abolitionism and theatre.
30 Oct
Children aged 5–12 can take part in an outdoor session combining mindful sensory activities, gentle movement and autumn art inspired by nature. They will use natural materials and seasonal patterns to create their own artworks and creatures.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Visitors can slow down and take in the sights and sounds of Gunby Estate, then use chalk to add their own drawing to a collaborative artwork in the Garden. The artwork grows through the season as visitors contribute.
15 Oct, 19 Nov
A volunteer-led walking group for adults with or caring for pushchair-aged children, offering seasonal routes of up to 5 km and a chance to meet others and build basic fitness. The walks are designed to be pushchair-friendly and last up to 1.5 hours.
5 Sep
The Community Festival walk: Architecture and Historical Graffiti Walk is an immersive 60-minute guided tour at Belton Estate that uncovers stories about architecture and historical graffiti, offering insights into how architecture shapes culture and the narratives told by graffiti. The walk is part of Belton Community Festival with free entry to the Estate at the time.
11 Oct, 14 Oct…
Visitors use the Stranger Folk app to follow clues and complete folklore-inspired challenges while exploring the grounds of Tattershall Castle. The family-friendly journey asks participants to find hidden cracks and help restore the balance between the natural and magical worlds.
18 Oct, 15 Nov
Bellmount Tower is open for visitors to explore and learn about its history, with views across the surrounding countryside.
1 Nov
Doddington Hall’s Wedding and Accommodation Open Day invites visitors to explore its wedding venues, wedding suite and holiday cottages, and meet the team and a selection of recommended wedding suppliers.
22 Oct
A guided circular walk from Grantham House up and around Hall’s Hill, with views across the surrounding area and commentary on local scenery and history. The route returns alongside the River Witham, where participants may spot wildlife.
11 Nov–9 Dec
Visitors explore Doddington Hall’s rooms, each transformed with handcrafted installations inspired by classic Christmas films. The visit is self-paced, with volunteers available to chat, and ticket holders may also explore the gardens during their visit.
18 Nov
A 90-minute one-man theatrical adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, performed by Jonathan Goodwin in the main hall at Grantham House.
20 Mar–13 Apr
Families can follow an outdoor Easter trail around Gunby Estate, spotting signs of spring, discovering wildlife and taking on challenges. The trail includes a trail sheet, bunny ears and a chocolate egg.
27 Nov
KoKo Collective perform New Orleans-inspired jazz at Doddington Hall’s Grain Store, accompanied by a seasonal three-course set menu featuring estate-grown and locally sourced produce.
9–10 Oct, 16–17 Oct…
A gentle vinyasa flow yoga class led by Grow Your Wings Yoga, with mindful movement and breathing in Grantham House’s restored rooms or outdoor spaces depending on the weather.
6 Sep
Join one of the Walk Leaders for a circular guided walk from Belton House to Bellmount Tower, exploring areas of historical significance from WWI and WWII. The walk is part of Belton's Community Festival and offers free access to the estate for the weekend, focusing on local heritage and environment education.
12 Oct, 19 Oct…
Join volunteer leaders for a gentle three-mile loop walk through Sandilands, enjoying the coastal reserve and looking out for wildlife and seasonal highlights.
Sandilands is a coastal neighbourhood in Lincolnshire featuring a former National Trust-owned links golf course, annual family tennis tournaments, and seaside attractions including beach huts and local hotels.
30 Sep, 8 Oct…
A three-session course introducing metal thread embroidery, also known as goldwork. Participants learn and practise embroidery techniques, with Thursday sessions for beginners and those with some basic experience, and Wednesday sessions for those looking to develop existing skills.
1 Oct
The Belton House to Bellmount Tower Circular Guided Walk is a circular walking event led by Walk Leaders, taking participants on a route passing Old Wood, Brigade Road (formerly a WWI Training Camp), Thorpe Fields (billeted troops in WWI and WWII), Bellmount Plantation, and Bellmount Tower, returning via Eastern Avenue to the mansion. The walk is designed to share knowledge about the local environment and history.
10 Oct–23 Dec (next week)
Visitors use the Stranger Folk app to follow clues and take on folklore-inspired challenges while exploring Gunby’s gardens, parkland and historic landscape. The family activity follows a story about finding hidden cracks between the natural world and a world of magic.
10 Sep
Belton Circular Walk - Riverside is a volunteer Ranger led walk along the River Witham on Belton Estate. Participants will explore the estate's scenery, woods, fields, and wildlife, learning about local conservation efforts and stories such as Ratty from Wind in the Willows. The walk covers approximately 3.3Km and lasts up to 2 hours. The event is dog-friendly with dogs required to be kept on leads.
17 Oct, 19 Oct…
Meet costumed characters at The Workhouse and Infirmary, hear stories about the inmates’ lives and see them at their daily tasks. Activities include writing on a slate, helping with washing and learning to pick oakum.
10 Sep, 10 Jun…
This is a one day watercolour workshop at Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens with artist Nicola Bennett where attendees can learn to paint a robin or pheasant, covering techniques and colour theory, suitable for all skill levels, with all materials and lunch provided.
14 Sep
Grantham Arts hosts a 3-hour beginners lino cut printing workshop at Grantham House. Participants will learn the basics of using lino cutting tools and printing paint, with all materials provided. Attendees take home their prints and lino cuts. The session is held in the Grantham Arts studio, located in the courtyard of Grantham House, on Monday 14 September 2026 from 10:30 to 13:30. Booking is essential and the ticket price is £45.
4 Nov
A full-day workshop introducing participants to bobbin lace making, a traditional craft using colourful thread. Attendees are guided through the process and can take home a small piece of handmade lace.
10 Oct, 24 Oct
Visitors can collect free art materials at the garden entrance and draw or paint their favourite spots in the gardens at Belton Estate.
12–13 Sep
Heritage Open Days: Grantham House Guided History Talk is a special chance to discover the history of Grantham House and the people who called it home, led by knowledgeable volunteers. The tour may include parts of the building not normally open to the public and is part of the national Heritage Open Days scheme.
20–21 Mar, 26–31 Mar…
Families can follow the Great Easter Trail through the grounds of Tattershall Castle, finding activity stations and surprises along the way. The trail includes an activity sheet, bunny ears and a chocolate egg.
31 Oct
This evening event at Woolsthorpe Manor features guided stargazing with telescopes, planetarium shows and short talks about space and astronomy. Visitors can also see the Manor’s apple tree illuminated.
20–24 Dec, 27–31 Dec
Circus Starlight presents a Christmas show featuring aerial acts, acrobatics, comedy and juggling, performed by professional circus artists and young performers. The performance takes place in a heated tent in the garden meadow.
20–22 Nov, 27–29 Nov…
Christmas at Belton is an after-dark illuminated trail through the gardens, featuring light shows, projections and glowing nature-themed sculptures. Visitors can also enjoy fairground rides and seasonal food.
8–9 Oct, 15–17 Oct…
Join Belton's ranger team for a guided walk through the parkland during the fallow deer rutting season, learning how the herd is managed and looking for signs of the rut.
7–11 Oct, 14–16 Oct
Visitors follow a trail exploring the meanings of Victorian slang words and phrases from the 1800s. Trail sheets include a prize.
7 Oct 2026–31 Oct 2027 (another 387 days)
Follow an outdoor trail of eight giant moth and butterfly models through Belton’s parkland, and learn about species sighted at the estate.
5 Nov
Join a walk leader for a stroll of up to 3.5km through Belton Park, with conversation about the nature, wildlife and history encountered along the way.
21 Oct
Create a seasonal flower arrangement using a pumpkin in a creative workshop at Grantham Arts, then enjoy a cream tea and hot drink at Grantham House.
25 Oct
A guided walk along Belton Estate’s Eastern Avenue to Bellmount Plantation, exploring the history of the landscape and taking in views across Grantham.
4 Dec, 8 Dec
A two-hour Christmas wreath-making workshop at the Old School Village Hall, where attendees use greenery from Belton’s gardens to make a wreath with expert guidance. Tea and coffee are provided.
30–31 Oct
Visitors can explore Gunby Hall after it has been darkened and decorated for Halloween, encountering scary ghosts, staff and volunteers. The event is suitable for children but may be frightening.
7 Oct, 10–11 Oct…
Visitors follow a mystery trail through Tattershall Castle, completing six mouse-door challenges to collect clues, solve a code and find the stolen mouse cheese.
11–12 Sep, 18–19 Sep
Heritage Open Days at The Workhouse and Infirmary offer free admission to explore over 200 years of history revealing changing attitudes to poverty and care. Visitors can discover mice dioramas, secret sundials, candlelit corners, and striking architecture in this well-preserved workhouse, providing an engaging and immersive experience suitable for all ages. No booking is required.
31 Aug–6 Sep
The Summer of Play at The Workhouse and Infirmary is a family-friendly event featuring traditional games with a Workhouse twist, including Tin Can Alley, Chess Catcher, and A Spoonful of Gruel, along with other traditional board games. The event invites visitors to play games and enjoy fun activities suitable for all ages during the summer season.
29 Nov
Join a guided circular walk around Grantham, exploring the town’s history and notable people, events and local products. The 3.6 km walk starts and finishes at Grantham House.
28 Oct
Children can learn mandala dot painting with a tutor and make a decorated notebook to take home. Materials and tuition are provided.
9 Oct
Participants make and decorate a moving-wing butterfly lantern from paper and willow, guided by artists from Lumo Workshop. The lanterns are intended to feature in the Lightwaves parade at Sutton on Sea.
Sandilands is a transforming nature reserve on the Lincolnshire coast offering coastal habitats and wildlife watching opportunities. It features walking routes, a car park, accessible facilities, and activities suitable for children and dog walkers. The site is open daily from dawn to dusk and aims to provide a welcoming outdoor experience for all visitors.
9 Oct, 16 Oct…
A volunteer-led talk and tour exploring Grantham House’s history from the 15th century to the present and the people who lived there. The tour may include access to parts of the building not usually open to the public.
5–6 Sep
Community Festival walk: Garden Walk is a guided garden walk led by volunteers introducing the formal gardens at Belton Estate and sharing the history of the Italian and Dutch Gardens. The walk takes place during the Belton Community Festival weekend with free entry to the Estate.
16 Oct, 18 Oct…
Afternoon tea at Grantham House includes sandwiches, bakes, a scone with jam and cream, and a hot drink, served in the historic dining room.
15 Oct, 12 Nov…
A sound therapist leads an immersive relaxation session in which participants lie down and listen to gongs, Tibetan singing bowls, African instruments and gentle vocal tones.
20 Oct
A guided tour of the MC Tsen Military Uniform Collection, featuring historic uniforms and related accessories, explores the collection’s military history and craftsmanship. The tour takes place in a purpose-built space above the Doddington Farm Wagon Collection.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
A monthly market in Grantham House’s courtyard and gardens, featuring arts and crafts alongside locally produced sweet treats. Visitors can browse goods from local makers and producers.
7 Oct 2026–20 Feb 2027 (another 134 days)
Follow a self-led trail through the Sandilands nature reserve to learn about six migratory birds that visit the Lincolnshire coast and try wildlife challenges along the way.
21 Oct
A hands-on autumn workshop with Fairview Floristry, where participants learn to arrange fresh flowers in a pumpkin and take home a seasonal centrepiece.
19–20 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens is a free event on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026 celebrating English history, culture, and heritage. Attendees can explore the gardens, enjoy makers stalls with treats and crafts, and experience live steampunk-themed performances and music including 'Cane Duelling' by the Skegness and East Coast Steampunk group, and music performances by The Full Fathom Five Tea Shanty Band and Nowhere Fast jazz duo.
17 Oct–10 Nov
Children aged 3–11 can follow a Halloween trail with six bat-themed challenges, learning about British bat species and collecting facts to complete a set of cards. The completed cards can be taken home to make a Battle of the Bats game.
5 Sep
Community Festival walk: Beginner Photography Walk is a beginner-level photography workshop combined with a 2-hour guided walk around the gardens and parkland of Belton Estate led by professional photographer Jon Pear. Participants will explore photographic techniques while walking up to 5K, including visiting the Fishing Lodge. The event is part of the Belton Community Festival weekend with free entry to the Estate for all attendees.
27 Sep
The Sandilands Great British Beach Clean is an outdoor community event where participants join to help protect marine life along the Lincolnshire coast by collecting litter from the beach. The event also involves gathering data for the Marine Conservation Society to support cleaner sea campaigns. It takes place at Sandilands, meeting near the northern tip of the nature reserve carpark, and provides necessary equipment like gloves and litter-pickers. Dogs on short leads are welcome.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Take a guided evening trail along the Sandilands seafront, accompanied by a bird host and featuring illuminated birds and butterflies, artworks, poetry, music and characters. The experience lasts about 45 minutes and covers approximately one mile.
10–11 Oct, 17–18 Oct…
Join a guided, three-mile walk from Gunby to Bratoft Manor, passing through the former medieval village of Gunby. A guide shares information about the estate’s history and natural features along the route.
28 Oct, 10 Nov
An instructor-led session with Grantham Arts teaching participants to create a mandala using dot art. Attendees can make a mandala coaster or another item during two hours of creative activity.
29 Oct
A volunteer Ranger-led estate walk for people undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment. Participants can explore stories from the estate’s past and learn about its wildlife on a route of up to 6km, with the group helping decide the distance.
31 Aug–9 Sep
An exhibition titled "Brushstrokes of Nature" by local nature and wildlife artist Nikki Bennett showcasing intricate watercolour paintings capturing the beauty of the natural world, held at the Orchard Gallery in Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens.
24 Sep
Belton Estate 10k Walk is a volunteer ranger led 10k circular walk across Belton Estate featuring vistas, wildlife-rich open areas of woodland pastures, ancient trees, and the historic deer herd. Participants can discover hidden stories from the past and learn about local wildlife. The walk is on unsurfaced and uneven ground with some ascents and stiles, is suitable for ages 12 and above, and requires booking in advance. Dogs are not allowed due to the presence of livestock.
7 Oct, 10–11 Oct…
Visitors can pause to observe and listen to the surroundings at Tattershall Castle, then use chalk to add their impressions to a shared drawing board. The collaborative artwork develops as visitors contribute throughout the season.
24 Oct
Bramley Apple Day features the longest Apple Peel Challenge, where visitors can take part and win a themed prize, and performances of traditional and familiar songs by the Pauper Choir.
27 Oct
A drop-off outdoor adventure day for young people aged 8–15 at Wilder Doddington. Participants will take part in nature-based challenges, team activities and practical outdoor skills while exploring the seasonal landscape.
12–13 Sep
Heritage Open Days: Garden Tours at Grantham House offer detailed explorations of the beautiful gardens led by knowledgeable Garden Volunteers. These outdoor tours last about 45 minutes on accessible pathways and do not require advance booking, although spaces are limited and guests should enquire on arrival to be added to the list.
11 Oct, 13 Oct…
A guided walk through Belton’s parkland during the deer rut, led by photographer and volunteer ranger Jon Pear. Attendees can learn photography tips and hear about how the rangers care for the deer herd.
4 Nov
Join a guide portraying Reverend John T. Becher on a 2.5-mile historical walking tour of Southwell, exploring his connections with the town as a churchman, magistrate and social reformer.
28 Oct
Children aged 5–12 can explore autumn habitats on a guided walk at Wilder Doddington, looking for fungi and wildlife and taking part in sensory activities. The session also includes nature-inspired art and activities about how wildlife prepares for winter.
7 Oct
Nolitex presents a group exhibition of textile and mixed-media art, exploring overlooked marks and the stories found in surfaces around us.
17 Oct, 24 Oct…
Visitors can drop in to make Halloween-themed decorations to take home, with different craft activities offered on each date, including spooky silhouettes, masks and bunting, conker pumpkins, leafy ghosts and spiders.
7 Oct, 10–11 Oct…
Visitors can borrow a sketching bag and use its drawing materials to create their own pictures inspired by Tattershall Castle, its towers, moat and grounds.
30 Oct, 27 Nov
Join the Workhouse Walkers for a social walk around Southwell, exploring local footpaths, spotting nature and learning about the area. Walks last about 75 minutes, with a shorter 30-minute option.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition of landscape artworks by Sarah Watson, including scenes from Lincolnshire to Iceland and two large abstract paintings. The works are displayed around Grantham House.
25 Oct
Join a ranger for a 2.5-mile guided walk around Belton Gardens and buildings, hearing about influential women connected with Belton and the locality’s history and wildlife.
17 Oct–1 Nov, 7–8 Nov…
Visitors follow a trail around the Workhouse to find the ingredients used in a traditional Victorian plum pudding and complete its recipe.
9 Sep
Sunset Walks are leisurely evening walks near Belton House where participants can enjoy stunning sunset views while learning about local wildlife and history. The walks cover 2.5 to 3 miles over uneven, unsurfaced ground with some stiles, lasting about 2 to 2.5 hours, and may include visiting Londonthorpe Village, Londonthorpe Woods, and Bellmount Tower (access to the tower may be restricted due to renovation). Booking is essential. Dogs are not allowed due to grazing livestock.
5–6 Sep
Community Festival walk: Graveyard Tours offers a guided walk exploring the graves in Belton Churchyard, revealing stories of people who lived and worked on the Belton Estate. The walk is part of the Community Festival weekend where the estate is freely accessible, but the event requires booking and normal venue admission charges apply.
15 Nov
Join expert birders Matt Capper and Matt Vickers for a guided winter birdwatch through Wilder Doddington, looking for winter visitors, wetland birds and farmland species. The session includes walking beyond the public footpaths and is suitable for ages 16 and over.
5–6 Sep
This family-friendly community festival walk at Belton Estate teaches map reading skills including using a compass, planning and following routes across varied parkland terrain.
4 Sep, 11 Sep…
Belton Garden tours offer an introduction to the formal gardens, including the Italian and Dutch Gardens, led by garden volunteers. Attendees can join without booking by meeting at the Italian Garden entrance in the Stables Courtyard for this free event, though normal venue admission charges apply.
21 Oct
An untutored drawing club led by Vanessa Stone, where participants can experiment with a range of art materials and draw the gardens and seasonal subjects at Grantham House. Sessions include outdoor sketching and indoor still-life drawing when the weather requires it.
10 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
Families can use the Stranger Folk app to follow a story-led outdoor adventure around Belton Estate, completing activities to help seal a rift between the human and spirit worlds. The app is recommended for children aged 7 to 11.
17 Oct–1 Nov
A family-focused October half-term programme at The Workhouse and Infirmary includes a Victorian plum pudding trail, pumpkin decorating, garden and indoor tours, costumed storytelling and demonstrations, and Bramley Apple Day activities with a choir performance.
5–6 Sep
This is a guided outdoor walk event as part of Belton's Community Festival, offering a 2.3k route from Belton to Bellmount Tower. Attendees will explore the historic Belton Estate, learn about its history including WWI training camp significance, and enjoy the views from Bellmount Tower. The event requires booking and is free to attend as part of the festival weekend.
19 Sep
The Dolls House Fair is an event celebrating miniature craftsmanship, featuring artisans and enthusiasts showcasing and selling bespoke miniatures including furniture, dolls, and period accessories. The event provides opportunities for collectors to purchase unique pieces and network with fellow hobbyists to learn about miniaturization techniques and history. It takes place indoors on the first floor of Grantham House.
20 Oct
A guided 8.5 km walk exploring Belton’s geology and how it has shaped the landscape, wildlife habitats and human history. Topics include ancient land formation, fossils and the effects of ice ages.
26–29 Nov
Burghley Christmas Fair is a festive shopping fair with around 200 stalls selling artisan gifts, decorations, clothing and homewares, alongside food and drink. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal entertainment, including a carousel, helter skelter and evening drone shows on Friday and Saturday.
Burghley House is a grand 16th-century Elizabethan stately home in Lincolnshire featuring magnificent State Rooms, historic art collections, extensive gardens, and adventure play areas for children. Visitors can explore both indoor historical interiors and outdoor parkland with deer and landscaped vistas, alongside facilities including a café and picnic spots.
Stamford is a historic market town in Lincolnshire renowned for its well-preserved 17th- and 18th-century stone and timber-framed buildings, medieval churches, and annual cultural festivals, with access to rail, buses, and walkable central streets.
31 Aug–6 Sep
Spin and Play Adventures at Sandilands is an outdoor event featuring six activity spinners that encourage participants to move, explore and have fun through various physical and sensory challenges. The event is designed for active play and creativity in nature, with activities suitable for children and families.
22 May, 12 Jun…
Visitors can watch traditional spinning demonstrations and try hand spinning and lucet braiding in informal, hands-on sessions at Tattershall Castle.
31 Oct
A 40-minute pop-up planetarium show offers an immersive introduction to stargazing, projecting a field of 10,000 stars onto the dome and showing features including shooting stars and the moon.
Woolsthorpe Manor, near Grantham in Lincolnshire, is the historic birthplace and family home of Sir Isaac Newton, featuring his famous apple tree and interactive exhibits on his scientific experiments. The 17th-century manor is preserved by the National Trust and offers visitors both indoor historic house tours and outdoor garden experiences.
28 Nov–23 Dec
Gunby’s house is decorated for Christmas with a “Board Games and Baubles” theme, inviting visitors to explore festive displays and playful details throughout the rooms. Visitors can also take a winter walk through the gardens and visit the Christmas shop.
31 Oct
A 15 km circular guided walk from Belton Estate, passing historic sites and countryside around Grantham, including Peascliffe Tunnel and the River Witham.
5–6 Sep
Belton Community Festival is a two-day event offering a range of activities including talks, demonstrations, dance, art, music, and workshops. It showcases local community groups and offers free entry to the estate's mansion, gardens, and playground.
16 Sep
An Autumnal Wreath Workshop at Grantham Arts where participants can create their own fresh wreath using seasonal foliage and natural decorations. The event is suitable for beginners and experienced crafters, includes all materials and guidance, and takes place in the Grantham Arts studio.
27 Oct
De Mowbray's Musicke lead a workshop teaching traditional English folk dances in the Assembly Room at Gainsborough Old Hall.
4 Oct
An Introduction to Belton's Military History Guided Walk is a 9 km outdoor guided walk starting at Londonthorpe Woods car park. It explores the military history of Londonthorpe and Bellmount, including visits to war graves at Londonthorpe church and Bellmount Plantation, highlighting the area's contribution to WWI and WWII. Booking is essential, and dogs are not permitted due to environmental priorities in Belton's Deer Sanctuary. The walk involves unsurfaced, uneven ground and stiles, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users.
10 Oct, 14 Nov
Join a dog ranger for a leisurely circular walk around Belton Estate, learning about the Brownlow family's dogs and experiencing the estate's habitats, landscapes and wildlife.
28 Sep
A peaceful guided walk through the gardens of Belton Estate, designed specifically for people undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment. The walk explores various historic and natural features of the gardens on accessible paths and lasts around 60 to 90 minutes. The event is free but booking is essential.
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
Join Will the Peasant on an interactive family tour of Tattershall Castle, hearing ghost stories and exploring the castle’s history, rooms and tower secrets. The route includes climbing 149 steps to the top of the tower.
13 Nov, 11 Dec
An evening pottery session at Grantham Arts, with time spent both throwing clay on the wheel and hand-building a ceramic item. A glass of prosecco, beer or a soft drink is included.
26–29 Oct, 31 Oct
Costumed guides lead family-friendly morning tours exploring the grisly stories, customs and characters of Burghley’s history. The interactive experience is aimed at children aged 6 to 11 and their grown-ups.
Priest's House is a 15th-century historic building showcasing fascinating local architecture and a museum dedicated to Easton's industrial past and slate mining history.
8–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Visitors can choose from around 30 varieties of pumpkins, squashes and gourds at Doddington’s pumpkin patch, reached by a spooky walk through the Kitchen Garden. There are also hidden golden-bottomed pumpkins to find and a giant pumpkin on display in the Farm Shop.
7 Oct
A full-day introduction to traditional Japanese Sashiko embroidery, where participants learn basic stitching techniques and use them to make a pin cushion. The workshop is open to people of all abilities, including beginners.
8 Oct
Join a volunteer ranger for a circular walk through Belton Estate’s parkland and woodland, with views of the River Witham and opportunities to learn about local wildlife, habitats, conservation and the estate’s history.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Visitors can collect a free sketching bag and draw their own views of the estate, with suggested inspiration in the Kitchen Gardens, Courtyard and by the Ice Pond.
25 Jul
Gunby Estate opens its gardens for National Garden Scheme Day, with local trade and craft stalls, cream teas, and summer lawn games. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and browse the market.