Towns, Villages and Services

Looking for somewhere to stay, something to do or need to find a local business or hire a village hall for a group of people?  Hover your mouse over one of the pointers on the map above to view lots more information, there are a diverse range of businesses based in the Lincolnshire Wolds from ice cream parlours to riding schools, engineering to plant nurseries and everything inbetween!

Attractive hamlets and villages are scattered throughout the area, adding to the charm of the landscape. Some villages organise events for everyone to enjoy. Have a look on our events page to see what is going on. Many have a shop, tea room or pub – look at the map above to find an ideal place for a break.

The market towns on the edge of the Wolds were traditionally the centres of the rural life as places to meet, greet, buy and sell.  Today they still play that role with their active markets and lively centres.  They are a great place to spend some time, with interesting buildings and shops.

Alford is famous for the popular and entertaining craft markets that are regularly held thoughout the year.  There is a 19th century five sailed working windmill that produces organic flour and cereals.

Market day: Tuesday
Craft market: Tuesday, Friday (mid July - early September) and Bank Holidays from Easter
Early closing: Thursday

Other highlights include: Alford Manor House, St. Wilfrid's Church, Alford Pottery, Wolds Gateway Walks.

Caistor is an attractive small town on the western escarpment of the Wolds, which has retained much of its Georgian character.  The largest sheep fairs in England were held in Caistor in 1858 when 60,000 sheep were sold!

Market day: Saturday

Other highlights include: Caistor Arts & Heritage Centre, Roman wall, interconnecting market squares, equestrian centre.  Walks including the Viking Way, Interconnect 53 bus walks, guided walks, Caistor events leaflet.

Horncastle is a thriving market town nestled between the river Bain and river Waring.  Cobbled streets, thatched houses, Roman ruins and a 13th centure church make it a gem to explore.  The town has a wide selection of antique and artisan shops, coffee houses, restaurants and cosy pubs.  Visit the Joseph Banks Centre to discover more about the famous explorer and botanist.

Market days: Thursday and Saturday
Farmers Market: 2nd Thursday
Early closing: Wednesday

Other highlights include: Horncastle Community Woodland, 18th and 19th century architecture, Viking Way, Interconnect 56 bus walks and Spa trail linking with Woodhall Spa.

Louth is set on the eastern edge of the Wolds Louth is an historic, bustling market town that still retains its natural charm.  St James' boasts the highest spire on a parish church in England.  Climb the tower on a clear day for great views of the coast and Wolds!

Market days: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.  Farmers market: 4th Wednesday. 

Other highlights include: Hubbard's Hills, Museum, Wolds Gateway Walks, Cycle Routes, theatre, cinema, Spout Yard, sports facilities, Georgian Westgate.

Market Rasen is a small picturesque market town, situated on the western edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds.  It was originally known as East Rasen, with Middle Rasen being the more important location and West Rasen following on.  Market Rasen became more prominent when it was granted the right to a market, holding the first in the 14th century.

Market days: Tuesday, Friday and Saturday

Other highlights include: Horseracing, Centenary Wesleyan Church, Willingham Woods and Picnic Area, train service to Lincoln and Cleethorpes, Wolds Gateway Walks.

Spilsby is host to a lively market, chartered in 1302, selling everything from vegetables and fish to household goods and a famous 'stones' market.  Lincolnshire's famous explorer, Sir John Franklin - the Artic navigator and explorer was born in Spilsby in 1786 - a bronze statue of hims stands in the Market Place.

Market day: Monday

Other highlights include: Theatre, Gunby Hall nearby (National Trust), Medieval Buttercross in Market Place, Aviation Heritage Centre nearby.