Grantham

Discover Grantham

The beautiful market town of Grantham is a fantastic starting point when discovering the area of South Kesteven. The town began as a Saxon village and grew into a market town during the 11th century. It was recognised in the Domesday Book in 1086 with a recorded population of 183 households and in the Middle Ages, the town was successful in the wool and leather trade.

St Wulfram's Church towers over the historic town and was described by Simon Jenkins as ‘the finest steeple in England’. The Angel and Royal Hotel located on the High Street dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest coaching inns in the country. The charming property has hosted no less than seven Kings and Queens over the centuries.

The origin of many

Birthplace of Baroness Margaret Thatcher, Grantham was home to Britain’s first female Prime Minister. Sir Isaac Newton, the founding father of modern science and arguably Grantham’s greatest son, was educated at King’s School located on Brook Street. His legacy and achievements are echoed in the biennial Gravity Fields Festival of Science, Arts and Heritage which takes place in the town and attracts thousands of visitors.

With its intriguing story of American airborne forces from World War Two, Grantham Museum is a wonderful place to visit. It features permanent exhibitions detailing the lives of Margaret Thatcher and Sir Isaac Newton and admission is free. Notable former residents can be traced with the assistance of the town’s Blue Plaque Guide. Listing the homes, work places and schools of many, including Edith Smith, who was Britain’s first female police officer with the power to arrest. Also details about Captain Albert Ball, who was recognised as the United Kingdom’s flying ace with 44 victories during World War One.

Find time to explore

Take the opportunity to walk or cycle the Riverside Trail alongside the Witham River as it wends its way through the peace and calm of the parklands that extend across Grantham. If you fancy moving out of the town, visit nearby Belton House (National Trust) or enjoy a narrowboat trip on the Grantham Canal at Woolsthorpe by Belvoir.

The adventures don’t stop there, perhaps embark on a carriage ride with Fawcett Driving Horses. Other nearby highlights include the Manor Stables Craft Centre at Fulbeck or alpaca trekking with JandJ Alpacas at Dry Doddington.

Delve into heritage wonders

No visit to Grantham would be complete without a visit to one or more of the town’s world class heritage attractions. Take a tour of Belvoir Castle which has been used for the filming of The Crown and Victoria and Abdul. Or Belton House which was used in Pride and Prejudice, The Da Vinci Code and The Young Victoria. Both properties are set in beautiful landscapes with heaps of history to absorb and reflect upon.

If you’re a keen gardening enthusiast, Easton Walled Gardens is a restored gem with twelve acres of land to enjoy. In the village of Woolsthorpe, near Stamford, you can visit Woolsthorpe Manor which was the family home of Sir Isaac Newton.

Enjoy a bit of adrenaline?

You’ll be able to find entertainment for the whole family at Ancaster Leisure on the outskirts of Grantham. The indoor and outdoor venue suits all ages with fun activities such as paintballing, bowling and laser tag on offer. If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed, Belton Woods Golf Course offers two championship courses to choose from.

With plenty of things to do, make Grantham part of your Lincolnshire holiday. Discover what’s on, enjoy locally sourced food and drink and seek out a superb range of visitor attractions across South Kesteven.

Discover more of South Kesteven

And while you’re here, visit our other historic market towns of Stamford, Bourne and Market Deeping.

Click here to download a map of Grantham's town centre.

Explore our beautiful locations in Grantham