Looking for things to do in and around Grantham this Autumn?
Nestled in the heart of Lincolnshire is a town brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a charming getaway, Grantham offers a variety of attractions to explore.
Here’s our guide to the 11 best things to do in and around Grantham this Autumn.
1. Explore Belton House
Belton House, a stunning National Trust property, is a must-visit. This classic English country house, surrounded by beautiful gardens and deer park, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of 17th century aristocratic life. Don’t miss the intricate interiors and the stunning landscaped grounds.
Explore the vast parkland surrounding Belton House, with the wonderfully maintained trails taking you through beautiful landscapes, woodlands, and open fields. Keep your eyes peeled for fallow deer fawns hiding in the woodland and listen out for the percussive signs that woodpeckers are above.
If play is what you’re after Belton’s adventure playground, set within a historic wilderness and arboretum, is sure to deliver. The National Trust’s largest outdoor adventure playground, promises hours of family fun.
2. Visit the Guildhall Arts Centre
The Guildhall Arts Centre, located in Grantham’s historic Guildhall building, is a cultural hub offering a variety of performances and events. From theatre productions and live music to art exhibitions and workshops, there’s always something happening here!
Originally housing a ballroom, courtroom and a jail, the Guildhall now houses a lively Arts Centre. Also located within the iconic building is local’s favourite, Digby’s Café, who cook up a mean Full English breakfast and classic lunchtime bites.
3. Stroll Through Wyndham Park
Wyndham Park is one of the very best parks in Britain – and that’s official! This multi-award winning park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or family outing, featuring picturesque gardens, a model boating lake, and a play area for children – complete with a splash pad! Remember your rackets and your ping-pong paddles to make use of the tennis courts and table tennis tables. Or bring a book and sit and enjoy the tranquility of the sensory garden.
If your feet fancy taking you further, Queen Elizabeth Park nestled in the North of Grantham, is just a short walk away and offers even more open space to explore!
4. Discover Woolsthorpe Manor
Step into the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton at Woolsthorpe Manor. This charming 17th century farmhouse is where Newton formulated his theories of motion and gravity, making it also the birthplace of modern science. Visit the iconic apple tree, explore the historic rooms, and engage with interactive science exhibits.
Within Woolsthorpe’s gardens you can find the most famous apple tree in history, the Flower of Kent, still growing and whilst you won’t be able to taste any apples from this tree, you can always grab something to eat from Newton’s Barn coffee shop.
Throughout the summer holidays, the National Trust delivers their Summer of Discovery science and curiosity programme, engaging children and adults alike with hands-on activities and experiments inspired by Isaac Newton.
5. Peruse Grantham Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Grantham at the Grantham Museum. The museum showcases exhibits on the town’s heritage, including displays on Grantham-born Margaret Thatcher and Sir Isaac Newton.
Did you also know that the UK’s first female police officer served in Grantham? The story of Edith Smith’s life and career is presented at the museum with artifacts related to her life on display.
The museum is currently closed for renovation thanks to a successful funding bid from SKDC’s Future High Street Fund, which is supporting £162,000 worth of repairs to the building. The work carried out will include the installation of a new heating system, improvements to the basement storage area and the creation of a kitchen on the ground floor. The museum reopens on the 2nd October 2025.
Explore Grantham Museum to find out more about the history and heritage of Grantham. It’s a fascinating journey through local history! If this has pique your interest, why not also check out Grantham’s Blue Plaque Trail!
6. Admire St. Wulfram’s Church
St. Wulfram’s Church is a stunning example of medieval architecture. Its soaring spire dominates the Grantham skyline! Inside, you’ll find stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and one of the finest organs in Lincolnshire!
Another reason to visit St. Wulfram’s Church is hidden up a narrow, stone, spiral staircase… The Trigge Library is a local secret. Founded in 1598, the chained library hosts several ancient books – including the Imago Mundi, a book written in 1410 of particular interest to navigators, which accompanied Christopher Columbus on his voyages of discovery!
7. Traverse the Grantham Canal
For another tranquil yet active activity, walk, cycle, or wheel the Grantham Canal. This historic artery to the East Midland’s Industrial Revolution, it now offers picturesque scenery and an abundance of wildlife. It’s perfect for a leisurely wander or a peaceful picnic by the water.
Once key for its role in the transportation of coal, this historically important waterway is now a haven for wildlife, with much of the canal being a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Bring your binoculars so you don’t miss out on spotting some sedge warblers.
8. Take a Trip to Belvoir Castle
Just a short trip from Grantham, Belvoir Castle is a fairy-tale fortress set amidst rolling countryside. Explore the opulent state rooms, stroll through the landscaped gardens, and enjoy breathtaking views from the castle grounds.
Don’t forget to keep your eyes in the skies if you’re visiting in the evening as Belvoir Castle hosts the annual summer, Fireworks Champions, where three of the UK’s best pyrotechnics show off their fantastic firework-display skills!
For a spot of shopping within the castle’s grounds, the Engine Yard is sure to deliver – the range of local artisan goods is truly sublime!
9. Enjoy Easton Walled Gardens
Known as “Lincolnshire’s lost gardens,” Easton Walled Gardens are a horticultural delight. These restored gardens feature vibrant flower beds, lush lawns, and a stunning display of sweet peas all throughout the summer. It’s a gardener’s paradise and a photographer’s dream.
Once you’ve finished wandering the masterfully kept gardens, why not head to the Applestore Tea Room for lunch or a light-bite. The Applestore offers hot and cold drinks, homemade sandwiches, light snacks, delicious homemade cakes and ice cream.
10. Shop at Downtown Grantham
Downtown Grantham, once claimed to be the largest garden centre in Europe, is still sure to sell almost anything you can possibly think of. This internationally recognised department store offers everything from homeware and electricals to toys and trees!
To satisfy all your shopping needs, spend the day browsing their seemingly unlimited offer and exclusive in-store sale offers! If you find yourself in need of a refuel, re-energise at one of their two cosy cafés.
11. Be Entertained at Ancaster Leisure
Ancaster Leisure is Lincolnshire’s biggest indoor and outdoor activity centre, offering an abundance of activities – you could spend forever here and still be entertained! Their award-winning rental kart circuit is sure to get your heart racing but the options don’t stop at karting. Ancaster Leisure offers a whole host of activities including airsoft, archery, bowling and event paintballing!
Travelling with a group? Ancaster Leisure have you covered – check out their packages including their laser tag parties!
Credit: Ancaster Leisure
Conclusion
This short list is tiny in comparison to all options available…
Grantham and its surroundings offer a treasure trove of attractions that cater to all interests. From historic sites and grand estates to serene parks and gardens – and even some paintballing thrown in there for good luck – there really is something for everyone.
Plan your visit to Grantham and immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of this charming Lincolnshire market town.
For the latest updates on opening hours and events, be sure to check the respective websites of these attractions before your visit.
Enjoy your trip to Grantham!
