Things to do in Spalding, Lincolnshire

Spalding, located in Lincolnshire, England, is a charming market town with a rich history and picturesque surroundings. From its beautiful gardens and historic buildings to its vibrant market and friendly community, Spalding offers a delightful experience for visitors. Whether you're interested in exploring the local heritage, enjoying the natural beauty of the area, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Spalding has something for everyone. Discover the charm of this hidden gem and create unforgettable memories in Spalding.

Things to do

Ayscoughfee Hall Museum and Gardens

Ayscoughfee Hall Museum and Gardens is a beautiful historic house located in Spalding. The hall dates back to the 15th century and is surrounded by stunning gardens. The museum inside the hall showcases the history of Spalding and its surrounding areas, with exhibits ranging from archaeological finds to local artwork. Visitors can explore the hall's grand rooms, including the Great Hall and the Drawing Room, and learn about the fascinating stories of the people who lived there. The gardens are a peaceful oasis with manicured lawns, flower beds, and a picturesque lake. A visit to Ayscoughfee Hall Museum and Gardens is a must for history and nature lovers alike.

Springfields Outlet Shopping & Festival Gardens

Springfields Outlet Shopping & Festival Gardens is a popular destination for shopping and outdoor activities in Spalding. The outlet shopping center offers a wide range of stores, including fashion, home goods, and beauty brands, where visitors can find great deals on designer and high street brands. After a shopping spree, visitors can relax and explore the Festival Gardens, which feature beautifully landscaped gardens, water features, and sculptures. The gardens are a great place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Springfields Outlet Shopping & Festival Gardens is a perfect place to spend a day with family or friends.

Spalding Water Taxi

Take a unique and scenic ride on the Spalding Water Taxi along the River Welland. The water taxi offers a leisurely way to explore the picturesque waterways of Spalding and enjoy the beautiful countryside views. The boat trip takes you through the heart of the town, passing by historic buildings, charming bridges, and tranquil stretches of the river. It's a great way to see Spalding from a different perspective and learn about its history and heritage. The water taxi operates during the summer months and provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Grimsthorpe Castle

Located just a short drive from Spalding, Grimsthorpe Castle is a magnificent stately home surrounded by beautiful parkland. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been the ancestral home of the de Eresby family for over 500 years. Visitors can explore the castle's grand rooms, including the State Dining Room, the Drawing Room, and the Library, which are filled with exquisite furniture, artwork, and historical artifacts. The castle is also known for its stunning gardens, which feature formal lawns, colorful flower beds, and a picturesque lake. Grimsthorpe Castle is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Baytree Owl & Wildlife Centre

Get up close and personal with a variety of owls and other wildlife at the Baytree Owl & Wildlife Centre. This unique attraction in Spalding is home to a wide range of owl species, including barn owls, tawny owls, and snowy owls. Visitors can learn about these fascinating birds of prey through informative talks and demonstrations, and even have the opportunity to hold and fly an owl. In addition to owls, the centre also houses other wildlife, such as meerkats, reptiles, and small mammals. It's a great place to spend a day with the family and learn about the importance of wildlife conservation.

Chain Bridge Forge

Step back in time at the Chain Bridge Forge, a working blacksmith's forge and museum in Spalding. The forge dates back to the 18th century and is one of the few remaining examples of its kind in the country. Visitors can watch skilled blacksmiths at work, shaping and forging metal using traditional techniques. The museum showcases the history of blacksmithing and its importance in the local community. It's a fascinating place to learn about the art of blacksmithing and the role it played in shaping Spalding's history. The Chain Bridge Forge also offers workshops and demonstrations for those interested in trying their hand at blacksmithing.

Spalding Gentlemen's Society

Visit the Spalding Gentlemen's Society, one of the oldest provincial learned societies in the country. Founded in 1710, the society is dedicated to the study and preservation of local history, archaeology, and natural sciences. The museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, including archaeological finds, natural history specimens, and historical documents. Visitors can explore the society's library, which contains a vast collection of books and manuscripts, and learn about the contributions of its members to the fields of science and literature. The Spalding Gentlemen's Society is a hidden gem for history and culture enthusiasts.

South Holland Centre

Experience the vibrant arts and culture scene of Spalding at the South Holland Centre. This modern venue hosts a variety of performances, including theatre productions, live music concerts, dance shows, and film screenings. The centre also houses an art gallery, showcasing works by local and national artists. Visitors can enjoy a pre-show meal or drinks at the centre's café and bar, which offers a range of delicious food and beverages. Whether you're a fan of the performing arts or simply looking for a fun night out, the South Holland Centre has something for everyone.

Moulton Windmill

Visit Moulton Windmill, a beautifully restored windmill located near Spalding. This historic landmark dates back to the early 19th century and is one of the tallest windmills in the country. Visitors can climb to the top of the windmill and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Inside the windmill, there is a museum that tells the story of its restoration and the history of milling in the area. The site also features a tearoom where visitors can enjoy homemade cakes and refreshments. A visit to Moulton Windmill is a great way to learn about the agricultural heritage of the region.

Spalding Bulb Museum

Discover the fascinating history of the bulb industry at the Spalding Bulb Museum. Located within the Springfields Outlet Shopping & Festival Gardens complex, the museum showcases the story of Spalding's role in the cultivation and trade of bulbs. Visitors can learn about the different types of bulbs, the process of growing and harvesting them, and the impact of the industry on the local economy. The museum also features displays of vintage gardening tools and equipment, as well as interactive exhibits for children. It's a unique attraction that offers a glimpse into Spalding's horticultural heritage.