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Lincolnshire

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About Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire is a large county, its borders encompassing the Lincolnshire Wolds, fenlands and marshes, the wetlands of the Humber estuary, and flat acres in between, perfect for farming of all sorts. Lincolnshire’s coastline varies from the dramatic cliffs of the Lincolnshire Escarpment, to rolling sand dunes and long sandy beaches. With this varied landscape comes an equally varied range of accommodation options. Our pick of the best places to stay in Lincolnshire ranges from country house hotels and old coaching inns turned boutique pads to rustic B&Bs that are ideal for a quiet night away.

Lincoln, the county town, is an old city with architectural riches, and one of the most glorious cathedrals in Britain. Stamford is the other stand-out town in the county and its beautiful streets have not been lost on the location scouts — it's been part of many a period drama including 2005's Pride and Prejudice with Keira Knightley.

Lincolnshire's heyday may have been the late Middle Ages, when the county grew fat off the wool trade, and numerous grand churches and abbeys were built — many survive today, creating great beacons on the flat, green landscape. Towns sprang up around these churches, and these historic hamlets are still some of Lincolnshire’s most picturesque. Boston’s St. Botolph’s Church put Boston on the map, it’s still one of the tallest medieval churches in the UK, and on a clear day you can see it from the other side of The Wash, as well as throughout The Fens.

In addition to the churches, Lincolnshire has a large number of impressive county houses and manors. Many have been passed on to the National Trust, but some have been converted into hotels, and now appear on our list of the best places to stay in Lincolnshire. There are endless beaches to explore too with many hidden gems, whether you want to enjoy a blustery walk or build sandcastles with the kids.

The Best Places to Stay in Lincolnshire

For a Special Occasion

  • Washingborough Hall is a Georgian mansion in miniature, just three miles outside Lincoln’s city centre, with 20 rooms and suites. Interiors are very country house hotel, complete with William Morris patterns and wood-panelled walls. The rooms in the main house are more traditional, with antiques and garden views, while those in the converted former coach house are more contemporary — some have private patios. There's also a fine dining restaurant and a relaxed lounge/bar.
  • The Georges a quintessentially British stay in Stamford: an old coaching inn in one of Lincolnshire’s prettiest historic towns. From the sandstone exterior, to the wood-panelled dining room, and garden wall clad in wisteria, this is a charming place to stay. Child and pet friendly, the hotel’s 47 rooms and suites offer plenty of variety, but all along the lines of ‘traditional luxury’, and the restaurant serves hearty fare.

Country House Hotels

  • Allington Manor is a small manor house turned B&B and wedding venue, brimming with charm and antiques. There are just three guest rooms, each individually decorated, plus a very elegant dining room, and a cosy sitting room with exposed beams and a Gothic-looking stone fireplace. Perfect for a stylish countryside escape.
  • Stamford’s The William Cecil is a small country house hotel on the Burghley Estate, close to the A1. There are 27 rooms and suites, decorated in a range of styles, with well laid-out bathrooms, some of which have walk-in showers and roll-top baths. Milly's Bistro serves delicious dishes with a weekly changing menu.

For Historic Lincoln

  • The Old Palace Lodge is a small, historic hotel in an incredible central position, in the shadow of Lincoln Cathedral. Some of its 16 rooms and suites have been converted from a former church, and these have stone-mullioned Gothic windows, or original beams and apex ceilings (all of the rooms have different original features). We like those with the grand windows, which also have roll-top baths. Breakfast is served in the apse of the church, and while there’s no restaurant, you are very close to a good selection. Surprisingly peaceful — aside from the bells!
  • The Castle Hotel is a townhouse hotel on cobbled Steep Hill, close to Lincoln's old city walls, the cathedral, and to the castle. The 18 rooms and suites are contemporary in design, with a colour scheme of neutrals and creams. There are a couple of self contained apartments in the courtyard, which are well set up for families, and there’s a small bar, and chic bistro. Stylish and central.
  • The Rest is also on Steep Hill, a charmingly converted Baptist church hall, now offering ten guest rooms — some with private terraces overlooking the Bishop’s Palace and the city. There’s no restaurant, but they do have a coffee house and bar, where they serve an excellent breakfast and snacks and drinks all day.

For Foodies

  • The Brownlow Arms is a traditional, family-owned, village pub turned foodie destination. The restaurant is surprisingly large — but guests travel long distances to eat the Modern British menu on offer. This is the sort of place where even the bread is homemade, and the triple chocolate brownie has a loyal following! There are just five guest rooms, one tucked into the eves of the pub, and the others in a separate barn conversion.

Best Pubs-with-Rooms

  • The New Inn, just outside Grimsby, is a Grade II listed property with recently refurbished interiors, an atmospheric pub, and a restaurant known for using the organic produce from a local estate. The refurbishment brought cleaner lines and neutral colours, to make the most of the remaining original features.
  • The Bull & Swan in Stamford is a fairly ancient coaching inn on the Burghley Estate. It’s now run as a pub with rooms — but also remains popular with the locals. You can expect excellent bistro food, a pretty courtyard garden, which is lovely in the summer. The decor is classy too; lots of white, against dark-wood antiques.
  • The Crown, Stamford is another old coaching inn in pretty Stamford, with a cosy country pub atmosphere and 18 simply designed rooms. The decor is traditional and makes the most of the exposed stone and beamed ceilings. There's a lively restaurant and you can bring your pets too.

For a Rural Retreat

  • The Bridleway B&B offers a chance to stay close to Lincoln, while also staying in the country. Converted from a farmhouse just a few miles to the north of town, these four B&B rooms have been converted from farm outbuildings, and have been simply and tastefully decorated with muted colours and comfortable details. Breakfast is served in a lovely conservatory room.
  • The Barn is a 17th century barn, located in a picturesque rural conservation area in the village of Folkingham. Now a four room B&B, with decor that makes the most of the barn’s original features, this is a really relaxed place to stay, in a peaceful setting of gardens and pretty old buildings. Great for walkers. Guests enjoy breakfast in the farm-style kitchen, and can relax in the cosy siting room.

For Couples

  • The Elm Tree has some of the grandest B&B rooms on our list, complete with antique four-posters, or canopy beds, elegant antique furniture, and plush fabrics. There are just four rooms, all of them different, but all quite indulgent-feeling. Breakfast is taken care of rather grandly too, because the owner is a former chef. This is an adults only property, and the location, inland from Skegness, is convenient for day trips with your car.

Best B&Bs

  • Grayingham Lodge is a small and lovely B&B in a rural part of Lincolnshire, close to the RAF Museum, Scampton, home of the Red Arrows. There are just three rooms, all of them decorated in simple white, with lots of light and pretty views.

For Families

  • The Grange is a three room B&B converted from Victorian-era farm buildings, just outside East Barkwith, on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As well as being ideal for walkers, or for popping into Lincoln, The Grange is a great place to relax — they have a tennis court, and trout fishing, as well as a pretty sitting room and gardens. In addition to the three rooms there are three self-catering cottages onsite, making this a great pick for families.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Lincolnshire’s hub airport is Humberside Airport, which is about 40 minutes drive north of Lincoln. East Midlands Airport is next closest, just outside Castle Donnington, near Derby. If you’re coming from London, trains leave from Kings Cross or St. Pancras. Direct trains to Lincoln take around an hour and 45 minutes.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • Lincolnshire gets the most visitors during the late spring and early summer months. Summers are mild and warm, and the winters cool, but seeing as this is the UK we’re talking about, the Gurus advise you to pack your wet weather gear at all times. Lincolnshire’s cultural and festival calendar has plenty in it year round, but the big ones are the Lincolnshire Show — held in June; the Lincolnshire Food and Gift Fair — held in November; and the Lincoln Christmas Market — held in December. Lincoln is a city break destination that can be appreciated year round.

Still not sure where to stay?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Lincolnshire

Best Hotels in Lincolnshire

  • The Old Palace Lodge Lincoln 16 rooms from £70

    Sights nearby  -  Within two minutes walk of both city's most famous landmarks: the Cathedral and the Castle.
    Local markets  -  Browse Lincoln's nearby artists market.
    Parking

    In the heart of the city, in the shadow of the cathedral, this is a stunning location. What’s more, rooms are carved out of a former church. Expect grand features and a special atmosphere. See More

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  • The Barn Sleaford, Lincolnshire 4 rooms from £80

    Sights nearby  -  Country houses such as Burghley and Belton as well as many cathedrals and churches are in the local area.
    Great walks  -  There are many beautiful walking routes starting from the village.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Traditional
    Garden
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    This 17th century B&B is set in the beautiful conservation village of Folkingham. Four beautiful, individually designed rooms and a sitting room in which to relax. Loyal to its origins with a fireplace and oak beams. An ideal country stay with activities and sights all within a short drive. See More

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  • The Grange, Lincolnshire Lincolnshire 3 rooms from £82

    Tennis  -  For those looking for a bit of a runaround, go for a game of tennis on the farm's court.
    Sights nearby  -  Within easy reach of Lincoln and it's famous castle and cathedral.
    Great walks  -  Beautiful walking trail through the farm surroundings.
    Fishing  -  Trout fishing on the farms lake.
    TennisGarden
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Set on a beautiful Victorian farm, The Grange is an delightful, intimate B&B. With welcoming hosts and two lovely rooms, it's perfect for a weekend in the countryside. Take lovely walks through the surrounding farmland or a enjoy a game of tennis. See More

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  • Grayingham Lodge Northorpe, Lincolnshire 3 rooms from £85

    Sights nearby  -  Take a day trip to Lincoln and visit the magnificent cathedral and castle.
    Great walks  -  The surrounding countryside is full of beautiful walking routes.
    Local markets  -  Browse the antiques fair at Newark.
    GardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Charming and tranquil, Grayingham Lodge is a lovely B&B in rural Lincolnshire. The elegant rooms are simply decorated with comfortable furnishings and crisp, white colour schemes. A great base for exploring the surrounding area. See More

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  • The Elm Tree Lincolnshire 4 rooms from £90

    Local exploring  -  Perfectly located for you to explore the delights of rural Lincolnshire and beyond.
    Great walks  -  Take long walks in the picturesque nature reserves of Snipe Dales or Gibraler Point.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Bolingbroke Castle ruins dating back to 1220s.
    Restrictions on children  -  Adult only
    GardenParkingNo pets

    A boutique B&B offering superlative accommodation in a pretty part of Lincolnshire. Individually styled rooms are spacious and luxurious with antique furniture, fireplaces and rich hues. Indulgent breakfasts are served by former chef and owner and there's plenty to explore in the local area. See More

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  • Bridleway B&B Lincoln 4 rooms from £90

    Sights nearby  -  Within easy reach of Lincoln and its famous castle and cathedral.
    Great walks  -  The surrounding countryside is full of lovely walking routes.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Garden

    A rural idyll just a few miles from Lincoln city centre. Awash with charm and character, Bridleway B&B features lovely rooms, excellent breakfasts and a whole load of farm animals. See More

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  • The New Inn Grimsby, Lincolnshire 10 rooms from £99

    Foodies  -  Chef Chris O'Halloran offers delicious pub staples amongst other dishes using organic food from its own estate
    Country Escape  -  Enjoy a relaxing weekend in this vamped-up, stylish inn surrounded by picturesque countryside
    Sights nearby  -  Locals recommend Elsham Hall for beautiful wildlife and resident animals
    Great walks  -  Woodland walks and coastal paths in and around Grimsby
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    This swanky, refurbished, Grade II listed inn provides guests with luxurious, individually decorated rooms. Expect plush beds, art hangings and antique decor. Boasting beautiful natural surroundings and a lively, atmospheric pub and restaurant. See More

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  • The Bull & Swan Stamford 7 rooms from £100

    Sights nearby  -  Burghley House within a cross country walk
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    RestaurantGardenPet friendly
    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    Ancient coaching inn of just seven rooms on the Burghley Estate in a charming market town. Good food and elegant bedrooms. See More

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  • Allington Manor Nr Grantham, Lincolnshire 3 rooms from £105

    Weddings  -  Allington Manor is a unique venue for weddings, civil partnerships and receptions.
    Country Escape  -  A beautiful manor house filled with antiques in a beautiful part of rural Britain.
    Great walks  -  Enjoy long walks through the picturesque countryside.
    Sights nearby  -  Take a tour of the National Trust's Belton House.
    GardenDisabled accessParking

    A unique B&B and wedding venue brimming with as much charm as there are antiques. Each of the three individually styled rooms are light and airy with softly patterned wallpaper and beds featuring draped headboards.Private dining areas offer guests to host their own dinner party or event. Fabulous. See More

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  • Washingborough Hall Lincoln (Washingborough) 20 rooms from £106

    Local exploring  -  The ideal base for exploring both Lincoln and the surrounding countryside
    Sights nearby  -  Lincoln is home to its famous caste and cathedral.
    Local markets  -  Lincoln's Christmas Market should not be missed.
    Great walks  -  Explore the Lincolnshire Wolds on foot
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A miniature Georgian mansion, surrounded by lawned gardens yet within 10 minutes of Lincoln city centre. Its restaurant has a well-deserved reputation while bedrooms offer a choice of traditional or contemporary style. See More

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  • The Castle Hotel, Lincoln Lincoln 18 rooms from £110

    Sights nearby  -  Within five minutes walk of both Lincoln Castle and Lincoln Cathedral of St. Mary.
    Local markets  -  Don't miss the festive Lincoln Christmas Market in December.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Boutique
    RestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Townhouse-style, boutique hotel in a great location for enjoying the city’s sights and shops without having to walk far. Sleek and unfussy rooms in modish shades of grey and silver with an excellent, and lively, bistro-style restaurant. See More

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  • The Crown, Stamford Stamford 18 rooms from £115

    Local exploring  -  Set in what is acclaimed to be one of Britain's most beautiful towns.
    Sights nearby  -  Take a tour of the nearby Burghley House and Sculpture Park.
    Great walks  -  Take picturesque walks in the surrounding countryside.
    Full of character
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    An old Coaching Inn located in the beautiful town of Stamford. Simply designed rooms have a traditional feel without being fussy - the best have free standing baths. A lively restaurant uses local produce to great effect. A warm, relaxed hotel ideal for a weekend exploring the region. See More

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  • The Rest Lincoln, Lincolnshire 10 rooms from £119

    Sights nearby  -  round the corner from Lincoln Cathedral
    Local markets  -  One of Europes most largest Christmas markets.
    Restaurant  -  Coffee House serving Paninis etc.
    Four poster beds  -  Garden room
    RestaurantGardenParking

    Chic B&B providing a warm friendly welcome with Bar and coffee house serving delicious snacks. Situated between Lincoln's gorgeous Cathedral and the Castle. Ideal spot for making the most of this medieval historic city centre. See More

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  • The William Cecil Stamford 27 rooms from £130

    Sights nearby  -  Burghley House close by
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A 2011 refurbishment of a small country house hotel on the Burghley House Estate, close to the A1. Shabby chic grafted onto good food and new, young staff. Cosy and quirky. See More

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  • The Brownlow Arms Lincolnshire 5 rooms from £130

    Sights nearby  -  Lincoln Cathedral & Bailgate is a grand Gothic Cathedral, nestled in the cobbled bailgate area overlooking the city of Lincoln
    Great walks  -  Take a walk in the National Trust's Belton House grounds
    Full of character
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    RestaurantGardenDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    A destination foodie inn with smart cooking and atmospheric bar and dining-rooms in a traditional, family-owned village pub. Bedrooms are homely and comfortable, and the welcome warm and genuine. See More

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  • The George, Stamford Stamford 47 rooms from £215

    Local exploring  -  A historic building located in one of Britain's finest towns.
    Sights nearby  -  Explore the pretty town taking in the charming Browne's Hospital almshouses founded in 1475.
    Great walks  -  Embark on a picturesque walk from the hotel to Burghley House.
    Traditional
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    An old Coaching Inn sitting in the heart of an historic English town. Individually styled rooms are traditionally dressed with patterned wallpaper, chintz fabrics and antique furniture. An atmospheric restaurant serves up hearty fare in the oak-panelled hall. A quintessentially British stay. See More

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