スタートン・バイ・ストウでののおすすめライド

Gainsborough Old Hall in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire is over five hundred years old and one of the best preserved medieval manor houses in England. The hall was built by Sir Thomas Burgh in 1460. The Burghs were rich, flamboyant and powerful. Gainsborough Old Hall was not only their home, but also a demonstration of their wealth and importance. Burgh was a benefactor to Newark Church and also the founder of the Chantry and Alms House at Gainsborough. In 1470, the manor was attacked by Sir Robert Welles over a clash about lands, status, and honour, but it was not severely damaged. In 1484 Thomas entertained King Richard III in his hall. Henry VIII visited Gainsborough twice: once in 1509, and again in 1541 with his fifth wife, Queen Catherine Howard. The Queen was accused of indiscretions both at Gainsborough and Lincoln, and she was later executed.

Gainsborough Old Hall is something of a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered in Gainsborough. Built in 1460, it is one of the largest and best preserved medieval manor houses in the country. Famous guests included Richard III and Henry VIII. An on-site café serves freshly prepared food and you can enjoy a house tour and a stroll around the gardens and grounds.

Travelling East, the Fossdyke Canal Trail begins (or ends if you're travelling West!) at Saxilby. This traffic free path follows what is most likely the oldest canal in England that is still in use, thought to have been built around 120AD by the Romans. The road is parallel to the trail on the opposite bank for a short distance before heading South-East to Skellingthorpe.

Great little cycleway which I have used from Doddington into Lincoln. Gets very busy with walkers though so ride with care.

The church is a Grade II listed building dating from the 12th century, although virtually rebuild in the late 19th century. Only a blocked Norman doorway in the south wall hints at its Norman origins. The two is thought to be around 14th century. Willingham by Stow is mentioned in the Domesday Book.

A Grade I listed building dating from the 12th century, although it was destroyed by fire in 1342 before being rebuilt.

The church was build in 1850 by Lewis Nockalls Cottingham (1787-1847). It is Grade II listed building.

This is a great place to base yourself out of if you are visiting the area. A free carpark that is right on the Dukeries Trail (see my other routes) cycle path between Lincoln and Fledborough.