Lincolnshire
Lincoln is ‘a city in the countryside’ which offers visitors the chance to soak up thousands of years of history and to enjoy the attractions of modern living.

From the crowning glory of its stunning gothic cathedral, winding cobbled streets lead past some of the oldest surviving mediaeval architecture in the country to a vibrant shopping and cultural quarter. ‘The Collection’ is an award-winning museum of art and archaeology, while outstanding fine art is displayed nearby in the Usher Gallery. Brayford Waterfront has independent shops, lively cafes and bars, and relaxing boat trips on the oldest Roman canal in the country.

Gunby Hall
Described by Tennyson as a ‘haunt of ancient peace’, Gunby Hall lies between the lovely Lincolnshire Wolds and the bracing coastline with its choice of different seaside experiences.

This fine red-bricked house dates from the 1700s and contains impressive wood panelled rooms and an elaborate staircase constructed entirely from oak. The extensive gardens which surround the house are charmingly informal, and their layout dates largely from the early 1900s. The walled gardens parade traditional English flowers, fruit and vegetables with a dovecote that predates the house and a rose covered pergola. The estate also includes a remote late-17th century Baptist Chapel at Monksthorpe.

This is an excellent base from which to visit other National Trust properties such as Tattershall Castle, Belton House and Woolsthorpe Manor. The surrounding countryside also contains many picture postcard villages and friendly market towns

National Trust places nearby: St George's Guidhall, Oxburgh Hall. Shop and pub: Burgh le Marsh 2 miles. Tea-room/café/restaurant: Burgh le Marsh. Beach: Skegness. Other attractions: Lincolnshire coast, Gunby, Skegness, market towns of Spilsby and Horncastle. Activities: walking, cycling.