Village in full bloom

Once a popular Victorian spa resort, today Woodhall Spa offers a unique blend of heritage, nature, and leisure with new initiatives popping up alongside established favourites.

Blending Edwardian elegance with family-friendly hospitality, tranquil nature and scenic landscapes, Woodhall Spa’s pace is leisurely, and its doors remain open to new visitors with the same warmth that locals have enjoyed for decades.

A compact, walkable village, its tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, shops and cafés sit alongside historic landmarks, making a visit feel both nostalgic and revitalising.

Whether you’re tracing the steps of World War II heroes, relaxing in iconic hotels and tea rooms, or watching a movie in the vintage Kinema in the Woods, Woodhall Spa has plenty of charm and appeal.

Outdoor events and attractions will be drawing the crowds once again in the warmer months ahead, with the Woodhall Spa Country Show (17th May), the 1940s Festival (11th-13th July) – held once again at Woodhall Country Park and featuring more than 100 military vehicles, re-enactments, plus live music – together with everyday activities including swimming in Jubilee Park’s outdoor pool, and taking a stroll along the iconic Spa Trail. 

This year the village has also been preparing for Woodhall Spa in Bloom, a new community-led project bringing together residents, businesses, schools and local groups to enhance and care for the village’s green spaces and environment.

Led by an enthusiastic group of locals, this initiative is encouraging volunteering and community involvement ahead of judging in early July.

Supported by Bainland Lodge Retreats, Woodhall Spa in Bloom, a not-for-profit project run by volunteers, was launched earlier this year with the aim of brightening up the village through planting, environmental care and community collaboration.

After much discussion and planning, it has been revealed that the official Woodhall Spa in Bloom colour theme for this season will be purple, lilac, pinks and whites.

The project brings together people with a wide range of skills, experience and enthusiasm – from keen gardeners to those simply happy to lend a hand.

From seasonal planting and maintaining planters to supporting green spaces and village displays, it is hoped that every contribution will help create visible, lasting improvements.

Always a favourite, this year’s Woodhall Spa Country Show will headline The Kangaroo Kid ATV Stunt Show, a high-powered performance, held in the main ring. The Kid, Sam Coulter, son of the original Kangaroo Kid, has put together a brand-new display packed with huge jumps, rolling quads and non-stop action.

Visitors can also enjoy all the usual attractions, including livestock, vintage machinery, live music, and a wide range of trade stands, as well as the Heritage and Craft marquees with local crafters and keen enthusiasts showing off their works and collections,plus a selection of local independent food outlets.
For further information and tickets visit www.woodhallspacountryshow.com

GO OUTDOORS!
Feeling sporty? Woodhall Spa is well known as the home of English Golf, with The National Golf Centre offering two world-class golf courses – the Hotchkin and the Bracken – and Academy plus lessons with PGA coaches, and access to extensive training facilities.

The Hotchkin is consistently ranked among the top 100 best in the world and has been extensively refurbished by leading golf course architect Tom Doak.

Its six-bay floodlit driving range is powered by Toptracer, providing a different dimension to practice. For golfers, Toptracer is the ultimate practice tool, taking the guesswork out of range sessions by offering an engaging, data-driven experience.

Keeping with the sporting theme, Woodhall Spa Tennis Club in Jubilee Park is a friendly club which is registered with the LTA and has a small clubhouse plus three all-weather floodlit courts.

The club welcomes all ages and standards of play for both members and visitors and also offers coaching to suit players of all abilities year-round.  

New this year is Spa Padel, a community-focused padel venue offering players of all levels the chance to enjoy the sport in a friendly setting.

With its centrally bookable indoor court and accessible facilities, it aims to support both casual play and skill development, attracting beginners, social players, and others looking for flexible court access.

Padel tennis is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, combining elements of tennis and squash to create a fun, social and highly accessible game. Originally developed in Mexico, padel has become hugely popular across Europe and is now gaining momentum in the UK, thanks to its easy-to-learn rules and exciting style of play.

If you’re looking for a new way to stay active, a fun sport to enjoy with friends, or a competitive challenge, padel tennis offers something for everyone. For more information visit www.spapadel.com

The village continues to welcome a number of new businesses and facilities, including Wilderness Dog Park, which offers a safe and natural environment for dogs of all sizes.

Whether it’s racing around enjoying the freedom of the countryside within a 2.5-acre fenced paddock, or taking part in agility training, Wilderness Dog Park is the perfect environment for nervous dogs, those with poor recall, assistance dogs and puppies, as well as energetic and spirited canines. Open seven days a week in summer from 7am-7pm.

For more information visit the website www.wildernessdogpark.co.uk

Your canine companion will also enjoy the Spa Trail Wellbeing Walk which takes place on Sunday 24th May when you can join the Jubilee Park team on a stroll along the Spa Trail from Woodhall Spa to Horncastle – and back again – as part of the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival.

The walk will start from Jubilee Park, and will proceed through the village to pick up the Spa Trail after the golf course.

The Spa Trail pathway is flat, easy terrain, approximately six miles from Woodhall Spa to Horncastle – and six miles back again if you choose to do both ways!

This is a free walk, but numbers are limited, and a ticket is required. The walk will start at 10am; arrive from 9.30am to check in. For more information visit www.jpws.co.uk

SHOPPING AND STAYING
Take a leisurely amble along the newly refurbished Broadway in the village where you will find an array of independent food shops and boutiques.

Perfect for one-of-a-kind finds, independent retailers offer homeware and lifestyle items (Molly & Me and Pin Cushion Interiors), fashion (Peter Scott Shoes, SELF and Flemings), floral designs (Enchanted Bloom), gifts, books and crafts (Underwood Hall Antiques & Jewellery, The Book Fayre and Fairy Crafters), plus local produce, quality foods and more.

If you’re planning an overnight stay or a longer getaway, there’s an abundance of holiday accommodation choices too, including hotels, guest houses, B&Bs plus self-catering and camping options to suit all budgets.

Check out the much-loved Petwood Hotel, with its special bar once frequented by members of The Dambusters Squadron, or The Dower House, an elegant Edwardian country house built at the end of the 19th century, which is situated by the first fairway of the golf club’s Bracken course.

For luxurious self-catering options, choose from the romantic lakeside treehouses at Treetop Hideaways, or the luxury lodges and cabins at Bainland Lodge Retreats, which offers private hot tubs, wellness and fitness suite, as well as an excellent on-site restaurant, The Nest.

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT
This year’s Woodhall Spa Cricket Club Beer Festival fundraising event takes place on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th May in Jubilee Park.

Spend the weekend enjoying cricket and entertainment whilst sampling the delights of local food and drink vendors, including Luda Brewery and Small Beer, who will be showcasing their offerings.

Meanwhile, The Petwood Hotel is hosting an outdoor cinema evening on 16th and 17th May with screenings of Notting Hill and Dunkirk.

Set within the hotel’s historic and picturesque grounds, this popular weekend event offers unforgettable film moments, delicious refreshments, and a magical atmosphere. Bring blankets or low chairs and settle in for an enjoyable cinematic experience.

On 9th May, the Petwood Hotel invites you to celebrate VE Day with a day of 1940s themed events, including live entertainment, military displays, and classic wartime atmosphere in the hotel’s beautiful gardens. For more information email events@petwood.co.uk

FLEMINGS FLIES THE FLAG FOR SPORTING TALENT
Based in the heart of Woodhall Spa, Flemings is an independent clothing boutique offering carefully curated collections of premium country and lifestyle brands for men and women.

From Holland Cooper and GANT, to RM Williams, Varley, Joules, Holebrook, Nobody’s Child, Musto and many more, Flemings’ creative styling team helps put together your individual look for every season, blending quality, style and heritage with a strong connection to the local community.

“Through our ambassador programme and as part of building our Flemings family, we’re privileged to support and work with inspiring role models who show determination, professionalism and passion in everything they do.

“This year we are proud to announce sponsorship of 20-year-old Katie Hand, a true Lincolnshire local who is racing in the 2026 FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship and taking on top-level competition across a global calendar of iconic circuits.

“Katie, who rides for Team Trasimeno, represents exactly what we love to champion: ambition, determination, and being a brilliant role model for young people.”

Katie Hand says: “It’s great fun working with Flemings and their amazing brand partners, and it’s definitely a change of pace for me!”

Katie joins Flemings’ Ambassador Programme that already includes Nicole Gent, an RAF officer and event rider.

For more information visit www.weareflemings.com

A STYLISH ENGLISH EATERY
Established in 1903, Woodhall Spa’s Tea House in the Woods is a welcoming family-friendly restaurant renowned for delighting its discerning customers with first-class food and service, including breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and evening meals. Set in picturesque woods in the heart of the village, this iconic family-run restaurant has earned a reputation for traditional dishes created with the best of local produce and locally sourced ingredients.

Co-owner Natalie Leech, who runs the restaurant with head chef Stephen Sleight, says: “Our location and history combined with excellent service sets us apart as one of Lincolnshire’s premier venues. Our aim is to offer local produce with a personal touch which we hope will see you return.”

Often referred to as a “hidden gem”, it also offers gift vouchers and takeaways, including freshly-made gourmet burgers, pizza and pasta dishes, plus delicious desserts.

The restaurant is open from 10am with last orders at 3.30pm on Wednesdays and Sundays, and 10am with last orders at 7.30pm on Thursdays to Saturdays. Booking advised.

For more information visit www.teahouseinthewoods.co.uk

DISCOVERING TREETOP HIDEAWAYS AWARD-WINNING TREEHOUSES
Find out how you can experience a calming, magical self-catering experience for two.

On the edge of Woodhall Spa lies a hidden gem – Treetop Hideaways, a dreamy, elevated sanctuary set amongst 17 acres of mature rhododendrons, ancient woodland, meandering lakes with hidden islands and an abundance of wildlife.

Treetop Hideaways has been enticing guests since 2021 with its magical treehouse experience in a stunning and peaceful setting.

These lakeside treehouses with their elevated terraces, outdoor bathtubs and private rowing boats deliver the ultimate adult getaway.

There is something enchanting about staying in a treehouse. They offer a special and natural experience that is hard to replicate elsewhere. You feel a sense of detachment from the world below. The natural surroundings, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle sway of the branches all create a calming and peaceful atmosphere, a feeling of being suspended, floating above the woodland floor.

When guests climb the steps leading up to their Treetop Hideaway, they are greeted with views up in the treetop canopy overlooking the beautiful lakes.

There’s a feeling of excitement on opening the treehouse doors and seeing nature mirrored inside, the decor reflecting each treehouse’s namesake.

Fluffy, grey cushions represent the feathers of the owl in Owl Box, the emerald green satin imitates the kingfisher’s plume in Kingfisher’s Perch – even the beams of the vaulted ceiling resemble a majestic tree and the copper baths highlight the brilliance of the evening sunsets.

Outdoor adventures
If adventure is on the agenda, a private rowing boat anchored to the mooring platform is ready to go and explore the twists and turns of the lake and the overhanging branches where all sorts of birds and animals hide out. Alternatively, maybe relaxing on the terrace with a good book is just what is needed to unwind.

Guests can enjoy the alfresco bathing experience on the terrace under the sky while listening to the rustle of trees and the birds and the bees.

The outdoor fire pit is stocked with logs ready to grill an evening meal or toast marshmallows, while the hammocks nearby provide a restful and playful place for guests to ‘hang out’.

After waking up to the dawn chorus, there is still a lot to discover in and around the village of Woodhall Spa, or simply switch off, relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity high in the treetops.

Channel 4’s Grand Designs has visited Treetop Hideaways with Kevin McCloud and his production team to film the beautiful site for the series, and this unique venue has also won several travel awards.
If you are looking for somewhere a little bit special, this is it!

Sandy Lane, Woodhall Spa LN10 6UR
Telephone: 07771 867907
Email: stay@treetop hideaways.co.uk
Website: treetophideaways.co.uk

QUALITY CARE WITH COMPASSION
Guardian Angel Carers’ team of exceptional care professionals, also known as CareAngels, deliver personalised care to suit the needs of each individual throughout the region, including Woodhall Spa, Newark and Lincoln.

From help with housework and preparing meals to managing medication and full-time live-in care, the kind, friendly, experienced and caring team take pride in providing the support people need to continue living independently in their own homes.

Whether you need help with daily tasks or 24/7 live-in care, Guardian Angel Carers ensure that you or your loved ones can continue living safely and comfortably at home.

When the time comes to arrange care for a loved one, families are often faced with difficult choices.

While care homes are a common option, live-in care offers a compassionate alternative that allows people to remain in the comfort of their own home.

Surrounded by familiar belongings, routines and even pets, individuals benefit from a sense of continuity and security that can be especially reassuring for those living with dementia or long-term health conditions.

At the heart of live-in care is tailored, one-to-one support. A dedicated carer not only assists with daily needs such as personal care, meals and medication but also provides companionship and encouragement.

At Guardian Angel Carers, no matter what level of care you need, our team will be by your side. This personalised approach means care is built around the individual’s lifestyle and preferences, helping to preserve independence, dignity and emotional wellbeing. Families also gain peace of mind, relieved of the daily strain of caregiving and able to focus instead on quality time and meaningful moments with their loved one.

Live-in care is often a practical choice as well as a personal one. For many families, it is a solution that combines comfort, connection and security, while ensuring loved ones can continue to live life in the place they know best – home.

For more information about how we can help, visit www.gacarers.co.uk

FINE JEWELLERY, COLLECTABLES AND MUCH MORE
Step inside Underwood Hall, the friendly one-stop shop for special purchases.

Situated in the heart of Woodhall Spa on The Broadway, Underwood Hall is a well regarded and welcoming family-run jeweller, which offers a collection of quality gold and silver jewellery, ideal for brides to be, as well as gifts to mark those special occasions.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect present to express gratitude, or simply want to treat yourself, the knowledgeable team at Underwood Hall are dedicated to helping you find something within your budget.

Enter this iconic treasure trove which is brimming with stock and you will be spoilt for choice with a range of contemporary designs, as well as a selection of fine antique jewellery ranging from Victorian period pieces to more modern classics which have been chosen for their fine styling and quality.

Underwood and established since 1991, the business at No 5 The Broadway was originally opened by Alan’s father as an antiques shop and has since built a reputation as a must-visit.

If you’re looking for that distinctive gift for that special person in your life, you will find a range of beautiful bangles, chains and earrings to choose from, as well as elegant wristwatches from leading brands such as Sekonda and Rotary.

Discerning collectors will also appreciate the hand-picked selection of Lancaster Caithness Crystal and Dartington Glass items.

In addition, Underwood Hall offers a bespoke jewellery design service and expert repairs, together with excellent customer care.

“As an independent jeweller we pride ourselves on our friendly and high quality service.”

Open Mondays to Saturdays, from 10am to 4pm.

For more information contact Underwood Hall on 01526 353815.

A TOUCH OF ELEGANCE AND HISTORY
A timelessly elegant setting, with a unique heritage, the Petwood Hotel is one of the most memorable places to stay in Lincolnshire.

Once home to 617 Squadron, The Dambusters, and surrounded by acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland, it is steeped in British history.

Join us for award-winning dining, afternoon tea, or one of our weddings and special events. Explore the charming village of Woodhall Spa or stroll in the spectacular grounds. Whatever the occasion, the Petwood is among the most memorable places to visit, dine or stay in the heart of “Bomber County”.

For overstays and short breaks, we offer a selection of classic rooms, delightful garden view rooms and elegant four poster rooms, that combine modern comfort with the character and history of the property.

For diners, our Terrace Bar, outdoor dining and Restaurant are the perfect place to enjoy some of Lincolnshire’s finest cuisine. Our menus showcase the very best of Lincolnshire produce and feature a wide range of popular dishes.

We have a range of menus for all palates and appetites and a lovely children’s menu with smaller portions of the same high quality of food for lunch, dinner and afternoon tea.

For more information visit www.petwood.co.uk

Photographs: Mick Fox

We Recommend

Orbital

Towns look to the future

Coastal pleasures

Month

Songs for life

Play it again

View all