Great days out in Gainsborough
Gainsborough offers a diverse mix of medieval heritage, industrial history, scenic walks and plenty of shopping!
On the banks of the River Trent, the market town of Gainsborough was of great importance during the Industrial Revolution, a busy inland port with warehousing, breweries and large engineering firms.
Visitors can explore more about this historic market town through fascinating exhibitions at Gainsborough Heritage Centre, which is housed in the old telephone exchange and post office built in 1904, and which includes many displays about the town’s industrial heritage. But its unique landmarks takes us further back through the centuries.
HALL OF PLENTY
In the middle of Gainsborough and surrounded by Edwardian houses, it is something of a surprise to come upon a half-timbered, brick towered and immaculately preserved medieval manor house, known as the Old Hall.
It has a magnificent Great Hall and complete medieval kitchen with two enormous open fireplaces. It is believed that some of the Mayflower Pilgrims worshipped in secret at this hidden gem in North Lincolnshire.
Built by Thomas Burgh in 1460, Gainsborough Old Hall is over 500 years old. With guided tours available, explore its well-preserved original features, and learn all about the powerful, rich and flamboyant Burgh family and their famous guests including Richard III and Henry VIII through fun, interactive multimedia tours and activities. Visit the on-site café serving freshly prepared food and enjoy a stroll around the quaint gardens and grounds.
To bring things back to the present day, Gainsborough has plenty to offer in terms of leisure experiences. Discover arts and culture at Trinity Arts Centre, with its programme of films and live performances, plus there’s a monthly Farmers’ and Craft Market in town. THREE CHEERS!
The 16th Gainsborough Beer Festival is scheduled to run from Thursday 22nd October from 12noon to 4pm, and Friday and Saturday, 23rd-24th October, from 12noon to 11pm.
This year’s festival returns to its new venue at The Blues Club, North Street, the home of Gainsborough Trinity FC. Gainsborough CAMRA is one of the smallest branches in terms of numbers in the country with around 120 members, but boasts an enthusiastic, active membership.
After a gap of 10 years, a beer and folk festival in conjunction with Gainsborough Folk Club was held in October 2009 in the spectacular surroundings of Gainsborough Old Hall, and it was believed to be the only festival in the country held in an English Heritage building. The event moved to its new venue in 2024.
MARSHALL’S YARD
With more than 30 stores, an Italian restaurant, coffee shops and landscaped plaza, there’s something for everyone at Marshall’s Yard.
Whether you enjoy treating yourself to a shopping spree, a leisurely meal, or simply sitting and watching the world go by, this is the place to be. Parking is 50p for up to one-and-a-half hours, £1 for two-and-a-half hours and just £2 for up to four hours, to be paid on arrival at the centre.
Head to Marshall’s Yard on 12th September for 1940s Day, a themed picnic event to be held around the fountain area. The event runs from 10am to 3pm and visitors can expect to enjoy live 1940s performances, including one from singer Lilly Lindy, 1940s Blitz Dancers, free face painting, traditional garden games, plus vintage vehicles located down the central pathway, and a themed bunting display and flags.
Bookworms with a passion for fantasy novels are recommended to visit Waterstones on 27th October to celebrate the highly anticipated release of ‘ACOTAR 6’. Join others from 6.30pm-8.30pm for a themed quiz and book bedazzling, with dressing up encouraged!
ACOTAR 6 is the highly anticipated next instalment in the ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ romantasy series by Sarah J. Maas. The author revealed that this new story is being split into multiple volumes published in close succession, with ACOTAR 6 serving as ‘Part 1’ of this overarching story.
Books will be available to purchase on the night, including the new instalment.
Caldero Lounge is a home from home, offering delicious food and drinks throughout the day, and there is even their very own gluten-free and vegan menu. There are board games for big and small guests, toys for the really wee ones, and even refreshments for canine guests.
Cream Cafe is an independent café, serving home-made fresh food, cakes and drinks inspired by continental Europe, made from quality produce mainly sourced locally and with the environment in mind.
You will find a fine selection of breakfasts, lunches, cakes and snacks – including vegan and gluten-free choices as well as a children’s menu. There is a wide selection of hot and cold beverages, including Italian-style coffees, fresh smoothies and milkshakes as well as a choice of alcoholic beverages.
Enjoy a glass of prosecco with a delicious afternoon tea, available by pre-order, either to eat in or take away.
Prezzo Gainsborough offers casual dining that brings authentic Italian cuisine combined with excellent service. With recipes bringing a touch of Italy to the UK, you can expect freshly prepared pizza and pasta dishes, traditional bruschetta and classic
desserts, accompanied by a selection of wines, beers and spirits.
Keen to keep their dishes fresh and innovative, the restaurant chain updates their menu seasonally, offering set menus, plus discounts and vouchers.
ON TRACK
Visit Gainsborough Model Railway Museum to see one of the largest hand-built model railways in ‘O gauge, depicting The East Coast Main Line from King’s Cross to Leeds Central. Discover authentic replicas of famous locomotives such as the Flying Scotsman, Papyrus and Mallard, just three of the numerous locomotives used on this model to haul crack expresses. The museum can be found in Florence Terrace.
To get there, head to the Tesco Superstore and follow the Colville Terrace road beside it to Sansfield Lane. You will find the railway is opposite the end of the Tesco car park, situated in an old Victorian school with clear signage.
The museum holds various open days during the year, including one on 4th October, from 1.30pm top 5.30pm.
TAKE A PEW
While Gainsborough Old Hall continues to attract a high number of visitors with its medieval grandeur, another monument nearby that should not be overlooked is All Saints’ Church, a 15th-century marvel located just across from the Old Hall. The church fell into disrepair after the Civil War.
It was demolished in 1736 to make way for a new church rebuilt in the Georgian classical style modelled on St Martin-in-the-Fields in London. The west tower is now all that is left of the medieval building. Inside, the church retains its box pews and chandeliers.
With its Georgian façade and stained-glass windows, the church offers a peaceful and captivating retreat. The experience has been described as being “like stepping into a forgotten chapter of English history,” with visitors admiring the scarlet carpeting and majestic organ contained within.
Just beyond the church lies the Gainsborough War Memorial, a tribute to the town’s fallen heroes of World War I.
Sitting at the edge of the Old Hall grounds, the memorial is meticulously maintained and serves as a poignant reminder of the town’s resilience. These hidden gems are now being spotlighted through the town’s ‘Go Explore’ campaign, part of a wider effort to boost tourism across West Lindsey.
With downloadable guides, engaging videos and social media reels, the campaign is helping visitors uncover the rich tapestry of history, nature and community that Gainsborough has to offer.
ROCK OF AGES
If you are in the mood for something noisier and high-adrenaline then you will not want to miss Nothing But A Good Time, the ultimate live rock experience at Trinity Arts Centre on 4th September.
Expect a non-stop rock spectacle performed by a live band fuelled by their passion for timeless anthems. An authentic and full-throttle performance where classic rock music takes centre stage.
MUSIC, MAGIC AND ILLUSION
On 5th September, ‘Masters of Deception’ brings the Trinity Arts Centre audience the very best of magic and illusion, featuring two of the best acts in the country. Richard Jones, ‘The Military Mind-Reader’ and the first magician to win ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent, combines his training from his 12 years serving in the Army and expert knowledge of deception to bring audiences the very best in cutting-edge magic and psychological trickery. He will be joined for this special show by world-class performers Matrick’s Illusion.
PERFECT PRODUCE
You can find local produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade bakes and other local produce at Gainsborough’s Weekly Markets, which take place every Tuesday and Saturday in the Market Place from 9am to 2pm. The market offers a wide selection of traders and beyond fresh ingredients for your next meal, there are a range of clothing and home essentials to buy too.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS
Gainsborough is undergoing significant residential and economic expansion to support growth in the wider Lincolnshire region. Key projects include major new housing developments, commercial spaces and regional infrastructure planning.
Long-term strategic plans feature up to 2,500 homes south of Foxby Lane and an initial 750-home phase near Thonock Park Golf Club. These will bring new schools, health services and commercial zones to the town.
A development of 64 homes is underway on a site on Heapham Road, featuring eco-friendly additions like solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations. Also, work is actively progressing on a 9.46-acre riverside regeneration site on Lea Road, with plans to deliver 220 homes alongside five retail and restaurant units.
MORE THAN JUST A COFFEE SHOP!
Located in the heart of Kirton Lindsey, Creative Cuppa is a welcoming community café and artisan hub run by three like-minded friends, Sue, Donna and Jolene, who teamed up to open a friendly space for creativity, great coffee, cake and light bites.
“We serve expertly brewed coffee, and delicious home-made treats in a warm and sociable setting, where you’ll also find a curated selection of locally crafted, unique hand-made gifts made with love by talented artisans.
“In addition, we’re proud to host a creative workspace for both children and adults, including painting, crafting,or seasonal activities, offering a fun and inspiring way to explore your artistic side.”
Creative Cuppa supports 25 local makers and artists by providing space for them to showcase their work and is a treasure trove of locally produced goods for sale.
It is also available for birthday parties and special get-togethers and hosts popular twice-monthly Crafty Ladies’ Nights with different crafts.
Open Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm and Saturday 10am-2pm.
For more information visit www.creativecuppa.co.uk
ONE MINUTE WITH NATHAN JONES, MANAGING DIRECTOR, STALLARD KANE
Nathan Jones heads up Stallard Kane, a trusted consultancy for all your Health & Safety, HR, Training and Compliance needs in Gainsborough.
Q: How did your career with Stallard Kane begin?
A: “I started at 18 as an office junior, doing administration and learning how the business worked from the ground up. I later became a consultant, progressed to director and eventually took on the role of managing director.
“There were no shortcuts. I worked hard, learned from the people around me and earned each opportunity as it came.
“That journey has given me a real understanding of the different roles within SK and the contribution every member of the team makes.”
Q: What does Gainsborough mean to you?
A: “It is home. Stallard Kane has been based here for 26 years, employing local people and investing in their careers. I want to show that ambitious careers and successful businesses can grow in Gainsborough.”
Q: How has Stallard Kane developed?
A: “Ardonagh acquired the business in 2022, and we are now part of its Everywhen broking and advisory platform. This gives us broader expertise, resources and reach, while Stallard Kane retains its name, Gainsborough base and personal approach.”
Q: What support do you provide?
A: “We help businesses manage Health & Safety, HR, training and workplace risks, including fire risk assessments, electrical testing, PAT testing and eLearning.”
Q: What comes next?
A: “We intend to keep raising standards, developing people and playing an active part in Gainsborough’s next 25 years.”
For more information visit www.stallardkane.co.uk
HELPING YOU ACHIEVE THE SMILE OF YOUR DREAMS
If you’re looking for high-quality dentistry to help enhance your natural smile, the friendly expert team at Gainsborough Dental Care can help.
At Gainsborough Dental Care we are privileged to have an outstanding dental team of which we are very proud.
Our excellent dentists are supported by a dedicated team of hygienists, nurses and receptionists who are all here to help you. All our team members are constantly striving to further their knowledge and skills to offer you the most up-to-date techniques and materials.
Using the latest dental technology and techniques, our dedicated dental team help patients of all ages feel comfortable throughout their visit, offering exceptional care, with every step of the treatment process explained in detail, ensuring that you feel informed and at ease throughout.
Treatment options
In addition to NHS dentistry we also offer a range of affordable private treatments. Some of our dental team have undertaken extensive further training to enable them to offer these procedures.
These include teeth whitening, a successful and simple method of lightening the colour of your teeth, removing the staining agent that has penetrated deep within the tooth, and natural tooth coloured fillings, which also help improve the look of your smile.
We also offer veneers which provide a wafer-thin covering to hide discolouration on teeth and close gaps, as well as dental implants which are a permanent, natural replacement for missing teeth or dentures.
If you’re looking to cover unsightly teeth or spaces, our advanced ceramic technology and bridges can help disguise the parts of your smile you’re less happy with, while our full range of denture options will help you achieve the most natural results.
For patients wishing to straighten their teeth, but who do not like the idea of traditional braces, we offer a variety of options to suit different needs.
Invisalign®, the innovative technology, straightens your teeth with a series of clear customised removable aligners. It is suitable for teenagers, adults, people with crooked teeth, with spaces between their teeth, or people who have had braces before.
We also advise visiting our hygienist regularly as it’s important to monitor and maintain good oral health and anticipate problems which may arise.
We will professionally clean your teeth (scale and polish) and offer a programme of oral care which is appropriate to your needs and lifestyle. We also offer the latest air polishing treatment for more stubborn stain removal.
Skilled dental experts
Our clinicians stay at the forefront of modern dentistry, continually enhancing their skills to bring you the latest techniques and materials for lasting results.
Whether you’re looking to refresh, restore, or completely transform your smile, we’ve got you covered with a full range of personalised treatments.
Contact us today to find out how our outstanding team can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
To book an appointment, call 01427 613322. Gainsborough Dental Care, 17 Spital Terrace, Gainsborough DN21 2HD or visit
www.gainsboroughdentalcare.co.uk
DISCOVER LIFE AT MYNSTER FIELDS
If you’re looking for a place where countryside charm meets modern convenience, you’ll feel right at home at Mynster Fields, located in the picturesque Nottinghamshire village of Misterton.
Surrounded by open green spaces and rolling countryside, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to slow down, unwind and enjoy the outdoors, while remaining well connected to nearby towns and cities including Doncaster, Gainsborough and Retford.
Whether you’re taking your first step onto the property ladder, searching for more space for a growing family, or looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, you’ll find a thoughtfully designed home to suit your needs. And with a range of home-buying schemes available, including part-exchange, moving into your dream home could be easier than you think.
Life at Mynster Fields is about becoming part of a welcoming community. With Misterton Primary School in the village, a choice of secondary schools within easy reach, and everyday amenities close by, everything you need is on your doorstep.
With Gleeson’s nearby Harpswell Fields development launching on 29th August, there’s even more opportunity to discover a home and lifestyle that’s right for you.
For more information visit www.gleesonhomes.co.uk/developments/mynster-fields
AUTUMN ADVENTURES AND HALLOWEEN FUN AT BRANSBY HORSES
As the days grow shorter and the countryside transforms into a tapestry of autumn colours, Bransby Horses invites families to enjoy a season of Halloween fun, fresh air and unforgettable moments.
This October, visitors can explore the return of Pecans Pumpkin Patch, where locally sourced pumpkins are available for just £4 each, regardless of size.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect pumpkin to carve or decorate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Little ones can also take part in a spooky Halloween trail, discovering seasonal surprises as they explore the charity’s beautiful grounds.
Over the Halloween weekend, children can complete their spooky look with Halloween face painting, adding an extra touch of festive fun to their visit.
Every visit helps support Bransby Horses’ mission to create positive impacts on the lives of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.
Discover what’s on this autumn by visiting the website or following Bransby Horses on social media. www.bransbyhorses.co.uk/visit-us
PROTECT LONG-TERM EYE HEALTH WITH WALTERS OPTICIANS
Myopia, or short-sightedness, is a common vision condition that affects millions worldwide, particularly children and adolescents.
The importance of myopia management cannot be overstated, as the prevalence of this condition is increasing at an alarming rate.
Effective management strategies are crucial to prevent the progression of myopia, which can lead to severe eye health issues later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma and cataracts.
Owner of Walters Opticians, Roy Walters FBDO SMC tech says: “Regular eye exams can help detect myopia early. Options such as myopia management MySight contact lenses, as well as the Essilor Stellest spectacle lenses, are both available on payment plans at Walters Opticians. Additionally, promoting outdoor activities and reducing screen time can also contribute to better eye health.
“By prioritising myopia management, we can safeguard the vision of future generations, ensuring they maintain a high quality of life and reducing the risk of complications associated with advanced myopia.”
For more information visit www.waltersopticians.com
Photographs: Mick Fox
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