Take a trip to Grantham
Whether you enjoy discovering local history, indulging in retail therapy, or the chance to appreciate local entertainment, this market town has plenty to offer, as Glynis Fox finds.
Grantham is well worth a visit, with three central car parks making access easy. The town is renowned for its rich heritage, as well as its contributions to science and culture.
One of its most eminent former residents was Sir Isaac Newton, the distinguished physicist, mathematician and astronomer whose ground-breaking discoveries helped to shape our understanding of the universe.
Newton was born in the nearby hamlet of Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth and attended The Kings School, later lodging in Grantham. His legacy is celebrated throughout the region, with his statue taking pride of place on the High Street.
The Grantham Museum, which is run by volunteers, tells the history of the town and the roots of its culture, paying homage to Newton and offering fascinating insights into his life and ground-breaking discoveries.
In addition to Newton, there are also dedicated sections to two pioneering women with strong connections to the town: Margaret Thatcher, the UK’s first woman prime minister, who was born and raised here; and Edith Smith, the UK’s first female police officer, who lived and worked in Grantham.
Grantham Museum is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.
The town is also home to the 15th-century St Wulfram’s Church, known as the “Glory of Grantham”, a stunning medieval structure with one of the tallest spires (84 metres) in England. This architectural gem is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and a symbol of Grantham’s storied past. The church welcomes visitors, and you can take tours to see some of its unique features, such as the UK’s first public library.
ROYAL CONNECTIONS
The Guildhall Arts Centre is another of the town’s striking buildings, topped by a magnificent white Victorian clock tower.
Formerly the town hall and a jail, the building is now a multi-purpose community venue helping to promote culture and local arts.
Today, the building’s primary function is as a theatre, hosting various touring and professional shows. You can also participate in creative workshops at the centre to learn anything from dance steps to Lego model-making.
Few buildings have seen as much history as the Angel and Royal Hotel. First built in 1203, the hotel has been at the centre of the town’s life for more than 800 years, hosting many royal guests over that time. Seven kings have stayed at the hotel over the years, including King John, Richard III and Charles I, while during the English Civil War Oliver Cromwell quartered his troops at the inn.
Grantham is also famous for its gingerbread. Dating back to the 1700s, Grantham gingerbread has become a beloved local delicacy, renowned for its irresistible blend of spices and sweetness.
For nature lovers, Grantham offers a haven of tranquillity in and around its surrounding countryside. Whether you’re meandering along the Grantham Canal, admiring the blooms in Wyndham Park, or discovering Belton House estate, you’ll find many opportunities to reconnect with the natural world.
CELEBRATE LINCOLNSHIRE DAY
South Kesteven District Council will celebrate Lincolnshire Day on Thursday 1st October with music, art and a ceremonial flag raising event.
Lincolnshire Day honours the county’s history, culture and traditions, often focusing on traditional produce such as Lincolnshire sausages and plum bread – as well as the Yellowbelly nickname for those born and bred in the county.
The colourful Lincolnshire flag will fly over SKDC buildings at St Peter’s Green to mark the historic Lincolnshire Uprising of 1536, with a number of special events planned.
SKDC council leader, Cllr Ashley Baxter said: “The county of Lincolnshire has a very rich history and a proud heritage and I feel honoured to be a representative for where I live, in The Deepings, and the wider county of Lincolnshire, the second largest in England.
“These events will be a celebration and will also help visitors and locals to appreciate what we have here and where it came from.
It’s a time to shout from the rooftops about this amazing county – and to remind people why it’s so special. Whether it’s the food you love, our history, the wide-open skies or our proud military heritage, make the most of our celebration day.”
MARKET DAYS
As part of a series of markets taking place in Grantham, a centuries-old tradition is being revived this month.
The Medieval Onion Fair, which once drew visitors to see the holy relics at St Wulfram’s Church, will take place on Saturday 10th October. The modern version of the event will see onion-themed goods and crafts, plus food and drinks featuring dishes made with onions, music, street performers and historical re-enactments, as well as an onion eating contest and onion shows!
The autumn festival is one of many planned for the town’s market place, with new events running alongside the monthly farmers’ market and craft market.
Cllr Ashley Baxter says: “We very much value our traditions in Lincolnshire and our outdoor markets here in South Kesteven remain one of the top draws for visitors.
“This calendar of events is part of the action plan to put them on the map by giving people from within and outside the local area a reason to visit our towns, spend their time and money here and see all we have to offer.”
GRANTHAM CANAL PROJECT
The Grantham Canal, has benefitted from a £206,000 improvement project work, which started in July on the culverts at Earlsfield Lane, Trent Road and Swingbridge Road.
South Kesteven district council (SKDC) cabinet member for property, Councillor Richard Cleaver said: “This work will help protect wildlife and control water levels in this section of the canal.”
The project includes the installation of water levels, controls and safe access for maintenance contractor ECS Engineering Services, which is working with consultants Jeremy Benn Associates as part of a five-year work programme.
Specific work for this current phase includes the installation of aluminium ‘stop log’ sections that can be fitted to allow differing heights of water to be managed.
In addition, safe access to operate these includes new railings, steps, work platforms and fences along with a water level gauge.
“We want people and wildlife to enjoy the canal, the towpath, and its grassy banks, and we regularly review maintenance work to keep on top of routine requirements.”
SHOPPING AND DIARY DATES
There have been some changes on the business front too – this includes new arrivals in the town’s George Shopping Centre, which has breathed fresh impetus into the space.
Pop in and let yourself be tempted by Naughty Delicious – its name says it all. It has been gaining a strong following with its irresistible menu, which features gourmet hot chocolate and sweet treats.
Other businesses in the centre include Riverview Reptiles, a trusted reptile specialist, offering healthy captive-bred reptiles, expert advice and quality supplies.
If you love playing music, don’t forget to pop into Rod Pooley Music, offering quality musical instruments for musicians of all levels. The shop has relocated into the centre from its former home in Westgate.
Community Books has also moved from Welby Street to 24 High Street. Community Books is a not-for-profit, second-hand bookshop, which was established in 2006 by former mayor Alan Asher and his wife.
Its mission is to recycle good-quality books and media to support local Grantham charities and it sells donated books, jigsaws and more.
There’s always something happening in the town so keep a look out for upcoming diary dates:
28th September to 9th October – Guildhall Arts Centre: exhibition by Long Bennington Art group and participants at a recent printmaking workshop, exploring 100 years of village history.
1st to 4th October – Priory Church of Deeping St James: display of banners made by schools and community groups from the Deepings and surrounding villages with Lumo workshops, to celebrate personal connections to Lincolnshire.
3rd October – The Red Hall, Bourne, 7pm: Henry VIII Used To Hate Us, a 75-minute live performance in the Harrington Room, exploring Lincolnshire folklore, Fen Tiger history, and royal friction. Discover why Henry VIII once hated Lincolnshire and uncover remarkable stories. Suitable for ages 8+. Tickets: £5 with accompanied under-21s free. For more information and tickets visit the website
On Saturday 3rd October, Grantham Market Place will host a special Lincolnshire Day and Craft Market starting at 9am, combining local artisan crafts, regional food, and traditional wares alongside regular market traders.
Experience an unforgettable evening of live music at the Lincolnshire Big Band Concert on Friday 9th October. A spectacular military concert performed by the renowned Band of the Welsh Guards at St Wulfram’s Church.
This exceptional performance will showcase the best of British Army band music, from stirring military marches and ceremonial favourites to uplifting popular classics.
The event proudly supports the Army Benevolent Fund, the Army’s national charity, helping soldiers, veterans and their families across the UK.
Whether you’re a fan of live bands, military music or simply looking for an uplifting evening, this Big Band Concert promises entertainment, tradition and purpose.
Tickets are priced at £30 per person. Children under 16 are free. Doors open at 6.45pm, concert begins at 7.30pm.
www.armybenevolentfund.org/events/lincolnshire-big-band-concert-2026
BEACON LANE DAY NURSERY DELIVERS A BRIGHT START
As A leading family-run day nursery, the dedicated team at Beacon Lane is proud to provide a high-quality, nurturing environment that gives every child the strongest start in life.
“From our caring, qualified staff to our thoughtfully planned activities and cosy spaces, everything we do is focussed on helping your child learn, grow, and thrive,” explains nursery manager and owner Gillian Watson, who has more than 12 years’ experience in the field.
“Our goal is to help little ones feel safe, confident, and excited to explore the world around them.”
The rich and varied curriculum at Beacon Lane is guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage and every child has their own personalised learning journey.
“We foster a love of learning, kindness, resilience, and a strong sense of self from the very start. Our curriculum is designed not only to repare children for their transition to school, but to give them the confidence, curiosity and skills they’ll need throughout life.”
For more information visit www.beaconlane.co.uk
LOOK YOUR BEST IN BRANDED CLOTHING
Based near Grantham and established in 1996, Logos 4 Clothes is a dedicated family business specialising in the design, manufacture and supply of high-quality personalised clothing, branded workwear and safety clothing.
“Logos 4 Clothes provides quality garments featuring your organisation’s name or logo – whether that’s a polo shirt with embroidered branding, hoodie with a printed design, or personalised high-visibility safety jackets to help promote your brand or message,” explains owner Andrew Watson.
“Our expertise in design, manufacture and supply has kept us at the forefront of the personalised clothing industry. We offer a great, reliable service, whether it’s for an order of 10 or 10,000 garments, and supply a range of garments together with a choice of fantastic embellishments using the latest machinery and techniques.
“Customer satisfaction is also incredibly important to us and we always work hard to ensure you are happy with your final products.”
10% off for Lincolnshire Life readers when quoting LL-10% (when spending more than £150+vat)
For more information visit www.logos4clothes.com
ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE AT GRANTHAM PREPARATORY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Learning beyond limits; smiles beyond measure.
Grantham Preparatory International School is a non-denominational independent day school for both boys and girls aged 3-11.
We promote academic, musical, and sporting excellence using traditional teaching methods by our dedicated and experienced teaching staff.
Our school offers a family and inclusive environment where children can thrive and be themselves. We promote and demonstrate values to encourage children to be the best they can be, helping them prepare for the next stage in their education, encouraging them to be independent, kind, positive and reflective. Our student council is made up of children from each key stage, helping to promote student voices within school, so everyone feels a part of the Grantham Prep family.
High level of education
We take pride in our outstanding academic reputation, ensuring that we provide the highest level of education for pupils of all abilities. Our small class sizes guarantee that all children receive individual attention, so they can reach their full potential in all aspects of school life. With the guidance and support offered, all children are prepared for the transition to secondary school, which includes public school entrance exams and grammar school selection exams.
At Grantham Prep, we have a unique Early Years Unit with a stimulating indoor and outdoor environment for the children to access all year round.
We also offer an extensive range of extracurricular activities after school hours to supplement learning. Children develop new skills, and face new challenges while fostering a love for learning outside of the classroom.
Woodland learning is also a part of our curriculum, and we run overnight camps at school for children to experience life outdoors and develop resilience and independence.
Don’t miss our Open Morning on Saturday 10th October from 10am until 12 noon.
For more information visit www.tgps.co.uk or come and have a chat with us
Photographs: Mick Fox
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