Inspiring highlights of Wolds capital

Fancy spending a relaxing time in a picturesque town with delicious, locally produced food and a fascinating history? Then look no further than Louth.

Widely considered one of the prettiest and most charming market towns in Lincolnshire and featuring gorgeous Georgian and Victorian buildings and winding cobbled streets, Louth sits at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape.

A foodie’s haven, the town hosts market days every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 3pm at the Cornmarket. 

There is also a Food Market every second Friday (11th December) and a Farmers’ Market on the fourth Wednesday of the month (23rd December).

When approached across the Lincolnshire Wolds, the first sight of Louth is the beautiful spire of St James, the tallest of any Anglican parish church in Britain. Completed in 1515, the top of the weathervane sits at one inch over 293ft (89.33m) and comes complete with its own nesting peregrines – a webcam is streaming at lincsbirdclub.co.uk 

The church was the site of the Lincolnshire Rising in 1536, as described in a blue plaque on the church wall.

From 3rd to 9th December, St James is hosting a Christmas Tree Festival, organised by the Friends of St James’ Church charity. The event will feature around 100 uniquely decorated trees provided by local schools, charities, community groups and businesses.

The festival is open daily from 10.30am-8pm except Sunday, 11.30am after Mass, and is free to attend except for the Celebration Evening on 4th December when West End performer Nikki Wheeldon will be appearing. Tickets cost £5 in advance or £7.50 on the door.

LOUTH CHRISTMAS MARKET
The town’s traditional market has run for over 30 years and always proven to be a successful day for the town, bringing many visitors who take advantage of this annual festive offer. Louth & District Lions has taken on the running of this year’s market, working in partnership with local businesses, Louth Town Council and East Lindsey District Council. 

The event is due to take place on Sunday 29th November from 10am to 4pm when visitors can expect a wide range of festive gift, craft and food stalls, along with family fun and entertainment. All council-owned car parks in the town will be free on the day. 

FESTIVE RUN FOR LIFE
Make a note of Sunday 6th December when the family-fun Louth Santa Run for Life will take place from 11am to 1pm. Organised by Louth Run for Life and Louth Rotary, the start location is Louth Market Place, Mercer Row, with monies being raised for Cancer Research UK. 

The course comprises a town centre loop of either 2km or 4km distance, and is suitable for runners, joggers and walkers of all ages and abilities. The entry fee of £15 for adults and young adults (aged 16 and over) and £10 for children (aged 5-15) covers a Santa suit, race number and a finisher’s medal. 

CHRISTMAS CHARITY TRACTOR RUN
Scheduled to take place on Sunday 20th December, the tractor road run is organised by Lincolnshire farmer and DJ Taron Lee, also in support of Cancer Research UK and Louth Run For Life. 

The starting point is Louth Cattle Market, London Road at 1:30pm. The main sponsor for the event this year is Sentex Hydraulix, a family-run hydraulic and pneumatic engineering company based in Scunthorpe that provides parts, repairs and a dedicated collection and delivery service to the Louth area and wider Lincolnshire. 

Other sponsors include MJ Windscreens, J Shaw & Son Fruit and Veg Shop, Beeson Plumbing and Heating and The Dolly Tub, with food served by GRill Boyz.

Highlights of the run will include brightly decorated tractors and truck units covered in festive lights, creating a moving light and sound show across Louth. For up to date information about the event visit the Facebook page at: facebook.com/Louthstractorrun 

A raffle will be held with refreshments also available. Awards will be presented for Best Dressed Tractor, Best Dressed Truck and a children’s category Best Dressed Pedal Tractor. Entry fee per tractor is £5, plus £5 per adult passenger.

LOUTH MUSEUM
Another popular site in the town is Louth Museum, which is home to a library, four galleries and a gift shop with regular exhibitions held throughout the year.

Visitors can explore 200,000 years of archaeology, with rocks and fossils, along with documentation on the devastating floods in the town in 1920, plus the largest collection of Victorian wood carvings by Thomas Wilkinson Wallis.

Another centrepiece of the museum is a reproduction of William Brown’s stunning Louth Panorama. This beautifiul, journalistic visual document of the town in the mid-19th century saw Brown scaling St James’ Church tower to view the surrounding landscape, with his sketching equipment in hand. Brown made seven sketches of the town (reproductions of these can also be found at the museum). He devoted two and a half years to completing the Panorama across two panels, 9ft by 6ft in size. 

The original is held in the Old Courtroom at the town’s Sessions House. The backlit reproduction at the museum is accompanied by information boards.

RIVERHEAD THEATRE ENTERTAINMENT 
On Christmas Eve night, the miserly and cold-hearted businessman Ebenezer Scrooge embarks upon a journey through his past, present and future, learning along the way to appreciate the true meaning of Christmas. 

A festive treat for all the family, Dickens’ beloved tale of redemption is brought to the stage at Louth Riverhead Theatre on Tuesday and Wednesday, 1st and 2nd December, in an authentic and joyful adaptation from Operation Moonlight. 

Louth Riverhead Theatre on Victoria Road is owned and operated by Louth Playgoers Society, a dedicated team made up almost entirely of volunteers. 

If you need any help in getting into the swing of the festive season, keep Saturday, 12th December free. Steve Walker’s Big Swing Band Christmas Crackers is a highly anticipated festive tradition and returns to the Riverhead Theatre for an unforgettable night of music. Prepare yourself for a spectacular evening of big band Christmas classics, from the irresistible rhythm of a live 18-piece big band. For ticket information, visit www.louthriverheadtheatre.com

FOODIE HEAVEN
Celebrated as a foodie destination, Louth is famous for regional specialities, including Lincolnshire Poacher cheese, an award-winning, hard raw-cow’s milk cheese sold at the renowned Cheese Shop Louth; Lincolnshire plum bread, a traditional sweet, spiced fruit loaf famously baked locally by businesses like Pocklington’s Bakery; and distinctly Lincolnshire sausages seasoned with sage, and available fresh from family-run butchers Woolliss & Son. High-end local meats are also supplied by Lakings, with Christmas orders now being taken. 

A mix of modern design and a chic retro feel, the 601 Club Cafe Bar is perfectly situated for shoppers and town visitors alike. During the day, the 601 Club offers a relaxed café atmosphere in the heart of the Louth Market Place. For the evenings, it provides a central meeting point for social occasions, meeting for drinks and a pleasing venue for the end of a long day. On offer at this contemporary independent coffee bar and club lounge is a light lunch menu and pastries, plus an evening menu of specially selected beers, wines and cocktails. Enjoy the café’s unique, freshly-ground coffee blend Crafty Coffee with a focus on providing quality at speed. You can also enjoy a takeaway coffee, as well as to eat in, with indoor seating and outdoor tables.

INDEPENDENT SPIRIT
The town is home to an array of independent businesses who will be pleased to welcome you to help tick off gifts on your Christmas shopping list.

There are new season styles in ladieswear at Orchid Boutique and neighbouring footwear shop Daniella’s on Eastgate. Brands include Monari, Dolcezza and Le Comte.

For music lovers, look no further than Off the Beaten Tracks, which offers new and secondhand vinyl and CDs, with discs to appeal to any taste.

LOUTH JAZZ CLUB LOOKS TO THE FUTURE
Louth Jazz Club at 51 Queen Street is inviting people to discover live music on their doorstep as it builds on a history stretching back to 1963.

Run entirely by volunteers, the club has more than 250 members with generations of musicians and audiences helping to make it a lasting part of the town’s cultural life.

Today, live jazz fills the club most Saturday nights, with selected Friday performances adding to the programme. New Orleans jazz remains at its heart, alongside swing, blues and a wider mix of jazz styles.

The ambition is to raise awareness of live jazz and other live music to a wider audience, support current and new generations of musicians, and keep live music thriving in Louth. The club welcomes everyone, with its intimate setting offering something special: the chance to sit close to the musicians and enjoy a drink.

With more Friday dates joining the established Saturday programme, the club hopes to introduce new listeners to live jazz, swing and blues while giving existing supporters more to enjoy.

For the latest programme, tickets and membership information, visit www.louthjazzclub.org.uk

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS AT THE PLAYHOUSE LOUTH
Find out what’s happening at the oldest cinema in Lincolnshire.

The Playhouse in Louth opened on Boxing Day 1921 and is the oldest cinema in Lincolnshire. It opened just under a year before Woodhall Spa’s Kinema in the Woods did in 1922. 

It was first built as a chapel in 1821, then converted into a cinema and reopened in 1921. It still has many of the original features it did 100 years ago, including the original staircase and 1930s Art Deco frontage. There’s even some of the original projection equipment and film memorabilia on display. 

Parkway took ownership in 1996, adding two more screens to make it the three-screen cinema it remains today. 

After extensive refurbishment in 2011 and 2012, including the introduction of digital projection and new seating, The Playhouse was awarded the ‘Pride of Place’ in Louth in 2013 for its contributions to the town. 

Although the cinema has undergone extensive modernisation, we made sure to retain many of the original art-deco features around the building that makes this cinema special. We’re proud to keep some cinema traditions alive, such as holding an interval halfway through screenings. 

The largest screen upstairs mixes traditional red velvet cinema seating with modern sofas at the front of the room, and a large curtain opens to reveal the screen. 

The kids’ clubs and senior screenings happen every week and are hugely popular. We’re proud to host the award-winning ‘Louth Film Club’ that brings the best in international and art house cinema to Louth, as well as Louth Cine Circle, which showcases modern greats, cult classics and curated seasons.  

Festive screenings
This Christmas at the Playhouse will include new blockbusters such as Dune 3 and Avengers: Doomsday, as well as Parkway’s famous ‘Polar Express Pyjama Parties’, which sell out every year.  

Parkway was founded in 1983, by Gerald Parkes and his wife Denise. Gerald was awarded an MBE in 2013 for services to the UK cinema industry, the same year The Playhouse won the Pride of Place Award. Gerald sadly passed away shortly afterwards, but the show goes on with the amazing Kirsty and James, and their wonderful, awesome, amazing team. 

We believe a great cinema is about much more than what happens on screen. It’s about the team, the service, the atmosphere, the audience. We pride ourselves on offering exceptional service and a warm welcome.  

The Playhouse in Louth has welcomed film lovers for over 100 years and hopes to continue to do so for 100 years more. 

For more information visit www.louth.parkwaycinemas.co.uk

ENJOY A ROYAL WELCOME
Ideally located in the centre of Louth, the King’s Head Hotel in Mercer Row is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy five-star food and service in welcoming surroundings.

This traditional Grade II listed coaching inn has long been a favourite with visitors and locals alike who enjoy its comfortable surroundings, home cooked meals featuring locally sourced fresh produce and excellent choice of accommodation.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to meet up with family and friends or celebrate special get-togethers, either in the comfortable Upstairs restaurant or exclusive private dining room, the King’s Head team offers an extensive menu featuring family favourites and classic dishes together with a carefully prepared selection of nourishing vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Bookings can also be taken for special occasions and menus tailored to individual requirements.

Open from 10am for breakfast, lunch and dinner on Monday to Saturday, plus Sunday lunches from noon. 

For more information contact tel: 01507 602965 or visit www.kingsheadlouth.co.uk

GOING GREEN WITH LOVE
If you’re looking to enhance your home or workspace with a range of healthy and beautiful indoor plants and choice of terrarium components, together with faux plants, plant-related accessories and household gifts, a visit to Laura’s Green Leaves is a must.

Based at 42B Eastgate, this exceptional plant and unique homewares and gifts shop is owned and run by Laura Carter, a young entrepreneur and friendly “plantaholic” who began selling plants from her spare bedroom six years ago.

“Whether you’re visiting us in person, or shopping online, my mission is to make houseplants accessible to everyone. I do my very best to keep prices as low as possible so we can all share in the joy of bringing a little greenery into our homes.”

Laura, who is always happy to share expert advice and plant care tips, also runs occasional workshops. Laura’s Green Leaves is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9.30-4pm.

For more information visit www.houseplantsbylaura.co.uk or www.facebook.com/laurasgreenleaves

J SHAW & SON – AT THE HEART OF VILLAGE LIFE
J Shaw and Son of Alvingham, a popular fruit and vegetable shop near Louth, has been at the heart of the rural community purveying fresh produce since 1902, when Charles Shaw bought Buxton House.

Today, the Shaw family and their team are still working hard to stock fantastic produce to inspire great home cooking and eating.

As part of this aim they stock as much local produce as they can, but also sell products from across the UK and the world. They are now carrying plenty of festive items including Shropshire Spice stuffing, Mrs Darlington’s cranberry sauce, Opies Pickled Walnuts, jelly slices, and delicious cookies. You can also find lovely preserves from local Lincolnshire ladies. 

“This is a traditional rural shop, and as the only shop in the village is very much part of community life. Everyone is welcome. 

“The coffee machine is always brewing Alvingham Coffee Roaster Beans – we look forward to welcoming you.”

Follow J Shaw & Son on Instagram and Facebook @shawsfruitandveg 

RELAX AND REFRESH AT WESTFIELD FARM
Situated in the village of Stewton, just two miles from Louth, Westfield Farm Self Catering Holiday Cottages invites guests to make the most of quality accommodation in peaceful countryside. The six cottages, which are all named after their original function, have been lovingly renovated from former 19th-century farm buildings, to offer a variety of comfortable self-catering holiday homes perfect for couples and families.

All feature fully-equipped kitchens, comfortable seating, TV and DVD in the lounge area and central heating. Some are single storey, ideal for guests with mobility problems.

“We have cottages sleeping two, four or six people and can accommodate up to 20 people in total for that special occasion or family get-together,” explains owner Chris Berry.

“The Barn, which sleeps six, has a ground floor bedroom with en-suite, ideal for three generation families, with all parking close to your cottage. We are open all year including Christmas and the New Year and can accommodate any length of stay from one night to three months. Early booking is recommended in peak season.”

For more information visit www.westfieldfarmcottages.co.uk

WINNING SMILES FROM LOUTH DENTAL CARE
Find out how the outstanding team of dental professionals can help start your journey with a healthy smile.

IF YOU’RE looking for high-quality oral care and cosmetic dental treatments, the friendly and highly trained staff at Louth Dental Care provide a range of patient services. From teething toddlers to denture wearers, the practice consistently earns high praise for its quick response to emergencies and its ability to manage complex dental issues with care and professionalism.

“We offer a great selection of competitively priced treatments, from tooth whitening to dental implants and white fillings, and strive to ensure patients benefit from clear communication and a gentle approach.”

Transformational treatments
The team of dental professionals can also advise you on the range of treatments on offer to help boost your confidence with a healthy smile using the most up-to-date techniques and materials. 

Discover Invisalign®, the most advanced innovative technology which straightens your teeth with a series of clear customised removable aligners, similar to thin gumshields in hard plastic. Invisalign® is suitable for teenagers, adults, patients with crooked teeth, with spaces between their teeth, or people who have had traditional braces before, but are looking for an effective alternative.

The aligner is a piece of clear medical grade plastic that fits over your teeth and helps straighten minor to complex teeth misalignment. Little by little your teeth move gently until they are straightened to the final position you feel is right for you.

The length of treatment can take on average six months, but this is dictated by your Invisalign® practitioner depending on how complicated your case is. 

Some of the practice’s skilled dental team have also undertaken extensive further training to enable them to offer a range of private treatment procedures.

If you’re concerned about missing teeth or wearing dentures, dental implants are a permanent, natural replacement. Titanium screws are used to replace missing roots, to allow the placement of crown and bridge work. Implants will look, feel and function like natural teeth.

Louth Dental Care can cover unsightly teeth with crowns, and spaces between teeth can be filled using bridges, while veneers provide a wafer-thin covering to hide discoloration on teeth and close unsightly gaps, often with little work being needed on the tooth itself. Advances in ceramic technology also allow these teeth to appear more natural and black lines around gum margins are less likely to occur.

If you would like to learn more about any of the treatments on offer, contact Louth Dental Care’s friendly team today.<

Louth Dental Care is located at 20 Upgate in Louth. The practice is open from Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm, Saturday 9am to 4.30pm and Sunday 9am to 12noon. For more information call 01507 601367, email info@louthdentalcare.co.uk or visit the website www.louthdentalcare.co.uk

THE FINAL SERVICE
There is an old saying in hospitality that a great restaurant is not just a place to eat; it is a living, breathing part of the community. For three years, we have had the immense privilege of being exactly that. It is with a mixture of pride and sadness that we announce our journey is ending. On 27th February 2027, Restaurant Auction House will officially close its doors. 

We did not arrive at this decision lightly, but as we prepare for our final service, we do so looking back on an extraordinary journey. Over the years, our dedication to the craft caught the eyes of the most respected critics. We were honoured to receive Michelin recognition, and that national acclaim was further cemented when we were named among The Good Food Guide’s Top 100 Best Local Restaurants. Closer to home, your support carried us to the peak of the county’s food scene, culminating in winning Lincolnshire Life’s Best Restaurant 2026. Seeing our chef, Emily Ayrton, named Young Chef of the Year was a validation for the late nights, and the pursuit of perfection on every plate. 

To our extraordinary staff, past and present: thank you. Your loyalty and passion turned a kitchen and a dining room into a family. Most importantly, to our guests: thank you for celebrating your birthdays, anniversaries and quiet Wednesdays with us. We hope you will join us one last time and help us celebrate the adventure we’ve been on. 

With a full heart and endless gratitude, Gareth & Lucy Bartram

Photographs: Mick Fox

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