A voyage of discovery

If you are unfamiliar with North Lincolnshire, why not take time out and discover an area which provides many surprises. By Glynis Fox.

The sheer variety of destinations means there are lots of attractions to discover, with plenty to appeal to the whole family.

Let’s start our visit in Grimsby, a town which is undergoing a renaissance and which is a place where you can experience everything from heritage attractions to modern retail. As a long-standing port town, a visit to Grimsby’s Fishing Heritage Centre is an absolute must and it’s the easiest way to understand what life was like for 1950s fishermen and others employed in one of the most dangerous and life-risking occupations.

This multi-award-winning centre, which also hosts school visits, features fascinating lifelike sets highlighting the trawlermen’s story behind the scenes. The centre also won funding to create specially designed information boxes, which can be borrowed.

These intriguing boxes have been carefully put together to give children and adults a taste of the fishing industry in the 1950s and they are based on the themes of navigation and home life.

Dip inside and you will find objects for handling, smells to experience, specially commissioned artworks, actors’ monologues and more. There’s a handy information booklet pack too.

Whilst in the town, you also have the chance to step inside the famous Ross Tiger trawler and get a true feel of what it would have been like to live and work aboard this vessel, which was built in 1957. Recognised as the last sidewinder conventional trawler, it was converted into a museum ship in 1992.

TOWN REFURBISHMENT
On the shopping and leisure front, a major restructuring and refurbishment of the town’s much-loved Freshney Place Shopping Centre – at a cost of nearly £50 million – continues to gather pace.

If you are only an occasional visitor to the town, you could perhaps be forgiven for thinking that the centre has lost all its buzz in the midst of the massive changes currently underway, but that is not the case!

There is still a wealth of shopping to be enjoyed, with major brands including M&S, Next, Waterstones and Bonmarché, along with many other national and smaller businesses maintaining their presence – even though a dramatic revamp is underway.

At the western end of the shopping mall, the former Top Town Market Hall and some units in the Bull Ring are earmarked to make way for a new five-screen Parkway Cinema. Meanwhile the old Top Town Market is destined to be relocated to the former BHS store site, where a food hall and market is planned.

Repairs are also due to be carried out to Freshney Place’s car park. The revamp of the shopping and leisure destination is due to be finished in spring 2027.

When it comes to other major stores, Grimsby is well-served with nationally branded outlets, which can be found at Alexandra Retail Park and in Victoria Street. Meanwhile, Abbeygate is the place to find a selection of niche independent businesses, offering a variety of goods and services.

Also, don’t miss visiting the town’s jewellers, including G Hewitt & Son and Daniella Draper in Victoria Street, Nidd & Son in Victoria Street West and the well-known family-run Lees Furnishers in Victoria Street North.

SCUNTHORPE HITS THE HEADLINES
Scunthorpe, another North Lincolnshire town, has multiple shopping areas, including The Foundry Shopping Centre and The Parishes, which is also home to a seven-screen VUE Cinema.

If you are looking for other entertainment, remember to check out what’s on at the Baths Hall in Doncaster Road, which hosts touring shows, musical events and pantomimes.

The town is very well catered for on the fitness and sporting front. The Pods leisure centre boasts a 25-metre swimming pool, a training pool, sports hall, gym and fitness studio. Quibell Park has an outdoor track and velodrome, and the town’s Indoor Bowls Centre has six rinks.

As we went to press, British Steel in Scunthorpe had hit headlines after its Chinese owner Jingye raised fears of huge job losses and the potential knock-on effects for shopkeepers and service businesses in the town.

In March, Jingye revealed the plant was losing £700,000 a day and started a consultation about closing the site, claiming its blast furnaces and steelmaking operations were financially unsustainable. At the same time the government wanted to keep it running.

With little time to act, the government recalled MPs to Parliament for the first time on a Saturday since the Falklands crisis in 1982. That meeting resulted in emergency legislation being drawn up to keep the plant’s blast furnaces going and this was passed by the Commons and Lords on the same day and swiftly gained Royal Assent. The move gave the government the power to tell British Steel to keep the plant open and keep the blast furnaces going, but it didn’t go as far as nationalising the steelworks, which many workers and the wider Scunthorpe community were hoping for.

HISTORIC BARTON
While we wait to see what happens next, there are other places in North East Lincolnshire worthy of a visit including Barton upon Humber. Historically this destination was once recognised as the brick-and-tile capital of Britain.

Today the town offers lots to interest the visitor, particularly those who are passionate about history, art and nature.

Barton has a quaintness about it, with a street scene which features many Georgian properties. St Peter’s Church is considered to be one of England’s finest Saxon churches, with a tower that stands unaltered from the 10th century, and there’s also St Mary’s, which dates from the 12th century and is built in the Early English style. Other buildings include the Wilderspin National School Museum, the Ropewalk Arts Centre and the Baysgarth House Museum.

The town’s famous Grade II-listed former rope factory should be high on the list of every visitor. With its fabulous galleries, sculpture garden and coffee shop, it’s a wonderful place to see the latest art exhibition, treat yourself to an original or buy an unusual gift for a friend.

Also, be sure to check out what’s happening in the Ropery Hall – the onsite venue which offers a variety of live music, theatre and cinema productions.

NATURE CALLS
If you like soaking up the sights and sounds of the natural world, there’s a double treat in store near the Humber Bridge. On the Barton side you will find the Waters’ Edge Country Park and 4.8 miles away, Far Ings Nature Reserve. You can walk between the two on a route which takes in part of the Viking Way. 

The Waters’ Edge Country Park offers the family the opportunity to explore woodland, wildflower meadows and spot a range of wildlife, plus migratory birds. It also has a visitor centre, a café and hosts a variety of events.

Far Ings Nature Reserve lies on the riverbank to the west of Barton and comprises a chain of flooded clay pits and extensive reed banks, along with grassland and scrub. The Visitor Centre, which sells gifts and refreshments, offers fabulous views across the reserve.

During the migration season, look out for pipits, finches, swallows, martins, waders and many more birds. Also, listen out for the ‘boom’ of the bittern – a species which can be found on the reserve all year round.
A couple of other places worth exploring are Messingham and Epworth. Messingham attractions include Messingham Lakes – a holiday resort where you can play golf, tennis or go fishing.

Or why not take the family to Messingham Zoo? This family-run attraction, in Butterwick Road, prides itself on offering something different by giving visitors the chance to meet “smaller, friendlier” animals close up and learn all about their care and welfare.

If culture and heritage are more your thing, drop into Epworth, with its quaint shops and refreshment stops. Epworth is home to St Andrew’s Church and Epworth Old Rectory, which was built in 1709 after a great fire.

Epworth is forever associated with Methodism, because it was the birthplace of its founders John and Charles Wesley.

ALL EYES ON TURNTABLE GALLERY
Located in the heart of Grimsby’s renowned Fish Dock, Turntable Gallery is one of the county’s most important independent, contemporary art galleries, garnering national and international attention.

Founded and directed by artists Dale Wells and Darren Neave (RCA), in the three short years since its launch it has hosted shows and worked with a dizzying array of big named artists, including many Turner Prize winners and finalists.

Their tireless championing of art and their beloved Grimsby has even seen a visit from the infamous Jake Chapman and the blessing of Jeremy Deller.

With preservation and conservation key values to the gallery’s brand, Turntable has also been responsible for the restoration of Harold Gosney’s Family Group, Grimsby’s Minesweepers Memorial and currently has a number of heritage projects in the works.

Dale and Darren are currently working with luminaries such as Tim Noble, and the studios of the acclaimed Gilbert & George, to show works in the near future.

Exciting times for Lincolnshire and all eyes on Grimsby!

For more information visit www.turntablegallery.uk

HORRIBLE HISTORIES LIVE AT GRIMSBY AUDITORIUM
Using actors and eye-popping 3D special effects, two astounding Horrible Histories shows are guaranteed to thrill you and your children from the 5th to 7th June. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips!

Terrible Tudors
From the horrible Henrys to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the legends (and lies!) about the torturing Tudors. Meet Bloody Mary and see Ed fall dead in his bed. Survive the Spanish Armada as it sails into the audience!

Awful Egyptians
From fascinating Pharaohs to the power of the pyramids, discover the foul facts of death and decay with the meanest mummies in Egypt! Dare you enter through the Gates of the Afterlife? It’s the history of Egypt with the nasty bits left in!

Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed hilarious family fun!

For more information and to book tickets, visit the website www.grimsbyauditorium.org.uk

EAST LODGE – A PERFECT RURAL RETREAT
With its unique blend of history, style, comfort and beautiful natural surroundings, East Lodge in Elsham, Brigg is an ideal family home for those in search of a modern house in a rural setting.

In the 1970s, this stunning country house was the treasured family home of international golfer Tony Jacklin CBE, the most successful British player of his generation, who often played at the nearby Elsham Golf Club.

On the market with Beercocks for offers between £725,000 and £760,000 East Lodge is a charming four bedroom, three bathroom and four reception room property set at the end of a no through road bordering the grounds of Elsham Hall, with a tennis court and 24ft detached studio.

The vendor says: “When I first saw this house online, it captured my imagination immediately. 

“The position and environment drew me in, with trees surrounding the property providing a sense of privacy and seclusion. The garden is a haven for wildlife, with peacocks and pheasants visiting daily, and the occasional deer.

“It’s a fabulous place for hosting family gatherings, with plenty of space both inside and out. The annexe has been a versatile space for me, serving as a studio, but it could easily be a games room or home office. This home has been a peaceful retreat for me, and I hope it will be for you too.”

The exclusive village of Elsham sits 20 minutes from Grimsby and Scunthorpe and just 10 minutes from the Humber Bridge. The nearby market town of Brigg is also 10 minutes’ drive and offers shops and services.

For more information visit www.beercocks.com

SAN PIETRO: A TASTE OF SICILY IN THE HEART OF LINCOLNSHIRE
There’s a quiet charm to the summer months in Lincolnshire – the golden fields, long evenings, and a gentle buzz of life. And nestled in Scunthorpe is a gem that’s adding a touch of Sicilian sunshine to the season. San Pietro, the proud recipient of the Taste of Lincolnshire & Rutland Award 2025, invites you to discover why it continues to be the region’s most captivating dining destination.

With this prestigious accolade comes recognition of San Pietro’s unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, impeccable service, and the warm hospitality of Italian tradition. But this summer, there’s even more reason to visit.

“Step into our Mediterranean Giardino, a tranquil outdoor space where you can enjoy a leisurely aperitif under the open sky.

Whether it’s a glass of crisp Prosecco, a fragrant Negroni, or one of our signature Sicilian cocktails, there’s no better place to relax and indulge.

“Our Giardino offers the perfect setting for both casual drinks and alfresco dining – where every breeze feels like the Mediterranean coast, choose from our casual Giardino menu with artisan pizza and cicchetti.

“Or step inside our restaurant as we continue to elevate the dining experience with our celebrated Sicilian Tasting Experiences, available at Lunch and Dinner times, and a newly reimagined Sicilian Sunday Experience that is out of this world.

“Inspired by the bold flavours, vibrant colours, and rustic traditions of Southern Italy, each menu is a journey through the culinary heart of Sicily.

“Dishes are thoughtfully crafted by our passionate chefs using the finest local produce alongside authentic Italian ingredients, ensuring every plate tells a story.”

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking the joy of excellent food and great company, San Pietro is more than just a restaurant – it’s a destination.

“With our award-winning cuisine, picturesque garden, and devotion to the true spirit of Italian hospitality, we offer an experience that lingers long after the final bite.

“This summer, come and see why San Pietro is not only a Taste of Lincolnshire winner, but the true taste of Sicily in Lincolnshire.”

For more information visit www.sanpietro.uk.com

QUALITY CARE AT OLD NORSE LODGE
Old Norse Lodge is a luxury residential care home offering the highest standards of care with the support of a dedicated, experienced team in a beautifully serene location.

Old Norse Lodge in Grimsby stands as a beacon of comfort and care for its residents.

With 66 bedrooms, each equipped with modern amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, queen-sized double beds, and mini-fridges, the care home ensures the highest quality of living and care is provided to its residents.

But what truly sets Old Norse Lodge apart is its commitment to holistic care. Beyond the facilities such as the cinema room, hair salon and garden rooms, Old Norse Lodge encourages a community atmosphere among its residents through a diverse array of daily activities. From engaging in arts and crafts to outings to the local football matches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Dedication to individual needs
Recognising the unique needs and preferences of every individual, the care team at Old Norse Lodge strives to promote independence while ensuring optimal support with personalised care plans.

It’s not just about helping but encouraging residents to maintain and carry on living independently to the best of their abilities.

This dedication to individualised care extends beyond the physical well-being of residents. The staff at Old Norse Lodge foster meaningful connections and create a warm, familial atmosphere. Residents find not just a place to live, but a true home where they are valued and respected.

In essence, Old Norse Lodge is more than just a care home, as it continues to enrich the lives of its residents and contribute to the community; it stands as a shining example of what senior living can be.

For more information visit www.danforthcarehomes.co.uk/old-norse-lodge

Photographs: Mick Fox

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