All about Alford

If you’re heading to the Lincolnshire coast, why not stop off en route and take a walk around this attractive market town? By Glynis Fox.

Visit this destination at an inopportune moment and you might think it’s sleepy and there’s not much going on – but that couldn’t be further from the truth!

There’s actually plenty to discover, from buildings of historic interest to a changing mix of small shops, plus the town is well known for being home to a lively artisan community.

Alford sits at the foot of the beautiful Lincolnshire Wolds and its businesses and community groups serve a population of more than 3,800 people (2021 Census), as well as families living in the surrounding villages.

The town is only seven miles from Sutton-on-Sea and eight miles from Mablethorpe, while Skegness is just a bit further along the coast, 18 miles away.

This means that Alford often attracts visitors staying at the seaside. Some drop in on their way there and others may pop into the town when it is hosting one of its events, or when the iconic Alford Craft Market is taking place.

In the town centre you will find St Wilfrid’s Church. It sits on raised ground in an area which has boasted a church since the 11th century. If you are interested in religious places, this building features a fascinating mix of Romanesque, Anglo-Roman, Gothic and Jacobean architecture.

The Corn Exchange overlooks the town’s Market Place. It has undergone refurbishment in recent years, and boasts a beautiful lantern in the ceiling, a stage and a maple wood sprung dancefloor.

Last year, a grant from the Lincolnshire Community Foundation allowed acoustic panels to be installed in the main hall, which has improved the sound for events.

There’s little wonder then that this venue is a highly popular choice for people organising craft fairs, antique fairs, coffee mornings, theatre shows, film nights, race meetings and so much more.

The Corn Exchange is owned and managed by the Alford Corn Exchange Community Group.

When you talk about Alford, one of best-known attractions always comes into the conversation is Alford Manor House, which was built in 1611 and is recognised as the largest thatched manor house in the country.

Exciting changes are underway because in 2023 this property received a massive £2.1 million in funding. That money is going to be used to pay for a comprehensive set of construction and renovation projects. These are designed to enrich the experience for visitors as well as meticulously preserve the historical legacy of the site.

Money will be used to create a cutting-edge permanent events space, replacing a temporary marquee. In addition, a new kitchen will be developed in the site’s Coach House, which will primarily cater for the needs of this space.

Solar panels are going to be installed on all newly-built roofs and on the Hackett Barn to harness sustainable energy.

A machinery store will also be developed in between the Hackett Barn and Workshop base, which will provide a secure space for heavy machinery and vintage agricultural equipment.

The installation of an Air Source Heat Pump enclosure will be created to support the new function space, alongside cost-effective paving around new buildings and the car park.

Bourne-based Probus Construction won the contract to upgrade Alford Manor House and, as we went to press, was busy on site, with the work projected to be substantially finished by the autumn.

INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES
Apart from its historic attractions, Alford boasts a real mix of businesses offering essential goods and services for residents and visitors, unmissable events, and plenty to interest people who enjoy eating out, markets, getting involved in arts and crafts or who are passionate about antiques and collectibles.

Alford Focal Point is where you will find the Community Library and Information Centre and it’s also the place where you can do everything from borrowing books, to booking time on a PC, getting some photocopying sorted and much more.

Relatively new arrivals in town include the music shop, Music Bits, which is run by Anthony Boden, who is already experienced at selling online and has rebranded. It is refreshing to find someone who has expanded from selling goods and services investing in ‘bricks and mortar’ premises – but Anthony says it is proving a sound move.

“I like music shops, they are not faceless and I missed the interaction with customers, who like to look at different instruments and accessories and ask questions before buying,” said Anthony.

He said that by visiting the shop they are enjoying the same prices and customer-focused service. Music Bits is open six days a week.

Today, Alford Opticians is in the hands of the Kalantzi family, who bought the business from previous owner Garry Crome. They refurbished the premises in January and opened in March, keeping the original name of the business.

The opticians, Elena, George and their son Giannis, are all experienced in offering the full range of services including scanning and photography. They are helped by optical assistant Tina Lindon, who used to work for Mr Crome.

Elena said: “We expanded to this practice after spending two years developing Mable Opticians in Mablethorpe and we are now looking to open an opticians in Horncastle. We like to welcome people and offer supportive service.”

Other shops you will find in Alford include Gray’s Emporium, which sells second-hand furniture and quirky collectibles. It is also home to The Whistling Kettle Café; Hunts Coaches (whose coach business is based in the town, as well as holiday shop) and The Blue Shop on The Corner in the Market Place, where you can find a variety of collectibles.

South Market Place has also recently seen fresh life breathed into shop premises with the launch Vintage at Hart. This will definitely appeal if you love browsing vintage and classic clothing, finding different accessories or hoping to pick up some new housewares. This shop, run by Claire Hart, received a warm welcome on opening day – just make sure to check Claire’s opening days before you go.

If you want to stay in Alford overnight or for a few days, The Windmill Hotel overlooking the Market Place is a boutique property which was originally an 18th century coaching inn, but which today offers modern comforts.

MARKETS AND CRAFTS
Every town has its special general market days – Alford’s are on Tuesday and Friday.

Alford is also well known for its Craft Market Shop on the corner of West Street and Market Place, where you will be dazzled with the sheer variety of unique makes on display. This is definitely the place to find a special gift for a friend or even treat yourself!

Behind the shop is the Craft Market Centre, where you can also attend workshops and make your own handcrafted items.

If you can’t wait to pick up your needles and balls of wool, why not rise to the challenge of joining Alford’s famous Knitting Nannas and getting stuck into an amazing project?

The ladies’ work is often spotted in the form of post-box toppers or bollard decorations – and they even covered a model horse with Remembrance poppies. Now they are looking for people who love knitting to join them in the Craft Market Centre to knit some of the town’s 100 Market Place buildings over the next few months!

Free sessions will take place fortnightly on Wednesdays, from 10.30am to 12.30pm and knitters will use donated wool. The venue, tea, coffee and biscuits are being supplied by Alford Craft Market. For more information, contact tel: 01507 463341.

ALFORD CORN EXCHANGE – AN IDEAL EVENTS VENUE
Whether you’re looking to organise a special celebration, wedding reception, conference, recreational classes, or funeral tea, the Alford Corn Exchange is the perfect venue to host a variety of public and private functions for up to 200 guests.

Here you will also find regular weekly events such as craft markets, antique fairs and special artistic performances, popular with both locals and visitors alike.

Built in Italianate style in 1856, the stunning Grade II-listed building located on the central market place has been extensively restored, including the installation of air-conditioning in addition to a number of distinguishing features, among them a beautiful central lantern, a stage with lighting and wireless PA system, and a sprung dance floor made of maple wood.

The adjacent fully licensed Theatre Bar and café area also features a fully refurbished kitchen with full facilities for food preparation and a serving hatch to the main hall.

“Please contact us and we will help you to make a success out of your plans.”

For more information visit www.alfordcornexchange.co.uk

A HOLIDAY HAVEN FOR ALL AGES
Nestled in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds, just minutes from the coast, Woodthorpe Leisure Park is a five-star, family-run haven where countryside charm meets modern comfort. This park offers something for everyone: luxury lodges, cosy cottages, glamping pods, and traditional camping, with pet-friendly and wheelchair-accessible options ensuring inclusivity for all.

Set amid lush woodland, the park’s serene setting is perfect for relaxation, while its fishing lakes, 18-hole golf course, and unique driving range invite outdoor adventure. Guests can stock up at the on-site shop or savour hearty meals at Woody’s Restaurant and Bar.

Fall in love with the lifestyle? Holiday homes are available for purchase, letting you enjoy Woodthorpe year-round.

Plan your escape today at www.woodthorpeleisurepark.com or call 01507 450294, because some places aren’t just visited, they’re experienced.

DISCOVER TIMELESS COMFORT WITH G PLAN UPHOLSTERY AT ASKEWS FURNITURE
At Askews Furniture, we’re proud to welcome a distinguished name in British craftsmanship to our showroom — G Plan Upholstery.

Renowned for its exceptional comfort, timeless design, and enduring quality, G Plan has been a staple in stylish living rooms since the 1950s. Now, you can experience this iconic comfort for yourself at Askews.

Whether you’re seeking classic elegance or modern sophistication, G Plan offers a diverse range of sofas and chairs, expertly crafted to elevate any home interior. Each piece is meticulously designed with supportive cushioning, premium fabrics, and smart features like power recliners and adjustable headrests — perfect for unwinding in luxury.

What sets G Plan apart is its unwavering commitment to quality. Every item is hand-made in the UK, with frames guaranteed for 25 years, ensuring your furniture not only looks great but lasts for decades.

At Askews Furniture, we’re excited to help you explore G Plan’s latest collections. Visit our showroom in Alford’s West Street to try it for yourself and find the perfect piece to complete your home. With friendly knowledgeable advice and our five-star service, your comfort is our priority.

G Plan is more than furniture – it’s a lifestyle. Now available at Askews Furniture, Alford. For more information visit www.askewsfurniture.co.uk

CRAFTS AND COMMUNITY
Alford Craft Market is a not for profit organisation run by volunteers founded in 1974. We have run craft events for the last 50 years at Alford Manor House and Alford Corn Exchange, and more recently at the North Sea Observatory, Chapel Point and the Colonnade, Sutton on Sea.

The Alford Craft Market Shop at 1 West Street, Alford, opened 10 years ago and now has 37 top quality Lincolnshire Makers selling their work here. They provide a great choice of unusual and unique gifts for customers to choose from. The Shop is open 10am-4pm every day except Sundays.

The Alford Craft Market Centre, where you can learn a variety of crafts and new skills, is to the rear of the Shop.

There are over 50 art and craft classes and workshops to choose from – have a look at the classes page at www.alfordcraftmarket.co.uk/book-art–craft-sessions-online.html#/. Contact 07920 409253 (daytime only).

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