All set for good news on growth

There’s plenty to see and do in the attractive market town of Louth, which is set to benefit from local government funding to help improve community development. By Glynis Fox.

If you love the intimacy of vibrant market towns with their interesting mix of shopping and visitor attractions – along with the bonus of being just a few miles away from the temptations of the Lincolnshire coast – you are likely to love Louth.

Packed with a wealth of independent traders, branches of nationally branded stores and hosting markets three days a week, it has plenty going for it on the retail front. In addition, there are many larger employers based on the town’s Fairfield Industrial Estate, who offer a vast range of goods and services.

East Lindsey District Council recently announced that it had allocated £7.8 million to improve tourism, markets, signage and visitor facilities across four district areas, including Louth, for community development, so there could be more good news to come.

One of the standout features that makes this destination such a magnet for shoppers is that business premises in the town centre are ideally suited to the needs of many independent traders.

These are great for newer smaller businesses, because they give them the chance to grow their businesses by being able to afford a bricks and mortar shopfront, which is cost-effective.

The wide variety of differently sized premises means there are also good opportunities for traders to move to alternative units when they want to scale-up or downsize. This is particularly of value in today’s fast-changing environment when so many want to have physical premises in addition to selling online.

Shops to look out for in the town include Lucks of Louth, which sells top-branded countrywear, White Stuff, Orchid Boutique and Rio Retro. If you love deli foods, you won’t be able to resist popping into artisan delicatessen The Cheese Shop, Pocklington’s Bakery for some plum bread and Woolliss butchers for a tasty pie.

Louth also has a great selection of cafes and restaurants, so when you want to take a break from retail therapy or sightseeing, names to look out for include the Alfredo Lounge, Tabula Rasa, Restaurant Auction House, The Mason’s Arms and The Mansion House among many more.

The town is also a good place for an overnight or weekend stay, particularly if you want to go to a public event or simply get active and explore the beautiful Lincolnshire Wolds, which are right on the doorstep.

ou may wish to visit some historic sights, go to see a film, take in a show or use Louth as a base. It’s particularly convenient if you fancy going to watch motorsport at Cadwell Park.

On Saturday 3rd May you could choose to visit Cadwell – which is just six miles from the town – to watch motorcycle riders taking part in one of the circuit’s popular track days. This event will see riders split into three groups, based on their experience and track times, and each have an exciting time spending 20 minutes going round the circuit.

HISTORIC BUILDINGS
If you’d rather stay in town, why not explore St James’ Parish Church, which stretches 88 metres into the skyline – that figure hits 89.33 metres when you measure to its cockerel weathervane.

Today’s building, which is mainly 15th-century, having replaced earlier 11th and 13th century versions, has a peal of eight bells, hosts several events and boasts a tea shop and bookshop.

In 1844 town resident and painter William Brown famously scaled scaffolding on the landmark building and painted an amazing 360-degree panorama of the town.

Brown’s Panorama gives people a bird’s eye view of Louth in Victorian times. Visitors can see this impressive work of art in the Sessions House and also in Louth Museum (do check the latter is open before visiting).

On a good day, why not take the family for a walk or a picnic in Hubbard’s Hills, a hidden scenic space on the edge of town. This highly popular green valley is intersected by the River Lud and is the perfect place to relax, walk your dog (which must be on a lead), explore woodland and treat yourself to a cuppa in the onsite café.

If you’re a fitness fan, you might choose to take time out and book one of the many sessions and classes at the Meridian Leisure Centre in Louth, which offers everything from swimming to racquet sports and cardio fitness sessions.

Alternatively, you could take your seat at the in-town Playhouse Cinema and enjoy the latest screening, take in a show at the Riverhead Theatre or get tickets for a musical event at Louth Town Hall.

Coming up in May are the MAMA 2-day Genesis Tribute night on 2nd and 3rd May and The ELO Encounter on 10th May.

Another idea, if you are interested in brewing activities, is to schedule a visit to the Louth Distillery, which is home to the award-winning brand Pin Gin, as well as white label projects. Its visitor centre hosts a Gin School and Tour & Taste Experiences.

WOODLAND RESTORATION
Returning to the promise of more good news to come for the town, East Lindsey District Council has already allocated £1m of the earlier mentioned £7.8 million to The Woodland Trust to revitalise an important woodland.

This significant amount will allow the Trust to buy and restore the 483-acre Harrison Woodlands near the town. The site is currently damaged and closed to the public, but there are plans to remove some trees and regenerate it before it reopens.

A Trust spokesperson said: “There is a significant amount of tree safety work that needs to be undertaken to make the proposed 5km path. This is due to the amount of ash dieback that’s present in the wood.

“Due to the time of year that this needs to happen, the woodland is unlikely to open until early 2026.

We’re trying to make this as clear as we can in all our external messaging about the site as we don’t want people turning up and being disappointed it’s not open. 

“When we do open the woodlands, although visitors will be very welcome, it won’t be a site where we are looking to drive footfall particularly. We see the wood as being a valued local asset where the focus is very much on restoring the ancient woodland habitats for wildlife as our primary aim.”

The spokesperson said the woodland is of significance due to its size within the local area, and Lincolnshire as a county has woodland cover that’s below the national average.

“Some nice species including the white admiral butterfly and goshawks have been recorded at the site, and we’re confident that once our restoration work gets underway that the biodiversity will greatly increase,“ said the spokesperson.

“At the moment, our estate team is starting to undertake a lot of assessment work to inform the creation of a management plan for the site, so there’s not an awful lot of detail to share at this stage. However, it will definitely involve removing a lot of Himalayan balsam, and non-native conifer species to allow native broadleaf species to re-establish. Hopefully, we’ll see the return of some ancient woodland indicator species like bluebells. We’ll be establishing various monitoring and survey work at the wood so we’re able to evaluate the impact of our work over time.”

FABULOUS FEEDBACK FOR THE KING’S HEAD
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 including a three-bedroom serviced apartment for larger parties and families.

Consistently voted “excellent” in customer reviews, this family friendly hotel, bistro and bar has enjoyed great feedback including:
• “Lovely historic hotel in a centre of town location, surrounded by restaurants and shops.”
• “Great location in the town centre with parking, good size and comfortable room and lovely fresh cooked breakfast.”
• “Fantastic staff, fantastic room, fantastic food, what a great hotel! Would definitely recommend and stay again.”

For more information call 01507 602965 or visit www.kingsheadlouth.co.uk

ARRANGING A PEACEFUL GOODBYE
Established in 1995, R Arnold Funeral Service’s compassionate team strive to support you in helping to arrange a respectful and personalised service. As experienced and dedicated funeral directors, husband and wife team Lindsay and Richard Arnold take the time to talk to each client and listen to their individual needs. As well respected members of the British Institute of Embalmers and National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors, they can offer a range of funeral plans to help cover costs.

“As one of the most rewarding services you can offer, our compassionate, approachable team take time to talk to each of our clients, looking after and guiding you every step of the way, offering guidance whatever time of day or night that you might need us.”

For more information visit www.rarnoldfuneralservice.com

ON TRACK FOR AN EXCITING SEASON
Lincolnshire’s Cadwell Park motor racing circuit is hosting a bumper calendar of events in 2025, with a vibrant mix of race meetings on two and four wheels between now and November.

Special highlights include the Bennetts British Superbike Championship’s summer ‘Party in the Park’, featuring three headline BSB races on August Bank Holiday weekend (23rd-25th August). A festival atmosphere is expected, with thousands of fans travelling to the Wolds.

Other standout motorcycle events include hundreds of vintage machines competing in the British Historic Championships (10th and 11th May and 13th and 14th September) plus the ever-popular International Sidecar Revival on 2nd and 3rd August.

Showcase events for car fans include the Modified Live show, featuring Time Attack UK and Drifting competitions on Monday 5th May, in addition to traditional visits from the Historic Sports Car Club (24th and 25th May) and the Vintage Sports-Car Club (21st June).

Children under 13 always go free at Cadwell Park, and there are discounts for teenagers aged 13-15, whilst savings can be made on all admission tickets booked in advance.

VIP upgrades are also available for all Cadwell Park events in the Mountain Pavilion, the circuit’s superb all-new hospitality centre, which overlooks the legendary “Mountain” section of the racetrack.

Visit www.cadwellpark.co.uk for further information and to book online.

PROTEC SERVICES – YOUR ONE-STOP TECHNOLOGY PARTNER
Based in Louth, Protec Services is a family-run business with over 20 years’ experience in providing reliable IT and security solutions for both businesses and domestic clients.

We are your one-stop shop for a wide range of IT and technology services, ensuring that you don’t need to juggle multiple providers.
 
Comprehensive IT Solutions
From remote broadband connectivity including Starlink connections to advanced services of IT infrastructure management and installations, we have the expertise to meet all your technology needs. Our services also include data and fibre installation, website development, varied cloud solutions including Microsoft 365, cloud telephone systems, and CCTV and security alarms. Additionally, we provide a remote support helpdesk, ensuring quick and efficient IT assistance no matter where you are. If repairs can’t be done onsite, our in-house workshop is equipped to handle them efficiently.
 
Serving Lincolnshire And Beyond
Protec Services proudly supports businesses and homes across Lincolnshire and beyond, offering remote and onsite solutions. Our clients span various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, veterinary practices, estate agents, accountancy, offshore shipping, food manufacturing and the entertainment and leisure industry, plus more – ranging from a few users to hundreds. We take a personalised approach, focusing on your unique needs, learning your business and building long-term, trustworthy relationships.
 
A Legacy Of Growth
From humble beginnings working from home, we’ve grown into a thriving business with a dedicated team and a fully-equipped workshop on the Louth Industrial Estate. We’ve even worked internationally with clients in Dubai, demonstrating our ability to deliver exceptional service on a global scale.

Let Us Help You Succeed
Choosing Protec Services means choosing a comprehensive IT and technology solution tailored to your needs. Over the years, we’ve helped clients significantly reduce ongoing IT costs and eliminate unnecessary expenses, all while keeping them ahead with the latest technology. Our innovative approach, combined with our expertise and reliability, ensures your business gets the best value and efficiency. Whether you’re looking to optimise your network, integrate new technology, or need ongoing support, our team is ready to help. 

At Protec Services, we’re committed to guiding your business through the rapidly growing digital world, providing dependable solutions that keep your systems up to date, reliable and secure. Contact us for a free IT review and see how we could help you!

Tel: 01507 609643
Email: support@protecservices.co.uk
Website: www.protecservices.co.uk

TOP BRANDS SPARKLE AT STRIACROFT
Home to a range of gorgeous gems, watches and jewellery, Striacroft Jewellers offers a stunning collection of sparkling designs and giftware, as well as new and pre-owned watches to suit every taste and budget, with favourite brands including Nomination and Hot Diamonds.

New this season is a beautiful range of necklaces, bracelets and earrings from Coeur De Lion, which are carefully handcrafted with loving attention to detail in the designer’s workshop in Stuttgart. The stainless steel designs, inspired by nature, feature natural, high-quality materials underlining the individual personality of its wearer.

A member of the National Association of Jewellers and the Guild of Master Craftsmen, Striacroft Jewellers also offers a variety of services, including jewellery and watch repairs, engraving, and valuations for insurance.

As the town’s longest established family jewellers, customers enjoy five-star service from the helpful expert team, who can help guide you through their specially selected collection of stunning designs.

Open Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm. For more information visit www.striacroft.co.uk

FAST AND FLEXIBLE MEDICAL TREATMENTS
Looking for personalised, compassionate care? Welcome to Private GP Lincs (PGPL), where your health is our priority. Our dedicated team of experienced healthcare professionals is here to provide high-quality, individualised treatment in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Whether you’re in need of preventive care, treatment for ongoing conditions, or specialised services, we offer a range of services tailored to meet your needs.

Join us at Private GP Lincs – where we are focused on your overall health, every step of the way. Call today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference in care.

Who are we?
Private GP Lincs was developed in October 2024, by Lincolnshire and District Medical Services (LADMS) (incorporated in 2007). LADMS delivers patient-centred services, assisting the NHS, and providing services on behalf of GP practices and Primary Care Networks (PCN’s) within and around Lincolnshire.

Why choose private?
Choosing private healthcare offers a range of benefits that can significantly enhance your overall medical experience. With private care, you gain access to shorter waiting times, more personalised attention, and the ability to choose your preferred healthcare providers. You can enjoy a higher level of comfort and convenience, with flexible appointment scheduling and tailored treatments that suit your specific needs.

Whether it’s for routine check-ups, specialised treatments, or faster access to medical services, PGPL prioritises your well-being and puts you in control of your health journey.

How much does it cost?
Prices are dependant on the consultation requirement. Each appointment is timed specifically to cater for patients needs, and to ensure all patients do not feel rushed. See our website for more details.

Where are you located?
PGPL are aiming to provide a county wide service, starting within Louth. 

For more information visit www.privategplincs.co.uk

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RESTAURANT AUCTION HOUSE!
Launched by chef/patron Gareth Bartram and his wife Lucy, Restaurant Auction House celebrates its first birthday this month. The restaurant, which offers a casual dining experience, features a seasonal and frequently changing menu highlighting the finest ingredients with a delicious balance of flavours.

Special midweek lunches on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 12noon to 2pm, which feature three courses for £30, have proved especially popular.

“Our lunch menu offers a choice of two starters, two mains plus a side and two desserts – it’s a nice relaxed atmosphere and good value for money,” says Gareth.

“One year ago, we opened our doors with a dream, and thanks to the unwavering love and support of our incredible guests, the hard work and dedication of our team and the wonderful community around us, that dream has flourished.

“We are deeply grateful for every meal shared, every smile and every moment of encouragement. Here’s to the first of many more years to come!”

For more information visit www.auctionhouserestaurant.co.uk

LINCOLNSHIRE WOLDS OUTDOOR FESTIVAL RETURNS
Don’t miss this unmissable celebration of adventure, exploration, and fun!

This year’s Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival takes place from 17th May to 1st June, offering more than 100 activities, ranging from outdoor adventures to countryside strolls to there’s something for everyone!

This much-loved festival transforms the rolling hills, charming villages, and breathtaking countryside of the Lincolnshire Wolds into a playground of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or simply looking to dip your toes into a new hobby, you’ll find events tailored to all ages, abilities, and interests. And the best part? Many activities are dog-friendly, so your four-legged friends don’t have to miss out!

Activity Day At Gunby Hall And Gardens
The festival begins with a spectacular Outdoor Festival Activity Day on Saturday 17th May (10am-4pm) at the National Trust’s Gunby Hall and Gardens. Visitors have the chance to take part in bushcraft activities, beekeeping demonstrations, yoga on the lawn, candle making, garden games, and face painting, plus a series of guided walks throughout the day.

Cycle The Circuit At Cadwell Park
One of the most exciting additions to this year’s festival is the chance to ‘Cycle the Circuit’ (Friday 30th May) at the legendary Cadwell Park. For the first time ever, cyclists of all abilities will have the unique opportunity to experience the track in an entirely new way! Pre-booking required. Cadwell Park is also offering a free self-guided Vale Trail walk throughout the festival period.

Enjoy The Great Outdoors
For those who love a challenge, the festival includes adrenaline-pumping activities such as gliding and paddleboarding. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of heritage walks and wildlife spotting sessions to inspire curiosity and appreciation for nature.

For full details on the festival programme, event schedules, and booking information, visit www.woldsoutdoorfestival.com

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 for missing teeth or dentures. 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 12.30pm. For more information call 01507 601367, email info@louthdentalcare.co.uk or visit the website www.louthdentalcare.co.uk

BEAUTIFUL YOU AT SALON CARINA
Salon Carina offers a selection of quality hair and beauty treatments, with a focus on personalised skincare powered by the prestigious French brand, Clarins.

Opened 2021, Salon Carina, which is set within the tranquil grounds of Brackenborough Lakes Resort in Louth, has become a trusted haven for clients seeking expert-led beauty and wellbeing treatments in a calming, contemporary space.

At the heart of the salon’s philosophy lies an unwavering dedication to quality and innovation, and that’s why Salon Carina has proudly partnered with Clarins – a global beauty icon synonymous with plant-based formulas, luxurious textures, and visible results. The salon has recently become a Clarins Gold Salon Partner, offering exclusive offers, improved Gift with Purchase promotions and access to the incredible Clarins For Me Reward Scheme, whereby Clarins customers receive 20% back on their spends in Clarins products.

Next-Generation Skincare
Salon Carina’s owner, Carina Tuxworth, and her expert team remain consistently attuned to the needs of their clientele. Whether you’re rediscovering old favourites or exploring Clarins for the first time, 2025 introduces an exciting new wave of hero products that promise to elevate your daily routine.

Clarins Double Serum Light Texture is a lightweight, serum-based formula designed for combination to oily skin, providing anti-ageing benefits with a fresh, bare-skin finish.

Ideal for use in the morning, it delivers deep hydration without leaving a greasy residue. The formula features Lightweight Tri-Oil Technology, a blend of 100% natural oils, and is designed to be instantly absorbed, making it perfect for warmer climates, men, and younger skin.

Among its many key benefits are 27 active anti-ageing ingredients, including turmeric extract to enhance skin functions and Giant Provençal reed extract to reduce epi-ageing effects, a 50% lighter feel than the original Double Serum, with no residual film and eco-friendly 94% recyclable packaging and a push-button dosing system to prevent overuse.

Relax, Restore, Rejuvenate
Salon Carina offers an escape from the everyday. With views over peaceful lakes, lush gardens, and the welcoming atmosphere of a luxury countryside retreat, it is the perfect setting to unwind and prioritise your wellbeing.

Guests can indulge in a wide variety of treatments, from signature Clarins facials and advanced skin therapies to bespoke massages, manicures, pedicures, and full-service hair styling.

Salon Carina also hosts regular Clarins Makeup Masterclasses which are led by Clarins experts offering tips, techniques, and personalised advice. Each session is followed by a delightful afternoon tea at the Brackenborough Bar & Bistro, making it a beautifully indulgent experience for groups of friends, or a special treat for yourself.

Brackenborough Lakes Resort
Set in over 30 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, this peaceful family-owned resort offers the perfect getaway, featuring 24 rooms in its boutique hotel and 23 lodges with private hot tubs.

With private event spaces for up to 150, it also provides the perfect setting for weddings, celebrations, and corporate events. Whether you’re looking for a romantic break, a family holiday, or a relaxing retreat, there is something for everyone at Brackenborough Lakes.

To book your treatment or secure your place at the next Clarins Masterclass, call 01507 354126 or visit www.saloncarina.co.uk

DISCOVER LOUTH’S RICH HISTORY
An award-winning visitor attraction in the historic market town, Louth Museum on Broadbank features four galleries, library plus a gift shop, with two new exciting displays and exhibitions.

Take a stroll down memory lane and discover what life was like in the exhibition titled ‘Growing Up in Louth 1939-1989’, which features memorabilia and nostalgic videos, plus a table of activities for children.

‘Claribel comes home to Louth’ features the most successful hymn composer, poet and artist from the Victorian era. Louth-born Claribel is the star of her own permanent exhibition, which tells her dramatic story from worldwide fame to scandal and disgrace.

Don’t miss other galleries featuring fascinating finds and social history including the disastrous Louth Flood of May 1920, the story of the Ghost of the Green Lady, carpets made in Louth, plus the largest national collection of Victorian woodcarvings by Thomas Wilkinson Wallis.

The museum is open from 10am to 4pm, Wednesday to Saturday until October 2025.

For more information visit www.louthmuseum.org.uk

FUSION FLAVOURS AT THE STEEPLE BAR
The Steeple Bar is a new venue for Louth, open for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks, or a relaxing tea or coffee with a selection of cakes and pastries available.

Fitted out with locally reclaimed and salvaged décor, and with a stunning view of Louth’s St James’s spire, the venue provides a the perfect spot to enjoy time out.

Serving a pan-Asian fusion menu focussing predominantly on gyoza and noodle dishes as well as a selection of smaller plates, the choices at The Steeple Bar are ideal for either a sharing feast or a quick bite with a glass of wine or cold bottle of Japanese lager.

You will also find a great range of dishes for the vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diner.

With limited table space available, The Steeple Bar works on a more casual first come, first served ethos where eating at the bar is encouraged.

Find The Steeple Bar on Instagram: @theesteeplebar

Photographs: Mick Fox

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