Looking over The Edge

Andrew Vaux discovers the delights of the villages huddled on Lincoln’s picturesque Cliff.

The Lincoln Edge is a prominent stretch of high ground that runs north-south through Lindsey and Kesteven. It offers a blend of heritage, stunning landscapes and vibrant community life, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and locals. Built on an impressive limestone escarpment of 60 metres, its villages – locally referred to as the Cliff Villages – are ideally situated for panoramic views across Lincolnshire, while also boasting rich histories and opportunities for various outdoor activities.

The Cliff villages include Waddington, Harmston, Coleby, Boothby Graffoe, Navenby, Wellingore and Welbourn and all have a unique character of their own. The area is part of the prehistoric Jurassic Way, a popular walking route for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike, while also being popular with photographers. Many visitors are keen to explore the escarpment’s natural beauty while soaking in the rich geological history of the region.

Known for its historic charm and community spirit, Navenby is one of the most notable villages along the Lincoln Cliff. The village is home to a wide selection of family-run shops and businesses such as Welbourne’s Bakery in the High Street, one of the longest-standing bakeries in the county, which produces a selection of artisan breads and cakes.

Previously named by The Sunday Times as being one of the top 30 rural places to live in the UK, Navenby is home to the Grade I listed St Peter’s Church, dating back to the 12th century. This architectural gem showcases stunning medieval craftsmanship and serves as a focal point for the community.

The village centre is a designated conservation area with many of the stone and brick-built houses dating back hundreds of years. More than 20 of the properties, as well as a 1935 red telephone kiosk in High Street, have listed building status.

If you’re looking for a fascinating family day out, a visit to Mrs Smith’s Cottage transports you via a rare time capsule into a bygone era.

Mrs Hilda Smith was well known and much loved in Navenby, where she lived until the age of 102 and her cottage provides a rare insight into the life of a rural Lincolnshire community through an entire century.

Thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund, this hidden gem and its contents, which remain largely unchanged since the 1800s, has been lovingly preserved since Mrs Smith last lived here in 1995.
Look out for special guided tours and special events such as the Easter Trail, which takes place 4th-28th April.

For more information visit the website www.mrssmithscottage.com

The village boast two pubs, The Lion & Royal and The King’s Head. The Lion & Royal was formerly known as The Lion, but a visit in 1870 from the Prince of Wales, Edward VII, prompted the addition of Royal in the title.

Guy Gibson, commanding officer of RAF 617 Squadron, The Dambusters, is also said to have spent his wedding night here.

Also in the High Street, The King’s Head is a popular traditional village pub with a focus on its cask ales and seasonal menus, which feature a subtle taste of South Africa, inspired by co-owner Stewart Kayne’s heritage.

At the heart of the kitchen is a Bertha charcoal oven, bringing diners bold, smoky flavours reminiscent of a South African braai.

Head chef Jamie Wilkes, a Rising Star of the Year finalist in last year’s Lincolnshire Life Taste of Excellence Awards, is known for his signature Beef Wellington, which has become a favourite with diners.

HISTORIC CONNECTIONS
Nearby, the settlement of Boothby Graffoe is first documented in the Domesday Book, when it was known as Boby or Bodebi. The name is derived from the Old Danish for ‘the farmstead, village of the booths’, which refers to a herdsman’s temporary shelter; and Graffoe, meaning ‘grove hill spur’.

Two manors are mentioned in the Domesday Book, the larger of the two belonging to the king and the other, belonging to Alfred of Lincoln.

The Grade-II listed Anglican parish church of St Andrew was rebuilt in the early-mid 19th century. The original church was destroyed by a hurricane in the late 17th century and all that remains of the original building inside is an inscribed tablet beneath the west window, dated early 17th century.

The village is also on the map with a new generation through comedian, singer-songwriter James Rogers (aka Boothby Graffoe) who was born in Hull and attended Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Horncastle, claiming to be the only comedian in the world named after a Lincolnshire village!

For family activities, Boothby Graffoe doesn’t disappoint. The village boasts several parks where children can play. Additionally, local events and community gatherings offer a sense of belonging and are excellent ways for families to get involved.

While the village is small, there are local shops for daily necessities, and a few pubs add to the village’s charm. The surrounding countryside is one of Boothby Graffoe’s strongest selling points. Offering numerous walking trails, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and picnicking.

Parks such as Whisby Nature Park and Hartsholme Country Park are within easy driving distance and provide a perfect setting for family outings.

MILITARY HERITAGE
The village of Waddington is also mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and up until the late 19th century was mainly an agricultural community. At various times other activities including malting, brick-making and stone-quarrying have taken place in the village.

Waddington has a rich history that dates back to the Roman era. The name Waddington is believed to have originated from the Old English words ‘Wada’ and ‘tun’, which mean ‘ford’ and ‘settlement’ respectively.

Well known for its association with RAF Waddington, one of the oldest airfields in the UK, the village is also recognised for its historic buildings, including the 13th-century All Saints’ church and the 16th-century Old Rectory.

Following its opening in November 1916 as a flying training base, RAF Waddington was home to aircraft and people involved in both World Wars, including the participation of 44 Squadron in the famous Augsburg bombing raid in 1942.

Numerous squadrons have served here and over time a significant number of personnel have donated their prized memorabilia from their time serving in the county; this has enabled a small collection to be established in the Station Heritage Centre for all to enjoy.

RAF Waddington Heritage Centre focuses on the History of RAF Waddington from 1916 to the present day, including exhibits from World War II, the Cold War, the Black Buck raids of the Falklands campaigns, right up to the present day.

There’s a display of a Lancaster bomber that was discovered where it crashed on a Scottish hillside.

Voluntarily run, the museum allows visitors to step into the history of RAF Waddington with plenty to see and learn. The centre is open to both civilians and service personnel on an appointment basis. Entry is free, although donations to enable the upkeep are appreciated.

Opening times by appointment only. Contact the visits co-ordinator on 01522 728595 or email: WAD-Heritagecentre@mod.gov.uk

CLIFF LANDMARKS
One of the most notable landmarks in Harmston is St Margaret’s church, which dates back to the 12th century. The church is a Grade II listed building and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning stained glass windows. Another popular attraction in the village is the Harmston Memorial Hall, which is a community centre that hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year. The hall is also available for private hire and is a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions.

In Leadenham, one of the main attractions is All Saints’ church, which dates back to the 13th century.

The church is a Grade I listed building and features a stunning Norman doorway, a 14th-century font, and a 15th-century rood screen. The church also has a stunning stained glass window, which was designed by the famous artist Edward Burne-Jones.

Another notable building in Leadenham is the Old Rectory, which was built in the 18th century and is now a private residence.

The Lincoln Cliff villages offer an enchanting blend of history, community, and natural beauty, whether you enjoy exploring historic sites, conservation areas, or walking scenic trails.

Photographs: Mick Fox

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