Welcome to the Wolds’ capital

Known for its stunning architecture and rich history, the picturesque market town of Louth marries rural charm with the vibrancy of small city life.

Known as the “capital of the Wolds”, Louth is famous for its St James’ Church, a nationally acclaimed 15th-century perpendicular building with 16th-century crocketed tower, which rises 295 feet and is believed to be the highest parish Church of England spire in the country. Having retained its medieval street plan and avoided the town centre changes that seemingly have spoilt several of England’s market towns, Louth has a special quality that is rarely found in modern England. It boasts a mid 17th-century town hall which houses an imposing ballroom and the Compton theatre organ.

Renowned for its Georgian and Victorian architecture, visitors will discover vibrant local markets and a special “foodie” culture.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS
Outline planning permission was submitted recently for a major development on land off Legbourne Road. The project includes up to 335 new homes with new access points, pedestrian/vehicle connectivity, public open space and play areas.

Submitted by Lindum Group and landowners A&W Laughton, with design by rg+p Ltd, the development involves relocating Laughton’s Southfield Farm cattle operation to Manby Airfield.

According to Chris Lindley, planning director at rg+p Ltd, and project lead for the development: “Louth is a key service and economic centre for the surrounding rural area so our masterplan for Legbourne Road includes a range of house types to appeal to a wide demographic, enabling local people and families to remain in the area, retain their roots, and continue contributing to the town’s community.

“Both pre-application feedback and public consultation have strongly informed the design, which has also taken cues from the existing architecture of this important market town.”

Southeast of the town, an Acis Group development on a site formerly known as Birch Road – now named Regent Place – is nearing completion, offering 47 energy-efficient homes, including bungalows, using modern timber frame construction methods.

EAST MEETS WEST
Louth is one of the few significant settlements sited on the international Meridian Line – the Greenwich Meridian of zero degrees latitude – which enables you to stand with one foot in the western hemisphere and the other in the eastern hemisphere.

The Greenwich Meridian is the world’s Prime Meridian for measuring longitude and used not only for navigation but also for establishing time (GMT). The Line is marked on Eastgate with a plaque on the north side of the street, just east of the junction with Northgate.

Three sculpted figures can be seen discovering and contemplating the Meridian Line, which is represented by a steel ribbon engraved with text (written by local people), that appears and disappears as it traces the path of the Line through the town.

Also, there are four lines engraved with text throughout Louth both on and off the Meridian. They are part of a series of works produced as a result of a collaboration between sculptor Lawrence Edwards and book artist Les Bicknell.

MAGNIFICENT PANORAMA
Brown’s Panorama Trail is a walking route featuring 13 location-based information boards that bring to life a 360-degree, 1844 painting of the town by William Brown, who lived at the Northgate end of Vickers Lane.

A Methodist preacher and teetotaller, he faithfully recorded life as a local newspaper correspondent, although he made his living mostly as a house painter.

The trail guides visitors from St James’ Church to key historical sites, including Gospelyard, Upgate (Mansion House), Spout Yard and the Riverhead, showcasing how the Victorian landscape compares to the modern day. Key details of the trail include the Original Artwork: The 1844 panorama, painted from the top of St James’ Church spire by William Brown, and is displayed in the Louth Town Council courtroom, which is open Wednesday and Friday mornings.

The trail was created by the council to showcase Victorian Louth’s architecture and daily life. Visit Louth Museum for a digitised zoomable version of the panorama. The small, independent museum is located at 4 Broadbank, and is open from April to October, Wednesday to Saturday, from 10am until 4pm. Visitors can make use of a small picnic area which is available for use in the warmer months, and there is a good selection of cafés a short walk away.

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE
Head west of Louth and discover the picturesque Hubbard’s Hills, a steep-sided valley formed by glacial melt waters.

Parkland since 1907 and much loved and used for recreation and study, it has beech-clad sides and a grassy floor, with the River Lud flowing through it.

The north entrance to Hubbard’s Hills is located along Crowtree Lane, with a car park consisting of compacted and loose stones. It lies on a slope and a charge applies.

The south entrance is located along Halfpenny Lane, where the car park is tarmacked and level, and no charge is applicable. Enjoy the Louth Hubbard’s Hills Walk, a short, linear route of 1.2 miles, which takes around an hour to complete and follows the valley floor beside the river. The starting point is at Crowtree Lane. The route is mostly level with occasional slopes, and path surfaces are mostly tarmac or concrete.

DIARY DATES
Louth will be busy hosting a variety of community, cultural and sporting events throughout the year, including the 30th annual Classic Car Show, which will be held at Deighton Close Fields on 7th June and featuring more than 200 cars, including vintage and American, plus motorcycles, with proceeds supporting local charities.

The Louth Run for Life will be held on 28th June, with 1k and 5k charity runs/walks in the town centre in aid of Cancer Research UK, and will feature a post-race after party at the King’s Head.

THE STAGE IS SET
Alex McAleer possesses an uncanny ability to apparently tap into the minds of an audience and read their thoughts at will. Check it out for yourself on Saturday 2nd May at the Riverhead Theatre. After over a decade of wowing audiences across the UK and North America, West End appearances and TV spots including Blue Peter and Good Morning Britain, he has built a reputation as one of the most entertaining and charismatic mentalists working today.

The New London Opera Group returns to the Riverhead Theatre from Thursday to Saturday, 18th-20th June, with a new production of Gilbert & Sullivan’s comic opera masterpiece, The Yeoman of the Guard.

For this production, the stage will be transformed into an Elizabethan playhouse, as the group brings the theatrical past to life. Enjoy an evening of song and dance, mirth and melancholy, intrigue and subterfuge.

If you’re heading to see a show, you will discover that the town is not just home to great theatre, but also to a wide array of places to eat and drink prior to curtain up.

Whether you’re after a quick bite, a cosy pub meal or a refined dinner, Louth has something to suit every appetite. The Grade II listed Woolpack at 14 Riverhead Road is just around the corner, where you can expect locally sourced dishes and real ales.

Should Japanese cuisine take your fancy, head to Kyoto Restaurant at 12 Vickers Lane, half a mile away. The sushi bar specialises in fresh Japanese cuisine made with local fish.

CHEERS TO THAT
If you enjoy a tipple, then Louth & District Lions will be holding their third annual beer festival at the London Road Pavilion on Saturday 11th July.

And whilst on the subject of drink, Louth Distillery is open for tours and gin school experiences.

Lincolnshire’s first commercial gin distillery in modern times began as a small-scale endeavour but quickly gained momentum, launching Pin Gin in 2017, which captured the essence of Lincolnshire’s rich agricultural landscape. Check out their range of award-winning gins at the distillery located at Fusion Way, Bolingbroke Road (LN11 0WA).

For further information on the town, visit: www.louthtowncouncil.gov.uk/visit-louth/

ENJOY A ROYAL WELCOME AT 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 bedroomed serviced apartment for larger parties and families.

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

MAKE A DATE AT THE PLAYHOUSE CINEMA
The Playhouse Cinema in Louth is an independent three-screen venue which has built an outstanding reputation for showing a wide range of popular films in a welcoming environment.

Part of the family-run Parkway Cinema chain, which also has branches in Cleethorpes, Barnsley, Beverley and Workington, the business was originally founded in 1983 by Gerald Parkes and his wife Denise and has grown to be one of the most successful independent cinema companies in the country.

This hospitable award-winning three screen cinema in the town centre has long proved a favourite with locals and visitors alike.

“We’re independently owned, and independently minded,” explains Richard Parkes, who took over running the business with his brother Gerrard and mother Denise after his father, who was awarded an MBE for services to the UK cinema industry, passed away in 2013.

“We believe that creating a great cinema is about much more than what happens on screen, and we pride ourselves on offering exceptional service, and genuine hospitality.”

Historic links
The Playhouse Cinema is believed to be the oldest cinema in Lincolnshire, opening just before Woodhall Spa’s Kinema in the Woods in 1922.

Originally converted from a Victorian chapel dating from 1821, it first opened as a cinema on Boxing Day, 1921.

The current Art Deco frontage was added in 1935, as well as stairs leading to the newly-built balcony.

Two further screens were added in 1996, followed by further extensive refurbishment in 2010, including the introduction of digital projection and sound, and in 2017 new seating and sofas were added to the larger screen.

Over the years, it has fully modernised with sound and digital projection, but still has original 35mm projectors, one of which can be seen through the upstairs windows at night.

The largest screen is upstairs and includes traditional red cinema seating, as well as sofas at the front, with traditional curtains in front of the screen.

Cinematic choices
The Playhouse screens a mixture of mainstream and more alternative titles, as well as many special event showings, such as operas, ballets and art gallery tours.
It also has a weekly Senior Screen on Thursday mornings with the ticket price including tea and biscuits. Private hire in any of the auditoriums is also available, with capacities of between 72 and 150 seats.
Manager James Pickworth says: “With our stadium seating, digital projectors and Dolby Digital surround sound you can enjoy the latest blockbuster, an old classic or even play your favourite video games on the big screen.

“I think there’s something a bit special about this cinema in particular, the traditions are important. We always put intermissions in our films which you don’t really get anywhere else. It’s what people remember from their childhood and going to the cinema.”

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

YOUR ONE-STOP LAND ROVER SHOP
For Land Rover owners seeking expert service, the Lincolnshire-based team at Famous Four offers the knowledge, experience and parts to keep vehicles performing at their very best.

As Lincolnshire’s largest and leading independent Land Rover specialist, Famous Four offers a comprehensive service across the full range of models, including Defender, Range Rover, Freelander, Discovery, and Evoque. 

From routine servicing, fault finding and diagnostics, to major repairs and restorations, Famous Four’s technicians are specialists in all things Land Rover, with 38 years of experience since being founded in 1988. 

Operating from state-of-the-art premises on the Fairfield Industrial Estate in Louth, Famous Four has  a modern 10-bay workshop, competitive fixed-price servicing options, and the latest diagnostic technology. 

Their expertly trained team is equipped to work on Land Rovers of all ages, from classic vehicles such as the Series 1 and Range Rover Classic models to today’s most technologically advanced vehicles such as the Evoque and Velar. 

All Famous Four servicing and repairs are carried out to main dealer standards, ensuring manufacturer warranties remain fully intact. 

A reputation for excellence 
At Famous Four, every customer can expect exceptional service, with a strong focus on customer satisfaction. 

Their worldwide reputation for excellence in the supply of parts and accessories is reflected in their comprehensive online store www.famousfour.co.uk. Through their website, Land Rover owners and enthusiasts can browse an extensive range of products, all available with fast UK and international shipping.

Each order is carefully checked by staff, making sure that the part is right for the customer, before being hand-packaged to ensure the correct part arrives in perfect condition, ready for immediate use. 

For customers across Lincolnshire, and the occasional international visitor, Famous Four also offers the convenience of in-person parts sales and collection. Visitors to their Warwick Road premises are welcomed by a friendly, knowledgeable team, always on hand to provide advice and support. 

Beyond their dedication to excellence in products and services, Famous Four is renowned for its commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned Land Rover enthusiast or an owner relying on your Land Rover for your daily transport, Famous Four welcomes all with opens arms. 

For those seeking the very best Land Rover experience, look no further than Famous Four. With unparalleled expertise and customer service, Famous Four continues to set the standard for Land Rover Specialists locally, nationally and worldwide.

For more details about how Famous Four can help you with your Land Rover servicing requirements,
tel: 01507 609444, email info@famousfour.co.uk or visit www.famousfour.co.uk 

AN EVENING WITH THE LITTLE MERMAID
The Louth Playgoers present their annual musical at the Louth Riverhead Theatre on Wednesday 13th through to Sunday 24th May for 12 performances (evenings 7.30pm with 4 weekend matinees at 2.30pm).

Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a beautiful love story for the ages.

With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including ‘Under the Sea’, ‘Kiss the Girl’ and ‘Part of Your World’.

Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colourful friends to restore order under the sea. 

Disney’s The Little Mermaid will feature colourful characters, beautiful sets and some of the best-known songs from the past 30 years. The production is sponsored by DS Smith.

For more information visit www.louthriverheadtheatre.com

SHOP FOR GEMS AND SPARKLE AT STRIACROFT
If you’re looking for the ideal gift for friends and family, or want to treat yourself to a touch of sparkle, Striacroft Jewellers offers a stunning collection of jewellery and giftware.

As Louth’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.

This gem of a store offers a wide range of high quality diamond, gold and silver jewellery, engagement rings and wedding rings, together with premium watches and clocks to suit all budgets.

Also popular this season is the latest Nomination range featuring upgraded base bracelets with the new NN style icon.

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.

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

REFRESH YOUR SUMMER STYLE AT ORCHID BOUTIQUE AND DANIELLA’S
As the season is now in full swing, Orchid Boutique and Daniella’s in Eastgate, Louth, are embracing the spirit of spring/summer with vibrant colours, effortless silhouettes and beautifully crafted accessories.

The mother and daughter team behind the stores, Tanya and Danielle, have created a shopping destination that feels warm, welcoming and full of inspiration. Their approach is all about confidence and individuality.

At Daniella’s, the spring/summer footwear collection blends comfort with contemporary style. Think soft leathers, lightweight soles and sunny ay favourites from Wonders, Remonte, Caprice, Toni Pons, and this season, two new exciting arrivals from Spain: Pitillos, known for its exceptional comfort and craftmanship, and Oh! My Sandals, bringing vibrant, easy to wear summer styles, perfect for warm days.

Next door at Orchid Boutique, the new season arrives with a curated mix of chic, wearable labels, perfect for building a wardrobe that moves effortlessly from relaxed days to summer occasions. Expect fresh prints, breathable fabrics and modern tailoring from Monari, Rabe, Peruzzi, See Saw, Toni, Mac Jeans and Red Button – and new in this season, the effortlessly stylish Betty Barclay, bringing contemporary femininity and polished everyday pieces to the boutique.

Join the community on Facebook at OrchidBoutiqueLouthLincs and daniellaslouth, and on Instagram at orchidbytanya and daniellasshoeslouth or visit www.orchidboutique.co.uk

EXPERIENCE THE ART OF FINE DINING
Situated in the heart of Louth, Restaurant Auction House offers innovative choices with deliciously unique snacks, small plates and tasting menus, created by chef/patron Gareth Bartram.

Featured once again in this year’s Michelin Guide and included in last year’s Good Food Guide’s Top 100 Best Local Restaurants, Gareth and his team create and deliver innovative menus using the finest top produce in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere, ensuring every dish shines through.

Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a fresh and flavourful lunch, or a delicious dinner, expect a dynamic dining experience with unforgettable flavours.

Make your mornings special and treat yourself to breakfast served every Friday and Saturday from 9am till 11am.

“We can also cater for large parties and private celebrations – upstairs dining: up to 14 guests, downstairs bar area: up to 10 guests, or even better book the entire restaurant for your special occasion!

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just an excuse to gather your favourite people – we’ve got the perfect space for you.”

For more information visit www.auctionhouserestaurant.co.uk

GIVE PLANT LIFE A BOOST THIS SUMMER
Lincolnshire farmer James Casswell has dedicated himself to creating a compost which would not only match but surpass peat’s performance.

“I was frustrated by the low-quality alternatives on the market,” said James, “so I began to test, hold field trials and refine which plant sourced ingredients, and those I could source from the farm, would produce a high-performance compost.”

The result of his research is EcoGreen, a compost for which all materials are organically grown, produced and bagged on farm.

“EcoGreen has great consistency due to the stability of materials we include and consistent testing,” continued James. “In turn this offers masses of soil health benefits due to the high organic matter. There is amazing water retention capacity and slow release of nutrients over a three-month period.”

EcoGreen also contains high levels of macrofauna and soil beneficiaries which are of huge benefit to the plants grown in the compost.

There are huge benefits to the environment too. This entirely UK grown product helps reduce delivery miles and willow is grown on wetter areas of the farm, which helps to clean water and prevent water pollution. This is an excellent habitat for wildlife. The farm also grows tailor-made green covers to provide nutrients for the compost.

The grass, flower and legume areas are home to beehives in the summer and sheep in the autumn. Lastly, straw from the cereal crops is added to the mix. The result is a compost which is effective, locally sourced, environmentally friendly and 100% peat-free. James is currently awaiting Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS) approval for EcoGreen.

See the EcoGreen difference for your growing: www.ecogreencompost.co.uk

ACTION-PACKED FAMILY DAYS OUT
From classic motorcycles to modern cars tuned to perfection, the Lincolnshire Wolds circuit will feature something for everyone this year!

The Modified Live Season Starter kicks off the calendar of major headline events with a bank holiday of horsepower on Monday 4th May.

Part car show, part motorsport event, this fixture will blend an on-track demonstration of performance from the Time Attack UK series, the Racing Hondas Championship and Drift Pro demonstrations, with off-track car displays and an assortment of other attractions. For the first time, the undulating circuit will host a second aftermarket showcase, with the Modified Live Season Finale on 20th September.

Showpiece motorcycle action will once again arrive at the height of summer, with the stars of the ZYN British Superbike Championship flying over the Mountain during the August bank holiday (29th – 31st).

Three BSB races will top a sensational bill, with a Monday double-header bringing things to an emphatic close. Thousands of fans are expected to camp out across the weekend to watch heroes like Kyle Ryde and Bradley Ray battle it out!

Classic highlights
Other key fixtures to look out for will include nostalgic highlights, such as the Historic Wolds Trophy on 13/14th June and the Vintage Sports Car Festival later that month (20th June). Cult Classics is also back, blending a diverse on-track offering with off-track displays incorporating a range of retro icons on 28th June.

Classic bikes will star too, with the British Historic Motorcycle Championships visiting on 16th/17th May and 12th/13th September. A packed schedule of club-level two-wheeled events is planned too, while the Cadwell Moto fixture will close another year of bike-themed weekends on 26th/27th September.

Cadwell Park brings its season to a close with a “bang” when the annual Stage Rally and Fireworks returns on Sunday 22nd November. Unlike other events, this will transform the site into a series of bespoke stages before darkness settles and eyes turn towards the sky.

Tickets for all events are available at discounted advance prices with further reductions for 13-15-year-olds. Under-13s always go free to make it a great value family day out.

For more information visit www.cadwellpark.co.uk

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

WEAR YOUR LIFE ON THE LINE WITH PRIDE
Inspired by the Meridian Line and Louth’s rich history, Life on the Line Louth is a fashion brand with a focus on more than just clothing and merchandise.

Established in July 2025 by the Gregory family, the company sells locally inspired hoodies, T-shirts, and accessories featuring their take on Louth town’s crest of the Wolf, a logo incorporating the iconic St James’ spire and the brand name referencing the town’s location on the Greenwich Meridian sitting at zero degrees longitude.

“The brand takes its inspiration from this invisible yet powerful line – a symbol of balance, direction and global connection. It’s about telling stories of a place, its people and of the pride that comes from being part of something real.

“Louth is a place where heritage, creativity and community meet. From its historic streets to the rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds, the town offers more than inspiration – it offers identity.

“Show them where you’re from or tell them where you’ve been! Come find us on Louth market, or shop online and grab yours before they go!”

For more information visit www.lifeonthelinelouth.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

Photographs: Mick Fox

---

We Recommend