Town in the spotlight

Adding to its attractive heritage, shopping and dining offer, a new cinema and a special day of unique literary events is set to put Gainsborough in the culture spotlight this month.

This summer has seen the opening of a new state-of-the-art 330 seat venue operated by Savoy Cinemas. The project is part of the council’s regeneration plans for Gainsborough and has been backed by more than £10 million secured through the government’s Levelling Up Fund. The cinema stands as a major milestone – also providing a new pedestrian link from the Market Place to the Marshall’s Yard shopping area. And with the offer of two hours’ free parking in WLDC owned car parks, there has never been a better opportunity for visitors and locals to explore.

Gainsborough already offers visitors an array of experiences if your interests lean towards history, the arts and community events. As well as exploring medieval architecture at Gainsborough Old Hall, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in this charming town, which also boasts a variety of both independent and well-known brand shopping options. But this month sees more events that will appeal to those with a passion for culture.

HERITAGE UP CLOSE
One of the most significant historical landmarks is Gainsborough Old Hall, which dates back to the 15th century and is one of the best-preserved medieval manor houses in England.

With its interactive exhibits showcasing the hall’s history and seasonal events and guided tours, visitors can learn about the hall’s role in history, including its connection to notable figures such as Richard III.

Another interesting place to visit is the unique Old Nick Police Museum, housed in a former police station at the junction of Spring Gardens and Cross Street. It features a collection of historical police uniforms and equipment, plus interactive displays that educate visitors on law enforcement history in the area, with guided tours available. An amateur dramatics group also stages shows in the venue, with a unique 55 seater theatre-in-the-round. They always welcome volunteers, so do get in touch.

The Gainsborough Heritage Association holds regular events throughout the year, including talks and special exhibitions. Its mission is to protect, preserve and promote the town’s rich and vibrant past for future generations.

WORD ON THE STREET
The 13th of September will see the return of Gainsborough Wordfest, with a host of talks, workshops and literary activities to keep all ages enthralled. There will be a marvellous literature market – a chance to get inspiration from published writers such as Gillian Poucher and Anne Wedgewood which will get wordsmiths picking up their pens and putting their stories down. You can also enjoy history walks and talks – discover the Tale of ‘Two Thomases’; and a double-bill of theatrical performances at the Old Nick Theatre. Meanwhile talented young writers will be reading their work at the Old Hall, alongside street theatre, Planet Fun at the Library and more. While some events require booking, they are all free.

ENTERTAINMENT FOR ALL AGES
Housed in a stunning Grade II-listed church dating back to 1843, the Trinity Arts Centre is a unique picturehouse and theatre. It hosts a variety of performances and shows including live bands, theatre, stand-up comedy and films, while also attracting household names.

Formerly known as the Holy Trinity Church up until the early 1970s, before it was converted into the arts centre, it was designed by renowned church architect, Thomas Johnson of Lichfield, with the first stone being laid in 1841 and later opening for public worship in 1843.

The church served the growing parish of Gainsborough providing schooling for young people and one of its vicars was the original founder of the Gainsborough Trinity Football Club, which is still going strong today.

The Arts Society will be hosting talks during the autumn on Thursday afternoons, and this month Pauline Chakmakjian will be discussing Japanese cuisine. Also on the entertainment calendar is music from the ’50s and ’60s across two special shows: At The Hop, where a dazzling three-piece girl group will transport you through the golden era of Rock & Roll, the Swinging Sixties, Motown, and the Summer of Love. You can also enjoy the Music Masters performing Atlantic Hits.

Starting in September, the Trinity Arts Centre Heritage Tours is inviting visitors to go behind the scenes to see Trinity from the side of the performers, while soaking up the atmosphere and learning about the rich heritage of the venue.

The events take place at 10.30am on Saturday 13th September, Saturday 11th October, Saturday 15th November and Saturday 6th December, admission £9.

SHOPPING AND RETAIL
Spend a day exploring the many retail opportunities in the town centre with its variety of independent shops, as well as Marshall’s Yard shopping centre where many well-known brand stores are based, all within easy walking distance.

The Yard, which is a major focal point in the town, was developed on the site of a former engineering works by blending historic architecture with modern retail. In the 19th century, the Marshall’s Yard site was occupied by the Marshall family’s Britannia Iron Works which was founded in 1848. The triumphal arches which stand at over 10 metres tall, and weigh in excess of 23 tonnes, provided the shopping centre with a dramatic pedestrian entrance when officially unveiled in March 2007.

Today, with 35 stores, restaurants, coffee shops, a health club and landscaped plaza, there’s something for everyone at Marshall’s Yard including major brands such as Marks & Spencer, Next, Superdrug, B&M and the popular department store Browns.

This month (13th September) sees a 1940s themed picnic day set around the fountain area, with a live 1940s band performance by brass band Room 21, dancers, traditional garden games and free face paining from 11am to 1pm, plus a display of vintage vehicles.

Look out for the mystically themed Witchy Fayre on 25th October and special Christmas evening event from 4pm to 8.30pm on 14th November, when a BBC Live presenter and special guests will perform the festive lights switch-on.

MENU INSPIRATION
For those who enjoy browsing around food stalls, there’s plenty of local produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as homemade bakes at Gainsborough’s weekly markets which take place every Tuesday and Saturday in the Market Place from 9am to 2pm.

Every second Saturday there’s also a Farmers’ and Craft Market offering the best in fresh, local, homemade and handmade produce from a variety of traders. 

There’s no shortage of places to eat and drink in the town either, with plenty of choices for all budgets.

Located beside the River Trent, the Clock House Gastrobar offers a relaxed atmosphere and stylish dining experience. Open for breakfast and brunch, as well as lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, the menu features fresh seasonal dishes and classic British food, including traditional Sunday roasts along with an eclectic mix of handcrafted cocktails, draught beer, cider, wine, champagne and spirits.

Owner Baz Hunter has also just opened The Meatery in the Market Place, part of the town’s development initiative. He welcomed West Lindsey District Council chairman, Councillor Matthew Boles and former screen butcher Steven Arnold (who played Ashley Peacock in Coronation Street) when the new shop opened in July.

Il Gusto Restaurant & Bar in North Street is a popular traditional Italian eatery with indoor and outdoor dining featuring authentic dishes prepared using time-honoured recipes passed down through generations.

There’s also a selection of traditional pubs serving food, including The Lincolnshire Otter, a family-friendly pub in Somerby Way, serving a wide variety of pub classics and freshly-cooked pizza with a special children’s menu packed with favourites.

And, if you want to take a drive out of town and enjoy something special, check out the Ingram Arms on Blyton Road, Laughton, a traditional village pub with a modern twist which is earning an excellent reputation at its new look refurbished restaurant, where resident head chef Mark Shakesby (formerly of Shakesby’s in Horncastle) is setting high standards with an exciting fresh menu which changes with the seasons.

TREASURES GALORE AT GAINSBOROUGH ANTIQUE CENTRE
Opened in May, Gainsborough Antique Centre in Lord Street is a haven for collectors with more than 20 dealers offering treasures such as silver jewellery and collectables, designer vintage accessories, watches, coins and detecting finds, as well as militaria, railwayana, West German vases, Crown Derby, Royal Albert tea sets and collectable vinyl.

Owner Adrian Bones says: “We strive to be an upmarket attraction offering very reasonable prices. The centre is small but well organised with four dealers renting rooms that reflect their individual tastes and interests and 16 dealers renting cabinets throughout the shop.

“The business has had a fantastic response and everyone comments on how well the business is laid out and the items on offer are displayed.”

Among the dealers are Nicki And Luke Cooper’s ‘Not So Shabby’ room, which specialises in small furniture from Georgian to Edwardian; Anthony Smith’s collectable pen knives, lighters, vintage toys, cameras and unusual lighting; Damian Smith’s exhibits of taxidermy, crazy interior talking pieces, brassware and garden ornaments, as well as Adrian’s selection of music, silver coins, jewellery, glassware, rugs and crystals.

Open Monday to Saturday 10am-4pm.

For more information visit Facebook: Gainsborough Antique Centre

READY FOR THE SEASON AHEAD – WITH RIX
There’s a certain feeling in the air as autumn approaches. The evenings draw in a little earlier, mornings take on a crisp edge, and the first leaves start to turn. It’s a time of cosy jumpers, hot drinks, and preparing our homes for the colder months ahead.

At Rix, we’ve been helping homes in Lincolnshire do just that for generations. One of the simplest – and smartest – ways to get ahead is to top up your heating oil tank before the chilly weather really sets in.

Ordering now means you can beat the seasonal rush. As temperatures drop, demand for heating oil increases, and delivery lead times can lengthen – but autumn offers the perfect window to book your slot and enjoy peace of mind knowing your tank is ready. It’s also an ideal time to give your oil tank a quick check; making sure it’s in good condition now can save you hassle when a cold snap arrives.

Whether you order online or speak to us directly, you’ll get the same reliable service and personal touch that’s been part of the Rix name for nearly a century.

So, while you’re enjoying autumn walks, comforting Sunday roasts, and the golden glow of the season, take a moment to think ahead. A quick top-up now could make all the difference when those first frosty mornings appear.

WHY LINCOLNSHIRE HOLDS A SPECIAL PLACE FOR KEVIN STEVENS
Designed for buyers who want an eye-catching and original home, E5 Living UK’s latest development Marton Meadows offers contemporary country living at its finest.

Kevin Stevens, the president of E5 Living, has won plenty of plaudits for his international property development work, including winning the title of the world’s best residential property with the outstanding Villa Anguli in Mallorca, and awards for the sympathetic restoration of Villa San Lorenzo in Old Town Palma on the island.

But it is in Lincolnshire – where E5 has developments at Marton Meadows, within easy reach of Lincoln; Gallamore Gardens near Market Rasen and King’s Park Village on the edge of Grimsby – that he reckons he has found his true calling.

“In 2012 I suffered a near-fatal stroke while driving and was placed in a medically-induced coma for a month. When I recovered, I decided it was time to change direction and build something really fantastic.

“That’s the ethos of E5 Living UK – to create homes for the future which bring real quality of life today.

“Our new homes at Marton Meadows are a case in point. They are truly built for the future. Their energy-efficiency features are of the highest order, with the homes’ thermal envelope being particularly crucial.
“That means that the external walls are built in a way which ensures the homes need the minimum amount of energy to run them – the very definition of an energy-efficient home.

“It is this impressive thermal envelope which sets us apart from the competition and something too many builders ignore. It provides the environment in which heat pumps and modern boilers can be set up to run at their best.”

Marton Meadows
Marton Meadows is a collection of two, three and four-bedroom high-specification homes which offer genuinely flexible living – whether you are a first-time buyer, a growing family or looking to downsize.

“That concept of bringing real quality – both inside and outside our properties – along with a sense of community and belonging, is central to everything we do,” says Kevin, who learned many of the lessons of modern construction during 20 years working in Switzerland and the continent.

“Our three developments in Lincolnshire are all centred on creating homes which add real value to people’s lives. It doesn’t matter to me whether my homes cost £200,000 or £2million, I want every one to be a place which will create treasured memories and make lives that little bit more special for their owners.

“Here in Lincolnshire, I think we’ve found the perfect match for our philosophy. Take a look around our homes and I think you’ll agree.”

For more information visit www.e5-holding.com/property-marton-meadows

PUMPKINS GALORE AT FILLINGHAM CHRISTMAS TREES
Known for selling wholesale quality trees to nationwide resellers, as well as its popular local retail site at their Castle Farm yard, Fillingham Christmas Trees has expanded its repertoire to include a new PYO Pumpkin Patch. Find more than 15 different varieties of pumpkins and gourds, including Racer, Mellow Yellow, Knuckle Head, Turks Turban and Snowball.

“Alongside our PYO Pumpkin Patch and maize maze, we’re excited to introduce our brand new pumpkin cannon! Kids and families will be able to test their aim at the Halloween targets with the chance to be included on our leaderboard for prizes.

“There will also be some farm games to enjoy on the grass accompanied by food and drink vans, plus an indoor tractor shed so you can have fun in all weathers!”

The PYO Pumpkin Patch is open from 10am-4pm (unless specified) on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th October, Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October, as well as from Saturday 25th to Friday 31st October for half term.

For full details and updates follow @FillinghamChristmasTrees on Instagram and Facebook. Tel: 01427 667014 or visit www.fillinghampumpkins.co.uk

VISIT BARNES JEWELLERS FOR CLASSIC GEMS AND MORE
Established since 1908, Barnes Jewellers has earned an excellent reputation for expert customer service and craftsmanship.

Now based in bigger premises in the Market Place and owned and run by mother and daughter duo Jeanette and Bethany Thompson, the shop is the first choice for quality repairs to watches and fine jewellery. From battery replacements and strap renewals to servicing, cleaning and more complex repairs, all can be resolved by the skilled team of professionals.

Browse the windows and displays at Barnes for a wide choice of gold and silver jewellery, ideal for celebrating a special occasion, engagement or christening, as well as watches and clocks in many contemporary and classic styles.

Having served the local community for more than 100 years, together with its values of quality, choice and service, Barnes Jewellers is the perfect choice for fine jewellery, stylish timepieces and skilled repairs.

For more information find them on Facebook: Barnes Jewellers

WRIGHT VIGAR INVESTS IN TALENT
Wright Vigar, the award-winning chartered accountancy firm with offices in Marshall’s Yard, is proud to announce the promotion of two long-standing team members to director, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to investing in its people and delivering exceptional advice and service.

Louise Lane, who joined in 2004 and has more than 25 years’ experience in accounting and taxation, has built a reputation as one of the UK’s leading experts in cryptoasset taxation.

Darren Ashley, who joined in 2005 following the acquisition of Wilshaw & Ellis, plays a key role in managing the Gainsborough office alongside David Goodall and oversees a diverse client portfolio.

Darren has expertise in the property and construction sectors, as well as family businesses.

These appointments mark an exciting step forward in the firm’s growth and client service excellence.

For more information visit www.wrightvigar.co.uk

TOP ENTERTAINMENT AT GAINSBOROUGH TRINITY ARTS CENTRE
A unique picture-house and theatre in a stunning grade II listed church, Trinity Arts Centre aspires to be a thriving cultural hub and a centre of excellence for artistic programming, community engagement and customer experience.

Bringing the finest live and screened entertainment to Gainsborough, its schedule for the rest of 2025 is packed full of larger-than-life events.

If you’re craving live music, September sees ‘From Gold to Rio’ combine two of the UK’s most iconic bands – Duran Duran and Spandau Ballet – in one power-packed show, while in October ‘Nothing But A Good Time’ arrives to rock the town with a high-octane music spectacle.

Trinity is also the place to be for live comedy, as Baga Chipz brings the party this September, and then there’s the centre’s annual December pantomime, Cinderella – proudly presented by the same team who have wowed audiences for the past three Christmases!

For more information and to see the latest programme of events visit www.trinityarts.co.uk

Photographs: Mick Fox

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