Known as the ‘Gateway to the Wolds’, Horncastle is located halfway between the city of Lincoln and the Lincolnshire Coast.
Like most of the towns in the Lincolnshire Wolds, Horncastle boasts a wealth of history. It is thought there has been a settlement here since the Iron Age, and this later developed into a bustling Roman town.
The architecture you can see today offers a fascinating insight into the town’s complex history. Explore the quaint streets and you’ll discover an assortment of architectural gems, from the remains of the Roman walls to the medieval St Mary’s Church.
During the medieval period, Horncastle was perhaps best known for its annual horse fair. The August Horse Fair was the largest event of its kind in the UK, attracting traders from across the country. At this time, Lincolnshire was the leading horse breeding district in the country and almost every farmer here bred horses to sell at the event.
Today, Horncastle remains a centre for trade – only now it attracts antiquarians not equestrians. Voted as 'Britain’s Best Antiques Town', Horncastle is home to an abundance of antique and vintage shops, all positively bursting with treasures.
Not only are these shops filled with historic items, many of them are also located within historic buildings. With a converted church, a militia Drill Hall and an old factory all now housing shops, venturing inside these old buildings is almost as exciting as the antiquing itself!
The independent spirit is well and truly alive in Horncastle, and you will find a variety of artisan retailers here. A great place to sample some of Lincolnshire’s delicious produce, there are also a number of independent cafes, restaurants and pubs here.
If you like your pint served with a side of history, Horncastle is the perfect place for a pub crawl. From 18th century coaching inns to traditional thatched taverns, the pubs here are absolutely packed with history. As you sup on a local ale, you can only imagine what kind of characters these pubs used to attract - from horse handlers to avid explorers!
A town steeped in history, you will find an abundance of things to do in Horncastle. Laced with history, the cobbled streets here are lined with hidden gems.
