< Previous30 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYWOODHALL SPAWhere pastand present meetMany of Lincolnshire’s towns and villages boast great heritage, but it’srare to find a location that can showcase this, while still being a modernand exciting destination. Woodhall Spa is one of these rare cases. 30-33_Layout 1 24/02/2016 14:23 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY31WOODHALL SPAWoodhall spa is a location rich withhistory, not just from the Second WorldWar but all the way back to its foundingin the 1800’s. Originally a holiday resortand health spa (hence the name),Woodhall Spa was a destination for therich and powerful, and was even visited anumber of times by British Royalty. This led to a comparatively largeamount of facilities for such a village -something which continues to this day. One of the most well-liked aspects ofWoodhall Spa itself is the way the town islaid out, with verdant forests and long,winding roads. This was actually theresult of investors and architects in the19th century, who decided that topreserve its resort-like status, WoodhallSpa should never have “streets,” butrather avenues and broadways. This is afeature that has been upheld over theyears, and any visitor to the area willsoon recognise the tree-lined avenues ofthe village, as well as the Broadway itself. Woodhall Spa is perhaps best knownfor its aviation heritage, and is thelocation from which the 617 Squadron ofthe RAF flew. A squadron morecommonly known by their nicknames –the Dambusters, of which their memorial32 ÁWoodhall Spa Cottage MuseumShops are quaint andtraditional here, no chainstores to speak of!can be seen on proud display. That said, there’s more to WoodhallSpa than ancient history, and to this dayit remains a popular tourist and holidaydestination – and for good reason. TheWoodhall Spa Golf club is famed acrossthe region, and a popular choice forenthusiasts. Ranked 25th in Golf WorldMagazine’s World Top 100 Golf Courses,it’s known as one of the top-ratedheathland golf experiences in thecountry. Visitors and golfers alike will also bespoiled for choice when it comes toplaces to stay as well, for Woodhall Spa isalso famous for the sheer number ofhotels it has – especially for a village of itssize. From the Dower House Hotel –nestled away in picturesque woodland,Kirkstead ChurchPHOTO: RICHARD PICKSLEY30-33_Layout 1 24/02/2016 14:23 Page 232 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYWOODHALL SPAto the historical Petwood, there are a raftof options available and all are withineasy walking distance of the course. These hotels, many of which areEdwardian in design, are also primewedding venues – and the beautifulsurroundings of Woodhall Spa lend itselfwell to people looking to tie the knot.The appeal comes in the visuals, and thefact that at any moment it’s possible totake a walk off the main road and findyourself in beautiful woodland or sleepycountry roads. Woodhall Spa is a locationwhich does its best to co-exist with thesurroundings, rather than dominate them.A perfect example of this can be foundin the Kinema. This is the picture-goingexperience as it was in the past, withplush seats and the sounds of the organreplicating the days when a trip to themovies was a very special occasion. It’snot a museum however, and itsprogramme includes the latest films and itmakes for a real antidote to the familiarmultiplexes.Much of the good work in WoodhallSpa in recent years has been thanks tothe community and the Woodhall SpaCountry Show, which takes place on the17th May this year, is the best place toappreciate this. The show supportsnumerous local charities and takes placethanks to the tireless efforts of localpeople.As the spring months start to bring inwarmer weather, and we move towardssummer itself, the Jubilee Park comes intoits own. With its own outdoor heatedswimming pool, camping andcaravanning sites as well as a bowlinggreen, croquet lawn, cricket field andmore. The site becomes incredibly activewith both residents and visitors alike. The history is everywherein WoodhallFor those looking to do a littleshopping the Broadway itself is without adoubt the main destination to visit,allowing people to park and enjoy theshopping experience on foot. Visit thevaried and charming shops along theBroadway, relax with some fine food anddrink at any of the restaurants in thearea. Or, if you’re looking for somethingdifferent, try the Teahouse in the Woods,which was built over a century ago onthe original spa grounds. Whatever it isyou’re looking for, Woodhall Spa canprovide. It’s hard to imagine somewhere thatpays tribute to its past while showcasingthe best of the present day as well asWoodhall Spa and, in this most poignantof years, it’s well worth a visit.PHOTO: RON STRUTTPHOTO: RICHARD PICKSLEY30-33_Layout 1 24/02/2016 14:23 Page 3PETER SCOTT1 THE BROADWAY WOODHALL SPA 01526 353935 Open 7 dayswww.peterscottshoes.co.ukWoodhall Spa Country Show wasfounded by a group of livestock andvintage enthusiasts, the hub of the showstill revolves around the cattle, sheep,poultry and vintage sections, keeping theshow in touch with its roots. Every year an agricultural theme is followedthroughout the Show. The theme for 2016 on22nd May will be conservation.Web: www.woodhallspashow.co.ukTel: 07519 319 910Email: info@woodhallspashow.co.ukCountry ShowCharles H Hill Ltd. Moor Lane, Horsington,Woodhall Spa, LN10 5HH.Tel: 01526 388281www.charleshhill.co.ukThe Tea House In The WoodsCoffee, Cake, Lunch , Afternoon Tea, DinnerHOURS Tues - Thurs: 10am - 8pm Fri - Sat: 10am - 9pm • Sunday: 10am - 5pm Spa Grounds, Coronation Road, Woodhall SpaLN10 6QD Telephone: 01526 354455 www.teahouseinthewoods.co.ukHigh Quality ProfessionalDecoratingCovering Woodhall Spa and surrounding villages. Please feel free to contact me.01526 352056 • 07795692179 www.adamcartersolutions.com30-33_Layout 1 24/02/2016 14:23 Page 4LincolnshirewalksBRACEBRIDGE TO NAVENBYThere’s nothing better than a brisk, bracing walk toget fit - it’s also a great way to meet like mindedpeople so here’s a relatively moderate one that shouldsuit readers of most ages and fitness levels. FACT FILESTART: Lincoln South Common (South Park.)OS MAPS: Landranger 121 (Lincoln) • Explorer 272DISTANCE: 10 miles • 16.25 kilometres.REFRESHMENTS : Waddington – Horse & Jockey /Three HorseshoesColeby – Bell Inn (Far Lane) / Tempest ArmsNavenby –a choice of inns and tearoomsPHOTO: JAMES W COPELAND/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM34-35_Layout 1 24/02/2016 13:58 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY35LINCOLNSHIRE TODAYur walk starts at Lincoln’sSouth Common and takesyou all the way to Navenbyalthough you don’t have to walk theentire course if you don’t quite feel up toit. You could for instance depart anywherealong its path but that’d be a shame asthere’s so much to see en-route includingwildlife, open vistas, historic architecture,local inns, tea rooms (my personalfavourite) and much, much more.Anyway, here goes: our walk starts atLincoln’s South Common where you’llhave fantastic views of the cathedral. Thehorses and ponies you see grazing theretake advantage of the grazing rightswhich date back to Danish occupationfollowing the Roman’s departure. The rights were given when the city’spopulation spread beyond the Romanwalls and land was needed for theFreemen’s grazing. There’s a bit of a climb in our early partof the walk and this is it, but it’s worth itas heading south from Bracebridge you’llenjoy splendid views westwards. On arrival at Waddington the old villagecentre reveals a surprisingly modern church– unfortunately, the 13th century StMichael’s was demolished by a landmine in1941 and a birds eye view revealed thatthe ruins formed the shape of a cross. Thenew church was rebuilt by 1954 Nearby is Worsdell’s Mill - built in 1820and sadly derelict by 1908. There’s alsothe Horse and Jockey inn, which datesback to the 16th century and reputed tobe haunted by the “Green Lady”. Beyondthe mill a seat by the trig point atGR974632 offers a chance for a breather -with others to come at Harmston, Colebyand Boothby Graffoe.At Harmston, walkers will need todetour via the A607 as the direct right ofway to Coleby disappeared whenHarmston Hall, which was built by theThorold family in 1709, was convertedinto a mental hospital.On the edge of Coleby, at the Hallentrance, is a replica “Roman” arch basedon Lincoln’s Newport. There are links herewith the family of Katherine Swyneford,mistress, and later wife, of John of Gaunt,who held the manor here in the 14thcentury. All Saints church still has itsSaxon tower – though with a 15thcentury spire on top. In Blind Lane aretwo unusual conical stone wellheads.Readers will be pleased to note there’sanother rest stop in the next village,Boothby Graffoe - look for a small greenseat and take a breather before tacklingour final section to Navenby. The market town of Navenby, whichwas granted a market charter in 1221 hasmany lovely old stone buildings and StPeter’s is famous for its outstanding EasterSepulchre. Finally take a stroll down theHigh Street to see the Lion and Royalhotel with its sign bearing the Prince ofWales feathers – an honour granted aftera visit by Edward VII in 1870.ROUTE:Start this walk travel along thelower edge of South Common towardsCanwick Hill, then turn right uphill andright again along an enclosed path at thetop which offers panoramic views of thecity. At Cross ’O cliff hill cross carefully intoConingsby Crescent and take the first leftover a field, going right at the far side,then left after 100 yards at the nextsignpost.About a mile on you will meet a road atWaddington. Turn left here and first right,Moxon’s Lane, into High Street pass theinn and the church. Leave the village pasta housing estate keeping all houses toyour left.Cross the first lane at Harmston andthen two meadows. At the second lanego left to the A607 traffic lights then rightfor half a mile, there’s a pavement,turning right at the first footpath sign.Another left turn then resumes the waytowards Coleby. On arrival in Coleby turn right then leftnear the church along High Street. TheViking Way leaves by the path oppositethe Tempest Arms. Following Blind Laneinstead will get you there too!There’s a small park in Boothby Graffoewith a welcome seat but at the far end ofthe village keep right onto a track. Onreaching the lane at the edge of Navenbygo left a few yards and then right alongthe “Cat Walk” alleyway to the church.Turn left for the village centre.O34-35_Layout 1 24/02/2016 13:58 Page 236 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYFASHIONIN BLOOMWith spring erupting in early blossom, there’s no betterexcuse to take advantage of the shorter nights andbrighter days. 36-47_Layout 1 25/02/2016 11:24 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY37FASHIONPassportWith its relaxed fit and sunsettones, this top from Passport isalready one of spring’s musthaves. 36-47_Layout 1 25/02/2016 11:24 Page 238 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYFASHIONLauRiePink and floral – this simpleLauRie outfit is as ideal for thebeach as it is an uptown lunch. 36-47_Layout 1 25/02/2016 11:24 Page 3Open from Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm131 Burton Rd, Lincoln LN1 3LN. Tel: 01522 542085New Springcollections nowarrivingSale RailcontinuesOpen from Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm131 Burton Rd, Lincoln LN1 3LN. 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