Discover Harlaxton

Harlaxton combines impressive architecture with garden design and small historical discoveries in the village. At its centre is Harlaxton Manor, a country house built in 1830 by Anthony Salvin for Gregory Gregory. Harlaxton Manor was built in the Elizabethan Revival style with Baroque elements. Those planning a trip to Harlaxton can therefore combine different interests here: distinctive architectural forms, formal gardens, details of ecclesiastical history and paths through the surrounding area.

Harlaxton Manor and its gardens

The gardens of Harlaxton Manor offer several distinct design elements. These include French-style terraces and an Italian Garden with a pair of garden pergolas. The formal gardens reflect the period in which they were created and thus complement the historic character of the country house. An ornamental canal lies 100 metres south-west of Harlaxton Manor. The walled kitchen garden dates from approximately 1832 to 1844 and is listed as Grade II*.

Less obvious traces of the past are also part of the village’s character. At the site of the original country house on Rectory Lane, south of the church, the original moat can still be seen in the gardens. A stone gate dating from the late 16th century has also been preserved there. These details make Harlaxton interesting for travellers who want to discover historical connections in different parts of the village rather than simply view a single building.

Architecture, church and village history

A walk through Harlaxton leads to a variety of architectural impressions. Older buildings feature distinctive chimneys, round pillars, and prominent porches and canopies. In total, 36 buildings in the village are listed as Grade II. Near the village shop stands a column on a double plinth, known as an obelisk, which may be the remains of a market cross.

The Church of Saint Mary and Saint Peter adds notable details to the historic picture. The north arcade of the nave dates from the late 12th century. The church also contains a chest tomb covered with marble slabs, dating from 1682, for Daniel de Ligne. Those interested in ecclesiastical art and medieval architectural elements will find here a different way of accessing Harlaxton’s history than through the Manor’s grand architecture.

Paths and the right accommodation location

A footpath from Harlaxton leads to and joins the main entrance road of Harlaxton Manor. When planning your day, you can therefore consider whether you would prefer to explore the village and its historic features on foot or select individual highlights. Families with different interests can choose between garden design, architectural history, ecclesiastical details and a walk to the Manor entrance without having to devote the day to a single theme.

When searching for a holiday cottage in Harlaxton, it is worth deciding in advance what type of trip you want. If architecture and local history are the main focus, the church, older buildings and traces of the original country house can form the centrepiece. Those particularly interested in garden design can focus on the French terraces, the Italian Garden, the kitchen garden and the ornamental canal.

More destinations for planning your trip

If you would like to compare Harlaxton with other places or broaden your search, here are some additional destinations: Norton Disney, Cranwell, Sutton On Sea, Burgh Le Marsh, Skegness, Colsterworth, Metheringham and Grasby.

For the higher-level travel overview: Lincolnshire.