Washingborough

Washingborough combines a long local history with a varied landscape on the Lincoln Edge. The village lies on the lower slopes of the limestone escarpment and just above the flood level of the River Witham. From here, views open out across the Witham Valley towards the agricultural land on the northern side of the river. This creates an interesting mix for planning your trip, with historical traces, public art and paths through the surrounding area.

History in the village centre and along the Car Dyke

A prominent historical feature is Washingborough village cross. It is a medieval cross dating from the 15th century, which was restored in the late 19th century and is a registered scheduled monument. The cross presumably stands in its original location east of the parish church. Anyone interested in the development of the village can connect this individual site with further traces of the past.

The Car Dyke is also part of the area's history. The section between Washingborough and Common Square is a registered scheduled monument. Archaeological finds also provide evidence of settlement in Washingborough during the Bronze Age. Wassynburg was the starting point of the Car Dyke, a large Roman drainage canal. The surviving earthwork near Washingborough has banks up to two metres high.

Village walk, art and discoveries

The village walk passes through the historic centre of Washingborough. The route includes the Penfold as well as various details in Chapel Park. Cast-metal plaques form part of the circular walk there; a carved owl can also be found on the wall of the old chapel. Such smaller stops add a special sense of discovery, especially when different interests come together along the way.

Art enthusiasts can find additional guidance in the North Kesteven District Council's “In View” art guide. It can be used to locate several outdoor art installations in Washingborough. Cast relief plaques by Sheila Jessop are located on the four approach roads. The artworks are therefore spread across different points in the village and complement the historical sights with a modern, locally focused perspective.

Out and about on the Water Rail Way

Another way to experience Washingborough and its landscape is the Water Rail Way. The long-distance cycle and walking route extends to Boston and follows a former railway line known as the “Lincolnshire Loop Line”. Along the riverbank beside the route, there is a view back towards Lincoln and its cathedral. This view was immortalised in the 19th century by the landscape painter Peter de Wint.

Leaflets describing the route and the history of the surrounding area are available at the Civic Office. This is helpful if you want to make your stay about more than just a village walk and also include the historical context and the landscape along the River Witham.

The right holiday apartment for planning your trip

When looking for a holiday apartment in Washingborough, you can use the experiences that are most important for your trip as a guide. Those who enjoy local history will find several points of interest in the village cross, the Car Dyke and the historic village centre. The village walk and the Water Rail Way are ideal for an active day, while the views across the Witham Valley and the art installations provide their own distinctive highlights. Before choosing your accommodation, decide whether you are primarily looking for culture, walks, cycling routes or a combination of these interests.

Other places for orientation

If you would like to compare Washingborough with other destinations, you can also include Immingham, Wragby, Healing, Barton-Upon-Humber, Winteringham, Burton Coggles, Stallingborough and Revesby in your wider search.

For the higher-level travel overview: Lincolnshire.