A Dream Setting for Period Drama Fans

From the lavish ballrooms of Bridgerton to the regal halls of The Crown, South Kesteven’s historic estates and castles have set the scene for some of Britain’s most iconic period dramas. Nestled in the southwest corner of Lincolnshire, this region is home to cinematic gems like Burghley House, Grimsthorpe Castle, and Belvoir Castle—each a masterpiece of history and architecture. These stunning locations aren't just for the screen; they’re open and waiting to be explored by group travellers seeking a truly majestic experience.

 

Easily accessible—just off the A1 and a little over an hour from London by train—South Kesteven invites visitors to step into the pages of British history. Sit beneath the very apple tree where Sir Isaac Newton first contemplated gravity at Woolsthorpe Manor, marvel at the grandeur of Burghley House, built by Elizabeth I’s chief advisor William Cecil, and explore Belvoir Castle, the ancestral home of the Duke of Rutland, whose family has lived there for nearly a thousand years.

 

This 365-square-mile region of unspoiled countryside is dotted with 80 charming rural villages and postcard-perfect market towns like Bourne, Grantham, Market Deeping, and the historic Georgian town of Stamford.

 

Bomber Country: Honouring 80 Years of WWII History

Nicknamed "Bomber Country", Lincolnshire played a vital role in the Allied air campaigns during the Second World War. South Kesteven was at the heart of these efforts, with Grantham serving as a major hub for airfields that launched US, Polish, and British troops into pivotal operations—including D-Day and the Battle of Arnhem.

 

To mark the 80th anniversary of these historic events, the region has received National Lottery funding to create new visitor trails around Grantham, allowing travellers to walk in the footsteps of the forces that helped shape modern Europe. These trails bring to life the stories, people, and places behind the dramatic air campaigns that defined the era.

 

Stay in Style: Belton Woods Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

Located just three miles from Grantham and set within 475 acres of rolling countryside, Belton Woods Hotel is the ideal base for group travellers. Just over an hour from London, this welcoming resort—part of The QHotels Collection—offers a blend of comfort, history, and top-tier leisure facilities.

 

Guests can enjoy:

• 136 comfortable rooms and spacious woodland cottages with kitchens, whirlpool baths, and saunas

• A luxury spa, fitness centre, indoor pool, tennis court, croquet lawn, and three golf courses

• Proximity to the historic Belton House estate and the charm of the surrounding Lincolnshire countryside

• Perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring historic sites or enjoying the great outdoors.

 

Suggested Itineraries for Group Travel

🕰️ History & Heritage – 3 Days

Immerse yourself in centuries of stories, from grand estates to manicured gardens.

 

• Day 1: Wander the romantic Easton Walled Gardens, explore the Belton Estate, and visit nearby Grimsthorpe Castle

• Day 2: Discover the charming Georgian town of Stamford and tour the majestic Burghley House

• Day 3: Explore the stunning Belvoir Castle, then shop and relax at The Engine Yard

 

🎬 Filming Locations – 3 Days

In line with VisitBritain’s 2025 "Starring Great Britain" campaign, step into real-life film and TV sets.

 

• Day 1: Visit Burghley House, featured in Pride & Prejudice, The Crown, The Da Vinci Code, and the upcoming Frankenstein (Nov 2025)

• Day 2: Explore Belvoir Castle, filming location for The Crown, The Da Vinci Code, and The Young Victoria

• Day 3: End at the Belton Estate and Grimsthorpe Castle, both featured in Bridgerton