Norman’s best bites

As a lover of everything food and drink, I get terribly excited whenever I stumble across new dining establishments - and that’s exactly what happens every time I step out into the Wolds!

Whether it be a pub selling locally sourced beer and gin, an award-winning restaurant or somewhere to enjoy tea and cake, I'm always amazed by the astounding selection of food and drink hotspots in the area. You’d think that as someone who was born and raised in the Wolds, I’d have a sound knowledge of all the best places to go for a bite to eat and where to enjoy a tipple. That rings true to a certain extent, but with so many amazing places nestled in the area, even I’m yet to discover some and give my verdict! However, there are several places that I could most definitely recommend…

Afternoon tea – a quintessentially English tradition and one that we love here in the Wolds! You’ll find the most delicious afternoon teas at The Elm Tree or The Brackenborough Hotel.

Behind the array of food and drink spots in the Wolds are the food manufacturers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to produce delicious treats. If you have an interest in learning about how some of our county’s finest food and drink is made, there are several places you can visit: The Cheese Shop, Oven’s Farm Vineyard and Batemans Brewery all offer guided tours. It’s best to get in touch with them directly to arrange though.

For a unique wine tasting experience head to Oven’s Farm Vineyard, which is located on a picturesque 50-acre site at Harrington near Louth. The vineyard is open for pre-booked tours, but those who are eager to sample their wines will have to wait a little while longer while the tasting room is created.

Lincolnshire is also home to the county’s most famous beer, Batemans, which is based at Wainfleet. Overlooking the River Steeping, Batemans is one of the oldest and most picturesque breweries in the country. Visit its iconic windmill for an insight into the independent brewer’s family history and try their Batemans Gold for a true taste of the county!

Louth is an absolute paradise for food lovers and should be at the top of your list for places to visit during a trip to the area. It’s bursting at the seams with independent retailers and offers everything from local butchers to a cheese shop.

The Gas Lamp Lounge isn’t your usual pub. This place is an old gas light office from the 1800s and is home to the Fulstow microbrewery, the only place their beer is served. For those of you who are dog-lovers, you’ll be pleased to know that this venue is dog-friendly!

Lincolnshire’s food and drink sector has much to shout about and there’s a huge choice to suit every occasion. Whatever type of food experience you’re after, you’re bound to find it in the Lincolnshire Wolds!