One area, seven incredible houses: Discover Heritage in the East Midlands
The East Midlands: 'Middle Land' or merely 'Land in the Middle', is an area deserving of distinction. It is not an extension of the south or the north - but an area with its own unique landscape and history. In his book Midland England, W.G. Hoskins made a poetic case for considering the East Midlands as 'the heartland of village England', and a place where the national 'essence' could be felt and found. Between its many villages, towns and cities, there are rivers and ancient forests scattering the countryside - and more often than not, it is in these more remote areas of the East Midlands that astonising historic houses can be found.
If you're planning a long weekend in the area, or simply a day trip, then the East Midlands are easily accessible from London either by train or by car. There are some wonderful places to visit in both Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, which we've specified for your ease below.
HeritageXplore Houses of Lincolnshire:
10 minutes outside of Grantham is Harlaxton Manor: an architectural masterpiece blending Jacobean, Elizabethan and Baroque details. Constructed in 1830 by Anthony Salvin for Gregory Gregory, the current site was built to replace the original Elizabethan Manor House in Harlaxton Village with a spectacular 'upgrade'. Known for its intricate stonework and grandiose interiors, Harlaxton has been a filming location for several films and TV shows, including Victoria, The Secret Garden, and The Young Visitors. Today, Harlaxton Manor is owned by the University of Evansville and operates as a study-abroad centre. The manor provides students with an immersive experience in British history and culture while preserving its rich legacy. The house and its surrounding parklands also offer visitors a truly enchanting experience, whether through guided tours or special events hosted throughout the year.
Just 5 miles away from Harlaxton Manor is Belvior Castle: an historic fortress which traces its origins back to the Norman Conquest of England. Positioned atop a hill with sweeping views of the Vale of Belvoir, the castle stands as a beacon of history. The current structure we see today is one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in England, and is the work of James Wyatt, otherwise known for his work at Windsor Castle. Home to the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, this fairy-tale castle has stood the test of time since the 11th century - and as you enter the building, its long history envelops you. There are near-endless stories and anecdotes to learn, as well as fascinating artifacts to be seen. Beyond its collection of fine art and opulent interiors, Belvoir also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens by Capability Brown. Once your educational thirst has been quenched, visitors can explore the castle’s gardens, relax with a cup of tea at the cafe whilst children enjoy the adventure playground, or undertake some well-earned retail therapy at 'The Engine Yard'.
On a sunny day, you can spot Lincoln Cathedral easily from Belvoir - and just 5 miles from here, Doddington Hall can be found. With around 40 rooms, Doddington is a family-owned Elizabethan mansion completed in 1600 by the man thought to be the first ‘proper’ architect, Robert Smythson, who also worked on Hardwick Hall, Wollaton Hall, and at Longleat. The hall is a testament to centuries of unbroken family ownership, and is very much still a home. The gardens are a highlight, with their changing seasonal displays, from vibrant tulips in spring to a magical Christmas light trail. Inside, the hall features an impressive collection of ceramics, textiles, and portraits, offering a glimpse into the lives of its residents over the centuries. There is also more than enough on offer beyond the house to enjoy - including the popular Doddington Farm Shop and Cafe, the newer Grain Store Cafe, 'Doddington at Home' for all of your interior design needs, a Country Clothing shop and Giant Bike Shop... there are even padel courts for those in search of an active way to spend an afternoon!
Heading back southwards to Grantham, but this time to the east of the town, is Grimsthorpe Castle. Rising majestically above its sweeping parkland, the castle is an enduring and monumental presence, hewn from the golden limestone of local quarries. Physically, it is an unexpected marriage of architectural styles, with the quirkiness of the Tudor south façade contrasting with the Baroque splendour of the principal north front: the final masterpiece of Sir John Vanbrugh, architect of Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard. This sprawling estate has a history dating back to the 12th century and remains a family home to this day, with Sebastien Miller and his wife Emma being the current custodians. Visitors can explore the state rooms, filled with fine furniture and artwork - including more recent works by Lucien Freud and Francis Bacon - or take a stroll through the extensive parkland and gardens, home to ancient oak trees and serene lakes. The Castle, Park and Gardens, as well as the March Hare tea trailer, will be open from 1st May this year, whilst the farm shop, filled with local produce, remains open Wednesday- Saturday all year round.
HeritageXplore Hosues of Northamptonshire:
Located just 4.5 miles away from Kettering in Northamptonshire is Boughton House. With its principle facade that forms an open court, the building is really a Louise XIV chateau that has been transplanted to English soil - giving it the aptly named title of 'the English Versailles'. The ancestral home of the Dukes of Buccleuch, this house boasts one of Britain’s most impressive art collections, including works by Van Dyck and El Greco. The meticulously preserved interiors showcase opulent furnishings and tapestries, while the surrounding gardens and parkland provide a tranquil escape. Boughton also has its own tearoom, located in the beautifully refurbished Stable Block next to the main house. During public opening periods, it offers a delightful range of hot and cold drinks, light lunches, and cakes and is open between 1-5pm. Please do check the HeritageXplore Boughton page for 2025 open dates.
16 miles west of Boughton and 10 miles west of Kettering is Lamport Hall. Having been home to a Tudor founder, blind book collector, wayward 17th century grand tourist, eccentric Victorian, Hollywood actor, many commanding wives and dedicated daughters – Lamport is full of characters and the marks that they have left. Having now been home to the Isham family for over four centuries, the fortunes, interests and trials of each generation have left their mark. A particularly notable legacy perhaps is that of Sir Charles Isham, who introduced garden gnomes to Britain. Beyond this, the hall houses an extensive collection of books, furniture, and paintings, and its walled gardens are a serene retreat filled with fragrant blooms and heritage vegetables. There are 10 acres to explore of outfoor space, which is viewed as 'the result of over 450 years of love and dedication, enclosed by a spacious park'. With a cafe that is open from February - September, and the house and gardens opening their gates in April - there is no time like the present to start planning your trip to Lamport.
Rockingham Castle, overlooking the Welland Valley, has stood for nearly 1,000 years. Originally built by William the Conqueror, it has transitioned from a Norman fortress to a family home which remained empty for most of the 18th century, as the custodians focussed on becoming powerful political leaders. Taking over in 1836, the new Richard Watson modernised the castle again, with help from the architect Anthony Salvin, adding the flag tower. During this period, the author Charles Dickens stayed at Rockingham five times, and is supposed to have found inspiration there for Chesney Wold in his 1852 novel Bleak House. In 1925, the Rockingham estate was inherited by Sir Michael Culme-Seymour, 5th Baronet, who, in turn, passed it to his nephew Commander Michael Saunders Watson in 1967. Today, Rockingham is the comfortable family home of the Saunders Watson family, led by James, a former officer in the Royal Navy. Rockingham's history is palpable as you walk through the Great Hall and the Long Gallery, while the castle gardens, with their stunning views and seasonal blooms, are equally captivating, making Rockingham a delightful visit for history enthusiasts and garden lovers alike. Ahead of their official opening in April 2025, you can make the trip to Rockingham for their Snowdrops Garden Open Days - coming in Fenbruary.
From the centuries-old grandeur of Belvoir Castle to the quirky characters of Lamport Hall, the East Midlands’ historic homes offer inspration for everyone. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a history lover, or simply seeking a picturesque and memorable day out, these seven houses provide a perfect gateway into the past. Make the East Midlands your next heritage destination and uncover the stories waiting to be told within these historic walls.
