Diverse town close to countryside treasures

Glynis Fox takes a fresh look at what’s happening in the popular market town of Market Rasen.

If you love exploring market towns which boast the countryside and interesting villages on their doorstep, it’s time to take a closer look at Market Rasen.

Situated on the western edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, today’s town may have 21st-century facilities but it was first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. Its name derived from the old English word ‘ræsn’, meaning ‘plank’ – which possibly referred to an old plank bridge in the area.

The market was an important part of the town’s identity. It was originally staged on Sundays, but moved to Tuesdays in the early 13th century. Down the decades, it has traded everything from cattle to grain, coal and salt. Tuesday is still market day, when shoppers can buy a range of fresh goods and also have fun bidding for the mix of goods that feature in the town’s weekly auction, which takes place in the same area.

In common with many other places, Market Rasen has seen numerous changes, which have had the twin impact of leaving some shop premises empty and also encouraging new businesses to move in.

This changing scene may be a general feature everywhere, but there is no doubt that Market Rasen remains an important centre for local residents and people passing through the town on their way to coastal resorts and other places. It also provides essential services for residents and businesses based in the surrounding villages.

A fresh look at Queen Street, which runs through the middle of the town revealed coffee shops, hotel and accommodation providers, accountants and much more.

Market Rasen also boasts a railway station, a veterinary surgery, doctors’ surgery, a Co-op store, a Tesco supermarket on the outskirts, and Aldi and a drive-through Starbucks are starting to take shape off Gallamore Lane.

NEW BANKING HUB
Six months ago, an exciting new Banking Hub opened in former bank premises which have been refurbed to offer essential services for residents and businesses alike.

The initiative was led by Cash Access – which is on a mission to safeguard access to cash and banking services for people and businesses across the UK.

The Hub’s arrival marked a significant milestone for the area because it put much-needed banking services back in the heart of the town.

When it opened its doors, the Hub was the third Banking Hub to open in Lincolnshire, following on the heels of others in Mablethorpe and Barton-upon-Humber.

The Hub is run by a Post Office manager, Martin Sizer and whilst there is also still a separate Post Office in the town, people say it is having the impact hoped for.

Councillor Stephen Bunney, who is chair of West Lindsey District Council, as well as serving on Market Rasen Town Council and Lincolnshire County Council, said: “I think the banking hub is a success.

Obviously, it is useful and it is being used by businesses and individuals. A rising number of people are using its services.”

The new Hub has been created with the help of funding from West Lindsey District Council with the aim of bringing in economic facilities. The town has also benefitted from shopfront grants which have lifted several shop frontages. Some of that work has been complemented by internal revamps funded by landlords.

What is amazing is that, while the Banking Hub provides payments and access to money via the Post Office, there is also another one in the town, so there is a certain overlap.

Then on different days of the week different banks have their own days at the Hub, when individual bank staff are available for customers needing help or advice.

On Mondays, it’s the turn of HSBC, on Tuesday it’s Lloyds and on Wednesday Santander staff are available; NatWest representatives are there on Thursdays and it’s the Halifax’s turn on Fridays.

It is understood that Santander’s decision to have a representative on a specific day in the Hub marks the first time for the company.

ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES
One of the special aspects of Market Rasen is that it is home to several family and long-standing businesses and they certainly know their stuff.

Richard Lancaster is the owner of family butcher VT Lancaster & Son – and he has two outlets. Number 47 in Queen Street concentrates on meats and Number 15 Queen Street is more diverse, offering shoppers a range of other foods including locally produced cheeses and breads.

Market Rasen has a Co-op store, a Tesco supermarket on the periphery of town and is on course to welcome a new Aldi, with nearby drive-through Starbucks, but Richard and his son who are driving forward a fifth-generation family business employing seven people, remain upbeat.

“I think people love the fact that we source local produce, offer a friendly personal service and share our knowledge with customers, which makes a difference. I also believe the new banking hub is helpful in bringing more shoppers into the town centre,” he said.

Another long-standing business in the town is Rasen Hardware & DIY, which is now in its 52nd year! At the helm are partners Kay Appleyard and David Astbury, who have two assistants. So what is the secret of such a longstanding business in today’s cut-throat retail environment?

“We are a very diverse business and thriving in the town, particularly when people are looking for specific things and are in need of advice,” said Kay.

“We are few and far between, so people from the surrounding area and villages also visit us, as well as people living in Market Rasen.

“We are a very varied and changing business selling everything from homeware, painting and decorating, gardening and electrical goods, alongside other services. Another aspect about us is that we are also a seasonal business, selling things like seed potatoes and shallots, in a way people want,” said Kay.

OUT AND ABOUT
Market Rasen is fortunate to be based in an area where there are lots of things to enjoy – from in-town fitness facilities, to bowling, golf, cricket, football, and tennis clubs and also countryside rambles.

Outdoor lovers will be keen to explore nearby Willingham Woods where they will find a wide range of walking trails, activities and events.

Willingham Woods is part of a large complex of pinewoods that are located east of Market Rasen. They provide a diverse range of recreational opportunities as well as an important source of timber.

The woodland is visited all year round but is especially popular during the summer months, when holidaymakers use it as a break point whilst heading to and from the coast.

There is a large car park and picnic site owned by Forestry England, with a café and toilets in the adjacent lay-by owned and run by Lincolnshire County Council.

Alternatively, you could treat yourself to a day at Market Rasen Racecourse, or watch a variety of racing saloons and motorbikes taking on the competition at Cadwell Park Racing Circuit.

All of these pastimes have plenty to offer the day visitor, but people are also drawn to spend more time in the area and Market Rasen is an ideal place to stay.

If you decide to have a mini-break, there is a choice of places to stay, with hotels and guest houses offering a mix of rooms to suit all tastes and pockets.

The 10-bedroomed Advocate Arms Hotel in Queen Street is right on the doorstep of the town’s shops and facilities and offers good accommodation and hospitality.

The hotel – which also welcomes non-staying customers – serves everything from breakfast to coffee, snacks, lunches and evening main meals.

The March Hare, in the Market Place, has a range of rooms to rent. Accommodation is nicely situated above its popular café which, again, welcomes resident and non-resident diners. If you don’t want to leave your four-legged friend at home or in kennels, The March Hare also welcomes enquiries for people with dogs.

Another option is Horizon Barn at Bully Hill Top, Market Rasen, which offers a spacious retreat within easy reach of the town.

A WARM WELCOME AT THE ADVOCATE ARMS
The Advocate Arms stands proudly in the heart of Market Rasen. This historic building, which was built in the 18th century, has been refurbished to the highest standards with a contemporary feel, yet retaining a warm and welcoming character in which its guests can relax and unwind.

A favourite haunt for locals and visitors alike, the Advocate Arms Hotel boasts diverse options for dining and cocktails.

Our chef patron Matthew Horsefield presents a menu of luxury comfort fare and innovative creations so whatever your delight, we offer highest standards.

Our award-winning team is ready to assist customers, seven days a week, from serving breakfast/brunch to evening dining, we are sure to be able to tempt our customers.

Fancy a night away? Check in to our AA 4 stars restaurant with rooms!

We also offer bed & breakfast rates and great value dinner, bed & breakfast rates too.

For more information visit www.advocatearms.co.uk

DM BOYLES – AT YOUR DISPOSAL
The expert team at DM Boyles Ltd offer professional waste management solutions.

With more than 30 years’ experience in commercial and domestic waste disposal, DM Boyles’ highly trained team of specialists pride themselves on delivering a professional and reliable waste management service.

Based in Market Rasen, this highly regarded well established company which covers Lincolnshire, Yorkshire and the East Midlands, specialises in cesspool and septic tank emptying, as well as liquid waste removal and always ensure that each project is completed quickly and efficiently according to individual needs.

Other services provided include non-hazardous waste subtraction, vacuum tankering, dirty water removal, high pressure jetting, tank cleaning and servicing, septic tank repair and maintenance, as well as transport of Digestate for AD Plants.

“Your full satisfaction is our priority and we will tailor our commercial liquid waste management services to your circumstances and your needs. Whether it’s a one-off job, or a regular schedule, we’ll carry out our work quickly and efficiently.

“Contact us for honest and competent advice from our highly experienced professionals who can provide a free no obligation quote and find out how our excellent value for money service can help solve your waste disposal challenges.”

For more information call 01673 828415 or visit www.dmboyles.co.uk

Photographs: Mick Fox

We Recommend

Van life

Seal sanctuary celebrates diamond anniversary

Where the past meets the present

Showcasing Sleaford

Holes

Education

View all