Love Louth!

Glynis Fox spends time in the unique market town rich in history, where long-standing independent businesses offer a range of specialist services and quality goods.

Success for one of Lincolnshire’s best loved market towns is down to its superb blend of businesses and their power to attract both local shoppers and visitors from further afield.

It’s a mix which has helped to create a wonderful ambience in the town, which encourages many people to spend a bit longer than originally planned exploring its shops, eateries and other attractions. Louth’s uniqueness is underpinned by its wealth of smaller premises which are well-suited to the needs of its rich mix of independent traders. These provide plenty of variety and complement the high street brands based in the town’s larger units.

There is a good choice of places to eat, whether you are in need of a quick coffee, a tasty snack, a full meal, or of course that family favourite, fish and chips.

Among the more recent investors in the town is Loungers’ Alfredo Lounge in the Market Place. It is based in a large part of the former historic Eve & Ranshaw department store in a building which dates back to the 18th century. The company’s revamp of the premises has seen it retain its old staircase and fireplaces.

At the rear of the building, in Eastgate, you will find #Hashtag, which was formerly based in Vickers Lane.

The business, which sells a 60/40 mix of fabulous new and pre-loved clothing, is already reaping the benefits of relocating six months ago. The business is co-owned by Hayley Capstick and Cathy King and offers browsers and buyers alike a warm welcome.

Hayley said: “We moved from Vickers Lane because we wanted a bigger shop in a better location. We also wanted to see a retail element retained in the former Eve & Ranshaw building.

“In addition to items of clothing, we are now also offering more in the way of accessories and giftware, including candles. Shoppers are supporting independent businesses more and more and this is proving to be a good move for us.”

Jeff and Lorrayne Hall have not looked back since snapping up premises in Vickers Lane in July last year for their Oh Sew Sweet Shop. This is bursting with fabulous fabrics and haberdashery – and is irresistible to fans of patchwork, quilting and other needlecrafts.

The couple, who spoke to Lincolnshire Life after a successful few days of selling at the multi-faceted sewing, fashion, embroidery and crafting show at the NEC in Birmingham, were in an upbeat mood and pleased to say they have expanded their offering to shoppers in Louth and from further afield.

Jeff said: “We have extended our stock and now offer sewers a range of Brother sewing machines, to suit everyone from the beginner to the experienced stitcher, along with overlockers and ScanNCut machines – a digital cutting, scanning and drawing tool.”

The business chose Brother after being approached by the manufacturer and because they were familiar with the brand having used its machines in workshops.

POPULAR TRADERS
It is clear that Louth is a destination with plenty of movers and shakers, who often take advantage of opportunities to scale up or down as premises become available, which will allow them to expand or downsize.

Specsavers is one of the latest to take advantage. After being based in premises in Mercer Row, it has recently moved into the former M&Co unit in Eastgate. At the time of writing, the large former Wilko unit further along Eastgate remained empty – but watch this space, it may be welcoming someone new soon!

Generally speaking, Eastgate is an extremely popular location and boasts some long-standing traders.

Stores include Lucks, which is based in extensive premises and well known for its country clothing and accessories.

Cheese-lovers have long known that they will be spoilt for choice at The Cheese Shop and Stevensons is the place to go for fresh fruit, vegetables and other foods.

Boots and Boyes can be found in Mercer Row, along with niche independents such as H & J Arts & Crafts, and the award-winning family butcher and baker Woolliss & Son.

Louth’s Market Hall is accessible from the town’s Market Place or New Street – another area which is home to a range of independent shops and eateries.

The outdoor market trades on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and has a good variety of stalls, from those selling fruit, flowers and vegetables to others offering household goods, giftware and fabrics.

Although the town centre gets remarkably busy, Louth’s Fairfield Industrial Estate has plenty to offer, from farm machinery to cars and DIY goods, along with fast food takeaways and a petrol station.

ATTRACTIVE PROPERTIES
With warmer days hopefully on the horizon, you could also mix a shopping spree with a family picnic or take a look at some of the town’s visitor attractions.

Hubbard’s Hills, which you will come across if you are driving into the centre of town from Lincoln, is perfect for a leisurely walk and a tasty picnic. This area of natural beauty, which is directly to the west of Louth and has the River Lud running through it, is popular with families, school field trip parties and dog walkers.

Househunters will be interested to know that Louth is an expanding area which offers a fantastic range of properties, from historic houses to new builds.

In March, developer Charterpoint and housebuilder Snape Properties were given the green light to forge ahead with building 90 new homes. These will mark the sixth and final phase of the Westfield Park scheme.

This has been masterminded by Charterpoint, who sold the 12-acre site off Daisy Way to Snape Properties. Once completed the 47-acre site will feature a total of 330 homes, along with the Meadows Park Care Home.

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS
Louth has numerous places of interest, so why not go exploring?

Check out the community-owned Riverhead Theatre in Victoria Road. This venue offers a real mix of entertainment, hosting professional touring productions as well as putting on its own plays, musical events and pantomime.

The Parish Church of St James in Westgate is seen as you drive into the town and also acts a landmark from a fair distance away.

This magnificent building has been a place of prayer and worship for more than a millennium. The current building dates from 1170 and was finished in 1515 (today it is mainly 15th century, but it became known as the church with the tallest medieval spire in England). The church hosts various events and has a gift shop and café.

Another magnificent and refurbished building is The Mansion House, a stone’s throw away in Upgate.

Grade II-listed, it was built by Louth Old Corporation as The Assembly Rooms and at one time was the centre of civic life for the local gentry. Then from 1853 to 1956 it became an educational venue and was known as Louth Mechanics’ Institute.

Its next owner was the Louth Naturalists’, Antiquarian and Literary Society, which was known locally as the “Ants and Nats”. During the second half of the 20th century, it was given a new role as the Louth Public Reading Room and Library – until the late 1980s.

Today, this beautiful building is a restaurant, which welcomes locals, visitors and parties to enjoy a range of meals and celebratory get-togethers.

FINE DINING AT RESTAURANT AUCTION HOUSE
Award-winning Michelin star chef Gareth Bartram and his wife Lucy are opening a new fine dining restaurant at the Auction House in Louth’s Cornmarket.

Having spent the past 10 years as chef/director at the renowned Winteringham Fields, near Scunthorpe, Gareth and his culinary team are aiming to deliver a “casual, high end dining experience that combines snacks, small plates and tasting menus using top-tier ingredients sourced locally and internationally”. The new restaurant, which will be open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, delivers mouth-watering menus showcasing well balanced dishes with big bold flavours, and features bespoke artwork on the walls from local and national artists also for sale.

“We want the restaurant to be a place for everyone, with a selection of snacks, small plates and an option of a tasting menu too,” says Gareth, who has transformed the cosy bar and intimate two-level dining area into a welcoming space where guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere, together with laughter and music, as well as the buzz of the service.

“We aim to offer something which will appeal to all walks of life and wallet, with plates of food which will excite, intrigue and leave guests wanting more!”

For more information visit the Facebook page: Restaurant Auction House.

FASHION ON YOUR DOORSTEP
If you’re looking to update your spring into summer wardrobe, Orchid Boutique and Daniella’s in Louth’s Eastgate offer fashion brands to suit all tastes and budgets.

You will be spoilt for choice with inspiring women’s wear labels that blend style, individuality, fashion and fit, with a focus on smart casual clothes that can be worn for a number of different occasions.

“With our beautiful spring collections, shoppers can embrace the new season with our pick of fresh fashion finds, statement soles, flattering elegant shapes and fine materials with rich details. Our collections, which include gorgeous knitwear, separates, dresses, coats, shoes and handbags, focus on being unique, relaxed and comfortable to wear with impeccable fit.

Orchid Boutique brands include Rabe, Monari, Dolcezza, Naya, Erfo, Just White, Toni Trousers and Frank Walder.

Daniella’s brands include Gabor and Toni Pons – both new for spring 2024 – as well as Caprice, Geox, Jose Saenz, HB Shoes, Vionic and Marco Tozzi.

For more information visit www.orchidboutique.co.uk or find them on Facebook.

ONE-STOP SERVICE FOR LAND ROVERS
Find out how the specialist team at Famous Four can help keep your Land Rover performing at its best.

As Lincolnshire’s largest and leading independent Land Rover workshop, Famous Four offers an expert service for all Land Rover, Range Rover, Discovery, Freelander and Evoque models.

From routine servicing to fault finding diagnostics, to major repairs and restorations, Famous Four’s technicians are specialists in all things Land Rover, with over 35 years of experience, the business being founded in 1988.

Famous Four’s state-of-the-art premises on the Fairfield Industrial Estate in Louth includes a 10-bay workshop, with competitive fixed-price servicing menus and the latest diagnostic software.

Expertly trained staff are on hand to diagnose and repair Land Rovers of all ages, from the ‘Classic’ Series 1, 2, 3 and Defender models, to the technologically sophisticated models of the modern era.

Famous Four’s servicing work is carried out to the same standards as those of a main dealer, and do not interfere with manufacturer’s warranties.

Reputation for excellence
All Famous Four customers can expect exceptional service, with the emphasis proudly on customer satisfaction.

A worldwide reputation for excellence in the supply of parts and accessories is evident when visiting their online ordering website www.famousfour.co.uk, where Land Rover owners and enthusiasts can access a huge range of products with fast UK and worldwide shipping.

Each item is meticulously hand-packaged, ensuring it arrives in perfect condition, ready for immediate use.

For locals in the Lincolnshire area, Famous Four offers the convenience of face-to-face parts sales and pick-up over the counter. Visitors to the Warwick Road complex are greeted by a warm reception and a knowledgable sales team ready to assist with any enquiries.

Beyond its dedication to excellence in products and services, Famous Four is renowned for its commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned Land Rover enthusiast or an owner relying on your Land Rover for your daily transport, Famous Four welcomes all with opens arms.

For those seeking the very best Land Rover experience, look no further than Famous Four. With unparalleled expertise and customer service, Famous Four continues to set the standard for Land Rover specialists locally, nationally and worldwide.

For more details about how Famous Four can help you with your Land Rover servicing requirements, call 01507 609444, email info@famousfour.co.uk or visit the website www.famousfour.co.uk

GORGEOUS GEMS AND MORE
If you’re looking for the ideal gift for friends and family, or want to treat yourself to a touch of sparkle, Striacroft Jewellers at 17 Market Place offers a stunning collection of jewellery and giftware. As Louth’s longest established family jewellers, customers enjoy five-star service from the helpful expert team.

This gem of a store offers a wide range of high quality diamond, gold and silver jewellery, engagement rings and wedding rings, together with premium watches and clocks to suit all budgets Also popular this season is the new Nomination range of composable charms for bracelets. For classic comic book enthusiasts in search of something a bit different, look out for the new range of Marvel and Star Wars bookends, figures, cardholders and key rings.

A member of the National Association of Jewellers and the Guild of Master Craftsmen, Striacroft Jewellers offers a variety of services, including watch repairs, engraving, valuations and insurance with a large range of second-hand jewellery.

Striacroft Jewellers are also main agents for Citizen, Zeppelin, Iron Annie, Kronaby and Lorus watches and you will also find pre-owned luxury brands including Rolex.

Open Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm. For more information visit www.striacroft.co.uk

RELAX, DRINK AND DINE AT THE KINGS HEAD HOTEL
Consistently voted Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice, the King’s Head has long proved a favourite with both locals and visitors who enjoy a warm welcome with excellent hospitality. This traditional Grade II listed former coaching in the town centre offers delicious home cooking with breakfast, snacks, lunch and evening meals available in the comfortable bar area, bistro, or spacious 44-seat restaurant, Upstairs@TheKings.

Head chef Andy Trench and his dedicated team use locally sourced fresh produce to create a selection of British classics, as well as light bites, vegetarian and vegan dishes, plus luxury afternoon teas and traditional Sunday lunches.

Stay overnight in cosy, comfortable rooms, or in the three-bedroomed serviced apartment ideal for larger parties and families, with a full English or continental breakfast included.

Don’t miss live music on some Saturday evenings, as well as occasional summer Sunday afternoons outside in the King’s gardens, where you can enjoy chilling out with a cool drink and all-day refreshments.

For more information visit www.kingsheadlouth.co.uk

MEATS AND MORE AT WOOLLISS & SONS
Situated in Mercer Row in the centre of Louth, the highly skilled team at Woolliss & Son Butchers offer a wide selection of fresh quality local meats together with delicious pastries, savouries and bakery goods.

As well as a select range of home-made award-winning pies which blend traditional and modern tastes using fresh locally sourced meat, this highly regarded family business is also known for the quality of the ready prepared range of products as well as exceptional butchery skills.

Woolliss & Son Butchers also offers an online ordering system with a delivery service covering an 8-mile radius of Louth (including Grimsby, Cleethorpes, Mablethorpe and surrounding villages).

Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm, Saturday 8.30am to 3.30pm.

For more information visit www.woolliss-butchers.co.uk

WHAT IS THE WOLDS CARE CENTRE?
Located on the outskirts of Louth, The Wolds Care Centre offers luxury residential accommodation with care and support for up to 66 people within four small specialist communities.

Imagine a home where everything is taken care of – from your individually bespoke care package to the daily pleasure of delicious, freshly prepared food. Our wonderful team ensures residents are not only safe and cared for, but that they enjoy the camaraderie of being part of our family.

At The Wolds Care Centre, we believe that your later years should be as enriching as any other, and that being cared for shouldn’t mean that your quality of life is compromised – whatever your age, whatever your condition.

Our carefully selected staff and the design of our care centre – combined with our diligent approach to each and every resident – affords you or your loved one the opportunity to flourish, make new friends, maintain contact with local communities and live a life rich with possibility. Maybe it’s an afternoon tea in the garden and a stroll with family, or perhaps a cosy film night with friends. The Wolds Care Centre gives you the freedom to make the most of every day.

We all believe in family values and those who choose to live with us immediately feel part of something individual and special. The Wolds Care Centre is committed to quality in everything we do. You will feel this in the kindness and dedication of our care.

Delivering exemplary residential, nursing and dementia care, we are proud to have achieved the platinum status Gold Standard Framework for our End of Life Care Provision, the only service in the Louth area to achieve this national award.

For more information call 01507 602360, or visit www.hica-uk.com

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE AT CADWELL PARK
The Mountain Pavilion at Cadwell Park race circuit is a brand-new hospitality experience for 2024, opening this spring.

Whether you are entertaining clients or staff, or celebrating a special occasion with family and friends, the Mountain Pavilion has been designed to offer a relaxed, open space right at the heart of the action, with incredible views over the legendary Mountain section – where cars and bikes frequently get airborne!

Perched just above the racetrack, and featuring a covered outdoor terrace, the Mountain Pavilion offers two dedicated suites for shared or exclusive use, with different packages on offer depending on the status of the race meeting.

The experienced team will ensure the smooth planning and running of your event, leaving you free to unwind and enjoy the stunning motorsport from the best seats in the house.

Places available for Bennetts BSB
The August bank holiday round of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship is the best-attended round of the season. Hospitality is sold out on the Monday (26th August), but there are still spaces remaining on the Sunday for £239 plus VAT per person.

For details on this, and all other events, visit www.cadwellpark.co.uk, tel: 01474 875224 or email corpsales@msv.com

ARRANGING A PEACEFUL GOODBYE
Established in 1995, R Arnold Funeral Service’s compassionate team strive to support you in helping to arrange a respectful and personalised service. As experienced and dedicated funeral directors, husband and wife team Lindsay and Richard Arnold take the time to talk to each client and listen to their individual needs. As well respected members of the British Institute of Embalmers and National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors, they can offer a range of funeral plans to help cover costs.

“As one of the most rewarding services you can offer, our compassionate, approachable team take time to talk to each of our clients, looking after and guiding you every step of the way, offering guidance whatever time of day or night that you might need us.”

For more information visit www.rarnoldfuneralservice.com

BECOME THE YOU, YOU WANT TO BE!
Situated within the beautiful Brackenborough Lakes Resort, Salon Carina offers a range of beauty and coiffure treatments helping you to look and feel wonderful.

Whether you are looking for a complete restyle, colour services, or a beautiful hair-up style for a special occasion, Salon Carina has everything you need!

“Our beauty therapists are fully qualified in a range of treatments including massage, facials, gel nails (including extensions), manicures, pedicures, waxing and much more.

“We also offer age-defying advanced treatments such as CryoStar Therapy, Microneedling, Dermaplane and Skin Peels.

“Once a month we also welcome Nurse Practitioner Nicola, from Rejuven8, who offers many aesthetic procedures and treatments, including B12 injections, hayfever treatment, wrinkle filler, lip boosters, skin tag removal and weight management plans.

“We are also authorised suppliers for top branded retail consumables to help keep you looking your best – we look forward to welcoming you!”

For more information visit www.saloncarina.co.uk

VINTAGE VINYL, MOVIES AND MORE
Established in 2004, Off the Beaten Tracks is an independent family run business on Aswell Street in the centre of Louth stocking an eclectic range of new and quality secondhand vinyl, CDs and DVDs, as well as popular film books and cassettes.

Here you will find a treasure trove of music and movies, including nostalgic memorabilia such as posters, gifts and artwork, with knowledgeable friendly staff guiding customers through the extensive in-store collection. There is free delivery in the Louth area, or you can buy online.

The helpful owners, Mark Merrifield and Lee Conybeare, can also source specific items on behalf of customers and offer excellent prices for quality record and CD collections.

Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5.30pm.

For more information visit www.offthebeatentracks.co.uk

Photographs: Mick Fox

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