#1 Ancaster Lake Walk

My first ever 'Dave's Walks' video takes place in the idyllic Ancaster Lakes.

Take a chill walk around the beautiful Ancaster Lakes, right in the heart of Lincolnshire, just outside the cute village of Ancaster.

This peaceful loop winds along the edges of the calm lakes, giving you soothing waterside views, lush greenery, and a refreshing break into nature. The trail is mostly flat and great for walkers of all levels, making it perfect for a laid-back outing or an easy family stroll.

Surrounded by the quiet Lincolnshire countryside, this hidden gem is perfect for anyone looking to unplug and recharge. Put on your walking shoes and enjoy the beauty of Ancaster Lakes as we cover all you need to know for your visit!

Getting to Ancaster Lakes

Ancaster Lakes is conveniently located near the village of Ancaster, in the heart of Lincolnshire. Here's how to reach this tranquil spot:

By Car:

• From Grantham (A1): Head northeast on the A607 towards Ancaster. Look for local signs guiding you toward the lakes once you're in the village. Parking may be available nearby, so check ahead for specific locations.

• From Lincoln: Follow the A15 south, then connect to the A153 heading east toward Ancaster.

By Train:

Ancaster has its own railway station on the Nottingham to Skegness line, making it accessible by train. From the station, it’s just a short walk or taxi ride to reach the lakes.

By Bus:

Local bus services run through Ancaster, connecting it to surrounding towns like Sleaford and Grantham. Check the latest schedules for convenient options.

Whether you prefer a scenic drive or a stress-free train journey, getting to Ancaster Lakes is straightforward, setting the stage for a peaceful day out in nature!

Parking Near Ancaster Lakes

If you're planning a visit to Ancaster Lakes, you'll be pleased to know there are convenient parking options available nearby. For my walk I was able to park on Church Ln, Ancaster, Grantham NG32 3RT - https://what3words.com/dreaming.radiating.camcorder

The lakes are part of the Woodland Waters holiday park, a stunning 72-acre site nestled in a wooded valley. Woodland Waters provides free parking for visitors and offers additional amenities like an on-site restaurant and lounge, making it an excellent base for your walk.

Another option is the Ancaster Playing Field and Social Club car park, located off Ermine Street NG32 3PW. This parking area serves as a starting point for several local walks and could be a convenient choice for your visit.

Before heading out, it's a good idea to check if there are any parking fees or restrictions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

For this walk,1-2 hours should be more than enough time, unless you plan to spend a considerable amount of time not walking.

Ancaster Lake Walking Map & Routes

🟢 Easy | 🚶‍♂️3.94 km (2.45 mi) ⏱️ ~1 Hrs

Starting point of the walk https://what3words.com/scared.mole.submitted

Here is the walk in Full.

Ancaster Lakes Amenities & Facilities

Ancaster Lakes, located within the Woodland Waters holiday park, offers visitors a peaceful setting with a range of convenient amenities. The tranquil environment makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk or a longer stay in the Lincolnshire countryside.

Onsite Amenities

Play Area:Woodland Waters features a children’s play area, perfect for families visiting the lakes.

Woody's Bar & Lakeview Restaurant:Enjoy a delicious meal at Woody's Bar, which overlooks the picturesque 14-acre specimen lake. The restaurant offers traditional British dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. For more details, visit https://woodysbar.co.uk/

Nearby Pubs

The Plough Inn, Wilsford (⭐️ 4.4/5)

Located just a short distance from Ancaster, The Plough Inn offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu of traditional pub fare. It’s a great spot to unwind after a walk around the lakes, with hearty meals and a selection of local ales.

Address: Main St, Wilsford, Grantham NG32 3NS

The Railway Inn, Ancaster (⭐️ 4.2/5)

Located in the village of Ancaster, this traditional pub serves up home-cooked meals in a warm and friendly atmosphere. It's a great option for visitors looking to enjoy a laid-back meal or a drink.

Address:135 Ermine St, Ancaster, Grantham NG32 3QN

The Village of Ancaster

The nearby village of Ancaster is a historic gem, once a Roman settlement. You can explore landmarks like St. Martin’s Church or take a stroll through the village’s charming streets.

Ancaster has a small selection of shops, including a convenience store, and The Railway Inn, a local pub offering traditional meals.

Nearby Towns

Sleaford:Just a short drive away, Sleaford offers a variety of amenities including shops, supermarkets, and cafes, ensuring you have everything you need during your visit.

Whether you’re enjoying the lakes, exploring the village, or visiting nearby attractions, Ancaster Lakes provides a perfect balance of nature and convenience.

A Detailed History of Ancaster

Ancaster, a village nestled in the heart of Lincolnshire, boasts a rich and varied history spanning thousands of years. From its origins as a prehistoric settlement to its prominence as a Roman town and its evolution through the medieval and modern periods, Ancaster’s story is deeply intertwined with the development of the region.

Prehistoric Beginnings

The history of Ancaster begins in prehistory. Archaeological evidence, including Bronze Age burial mounds and Iron Age earthworks, suggests that the area was settled long before written records. Its location on the fertile soils of the Lincolnshire limestone ridge made it an attractive site for early agricultural communities.

One of the most significant prehistoric landmarks near Ancaster is the Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial site located just outside the village. These ancient structures highlight the spiritual and social significance of the area to its earliest inhabitants.

Roman Era

Ancaster rose to prominence during the Roman period. Known as Causennæ in Roman times, it became an important settlement along Ermine Street, the major Roman road connecting London to York via Lincoln. This strategic location made Ancaster a key site for trade, communication, and military logistics.

The Romans established a fortified town in Ancaster, complete with a mansio (a Roman inn for travelers), baths, and a small garrison. The remains of Roman walls, pottery, and coins discovered in the area indicate the settlement's economic and military importance. Ancaster also had a cemetery, and excavations have revealed Roman graves and artifacts, offering insights into daily life and funerary practices during this period.

A nearby Roman quarry supplied building materials for the settlement and other Roman constructions in the region. The limestone-rich geology of Ancaster continued to be a valuable resource for centuries to come.

Saxon and Viking Periods

Following the Roman withdrawal from Britain in the early 5th century, Ancaster remained inhabited and gradually transitioned into a Saxon settlement. The Saxons repurposed many of the Roman structures and established a community centered around agriculture.

The name "Ancaster" derives from the Old English word ceaster, meaning a Roman fort or town, combined with the Celtic prefix An- to reflect its historical significance.

During the Viking Age, Lincolnshire was part of the Danelaw, a region under Viking control. Ancaster, like much of the area, would have experienced Norse cultural and economic influences, although direct evidence of Viking settlement is limited.

Medieval Period

By the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, Ancaster was recorded as a small but productive village. It was part of the estates of the Bishop of Lincoln, reflecting its importance within the feudal system. The village economy centered on agriculture, with fields organized into the classic medieval open-field system.

Ancaster’s location along Ermine Street continued to be significant during this period. The road became a key route for pilgrims traveling to Lincoln and beyond, and Ancaster served as a stopping point for travelers.

The construction of St. Martin’s Church during the 12th century highlights the village’s growing ecclesiastical importance. The church, with its Norman origins and later Gothic additions, remains a focal point of Ancaster’s historical landscape.

The Tudor and Stuart Eras

In the Tudor and Stuart periods, Ancaster began to evolve beyond its agricultural roots. The enclosure movement, which reshaped much of the English countryside, led to changes in land ownership and farming practices. The once communal open fields were divided into privately owned parcels, creating the patchwork of hedgerows that characterizes the area today.

Ancaster’s proximity to local markets in Grantham and Lincoln allowed its residents to trade produce, livestock, and limestone, which remained a vital industry.

The Civil War (1642–1651) brought turmoil to Lincolnshire, and Ancaster’s position on a major road meant it likely saw the movement of troops and supplies. However, the village itself was spared significant conflict.

The Georgian and Victorian Periods

The Georgian period (1714–1837) saw Ancaster benefit from improvements in infrastructure. Turnpike trusts upgraded sections of Ermine Street, enhancing travel and trade. The village began to attract craftsmen and merchants, diversifying its economy.

In the Victorian era, Ancaster’s limestone quarrying industry reached its peak. The high-quality Ancaster stone became renowned across the country, used in prominent buildings such as Lincoln Cathedral and Cambridge colleges. The expansion of the railway network in the mid-19th century further boosted the industry, allowing stone to be transported efficiently to distant markets.

During this period, the village population grew modestly, and new amenities were established, including schools and shops. Ancaster also became known for its agricultural shows and fairs, which brought the community together.

20th Century to Present

The 20th century brought significant changes to Ancaster. During World War II, the area played a role in the war effort. RAF Ancaster, a Royal Air Force station, was established near the village, serving as a base for training and operations. The presence of the airfield brought temporary employment and activity to the community.

Post-war, Ancaster saw the gradual decline of its quarrying industry due to mechanization and competition from other materials. However, the village adapted by focusing on residential development and tourism. Its rich history and picturesque setting made it a popular destination for visitors exploring Lincolnshire.

Today, Ancaster retains its charm as a thriving rural village. The Ancaster Heritage Centre showcases the village’s Roman and local history, while St. Martin’s Church continues to be a place of worship and community events. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and ancient landmarks, offers a tranquil retreat for walkers and history enthusiasts.

Modern Significance

Ancaster’s blend of history and natural beauty makes it a unique destination in Lincolnshire. Its Roman roots, medieval church, and enduring quarrying legacy provide a fascinating glimpse into the village’s evolution over millennia. Meanwhile, its location near towns like Sleaford and Grantham ensures it remains well-connected and accessible.

From its ancient past to its vibrant present, Ancaster is a village that embodies the enduring spirit of the Lincolnshire countryside—a place where history and modern life coexist harmoniously.