Hartsholme Country Park

Hartsholme Country Park lies just a few miles southwest of the City of Lincoln in Lincolnshire. It covers more than 200 acres and is an oasis of calm compared to the hustle and bustle of the City. This is the main reason we love the park. It’s a great place to stop off after a visit to the shops or to take a picnic and spend the day there.

What is there to do at Hartsholme Country Park?

Access to the car park for Hartsholme Park is via Skellingthorpe Road. There isn’t a huge amount of parking available however we have always managed to find a space. It is free, to park and visit Hartsholme Park. You can also take a bus there from Lincoln city centre (numbers six and nine). The nearest bus stop is two hundred metres from the main entrance. You are allowed to take bikes to the park and cycle on the paths and grounds.

The Visitor Centre has exhibitions and interactive features on the wildlife and history of Hartsholme Country Park and neighbouring Swanholme Lakes Local Nature Reserve. You can also pick up a paper version of their map and guide. Not far from the visitor centre, you will find the park’s cafe. This is not open all year round! It is relatively small but well-stocked and they cook fresh food on-site. Next to the cafe, you will also find the park’s toilets. They have baby-changing facilities in the disabled toilet.

You can wander around the woods and/or the lake at Hartsholme. The grounds are Victorian and still retain a Victorian feel today with an ornate bridge, boathouse, walls and more. There are a few ‘natural’ instruments to be found near the lake (head left from the play area). If you head left again from here towards the lake you may find people sailing their miniature yachts or motorised boats. This is always interesting to watch.

There are no boats that you can take out on the lake which is a shame as it is a large lake. Carrying on past the miniature boats you will pass the boathouse and eventually reach the ornate bridge. This is perfect for a few games of Pooh Sticks. There are plenty of ducks to feed on the lake so make sure you take plenty of duck food. There is a children’s play area. It’s not massive but there is enough to keep little ones entertained. There are a few swings, a climbing area with slides and a miniature assault course. Plus some new equipment has been installed including a jungle tower and more.