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Belton Park Walk and Estate: Historic Gardens and Expansive Parkland

Explore Belton Estate’s majestic house, exquisite gardens, and vast parkland for a perfect blend of history, nature, and family fun.

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Belton Park Walk offers a scenic exploration of the vast Belton Estate near Grantham, Lincolnshire. Spanning over 1300 acres, the estate features a magnificent 17th-century Carolean country house, formal gardens including Italian and Dutch styles, ancient deer park, lakes, and extensive woodland walks. Visitors can enjoy wildlife spotting, family-friendly outdoor activities, and seasonal events in a tranquil historic setting.

A brief summary to Belton Park walk

  • Belton House, Grantham, Belton, NG32 2LS, GB
  • +441476566116
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid queues, especially during holidays and weekends.
  • Book tickets for the house in advance during peak seasons; garden and parkland access may be separate.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring extensive walking routes through gardens and parkland.
  • Dogs are welcome on leads in the stableyard and parkland but not inside the house or formal gardens.
  • Visit the Stables Café for seasonal snacks and cream teas, and explore the second-hand bookshop for unique finds.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Grantham town center takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Lincoln Road. There is ample parking available on-site. Parking is free for National Trust members; non-members pay a moderate fee around £5-£8. The estate entrance is accessible year-round, but weather conditions can affect access.

  • Bus

    Local bus services from Grantham to Belton run several times daily, with journey times around 25-35 minutes. Check local timetables as frequency may be limited on weekends and public holidays. The nearest stop is a short walk from the estate entrance.

  • Bicycle

    Cycling from Grantham town center to Belton Estate takes about 15 minutes via National Cycle Route 15. Cycle parking is available near the Information and Accessibility Hub. The route includes some gentle inclines but is suitable for most riders.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, walking from Grantham town center to Belton Estate is possible but lengthy, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours over varied terrain including some minor roads and countryside paths. Suitable for experienced walkers and those prepared for a longer hike.

Belton Park walk location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of Belton Park walk

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Discover more about Belton Park walk

A Grand Heritage of Carolean Elegance

Belton Estate is anchored by Belton House, a Grade I listed Carolean country house dating from the late 1600s. This stately mansion showcases exquisite architecture and interiors, including the Marble Hall with its intricate carvings, the rare Chapel Drawing Room with original 17th-century decor, and a world-renowned collection of English portraiture, Oriental ceramics, and a historic library. The house reflects the cultured tastes and wealth of the Brownlow family, its former owners, and remains a fascinating window into aristocratic life.

Gardens of Timeless Beauty and Botanical Riches

Surrounding the house are meticulously restored formal gardens, featuring the sunken Italian Garden and the Dutch Garden with its lavender-edged beds and yew hedges. The early 19th-century Conservatory, designed by Jeffry Wyatville, houses exotic plants and lush foliage, adding a tropical touch to the estate’s botanical offerings. Seasonal changes bring a dynamic palette of colors and wildlife, making the gardens a delight to explore year-round.

Expansive Parkland and Ancient Woodland

Belton’s estate extends over 1300 acres of parkland, including ancient deer park, pleasure grounds, and two lakes. The park offers a variety of walking routes through woodlands and along water, ideal for wildlife spotting and peaceful nature escapes. Designated picnic areas and dog-friendly paths enhance the outdoor experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the estate’s natural beauty.

Family-Friendly Adventures and Seasonal Events

Belton Estate is a popular destination for families, featuring the National Trust’s largest outdoor adventure playground and an indoor play area. The Discovery Centre offers crafts and dress-up activities, while seasonal trails and events bring festive cheer, including Christmas celebrations with decorated rooms, light trails, and Father Christmas grottoes. These activities create a lively and engaging atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

Facilities and Visitor Amenities

Visitors can enjoy refreshments at the Stables Café, which offers snacks, hot meals, and takeaway cream teas. The estate also includes a second-hand bookshop, picnic spots, toilets with baby-changing facilities, and ample parking. Dogs on leads are welcome in the stableyard and parkland, making Belton accessible for pet owners. The estate maintains a strong focus on conservation and accessibility, with regular conservation tours and facilities designed to accommodate visitors with additional needs.

A Year-Round Destination with Rich Cultural Significance

Belton Estate’s combination of historic architecture, exquisite gardens, and vast natural landscapes makes it a cultural treasure in Lincolnshire. Open daily with regular opening hours for the house, gardens, and parkland, it offers a versatile experience for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families. Its enduring legacy and vibrant visitor programs ensure Belton remains a cherished landmark and a place of discovery and relaxation.

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