Bowthorpe Oak, Lincolnshire Travel Guide

4.4 (48)

Discover the ancient majesty of the Bowthorpe Oak, the UK’s largest girth oak, set within a charming family farm in Lincolnshire’s tranquil countryside.

Bowthorpe Park Farm in Bourne, Lincolnshire, is a traditional family farm renowned for the Bowthorpe Oak, the UK’s largest girth pedunculate oak tree, estimated to be around 1,300 years old. The farm offers a charming rural experience with livestock, seasonal events, a farm shop, and picnic facilities, set amidst scenic countryside. Visitors can enjoy a variety of animals, local produce, and the majestic presence of this ancient natural landmark.

A brief summary to Bowthorpe Oak

Bowthorpe Park Farm, Bourne, PE10 0JG, GB
Click to display
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 8 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-2 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bowthorpe Oak.

Visit during weekends or bank holidays from April to October for full access to the farm and activities.
Book a private visit in advance if you want to see the Bowthorpe Oak outside regular opening hours.
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic outdoor areas or try local products from the farm shop.
Check the farm’s event calendar for seasonal activities like lambing, Halloween, and summer solstice celebrations.

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Explore Bowthorpe Oak on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bowthorpe Oak, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Bourne town center takes approximately 15-20 minutes via local rural roads. Parking is available onsite free of charge. Note that winter access may be limited due to seasonal closures.
Public Bus

Take the local bus service from Bourne to nearby stops within 3-4 km of the farm. From there, a taxi or a 40-minute walk on country lanes is required. Bus frequency is limited on weekends and holidays.
Taxi

Taxis from Bourne to Bowthorpe Park Farm typically take 15 minutes and cost around £10-£15. Recommended for visitors without private transport, especially during off-peak public transport hours.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
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Seating Areas
Picnic Areas
Trash Bins
Information Boards

Discover more about Bowthorpe Oak

A Living Monument of Natural History

Bowthorpe Park Farm is home to the Bowthorpe Oak, a pedunculate oak tree boasting the largest girth in the UK, measuring an impressive 13.3 meters at 1.5 meters height. Estimated to be around 1,300 years old, this ancient tree stands as a silent witness to centuries of history and natural change. Its vast, gnarled branches and thick trunk inspire awe and invite reflection on the passage of time and the resilience of nature.

Traditional Farming and Animal Life

The farm itself is a working family farm rooted in South Lincolnshire’s rural landscape. It maintains a traditional mixed livestock operation, including sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and pedigree Lincoln Red cattle. Visitors can explore paddocks where these animals graze peacefully, offering a genuine insight into farm life. Seasonal events such as lambing add to the farm’s vibrant agricultural calendar, creating engaging experiences for families and animal lovers.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Bowthorpe Park Farm is open primarily on weekends and bank holidays during the warmer months, with limited winter access by appointment. Facilities include a farm shop selling local meat, eggs, and dairy products, a snack bar, picnic areas, and undercover seating. Children can enjoy pedal tractors, a sandpit, and a hay bale maze, making it a family-friendly destination. The farm also hosts special events throughout the year, including Halloween activities and summer solstice celebrations.

Community and Sustainability

The farm prides itself on high welfare standards and sustainable farming practices, emphasizing local production and animal care. It fosters a strong community spirit, with the family owners actively engaging visitors and sharing their passion for farming and conservation. The Bowthorpe Oak itself is a protected natural landmark, highlighting the farm’s role in preserving natural heritage.

Scenic Setting and Surroundings

Set in the gentle Lincolnshire countryside near Bourne, the farm offers picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere. The combination of ancient woodland, open fields, and pastoral landscapes provides a scenic backdrop for visitors seeking relaxation or a nature escape. The location is also suitable for picnics and leisurely walks, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Events and Private Visits

In addition to regular opening hours, Bowthorpe Park Farm offers private bookings for visitors wishing to see the Bowthorpe Oak outside normal times. The grounds are also available for hire for events such as wedding receptions, blending natural beauty with a rustic charm. This flexibility allows for a personalized and memorable visit to this unique rural landmark.