Bellmount Tower: Historic Folly of Belton Estate
Discover Bellmount Tower, an 18th-century folly with panoramic views and rich history nestled in the Belton Estate’s scenic Lincolnshire countryside.
Bellmount Tower is an 18th-century folly located within the Belton Estate near Grantham, Lincolnshire. Built around 1750 by Viscount Tyrconnel, the tower served as a viewing platform and social venue, offering panoramic views across seven counties. Part of the National Trust’s Belton House grounds, it stands as a unique architectural landmark surrounded by woodland once used as a military training camp during World War I.
A brief summary to Bellmount Tower
- Grantham, Belton, NG32 2LW, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on clear days to fully appreciate the panoramic views from the tower, which can extend across seven counties.
- Wear sturdy footwear for woodland trails around the tower, as paths can be uneven and natural.
- Check National Trust or Woodland Trust schedules for guided walks or special events focusing on the tower’s history.
- Respect the wildlife, especially bats that use the tower as a maternity roost, by keeping noise levels low.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the bus from Grantham town center to Belton village, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Services run hourly on weekdays and less frequently on weekends. From Belton village, expect a 25-minute walk through woodland paths to reach Bellmount Tower. No direct bus service to the tower itself.
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Car
Driving from Grantham, the trip to Belton Estate takes about 10-15 minutes via local roads. Limited parking is available near Belton House; from there, Bellmount Tower is a 30-minute walk through estate grounds and woodland trails. Parking may be restricted during peak seasons or special events.
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Walking
For active visitors, a 1.5 to 2-hour walk from Grantham town center to Bellmount Tower is possible via public footpaths and countryside trails. Terrain includes woodland paths and gentle slopes; suitable footwear recommended. The route offers scenic views but is not fully accessible for wheelchairs.
Bellmount Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Bellmount Tower
An Architectural Statement from the 18th Century
Bellmount Tower was constructed circa 1750 by Sir John Brownlow, Viscount Tyrconnel, as a striking folly within the grounds of the Belton Estate. Designed as a tall arch-shaped viewing tower, it originally featured two small wings that were later removed, leaving curious buttresses that give the tower its distinctive silhouette today. The tower was intended both as an eyecatcher from Belton House and as a social retreat where Lord Tyrconnel could entertain guests while showcasing his extensive estate.Panoramic Vistas and Scientific Pursuits
From the upper room of Bellmount Tower, visitors can enjoy sweeping views reportedly spanning seven counties, a testament to its elevated position in the landscape. Lord Tyrconnel had a keen interest in science, equipping the tower with telescopes and microscopes, and likely used it as an observatory for stargazing. The tower’s location at the eastern end of the Belton House avenue made it a focal point for appreciating the estate’s formal gardens and surrounding countryside.Historical Role During World War I
During the First World War, the Belton Estate and its surrounding woodlands, including those near Bellmount Tower, were repurposed as a large military training camp. The Machine Gun Corps and other units used the area extensively, with remnants of the camp such as concrete water tanks and firing ranges still visible. The tower itself became a strategic observation point during military manoeuvres, linking its peaceful past with a more utilitarian wartime role.Conservation and Restoration Efforts
Bellmount Tower is a Grade II* listed building under the care of the National Trust. Although restored in the late 1980s, the tower has faced challenges including vandalism and structural decline. Recent efforts have involved collaboration between architects, conservation officers, and ecologists to preserve the tower while respecting its role as a maternity roost for bats. Plans to enhance public access include creating walking trails through the adjacent Londonthorpe and Alma Woods, allowing visitors to experience the tower in its natural and historic context.The Tower’s Place Within the Belton Estate
The tower is part of the wider Belton Estate, a historic landscape that has evolved since the late 16th century under the Brownlow family. Belton House itself is a celebrated example of English country house architecture, and Bellmount Tower complements this heritage as a garden folly and landmark. The estate’s grounds blend formal gardens, parkland, and woodland, offering visitors a rich experience of history, nature, and scenic beauty.Visitor Experience and Surrounding Environment
Today, Bellmount Tower stands amid tranquil woodland walks managed by the Woodland Trust, providing a peaceful setting for exploration. The tower’s unique architecture and commanding views make it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Interpretive signage and conservation initiatives help illuminate the tower’s multifaceted story, from aristocratic leisure to wartime utility and ecological significance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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- Tranquil
- Relaxing
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
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- Landmarks
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
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For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
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- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
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- Day Trip
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly