Exploring New Waltham & Waltham Windmill: A Great Day Out Near Louth
Just a short journey from Louth, New Waltham and the historic Waltham Windmill offer a wonderful mix of history, countryside, family-friendly activities, and community spirit.
Whether you are looking for something to do during the school holidays, want to enjoy a relaxing afternoon, or are searching for a new place to explore, there is plenty to discover.
From Louth, New Waltham is around 20 minutes by car (approximately 12 miles via the A16) or around 40 minutes by direct bus, making it an easy and affordable day out.
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10 Things To Discover at Waltham Windmill & New Waltham
1. Explore the Historic Waltham Windmill:
The iconic Waltham Windmill is one of North East Lincolnshire’s best-loved landmarks. This fully restored six-sailed working windmill gives visitors the chance to step back in time and discover the history of milling and rural life.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours, explore inside the windmill, and learn about the important role windmills played in the local countryside.
2. Discover the Museum of Rural Life & RAF Grimsby Exhibition:
The Museum of Rural Life showcases Lincolnshire’s agricultural heritage, with displays showing how people lived and worked in the countryside in years gone by.
Visitors can also explore the RAF Grimsby Exhibition, which shares the history of the area’s aviation links and wartime connections.
3. Take a Ride on the Miniature Railway:
Children and railway enthusiasts will love the miniature railway located alongside the windmill.
The railway is operated by the Grimsby & Cleethorpes Model Engineering Society and runs on selected dates, usually Sundays from Easter until the end of September, as well as some Bank Holidays, depending on weather and volunteer availability.
4. Enjoy a Stop at Back To Basics Cafe:
After exploring the windmill, visitors can relax at Back To Basics Cafe, a cosy café located at the windmill site.
The café offers a selection of drinks, snacks, light meals, sandwiches, cakes, scones and family-friendly refreshments - perfect for a break during your visit.
5. Treat Yourself at Bensley’s:
If you have a sweet tooth, make sure you visit Bensley’s at Waltham Windmill.
The ice cream and sweet shop is a popular stop for families and makes a lovely addition to a day out.
6. Browse Local Shops & Crafts:
The Waltham Windmill site is also home to independent businesses, crafts and local services.
Visitors can enjoy browsing unique gifts, handmade items and small local businesses while exploring the area.
7. Enjoy Family Events & Holiday Activities:
Throughout the year, Waltham Windmill hosts community events and family activities.
During the summer holidays, activities include:
- Wednesday 5 August: Steel Pan Drumming (ages 7+)
- Wednesday 12 August: Circus Skills (all ages)
- Wednesday 19 August: Nunny’s Farm animal encounters
- Wednesday 26 August: Football session (ages 3–12)
These events give children the opportunity to try something new while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the windmill.
8. Explore Countryside Walks:
Waltham Windmill is surrounded by the beautiful Lincolnshire countryside, making it a lovely place to enjoy a walk, take photographs, or simply enjoy the views.
There are countryside routes nearby and plenty of opportunities to enjoy a slower pace away from busy towns.
9. Visit Waltham Windmill Golf Club Nearby:
Golf enthusiasts can also visit Waltham Windmill Golf Club, located close to the windmill.
The golf club is a separate attraction but offers another reason to explore the area, with a countryside setting and an 18-hole course.
10. Experience New Waltham Community Spirit:
New Waltham is a welcoming village with a strong community feel.
Throughout the year there are local events, charity fundraisers, remembrance activities, sporting events and community projects supported by Waltham Parish Council.
Projects such as village planting schemes, floral displays and the Best Kept Village competition help keep the area looking its best while bringing residents together.
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Autumn Concert Series
The community calendar continues into autumn with a series of Sunday afternoon concerts at Waltham Methodist Church.
Concerts take place from 2:30pm to 3:30pm, with free admission. Voluntary donations are shared between the venue and performers or their chosen charities.
The programme includes:
- 4 October: The Acoustic Itch
- 11 October: Caistorways
- 18 October: English Jazz Orchestra
- 25 October: Phoenix Singers
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Plan Your Visit:
Whether you are exploring local history, enjoying a family activity, riding the miniature railway, stopping for refreshments, or simply enjoying the countryside views, New Waltham and Waltham Windmill make a lovely day out close to Louth.
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Find Out More:
For the latest opening times, events and visitor information, check the official websites and social media pages before travelling as dates and activities can change.
Waltham Windmill
Website: https://www.walthamwindmill.org.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Gb4JXsuEk/
Waltham Parish Council
Website: https://www.walthamparishcouncil.gov.uk
Waltham Windmill Golf Club
Website: https://www.walthamwindmillgolfclub.co.uk
Grimsby & Cleethorpes Model Engineering Society (Miniature Railway)
Website: https://www.gcmes.org.uk
