Alford Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Alford Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Alford packs plenty into its compact centre. Start at Alford Manor House (PE13 9HB, open Weds-Sun 10am-4pm), built in 1611 and now housing a fascinating museum. Its thatched roof is spectacular and visitors give it 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor for its "wonderful glimpse into history".

The Five Sailed Windmill (PE13 9JY, open Weds-Sun 10am-4pm) remains one of the few working windmills in England. You can buy freshly ground flour and watch the massive sails in action. Kids love seeing how grain becomes flour and the tearoom serves excellent scones.

Gunby Hall (PE23 5SS, open Tues-Sun 11am-5pm) sits just 8 miles away. This National Trust property features stunning gardens and a house packed with 8 generations of family treasures. The walled garden is particularly lovely in summer when the hot tub back at your cottage will feel even more inviting after a day exploring.

Alford Craft Market (PE13 9DF) runs on Tuesdays throughout summer and showcases local artisans. We always find unique souvenirs here that beat generic gift shops hands down.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Alford almost as much as humans do! The Wolds offer miles of gentle walking routes where your four-legged friend can stretch their legs. Hubbard's Hills in nearby Louth (LN11 0QN) provides a beautiful valley with streams for splashing.

Many Alford cottages welcome pets, often providing dog beds, treats and even dedicated washing areas for muddy paws. The Half Moon Inn (PE13 9DF) allows dogs in the bar area and garden, serving water bowls alongside your pint.

Alford's Thursday market includes several stalls selling homemade dog treats. I've found these make excellent bribes for good behaviour during longer walks! The local pet shop (Alford Pet Supplies, PE13 9JX) stocks emergency supplies and staff know the best walking routes.

Remember the Lincolnshire Wolds has livestock in many fields, so keep dogs leashed when signs request it. After a day exploring, your cottage hot tub offers the perfect relaxation spot while your tired dog snoozes nearby.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Alford

Alford Manor House stands as the largest thatched manor house in England. Built in 1611, its unusual H-shaped timber frame construction makes it architecturally significant. The house museum displays everything from Victorian toys to agricultural implements. The tearoom serves excellent homemade cakes and the garden provides perfect photo opportunities. Visitors consistently rate it 4.5/5, with one TripAdvisor reviewer noting "the volunteer guides bring history alive with fascinating stories."

Alford Craft Market Centre (PE13 9DF) showcases local artisans creating pottery, jewellery, textiles and woodwork. Unlike generic tourist shops, here you'll meet the makers and even try workshops yourself. The pottery classes prove particularly popular - book ahead as they fill quickly. The centre hosts special events throughout summer including demonstrations and children's activities. One visitor commented, "Watching skilled craftspeople at work made me appreciate the items I bought so much more."

Claythorpe Watermill (PE13 5ES) combines history, wildlife and refreshments just outside Alford. This 18th century watermill houses working machinery alongside small animal enclosures featuring otters, wallabies and birds. The riverside setting proves perfect for lunch, with outdoor seating overlooking the millpond. Kids particularly enjoy the wildfowl collection and play area. TripAdvisor scores it 4/5, with visitors praising the "unexpected variety of attractions in one location."

Is Alford suitable for families with young children?

Absolutely! Beyond the attractions mentioned, Alford offers a playground near the Manor House, regular children's activities at the library and the Fairy Dell natural play area. Many cottages provide family-friendly facilities including games, DVDs and enclosed gardens alongside that relaxing hot tub.

When is the best time to visit Alford?

Alford shines during summer when the market expands and outdoor events flourish. However, spring brings beautiful blossoms to the Wolds, while autumn offers spectacular colours. Winter feels magical with Christmas markets and cosy pubs with roaring fires before returning to your heated hot tub under starry skies.

Can I reach Alford without a car?

It's challenging but possible. Trains run to Skegness (12 miles away) with connecting buses to Alford. However, exploring the surrounding countryside becomes difficult without your own transport. Some cottage owners offer collection services from stations by arrangement.

What local food specialities should I try?

Lincolnshire sausages and haslet (a pork meatloaf) remain regional classics. The local butcher makes both daily. Lincolnshire Poacher cheese proves popular and plum bread makes a delicious teatime treat. The farmers' market (last Friday monthly) offers the freshest local produce.

Are there good restaurants in Alford?

Despite its small size, Alford offers surprising culinary variety. The Half Moon serves excellent pub classics, while Windmill Restaurant specialises in local ingredients. For special occasions, book The Old Dairy in nearby Louth for fine dining. Several cafés serve homemade cakes and light lunches.

What should I pack for an Alford cottage break?

Walking shoes prove essential for exploring the Wolds. Bring swimwear for your hot tub sessions and layers for changeable Lincolnshire weather. Binoculars help spot the abundant birdlife and a good map benefits walkers as mobile reception can be patchy in rural areas.

Some helpful links:

1. Love Lincolnshire Wolds - Official tourism site
2. Alford Craft Market - Events and workshops
3. Gunby Hall - National Trust property
4. Visit Lincolnshire - County-wide attractions