Binbrook: Walking Trails and Local History

Binbrook combines a long history of settlement with walking trails, links to the landscape and places of remembrance. This provides several different starting points when choosing a destination: you can explore the village’s development, learn about the historical connection of a circular walking trail, or discover architectural and aviation history. A riding route within the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB offers a different focus. The range of themes therefore extends from the history of the settlement to activities in the surrounding landscape.

Local history from Anglo-Saxon times to the 19th century

The settlement of Binbrook dates back to Anglo-Saxon times and continues to this day. Earthworks have been preserved around the present-day settlement, reflecting medieval and post-medieval settlement and agricultural activity. They complement the history of individual buildings with the story of how the area was settled and farmed.

A historic market is also part of the village’s history: a charter held by Walter de Kirkham in 1235 granted Binbrook a three-day market from 28 to 30 August. A personal connection to cultural history can be found in Joseph Taylor, who was born in Binbrook on 10 September 1833. The Lincolnshire folk singer helped revive folk music throughout England. His biography connects the village to the broader history of English music.

Walking trail, priory history and riding route

The “Binbrook Paths, Ponds & A Priory Walk” circular walking trail crosses the grounds of the former Orford Priory. The site of the Premonstratensian nunnery, also known as Irford, lies near Binbrook. The priory was founded in the mid-12th century and dissolved in 1539. The circular trail therefore combines a walk with a specific connection to the history of the priory.

The riding route “C2 – Beesby, Binbrook & North Ormsby area” focuses on a different activity. It runs entirely within the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB and includes a bridleway that climbs from Binbrook. The two routes differ in activity and in their historical or landscape connections: one is a circular walking trail linked to the former priory site, while the other is a riding route within the AONB. This can help you choose between the topics according to your interest in walking, riding or the landscape.

Church architecture and remembrance

The Church of St Mary and St Gabriel brings together architectural history and remembrance. The parish church was built in 1869 by James Fowler of Louth in the Early English style. It is noted for its character and craftsmanship, and is considered a place of peace. There are war graves in the churchyard; the church also houses a Roll of Honour for 460 Squadron in a display case.

The memorial stone to 460 Squadron is also one of Binbrook’s places of remembrance. It was unveiled on 9 September 1973. Together with the Roll of Honour in the church, it provides a tangible link to aviation history.

Aviation history around RAF Binbrook

RAF Binbrook was a former RAF airfield that opened in June 1940 and closed in the late 1980s. The upper tail fin of a Lightning aircraft from nearby RAF Binbrook can be seen from the road; the surrounding area may change. As the area may change, check the current situation before visiting. The former airfield and memorials offer different perspectives on the area’s aviation history.

Discover more destinations

Waltham, North Scarle, Bradley, Woodhall Spa, North Killingholme, Kirton, Humberston, Wainfleet All Saints

For the main travel overview: Lincolnshire.