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He was wealthy and well-connected. Hickman and his redoubtable mother, Rose, were ardent Puritans – strict Protestants. They believed the English Protestant Church was still too Catholic and consequently they are believed to have become sympathetic to the more radical “Separatists” – a group of English religious dissenters who were considered to be enemies of the Crown because they wanted to separate from the established Church. Separatists formed covert networks to worship in secret and to help those trying to flee the country to escape fines, prison or worse.
Circumstantial evidence suggests that the Hickman's allowed the Separatist congregation of local preacher John Smyth to worship in secret in the Old Hall. This was a very dangerous path because the monarch was supreme head of the Church and to oppose the monarch was regarded as treason.
Today, Gainsborough Old Hall is a fabulous visitor attraction. A stunning black and white timber framed building, visitors can explore the rooms and the grounds of the hall. An audio visual tour brings the many histories and stories of the building to life.
Free, donations welcome
Museum
Explore the town’s significant industrial and domestic history.
Visitor Attraction
See one of the largest hand built model railways depicting the East Coast Main Line from Kings Cross to Leeds Central.
Free, donations welcome
Church or religious building
St Michael's Church in the rural village of Glentworth in Lincolnshire is home to a remarkable Elizabethan memorial to the Wray family - influential supporters of the early Separatists.
Museum
Victorian Police Museum and Magistrates' Court. Originally built in 1860. Dedicated to the history of Lincolnshire Police.
Price on application
Driving Tour
Adrian Gray is a well known local historian. With an MA in history from Cambridge University, he is the author of more than twenty books including several titles on Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.
Driving Tour
Unforgettable private 5 day adventure across the UK tracing the journey of the Pilgrims who set sail on the Mayflower in 1620.
Free
Historic Site
St Lawrence Church, Snarford has a memorial to Frances Wray - supporter of the Puritan reformers in the early 17th century.
Park / Open Space
Thonock Park is the home of two stunning 18-hole courses with excellent clubhouse amenities
Theatre / Performance Venue
A unique picture house and theatre housed in a stunning grade II listed building offering a variety of performances and shows.
Free, donations welcome
Church or religious building
The United Reformed Church, Gainsborough dates back to the late 18th Century.
Blyton Ponds, Gainsborough
Self-Catering
Blyton Ponds offer adult only holidays in a tranquil, relaxing holiday environment.
Brampton Dales Farm
Bed & Breakfast
A Farm Bed and Breakfast, set in 26 areas of Lincolnshire countryside, 4 miles from Gainsborough.
Grayingham Lodge
Bed & Breakfast
Enjoy all the comforts of modern living whilst enjoying the peace and tranquillity of a traditional farmhouse.
Hemswell Court, Gainsborough.
Bed & Breakfast
A stunning former RAF Officers mess that was featured in the Dambusters movie!
Hickman Hill Hotel, Gainsborough
Hotel
The Hickman Hill Hotel has 10 en suite bedrooms, a restaurant and bar.
The Black Swan Guest House, Gainsborough
Guest House
A tastefully refurbished Grade II listed former coaching inn just 5 miles from Gainsborough.
The Grange at Kexby
Bed & Breakfast
A pleasant 4 star Victorian farmhouse bed and breakfast overlooking beautiful countryside with easy access to Lincoln.
Thonock Park
Hotel
These boutique rooms have everything you’ll need to guarantee the perfect overnight stay.
Travelodge Gainsborough
Hotel
With a town centre location, find easy access to all the essential amenities.
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