Things To Do Under 10 Miles from Bourne

Just a short drive from Bourne, Easton Walled Gardens is twelve acres of gently restored heritage offering a sanctuary of calm. Originally part of a grand estate, it’s been lovingly revived since 2001. Wander along winding paths through snowdrop‑carpeted woodlands, velvet-lined borders, scented rose terraces and a buzzing wildflower meadow. Cross the ornate stone bridge over the spring‑fed River Witham and keep an eye out for native trout and crayfish hidden beneath the surface. In summer, drift among more than fifty varieties of sweet peas, their scent drifting through the air at every turn.

Notice the Seasons

Each visit brings something new. Late winter reveals carpets of snowdrops and hellebores beneath ancient trees. In spring, crocuses, daffodils and iris bring delicate colour, and summer bursts into life with tulips, sweet peas and meadow grasses. As autumn arrives, seedheads and fruit-laden orchards soften the garden’s textures. Every time you visit, a different detail draws your eye further in.

Combine with a Riverside Walk

Once you’ve wandered the garden, step beyond the walls into the nearby countryside. Footpaths from Easton village follow the River Witham, winding through meadows and hedgerows. This informal route is perfect for a gentle post‑garden stroll, bring a book, find a patch of grass or a bench by the river, and let the calm presence of water and birdsong ground you.

For a longer ramble, try the Easton‑on‑the‑Hill circular walk, which loops along limestone tracks and unpaved lanes. You may glimpse wild orchids or skylarks as you wander. The route has no signs; bring a map, follow your instincts, and let the landscape guide you.

Wildlife to Watch For in Bourne

Keep an eye and ear out as you explore. Blue flashes may signal kingfishers skimming low over the river. Trout leave soft ripples beneath your feet, and skylark song fills the skies overhead. In the hedgerows you might hear wrens or blackcaps, and if you’re lucky, watch a red kite glide above. Bees, butterflies and ladybirds hum among the blooms, while woodpeckers drum from hidden trees.

Visit the Courtyard

At the heart of Easton lies The Courtyard, a calm, sociable space where you can stop and refuel.

• The Coffee Room is cosy, dog-friendly, and always tempting with cake
• Griffin of Easton stocks quality stationery and art supplies
• The Courtyard Shop is packed with handmade finds and beautiful keepsakes

Whether you come for the coffee, the calm, or something to carry home, there’s plenty to do at Easton, not far from Melton Mowbray.

Upcoming Events Near Bourne

There’s always things to do at Easton:

Yoga in the White Space Garden
Stretch, breathe and start your weekend right with an outdoor yoga session led by Laura Jekyll. Sessions run on alternating Saturdays from 26 July through September. Meet at 9:15am at the Coffee Room; class starts at 9:30am.

Pizza & Prosecco Night – 31 July
Join us for pizza under the stars and prosecco in hand. Enjoy The Courtyard in the golden light of evening, then take a quiet stroll through the garden.

Dog Days – Every Sunday in August
Bring your dog for a full garden visit. Dogs are welcome throughout opening hours, with no extra charge for four-legged guests.

Sausage Stroll – 24 August
An early evening just for dachshunds and their humans. Photo spots, open gardens, and plenty of wagging tails. Dogs go free. Admission applies to humans.

Art Workshops with Monty Cholmeley – 10 September
Watercolour in the morning, drawing in the afternoon. Join one or both sessions and enjoy hands-on creative time in the gardens.

Autumn Tree Tour – 4 October
Meet at 9am for coffee and a pastry, then head off for a private walking tour of the Easton Estate’s trees with Monty Cholmeley.

Practical Details

Open Wednesday to Sunday from mid-February through December. Admission is £12 for adults, £5 for children. Historic Houses members and Friends of Easton go free. Dogs are welcome in the Courtyard at all times and in the gardens on Dog Days. Parking is free. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a book or sketchpad for riverside unwinding.

A Day Well Spent

Spend your morning moving slowly through the gardens. Let scent and shape guide you. Sit beside the river. Follow a footpath that opens into open fields. Then circle back for coffee, a quiet browse, and perhaps a little something to take home. At Easton there are so many things for you to do on offer. From Melton, it’s not far, but it feels like a long exhale.

[Book Tickets] or [View Upcoming Events] to plan your visit.