The Summer Folly
Grimsthorpe, Bourne, Lincolnshire, UK
Hidden within the grounds of one of England’s greatest country houses, this whimsical folly in rural Lincolnshire hides a treasure trove of joy. Frescoes of a life well-lived adorn the ancient walls and ceilings and an abundance of pattern and colour await through every door. Including unlimited access to Grimsthorpe Castle, Park and Gardens, The Summer Folly offers a unique self-catering homestay for those who like to holiday less ordinary.
Introduction
The final creation of architect Sir John Vanbrugh in the 1720s (who also built Blenheim Castle), The Summer Folly, settled in the grounds of Grimsthorpe Castle, is a curious holiday retreat in rural Lincolnshire. Beginning life as the estate’s summer house, hosting picnics and parties for visitors, housing estate workers and even hiding an anti-aircraft battery during the Second World War, this fanciful garden bower has seen it all.
Inside
Delights hide behind the rose-covered stone exterior; unanticipated bursts of yellow shine from alcoves, Moroccan tiles splash across the kitchen wall and intricate, hand-painted murals (designed as a personal account of the previous tenant’s life in the style of a Renaissance take on Pompeii) adorn the ceilings and walls of the living room and snug. The Summer Folly, surprising and just a little bit giddy, brings zest to every soul who steps inside.
Outside
Two patios surrounded by towering yews create sheltered, outdoor lounges for summer days al fresco dining and a flower garden overflowing with ditsy blooms and bobbing flowerheads headily scent the air. Beyond the walled garden, 3,000 acres of private estate is yours for the taking. Lounge in the kitchen garden with a book and flask of tea or roam the wider park with eyes on the sky, keeping watch for buzzards, red kites and migrating geese.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 4 guests
From £1,850 per week, £1,450 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 2 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsOn the first floor there is one bedroom with super king-size zip-and-link bed complete with en suite bathroom featuring cast iron bath and separate shower. On the second floor, bedroom two has a king-size bed with en suite cast iron bath and handheld shower attachment. There is also a ground floor WC and a further WC in the annexe.
View bedrooms - FeaturesCinema snug, petanque lawn, croquet, badminton
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms and children six and above are very welcome. One travel cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is spacious parking for three or more cars at the property. The main kitchen includes a dual gas-electric Rangemaster, dishwasher, fridge, wine fridge plus washing machine and tumble dryer, while the smaller kitchen in the annexe features a small fridge, wine fridge and sink. As the house is set within Grimsthorpe Estate, the gates to enter the grounds are monitored by CCTV for security purposes. Please ensure children are supervised as there is a small unfenced pond at the end of the private drive to the property. Please refer to the house book for Grimsthorpe Castle´s opening dates. With extensive grounds and wildlife, please supervise dogs at all times.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper of local goodies, guest pass for Grimsthorpe Castle and Gardens, TV with BT Sports, Netflix and Amazon Prime, fluffy bathrobes, WiFi, charcoal barbecue, Bluetooth speaker, luxury bed linen...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Bourne
Surrounded by an abundance of bucolic scenery, Bourne is noted as one of the most important market towns in the United Kingdom. Castle ruins, a Roman road and museums galore will satiate any culture vulture who visits southern Linconshire.
Getting there
- On the Map The Summer Folly sits within the impressive Grimsthorpe Estate grounds in the quaint market town of Bourne just 25 minutes south east of Grantham, Lincolnshire.
- By Car The house is a little under a three hour drive from central London.
- By Train The nearest train station is Stamford which is half an hour away by car.
- By Air East Midlands Airport is just over an hour away by car, while Birmingham Airport is around an hour and 45 minutes.
From the owner
“Standing alone surrounded by some of the oldest woodlands in the country and set in 3,000 acres of land where deer freely roam, the house and surroundings are nothing short of exceptional.”
The beauty of The Summer Folly is that you can walk out the door, over the bridge and you're in Grimsthorpe Estate. With trees dating back to the Doomsday era, deer peacefully roaming by and birdsong overhead, it honestly feels like you've stepped back in time.
Taking a lazy stroll down to the lake by the castle is a walk not to be missed, the views are stunning! In the warmer months, packing a lunch and choosing a tranquil spot in the park to watch the wildlife flit by is very special. Or, wander up to the castle and explore its amazing interior, followed by afternoon tea, of course.
From the sitting room window, you can spy the castle in the distance, along with woodland and arable fields, which is what this celebratory space was originally designed for; parties and picnics in view of the castle.
With the most stunning sunsets and blazing red skies, the house really is the perfect vantage point to see it all.
Hermione
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Bourne with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
The George, Stamford
Creeping ivy scrambling the walls, a sophisticated Champagne bar at the hub of the manor and the most decadent afternoon tea around (crusts off, naturally); The George is the place to be.
To Do
Grimsthorpe Shooting Ground
A year-round traditionally English sporting course, the shooting ground at Grimsthorpe Estate is one of the most desired in the country. Does anything say ´rural escape´ more than this?
To Do
The Engine Yard, Belvoir Castle
The Engine Yard is a unique retail-foodie experience set in the grounds of Belvoir Castle, combining local fayre with artisan shopping housed in restored estate buildings.
To See
Rutland Water
With 4,200 acres to discover, there´s no end to enjoyment here; from watersports to wildlife spotting on the nature reserve, there´s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Keep an eye peeled for the Osprey!
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
The Summer Folly is such a fabulous place … real quality and the ultimate romantic escape from it all. We had a gorgeous time and loved exploring the beautiful grounds in which the property so perfectly sits, thank you.
The history behind the property is fascinating, the decoration and the attention to detail is incredible. The grounds in which The Summer Folly sits, make the property feel very magical and the final touches added by the property owner and housekeeper only add to the magic!
Absolutely stunning! As a decorator, I was fascinated and hugely impressed by the artwork and wall paintings. I loved the attention to detail at all levels; from the colours used, the fixtures and fittings right down to the books. The welcome hamper was fabulous as were the fresh flowers and level of cleanliness. We loved it all, particularly the privacy and tranquillity.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which The Summer Folly and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Romantic autumn weekend breaks in the UK
The Times
September 2022An ancient folly
Living Etc.
August 2021Snow white
Country Homes & Interiors
December 2024The UK´s cosiest boltholes for Christmas
The Times
December 2024Natural beauty
25 Beautiful Homes
December 202425 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024
Britain in Wonderland > Fantastical castles, towers and follies > UK > Lincolnshire > Bourne > The Summer Folly
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
