Luxury self-catering accommodation in Lincolnshire

The long strip of bucket-and-spade coastline winding its way up the county's eastern side make it a year-round pull for visitors who fancy dipping a toe in the brisk North Sea. The coastal town of Mablethorpe, about halfway up, flaunts a Blue Flag beach, a seal sanctuary and an aqua park; tackle the Total Wipeout course or the giant spinning wheel before popping into town to stock up on souvenirs and sticks of local rock. Skegness, to the south, is a classic donkey-ride beach resort; grab an ice cream on the pier as you pop in and out of the amusement arcades.

Lincoln's busy market town invites visitors to step back in time at its majestic castle; take the Medieval Wall Walk, an amazing third of a mile long, to truly experience this impressive stronghold. In winter, you will catch the town's Christmas market, a festive wonderland of seasonal goodies and stalls that sparkle. Aeronautical fans will love spotting the Spitfires, Chipmunks and Hurricanes at the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre; guided tours of the RAF heritage aircraft hangar are available for those who want an close-up view.