Unique Self-Catering Castle Folly | Grimsthorpe, Lincolnshire

The Summer Folly

Grimsthorpe, Bourne, Lincolnshire, UK

In the heart of rural Lincolnshire, hidden within the grounds of a historic estate, this whimsical folly feels lifted from the pages of an 18th-century novel. Inside, frescoes adorn its storied walls and ceilings, and bursts of colour bring personality to every corner. Guests of this luxury self-catering retreat have unlimited access to explore Grimsthorpe Castle, Park and Gardens, with its winding woodland and parkland walks where wild deer roam and majestic red kites soar overhead.

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Introduction

The final creation of architect Sir John Vanbrugh in the 1720s, who also designed Blenheim Castle, The Summer Folly sits within the expansive grounds of Grimsthorpe Castle. Beginning life as the estate’s summer house, it has hosted picnics and parties, housed estate workers, and even concealed an anti-aircraft battery during the Second World War, earning its reputation as a fanciful garden bower that has seen it all. Today, this romantic retreat sparks curiosity and creativity with its characterful interiors and enchanting surrounds.

Inside

Behind the rose-clad stone exterior, the interiors sing with colour and artistry. Bursts of butter yellow and jam red glow from alcoves, Moroccan tiles bring pattern to the kitchen walls, and intricate, hand-painted frescoes adorn the ceilings and walls of the sitting room and snug. Created as a personal account of the previous owners’ lives and interests, the frescoes are styled as a Renaissance take on the murals of Pompeii. Additionally, an annex TV room in one of the private adjacent farm buildings provides a tranquil space to unwind.

Outside

The gardens and grounds of The Summer Folly are the jewel in its crown. Bordering towering yews, two private patios invite al fresco dining, while the lawn is primed for games of pétanque, croquet or badminton. Surrounding the folly, 3,000 acres of private estate unfold, with guests free to discover woodland trails, manicured gardens, a lake and parkland where deer roam wild. This is a paradise for walkers, nature lovers and romantics alike, offering a restorative escape in a setting that immerses you in your very own costume drama.

The Facts

  • SleepsUp to 4 guests
    From £1,750 per week, £1,395 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. If you have younger children in your party please contact our team for prior permission.
  • 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. A spiral staircase leads to the living room and bedroom one on the first floor, as well as bedroom two on the second floor. There is also a secondary living area located across the courtyard in a converted outbuilding for guests to enjoy. Guests of The Summer Folly benefit from complimentary entry to Grimsthorpe Castle, which is open to visitors from May to September. As the house is situated within the Grimsthorpe Estate, please note that the entrance gates are monitored by CCTV for security. Children should be supervised at all times, as there is a small unfenced pond at the end of the private drive. With the extensive grounds and surrounding wildlife, we also kindly ask that dogs are kept under close supervision.
  • Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper of local goodies, guest pass for Grimsthorpe Castle and Gardens, Smart 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 cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options.
    Explore private dining
  • Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions

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Moroccan patterns adorn the walls of the living room
This self-catering retreat is settled in the grounds of Grimsthorpe Castle
Plush seating and intricate artwork adorn the living room

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.

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Bourne
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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.”

From the owner

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.

The George, Stamford

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.

Grimsthorpe Shooting Ground

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?

The Engine Yard, Belvoir Castle

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.

Rutland Water

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're curious about pet policies, the nearest walkable pubs, or wild swimming spots, we have the answers to common property-specific queries here. For everything else, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

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.

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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.