Boston
Boston is one of those English towns that is easily overlooked, which is a shame because there is rather more to it than first meets the eye. Sitting in the flat Lincolnshire Fens, it is an old market and port town with a fascinating history, some handsome buildings and one rather spectacular landmark that dominates the skyline.
That landmark is St Botolph’s Church, better known locally as The Stump. At over 80 metres high, it is one of the tallest medieval parish church towers in England and can be seen for miles across the surrounding countryside. The tower is well worth climbing if your legs are up to it, as the views across the Fens are excellent and demonstrate just how gloriously flat this part of the country really is.
Boston’s history is closely tied to trade and the sea, despite the fact that the modern town seems some distance from the coast. The River Witham runs through the centre, and the old waterfront around the Haven is particularly pleasant, with historic buildings, boats and a selection of pubs and cafés. The Guildhall, now a museum, is another reminder of Boston’s prosperous medieval past.
The town also has a rather nice American connection. In 1608, a group of religious separatists known as the Pilgrim Fathers were imprisoned in Boston after attempting to leave England illegally. They eventually escaped and made their way to Holland, before some of them sailed on the Mayflower to America in 1620. Hence the rather famous name of Boston, Massachusetts.
For visitors, Boston is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Wander around the old centre, admire The Stump, explore the waterfront and soak up the atmosphere of a town which has retained considerably more of its historic character than you might expect.
It isn't going to compete with York or Cambridge for sheer tourist glamour, but that isn't really the point. Boston is an honest, historic Lincolnshire town with plenty of character — and, thankfully, without the hordes of tourists getting in the way.
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