Louth reveals its history on several levels: its original medieval street plan has been preserved, while the history of a Christian community at St James dates back to the 7th century. Meanwhile, the Round Louth Walk leads into the surrounding Wolds and Marsh countryside. If you would like to combine cultural history and exercise, the town, panorama and walking trails offer different ways to explore rather than a single set route.

The town’s history and St James’ Church

A Christian community has served the town of Louth at St James since the 7th century. A Christian community has served Louth at St James since the 7th century. The church was rebuilt mainly in the early 15th century. Two distinct time spans meet here: a long continuity of religious life and the much later rebuilding of the church.

Brown’s Panorama from above

Brown’s Panorama shows Victorian Louth and the surrounding area from above. It takes in both the town and its surroundings. In contrast to the street plan, which represents Louth’s historic layout, the panorama offers an overall view of the area. It provides another visual perspective for anyone who wants to explore Louth beyond its church architecture and street layout.

Hubbard’s Hills and the landscape

Hubbard’s Hills, an area of natural beauty, lies just west of Louth. Geologically, it is a glacial overflow channel formed as a result of the last Ice Age more than 40,000 years ago. The site brings together a distinctive landform and a long-ago origin. Here, the focus is on geological development, alongside the architectural and cultural themes of Louth.

Walking trails with different routes

The trails differ in their routes and themes. The Brown’s Panorama Trail can be walked around Louth, and its information boards provide historical information about the areas along the way. The Round Louth Walk, by contrast, focuses on circling the historic market town and continuing into the surrounding Wolds and Marsh countryside. It is 14 miles long and marked with a blue Spire Walk logo. You can compare whether you would prefer to learn about the areas along the way or choose a circular walk with a stated distance and named landscapes.

The Louth Navigation Trust has also published a selection of walking trails. These include a linear route that runs along almost the entire length of the canal. Its route differs from the Round Louth Walk: rather than circling the market town, it follows a linear course along nearly the full length of the canal. The form of the walk is another factor to consider when choosing: a circular route around the town or a linear route along the canal.

Visiting Louth Museum

A backlit digital reproduction of Brown’s Panorama is on public display at Louth Museum. The museum is usually open Wednesday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, from April to October. Check the opening hours before your visit, as schedules may change.

Discover more destinations

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