Gainsborough

Gainsborough is a market town on the edge of the county of Lincolnshire, on the banks of the River Trent and adjacent to Nottinghamshire.

Discover arts and culture, learn about the area's rich and diverse heritage and explore the historic market town's links to the Mayflower's voyage.

Step back in time as you walk around Gainsborough Heritage Centre. Here you can examine the local archive records and delve deep into the historic town's past.

Gainsborough's Mayflower Story

A group of Separatists is thought to have worshipped in secret at Gainsborough Old Hall – now regarded as one of the best-preserved medieval manor houses in Britain – with the permission of its sympathetic owner, merchant William Hickman.

Their preacher, John Smyth, was a strong influence on the Mayflower Pilgrims, and is generally considered to have later been a founder of the Baptist churches.

The United Reformed Church in Gainsborough stands as a memorial to John Robinson, pastor of the Mayflower Pilgrims and one of the leaders in the planning of the voyage to America.

Inside the church you can visit the Mayflower Room, which is an impressive and informative display of the local history of the area's Separatist ancestors, who played an important role during the historic voyage.

VISITING BY TRAIN:

Sit back, relax and enjoy the journey to Gainsborough as your travel along the Roman Line. This charming railway line runs from the Yorkshire market town of Doncaster to historic Lincoln.

Gainsborough Central Station is a 5 minute walk from Gainsborough Old Hall and can be reached by connecting at Retford from the LNER East Coast Main Line intercity express service from London Kings Cross.

Gainsborough Lea Road is about a 20 minute walk to Gainsborough Old Hall and can be reached from Lincoln or Retford on the Northern regional service. Both Lincoln and Retford have direct intercity services from London.

East Midlands Railway train passes though Beckingham bound for Lincoln along the Roman Line.

Travel by train

Take the scenic route and explore Mayflower 400 celebrations by rail

Click here

Learn more...

Discover the stories behind the destinations

Click here

TICKET TIPS

If you are visiting from overseas, check out the great value BritRail Pass. A single stress-free ticket that covers all your rail journeys on the national network and offers great value.

Get more money-saving rail tips for Brits and visitors alike to help you plan your adventure.

Look up train times and buy tickets.

More rail adventures nearby