Why Was It Demolished? | A 6-Mile Walk Exploring Blankney in Lincolnshire & Its Hidden History скачать в хорошем качестве

Why Was It Demolished? | A 6-Mile Walk Exploring Blankney in Lincolnshire & Its Hidden History

📍 Kirkby Green to Blankney Circular Walk | Lincolnshire | 6 Miles Hiking For Health – Promoting positive physical and mental health through a love of the outdoors. In this video, we explore a beautiful 6-mile circular walk from Kirkby Green to Blankney in the heart of rural Lincolnshire. Originally, this walk was due to begin in Scopwick, but with the footpath unexpectedly closed at the start point, we adapted our plans and began from Kirkby Green instead — a reminder that flexibility is always part of the adventure! Despite the weather being typically English — grey skies, steady drizzle, and a rather dreary feel — there’s something incredibly uplifting about getting outside. Even in the rain, the Lincolnshire countryside has a quiet beauty. The open farmland, wide skies, and peaceful lanes offer space to think, breathe, and reset. Days like this prove that walking isn’t just exercise — it’s therapy for the soul. 🏰 The History of Blankney Hall A major highlight of this route is the historic estate of Blankney Hall. The hall was constructed in 1790 for the influential Chaplin family, who became one of Lincolnshire’s prominent landowning families. The Chaplins played a significant role in local politics and agricultural development during the 18th and 19th centuries. Blankney Hall later became well known for its association with King Edward VII, who visited the estate on several occasions. The King would travel via the historic coach road from Metheringham to Blankney Hall, reflecting the importance and prestige of the estate during that period. Imagining royalty travelling along these quiet Lincolnshire lanes adds an extra layer of magic to the walk. During World War II, the hall was requisitioned and used by the military, as many large country houses were across Britain. Sadly, like so many grand estates of its era, Blankney Hall did not survive the 20th century. It was demolished in the 1960s, leaving behind only fragments of its former grandeur and the enduring parkland landscape we see today. ⚔️ Blankney’s Norman Roots Blankney’s history stretches back much further than the Georgian hall. After the Norman Conquest of 1066, Walter D’Aincourt, a loyal supporter of William the Conqueror, was granted lands in Lincolnshire, including Blankney. D’Aincourt was a significant Norman noble who helped consolidate Norman control in England. He married Matilda, the granddaughter of Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon King of England. This marriage symbolised the merging of Norman and Saxon bloodlines in the generation following the Conquest — a fascinating historical connection tied to this quiet Lincolnshire village. Walking these fields, it’s remarkable to consider that this land has witnessed Saxon rule, Norman consolidation, Georgian grandeur, royal visits, wartime service, and modern rural life. ⛪ St Oswald’s Church & The Chaplin Legacy As we pass through Blankney, it’s impossible not to notice the quiet presence of St Oswald’s Church, standing peacefully at the heart of the village. This small but historically rich church tells the story of the family who shaped Blankney for generations — the Chaplins of Blankney Hall. Among those buried here is Lady Florence Chaplin, wife of Henry Chaplin, who later became the 1st Viscount Chaplin and one of the most prominent figures associated with the Blankney estate. Lady Florence died in 1881, and her loss clearly left a profound mark. She is buried in the churchyard at St Oswald’s, and Henry Chaplin himself was laid to rest beside her when he died in 1923. The church lychgate also carries a dedication to her memory, showing just how important she was to the family and the village. ✈️ Typhoons Overhead Adding a dramatic modern contrast to this historic landscape, RAF Typhoon jets roared overhead during our walk. Based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, these aircraft are a familiar but always thrilling sight in the county’s skies. 🥾 The Spires & Steeples Trail Part of our route follows sections of the Spires & Steeples Trail, a long-distance walking route running approximately 26 miles from Sleaford to Lincoln. The trail links historic churches, villages, and open countryside, offering walkers a wonderful way to explore the rural heart of the county. With its mixture of farmland, quiet lanes, and heritage sites, it showcases the best of central Lincolnshire’s landscape. Even on a grey, rainy day, this walk delivered history, wildlife, open skies, and the simple joy of movement. Getting outside — especially when the weather tries to persuade you otherwise — is powerful medicine for both body and mind. Thank you for joining us on another journey. Hiking For Health – Promoting positive physical and mental health through a love of the outdoors. Chapters 00:00 Blankney Hall 01:13 Footpath Closed! 07:51 Spires and Steeples Trail 10:26 Arrival at Blankney 18:24 Blankney Village 21:42 The Coach Road Bridge 23:58 The Return