Belton Pleasure Grounds Walk
Pleasure grounds were very popular in the mid-to-late-18th century as ‘naturalised’ extensions to more formal gardens. The idea was to bring walkers closer to nature, via woodland paths that meander past unusual trees, water features and follies. You can collect a gardens walk map from the team on arrival or from the garden entrance.
Near to
Belton EstateStart point
Belton Estate, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG32 2LS.Trail information
*Mostly firm, flat paths. For further details, please see Terrain section. The paths around the ponds are uneven, unsurfaced and seasonally muddy.
**This walk is accessible for wheelchairs, trampers and pushchairs. The paths around the ponds are uneven, unsurfaced and seasonally muddy. For further details, please see Access section.
***Dogs welcome on short leads. For further details, please see Facilities section.
Admission charges at Belton
Normal admission charges or National Trust membership applies when accessing this walk, please stop by the Admission Points or visit the Information and Accessibility Hub. You can also collect a gardens walk map from the team on arrival.
Total stages: 9
Total stages: 9
Start point
Belton Estate, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG32 2LS.
Stage 1
Make your way from the visitor reception building to the stable yard and enter the gardens. Stepping through the garden entrance, you’ll find yourselves in the Italian Gardens. Inspired by the 1st Earl’s Grand Tour of Italy, Sir Jeffry Wyatville was commissioned to design this sunken garden in the early nineteenth century. Successive Brownlow generations enhanced and enriched its plants and sculptures. Boasting a fountain centrepiece, topiary, and borders full of vibrant colour in the summer months, the Italian Garden is a delight to discover.
Stage 2
The Conservatory is on the left. Overlooking the Italian Garden, this protective environment is home to a collection of lush foliage and exotic blooms. Californian and Kentia Palms add texture and height. Pelargoniums frame a tranquil pool, serenely overlooked by Belton’s bather statue. Designed by Jeffry Wyatville in 1810 and built in 1820, Belton’s Conservatory was crafted around a cast-iron sub-frame, making it the first garden building of its type in England. Turn right here, and follow the path towards the Pleasure Grounds.
Stage 3
Continue to follow the path alongside the Mirror Pond, which is presided over by the tranquil figure of a white lady statue and a gnarled and twisted 250-year-old beech tree. The ‘eye-catcher’ stone temple provides a sheltered spot and wonderful reflections on a still day. Keep to the left past the stone temple.
Stage 4
At the crossroads, go straight over. This section of the Pleasure Grounds changes seasonally with autumn leaf colour, spring bulbs, and seasonal wildflowers. When you're ready, take the next left and follow the path up to the lakes.
Stage 5
Here you'll find the entrance to the lakes. At this point you can turn right to go around the lakes, or you can turn left for a shorter circular walk. The paths around the lakes are uneven, unsurfaced and seasonally muddy. There are benches around the lake.
Stage 6
Follow the path around the lake and past the Fishing Lodge. Moving on, you'll quickly reach a wooden footbridge. Down to the right there's a cascade and rockery garden, sheltered by mature lime and oak which formed the original approach to the pond.
The Fishing Lodge at Belton Estate, Lincolnshire. | © National Trust Images/Mike Selby Stage 7
When you reach the top of Boathouse Pond, you can continue around to the top lake, or turn left to continue around Boathouse Pond.
Stage 8
Take a rest here on the bench and enjoy picturesque views of the Fishing Lodge. Once back at the gates, turn right.
Stage 9
Once you're at the crossroads, you can continue straight on towards the statue walk or explore other pathways.
End point
Belton Estate, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG32 2LS.
Trail map
Belton Pleasure Grounds walk | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey
More near here
Belton Park walk
This circular walk at Belton Park passes key features of ancient woodland and the site of a deserted medieval village.
Belton Estate Riverside walk
A short riverside walk along the River Witham in Belton Park. Lincolnshire.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Exploring the estate at Belton
Explore 1,300 acres of parkland at Belton and find out more about the wildlife you may see along the way, including the herd of historic fallow deer.
Eating and shopping at Belton
Rest and refuel in a historic setting or treat yourself to something special to take home. Find out about our dog-friendly café and other places to eat and shop.
Visiting Belton with your dog
Belton is a three pawprint rated place and offers plenty of opportunities for bounding, jumping and sniffing for dogs. With 1,300 acres to explore, come and join us for a wander with your four-legged friend.
Walking in Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire
From the parkland, woods and lakeside views of Clumber Park to the ancient woodland around Belton House, discover where to go for the best walks in Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.