Ayscoughfee Hall Museum and Gardens — Attraction in South Holland

The Hall itself is a fantastic visitor attraction and a real asset to Spalding's history but also to the Fen's wider geography as many of the exhibits within show. Free admission is certainly welcome, and whilst the hours of entry can be limited particularly if a private event is being held, there is enough opportunity to cater for most people's schedules. We've always found the staff to be extremely cheerful and knowledgeable upon arrival as they make a point to greet you as a first point of contact and invite questions. It seems that every time we visit there have been new displays and themes. The location also plays host to various events in the Gardens throughout the year but always best to check that the opening times for the Hall coincide. There are good clean toilet facilities. Parking isn't onsite but is along the road outside where there are usually plenty of spaces, so only a short walk. These spaces do not have a charge, and as far as I can remember they also are not time restricted. Other features inside the Grounds include a children's play area which although being fairly small the quality of the equipment is very good and should provide enough entertainment. Tennis courts and a Bowls Green are also here. Plenty of outdoor seating and grassy areas for picnics. A very large centrepiece is the Koi pond that has recently been cleaned to reveal almost crystal clear water showcasing the large stock of very attractive fish. You'll also find many ducks and their ducklings here, all accustomed to human presence so will provide many photo opportunities. This is also a well known area for finding painted rocks, so always worth a hunt through...

Set back from the road, I had never noticed this house and gardens. There was plenty of free parking on the other side of the road. The reception staff were friendly and helpful. There is a disabled access toilet near reception. Mostly level ground in the house and gardens. If you want to go upstairs, there is a lift for disabled guests.

The contents and history of the house, its grounds, and the town are well represented with information boards, illustrations, interactive exhibits, and even a mummified cat!

The gardens, and in particular the yew trees, are laid out beautifully. There is a large pool supporting a variety of wildlife. There are ducks above the surface and koi carp below.

You're not permitted to bring in any food or drinks. There is a lovely café and plenty of seating inside, around it, and throughout the gardens. We thought the prices were a bit steep, but the quality was good.

We were lucky with the weather for the end of March. Clear blue skies. People walking dogs outside....

We were the couple who were midway through our wedding photo shoot on Saturday 24th August when an extremely rude woman from reception confronted us and told our photographer he wasn't allowed to take photos (outside the building in a public space where people take photos with their phones day in, day out). She was extremely abrasive and rude to a couple on their wedding day, as well as to the photographer and his daughter. Given the pouring rain at the time we were also sheltering outside the building, whilst taking a quick couple of photos to the side of the entrance near flowers as many people do during the day when we were aggressively asked to stop and move on. Not a single ounce of common sense or decency was used given the weather conditions and the fact it was OUR wedding shoot putting a real sour note on what was a very enjoyable time taking photos across the park and gardens. The staff member in question should be ashamed and should apologise to both us and the photographer for her...