Old Rectory
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Overview
Situated on the Isle of Axholme, an area of high ground amid a Dutch-style landscape of canals and dykes, Epworth Old Rectory was the home of Methodist preacher John Wesley. It was built in 1709 to replace the original house that burnt down, necessitating a dramatic rescue for six-year-old John. This elegant Queen Anne building was opened to the public in 1957 and despite reputedly being haunted by a poltergeist, a visit here transports you to the peaceful days of the early 18th century. John Wesley was an itinerant preacher but he regularly returned to Epworth, preaching from the Market Cross. Wesley had a great interest in natural remedies and the Physic Garden, a walled garden featuring plants from his book Primitive Physic: an Easy and Natural Method of Curing Most Diseases, is worth a visit. According to his book the herbs and plants growing here can be used to cure baldness, indigestion and the common cold.
Features
- Opening Times
- Opening Times: Open Mar-Aprand Oct, Tue-Sat and BH Mon 10.30-3.30; May-Sep, Tue-Sat and BH Mon 10-4.30 (last admission 30 mins before close). Open at other times by appointment
- Facilities
- Parking onsite
- Parking nearby
- Children
About the area
Much of the fenland around the Wash has been drained of its marshes and reclaimed as highly productive farmland. Further north, the coastline, with its sandy beaches, has been developed to accommodate the holiday industry, with caravans, campsites and the usual seaside paraphernalia.
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