A Welcoming Third Place with Books, Cake and Cosy Connection near Lincoln

Pause, connect, borrow a book, enjoy a slice of tangy lemon drizzle. Nestled in leafy Nettleham,
approximately 4 miles from Lincoln’s historic castle and cathedral, you will discover ‘The Hub’.

First opened in 2016, after the organisers saved this village’s library facility, who wouldn’t want to support a saviour of books? Today, Nettleham Community Hub continues to house around 5,000 books while championing local craftspeople, artists and businesses. This offers nearby residents (and visitors) many more opportunities for connection, education and growth.

A Special Space for Everyone

While the local community cherishes this treasure of a third place, there is no sense of exclusion as you enter. Accessible features and oodles of charm await anyone who enters this homely haven.

From the under-4s and their parents who enjoy a brew at the soft play centre, through to the remote workers who pop in to meet others and work, the elderly can also be seen sharing a coffee in the beloved Seven Districts coffee shop. This is a place that warmly welcomes all demographics. As a thirty-something, I appreciate how this village gem provides a chance to experience music and the arts without travelling into Lincoln city centre.

General Manager, Louise Budgen, warmly notes this is “A space for everyone”. Shaped by visitor feedback, this third place encourages new ideas from all visitors. Success stories include the coveted craft shelf display that’s fully booked until 2027, a jigsaw puzzle hire station, a plant library and two quiz nights each month.

Foster New Friendships and Nurture Existing Ones

With a mission to “combat loneliness” at its heart, Nettleham’s Community Hub welcomes all. Curious tourists exploring Lincoln, nearby residents and drivers passing through Lincolnshire can experience this third place for themselves. I’ve seen first-hand the building’s motto, “Bringing People Together”, in action.

When popping by to return my library books, I’ve often shared a table or begun a conversation with others. When walking there on a rainy Saturday, my spirits were uplifted by discovering a live music afternoon. Showcasing local musicians and poets’ performances, it was worth braving the weather to discover this serendipitous experience.

Having lived locally for several years, I’ve wondered if one visit would ever be enough to experience Nettleham Community Hub’s full offering? Journey behind the delicious coffee shop that’s framed on two sides by tempting library shelves, and you can attend yoga and drama classes in The Studio. On-site businesses allow you to book a relaxing massage, reiki or beauty therapy session before picking up treats for your furry friend at a pet supply shop.

It Organises and Promotes Local Events

Here to develop community across the local area, flyers cover a noticeboard advertising a family ceilidh, sound baths, as well as a local wellbeing walk. Nettleham’s Community Hub is often a meeting place for those enjoying nearby events and fresh air.

A vibrant centre for catching up with others, I love that you can stay a while without any obligation to treat yourself to coffee and cake.

Enter for a Nostalgic Slice of Community

This one-of-a-kind third place is sure to warm your heart … and belly with a delicious hot drink of your choice. Its website highlights the modern need to build a space that evolves with the needs of its visitors, choosing the quote:

“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about”.

– Margaret J. Wheatley.

At a time when people are feeling isolated, this hub is openly proactive in bringing together strangers from across the region. How could you shape its future?

Easy to Visit, Difficult to Forget

Nettleham’s Community Hub is served by several buses (Stagecoach and PC Coaches) that pass through between Mondays and Saturdays. Known as ‘The Green’, the centre of this honey-hued village has well-frequented bus stops. You can access this third place from Lincoln, Market Rasen and Grimsby, before walking to the home-from-home venue.

Hugged on its western side by the A46 road, this opens up access for those exploring the region. I recommend adding a detour. Why not browse the website (link below) to book a class or event? Joining a sense of community is beneficial to our mental health, however long you decide to visit.

Nurture Community and Gather at Nettleham

Spend some time meeting new people within Nettleham Community Hub’s inviting library space. Bask in the rays of summer while enjoying an ice cream at an outdoor picnic table. Or watch the leaves turn amber
through the floor-to-ceiling windows on one side of the building. Every season, month and week
is an opportunity for visitors from far and wide to gather and connect.

And you’ll be glad to hear there is more to come from this cosy venue. Will you be popping by?

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