Lincolnshire

Until comparatively recently this ancient port was one of the most important in Britain, but it went into decline following the so-called Icelandic ‘cod wars’ and, later, the enforced reduction in European fish catches. The town’s story really began in the 10th century when a Dane named Grim landed on the shore of the Humber and started selling fish to the locals.

Paddle Steamer Lincoln Castle moored in Grimsby Docks. Photo: David Wright CCL

Today the port still helps to keep Britain stocked with fish and chips though its real heyday was in the 19th century when unsalted fish could be quickly transported inland on new-fangled trains. The largest town on Lincolnshire’s east coast, Grimsby itself now lies half a mile from the sea. Its finest building is the medieval Church of James, which has a 14th century tower.

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