The Isle of Axholme is shrouded by mystery and local custom. It was once a true inland island with just a handful of villages built on higher ‘islands’ rising out of the marshes. In 1626, Dutch engineer Vermuyden was commissioned at the request of King Charles I to drain the Isle and create rich agricultural land.
This was a mammoth project involving the diversion of two of the area’s rivers, the Idle and the Don. It led to great conflict between the residents and the new settlers. An exhibition showing the history and events associated with the drainage and the noticeable legacy of Dutch architecture is on display in the Heritage Centre at Epworth.
The past is still very much alive in the Isle - Haxey is home to the traditional Haxey Hood game each January and Epworth is known internationally as the birthplace of world Methodism.
More Information:
Epworth
Haxey Hood
For more information on places to visit in North Lincolnshire go to the Visit North Lincolnshire website.