Converted lighthouse with games room and wild geese voted best in the UK

With the changing colours of Autumn just around the corner, now is one of the best times of year to head outdoors. From riverside walks and woodland wanders, from pretty villages to bustling market towns, Lincolnshire is one county that has plenty to offer.

Set on the banks of the River Nene just outside Sutton Bridge, the Sir Peter Scott Lighthouse is an unusual and striking base from which to enjoy the far reaching views. Overlooking the Wash National Nature Reserve, the converted lighthouse combines historic character with award-winning accommodation. The quirky stay is so special it was a winner in the Sykes Gem Awards, earning a Gold award for Best Historic Property in 2024, alongside the Bronze for Best in Central England.

Built in 1830, the lighthouse remains operational to guide ships through tidal channels and was once the home of conservationist and painter Sir Peter Scott. Today, it has been converted into holiday accommodation situated across three floors.

Scott was a British conservationist, painter and ornithologist who played a leading role in protecting wetlands and bird species. He co-founded the World Wildlife Fund, established the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and dedicated much of his life to wildlife conservation along the Wash and beyond.

Accessed by country roads, the gated property sits on the River Nene leading out to The Wash, with over half an acre of grounds and parking for four cars.

Inside, the ground floor includes a kitchen with garden access, a circular dining room and a sitting room with a cosy woodburning stove for snuggling up on chilly autumnal evenings. There is also a bathroom and two bedrooms, with one leading through to a games room and kitchenette.

The lower ground floor has a king-size bedroom with en-suite, while the upper floors contain a twin room, a single room once used by Sir Peter Scott. The light gallery at the very top offers panoramic views across the landscape.

Guests staying at the lighthouse have access to modern amenities such as WiFi, television, electric central heating, and a washing machine. Bed linen, towels and fuel for the woodburning stove are included, and two well-behaved pets are also permitted.

The property notes that certain areas, including a private wildlife conservation area with ponds, are not accessible to visitors in order to protect local species. The lighthouse sits on the Wash National Nature Reserve, the largest reserve in England, covering more than 8,800 hectares of mudflats and salt marsh. The area is internationally significant for birdlife, particularly during the winter months between November and February, when large numbers of wild geese migrate to the site.

Located 2.7 miles from Sutton Bridge, the lighthouse is close to local shops and pubs and within reach of riverside walks, including the Sir Peter Scott Walk. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as King’s Lynn, Sandringham Estate, Houghton Hall, and beaches at Hunstanton and Gibraltar Point.

For adventurers looking for other quirky places to stay in the UK, the Standby Generator Bunker in Dorset is a former RAF bunker that has been converted into a smart home by the coast. Elsewhere in Sussex, Hoots is a luxurious treehouse with all mod cons in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Over at Haverford West in Wales, St Ann's Head Lighthouse offers a selection of converted lighthouse cottages with rustic interiors, extensive sea views and coastal walks close by. Situated next to the St Ann's Head Lighthouse, the quirky cottages are nestled away at the western entrance to Milford Haven.

Guests who have already stayed at the Sir Peter Scott Light House, have left glowing reviews on TripAdvisor. One said: "What a blast," adding: "We've had five nights in this beautiful, tranquil lighthouse celebrating my 40th birthday. It was more than I ever imagined with the views, wildlife, walks and shops close by. The beds were so comfortable, it was perfect."

Another said: "Peaceful location where you didn't feel that you had to leave the property to explore the local area. The interior was 'spot on' with plenty of room. Added bonus, of course, was the trip to the top of the lighthouse! The games room was also a great attraction for the kids."

A third agreed, saying: "It is truly a very special and atmospheric place. There are so many interesting things for nature lovers to be seen."

However, one visitor did mention that they found the beds uncomfortable, adding: "Beds are cheap and uncomfortable, especially for anyone higher than 170 cm - the duvets were also low quality and very short."

In contrast, another five-star review said: "Really special having the lighthouse to ourselves and being able to explore the tower. The games room was a big plus. Enjoyed watching the geese and other wildfowl, and walking locally in the area. Would highly recommend."