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The history and development of Boston has been strongly influenced by its geographical location and topography. Its proximity to the North Sea, flat fertile land with its myriad of waterways, has made it an ideal location for international trade and agriculture.

Built on the banks of the river Witham, which links the town to Lincoln, through the medieval period the town developed as an international port and member of the Hansiatic league, which traded with other member states throughout Western Europe. In terms of trade and revenue, the port of Boston was for centuries second only to London, and briefly in the 13th century actually eclipsed London as the leading port in England.

Boston’s importance as a mercantile port, created wealth for the town and a number of rich merchants and influential nobles settled in counciland around the town. Symbols of this wealth can still be seen today, particular examples being St. Botolph’s parish church (The Boston ‘Stump’) and St. Mary’s Guildhall.

Since 1125, Boston has hosted an annual May fair, eventually gaining a royal charter in 1542 to form Boston Corporation to run the town. The original fairs would have been a major event, with traders and merchants travelling from far and wide creating a real holiday atmosphere for townsfolk and visitor alike.

In the early 17th century, the social and political life of Boston was torn apart by the struggles which would eventually bring about civil war. Boston was a Puritan stronghold and in the 1630’s government pressure forced many Bostonians to emigrate to Massachusetts, where the new town they named Boston became the capital of the colony.

By 1750 the river Witham had silted up and few vessels could reach Boston and by 1760 the population had dwindled to only 3,470. The land to the west was drained and enclosed for the production of arable crops. The drainage and enclosure process continued throughout the Napoleonic Wars and by 1848 Boston had grown into the largest and richest town in the country.

Strolling through the bustling streets and medieval lanes, today’s visitors can find an alluring blend of traditional independent shops and national high street names.