Heritage, History and Atmosphere

The name 'Deeping' reflects the low-lying nature of the land which has been inhabited since pre-historic times.  Recently, evidence of salt pans was excavated at Outgang Road.  The Roman Carr Dyke passes through the town on its way from Peterborough to the River Witham. 

The manor of East Deeping, including Market Deeping, belonged to the Wake family in the 14th Century.  The right to hold an annual fair and a Wednesday market was granted to Joan of Wake, wife of the Black Prince, in 1304.  Prior to this Henry III had granted William Briwer the right, in 1220.  A market is still held each Wednesday.

St Guthlac's church was converted in 1170 from the chapel built by the monks from Crowland into a parish church.  Parts of the present church date from the 13th and 14th centuries.  The shaft of Pilgrims' cross, mentioned by Lord Burley in a survey for Elizabeth I survives at Towngate Crossroads.

Most of Church Street, Market Place and the High Street are included in a conservation area.  Church Street is said to be one of the county's finest Georgian streets.

In the Market Place there are tow Coaching Inns, 'The Bull', dating from the 16th Century, and 'The Deeping Stage', formerly 'The New Inn', marking the importance of the town during the era of the Stage Coach.  Also in the Market Place is The Town Hall, built by public subscription in 1839, now owned by South Kesteven District Council and leased to Market Deeping Council.