The town of Brigg has a rich and colourful history with many famous figures involved in its development over the centuries.

The market town of Brigg was originally called Glanford Bridge because of the crossing point over the River Ancholme. The Mayoral chain has the County Bridge as it is now known, on the medallion.

Brigg has a colourful history of markets and fairs, the most important being the annual Horse Fair which takes place on August 5th, when a Charter was granted by King John 800 years ago.

The Courts of Brigg were named after artisans working there, the principal one being Coney Court, where rabbit skins were cured.

The Angel Hotel was a coaching inn during the 18th century and played an important part in the life of Lincolnshire as far back as Oliver Cromwell. The angel on the balcony is said to be about 125 years old. The Angel Hotel was a coaching inn during the 18th century and played an important part in the life of Lincolnshire as far back as Oliver Cromwell. The angel on the balcony is said to be about 125 years old.

The Grammar School, now known as Sir John Nelthorpe Comprehensive School, was built in 1669. It was a Grammar School and boarding school for boy boarders. The local Nelthorpe family gave the school its name. The Elwes family had a home in the Manor House in Bigby Street and were associated with Perry Grainges music of Brigg Fair. There is still a music and drama festival held every year in the town.


The Brigg Raft was found in the River Ancholme, believed to be from the Bronze Age and is now in the Maritime Museum in Greenwich.

Learn more about Brigg's character's and heroes from a local.