The original building on Lea Road was once home to The Travellers Rest, a traditional pub dating back to at least the mid-1800s. Over time, it became better known as the Drovers Call, a name that paid tribute to the drovers who once herded livestock along the country routes and who would have stopped here for rest.
In 1906, the pub was rebuilt and reopened on 24th October, proudly serving the Gainsborough community with good company and local character. For generations, it stood as a familiar landmark — a place where stories were shared, friendships made, and the spirit of the town was reflected. As times changed however, so did the needs of the community and the pub eventually closed its doors in the early 2000s.
Following the demolishment of the original building in 2010, Knights Care developed a modern, purpose-built care home that would once again make the site a centre of community life — this time dedicated to caring for those who need it most.
In a heartfelt nod to its heritage, the Care Home has created its very own in-house pub, lovingly designed to honour the site’s former life as the original Drovers Call public house.
For many of our residents, the home’s pub isn’t just a place to relax — it’s a beautiful reminder of Gainsborough’s history and the community spirit that has always defined this special place.
Derek, for example, was part of a large social circle in Louth, including a lifelong football and school gang. While he wasn’t much of a drinker, he and his wife Carol were always part of the popular crowd, embodying the same sense of friendship and community that the Drovers Call pub once nurtured. Creating our in-house pub has given Derek and other residents a space to continue that tradition of connection in a new chapter of the building’s life.
