Early records
Local historical research records a hostelry on this site by the late 13th century, reflecting Grantham’s long importance as a stopping place for travellers.
About The George
Centuries of Grantham history.
A place for business today.
From a historic coaching inn on the Great North Road to a characterful shopping and business destination, The George has been part of Grantham’s commercial life for generations.
A landmark address
Historic fabric. Modern opportunity.
The George occupies a prominent High Street position in the heart of Grantham. Behind its red-brick elevations is a distinctive covered atrium, upper galleries and a collection of retail, hospitality, health, service and office spaces.
The historic George Hotel is a Grade II* listed building. The present three-storey brick building dates from 1780, but records of an inn on the site stretch back much further. Today, the building continues its long commercial story as The George Shopping Centre.
Our story
A meeting place for centuries.
The George Inn
The George Inn is recorded in the 15th century and formed part of the manor of Grantham. Its position on the route that became the Great North Road placed it at the centre of coaching-era trade and travel.
Thomas Paine
Political writer Thomas Paine stayed at The George while working in Grantham as an excise officer. A blue plaque inside the centre commemorates his connection with the building.
The Georgian rebuilding
The present George Hotel building was constructed in 1780. Historic England records its brick façade, dated former carriageway, period circular window, fireplaces and Adam-style stair decoration among its notable features.
Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens stayed at The George while travelling north. The hotel later entered literary history through Nicholas Nickleby, and a second blue plaque marks the association.
A new chapter
After the hotel closed, the site was converted for shopping-centre use, retaining important historic features while creating the covered commercial environment seen today.
The George today
A varied community of occupiers.
The centre combines established local businesses, independent operators and professional organisations across food and drink, retail, health, beauty, care, technology, employment services and professional testing.
Restaurants, cafés & social spaces
Katana Japanese Restaurant, Cafe Nirvana, Taj Mahal Buffet Lounge, Naughty Delicious and the long-established Oscar’s Wine Bar help give The George a broad hospitality offer.
Specialists with personality
The Reading Room, Rod Pooley Music, Riverview Reptiles, Metro Fashion and The Crafty Ladies add specialist and independent shopping to the centre.
Everyday services
Lunettes Opticians, Correct Hearing, Onyx Threading Services, Glamour Nails and Serenity Care provide health, care, beauty and wellbeing services in one central location.
Work, technology & support
CreeperHost, Jobs 22, Pathways, Pearson VUE and office occupiers add a strong service and professional dimension to the centre.
Join The George
Space for businesses at every stage.
The George offers a range of available retail, commercial and office accommodation — from compact units suited to a first shop, studio or service business through to larger spaces for established operators and growing teams.
Current opportunities include prominent glazed retail units, upper-gallery commercial accommodation, individual office suites and larger office space including Units 33–35.
Historic references
Read more about the building.
Historic EnglandGrade II* listing for the former George Hotel ↗
Society for Lincolnshire History & ArchaeologyGeorge Hotel history and archive material ↗
Grantham Civic SocietyBlue plaques and local historical connections ↗
Grantham History Art TrailResearch into the earliest recorded hostelry on the site ↗