china hand bourne lincolnshire

China Hand: Bourne, Lincolnshire's Hidden Gem

By Brian Miller
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Nestled in the heart of Lincolnshire, the small town of Bourne is home to a unique and fascinating attraction: the China Hand. This iconic landmark is not just a local curiosity, but a symbol of Bourne's rich history and its connection to the wider world. Let's delve into the story behind the China Hand and explore its significance to the town and its people.

What is the China Hand?

The China Hand is a large, concrete hand sculpture located in the center of Bourne. It stands at an impressive 15 feet tall and is painted a vibrant red, making it a striking and unmissable landmark. The hand holds a large, golden ball, symbolizing the world, and is a tribute to Bourne's historic trade links with China.

Bourne's Connection to China

Bourne's connection to China dates back to the 19th century when the town was a bustling hub for the lace-making industry. The high-quality lace produced in Bourne was in great demand in China, leading to a thriving trade relationship. The China Hand is a testament to this historic connection and serves as a reminder of Bourne's global influence.

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blue and yellow flowers are in the grass near some water with buildings on either side
blue and yellow flowers are in the grass near some water with buildings on either side
an old photo of people walking down the street
an old photo of people walking down the street
the outside of a restaurant with people sitting at tables on the sidewalk in front of it
the outside of a restaurant with people sitting at tables on the sidewalk in front of it

Bourne's Lace Industry

Bourne's lace industry was one of the most significant in the UK. At its peak, it employed thousands of people and exported lace to countries all over the world, including China. The intricate and delicate designs produced in Bourne were highly sought after, and the town's lace was even worn by European royalty.

The Creation of the China Hand

The idea for the China Hand was first proposed in the 1970s as a way to celebrate Bourne's historic connection to China and to attract tourists to the town. The hand was designed by local artist Ray Lonsdale and was officially unveiled in 1979. It has since become one of the most iconic symbols of Bourne and a popular tourist attraction.

an old photo of people walking on the sidewalk in front of parked cars and buildings
an old photo of people walking on the sidewalk in front of parked cars and buildings
Steep Hill, Lincoln
Steep Hill, Lincoln
a bike is parked in front of a building with flags hanging from it's windows
a bike is parked in front of a building with flags hanging from it's windows

Visiting the China Hand

If you're planning a visit to the China Hand, you'll find it in the center of Bourne, just off the A15. The hand is located in a small park, surrounded by trees and flowers, making it a peaceful and picturesque spot. There's also a nearby café and plenty of parking, making it a great place to stop for a bite to eat or a cup of tea.

Other Attractions in Bourne

While the China Hand is the town's most famous attraction, Bourne has plenty more to offer visitors. The town is home to a number of historic buildings, including the 12th-century Bourne Castle and the beautiful St Mary's Church. There are also several museums, art galleries, and shops to explore, making Bourne a great destination for a day trip.

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The China Hand Today

Today, the China Hand is more than just a tourist attraction. It's a symbol of Bourne's past and a reminder of the town's global connections. It's also a popular spot for local residents, who often gather there to meet friends or enjoy a picnic in the park. The hand has become a beloved part of Bourne's identity and a source of pride for its people.

people walking down the street in an old european town with brick buildings and cobblestone streets
people walking down the street in an old european town with brick buildings and cobblestone streets
a white plate topped with a cup and saucer next to pink flowers on top of a table
a white plate topped with a cup and saucer next to pink flowers on top of a table
an empty street with buildings on both sides and a clock tower in the back ground
an empty street with buildings on both sides and a clock tower in the back ground
black and white photograph of swans swimming in the water near a bridge with buildings on either side
black and white photograph of swans swimming in the water near a bridge with buildings on either side
a narrow city street lined with buildings and tall spires in the background, on a sunny day
a narrow city street lined with buildings and tall spires in the background, on a sunny day
an aerial view of a city with lots of houses and trees in the foreground
an aerial view of a city with lots of houses and trees in the foreground

In the News

The China Hand has been featured in numerous news articles and television programs over the years. It's been described as one of the UK's most unusual landmarks and has been the subject of several documentaries and travel shows. The hand has also been the subject of several art projects and has inspired countless photographs and paintings.

Preserving the China Hand

In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve the China Hand and ensure that it remains a part of Bourne's landscape for generations to come. The hand has been restored several times over the years, and there are plans to create a new visitor center and café nearby, further cementing the China Hand's place as a major tourist attraction.

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Conclusion

The China Hand is more than just a quirky landmark. It's a symbol of Bourne's rich history and its connection to the wider world. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from afar, the China Hand is a must-see attraction that offers a unique insight into Bourne's past and its place in the global community.

Steep Hill Lincoln Guide - 12+ Best Things to Do (2026)!
Steep Hill Lincoln Guide - 12+ Best Things to Do (2026)!
an old black and white photo of people walking down the street
an old black and white photo of people walking down the street
an old black and white photo of men standing in front of some tulips
an old black and white photo of men standing in front of some tulips
a river running through a small town next to tall brick buildings on either side of a bridge
a river running through a small town next to tall brick buildings on either side of a bridge
an old black and white photo of a town from the air with cars parked in front of it
an old black and white photo of a town from the air with cars parked in front of it
a cup and saucer sitting on top of a doily next to a window
a cup and saucer sitting on top of a doily next to a window
a bench sitting in front of a stone building with a wooden door and arched doorway
a bench sitting in front of a stone building with a wooden door and arched doorway
an old black and white photo of people walking down the street in front of buildings
an old black and white photo of people walking down the street in front of buildings
a tall building with lots of windows next to other buildings
a tall building with lots of windows next to other buildings
an old black and white photo of people walking down the street in lincoln, stonebow c 1950
an old black and white photo of people walking down the street in lincoln, stonebow c 1950
an old black and white photo of people standing in front of a building on the corner
an old black and white photo of people standing in front of a building on the corner
swans are swimming in the water under an old bridge with buildings on both sides and people walking by
swans are swimming in the water under an old bridge with buildings on both sides and people walking by
people are walking on the sidewalk in front of row houses
people are walking on the sidewalk in front of row houses
Chinatown, London
Chinatown, London
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