A manor house has stood on this strategically important site on the River Trent since at least the 13th century. King Sweyn and his legendary son Knut (King Canute), Richard III, Henry VIII and Civil War armies all have played a role in Gainsborough's history. Tree ring analysis of the beams and the late medieval architectural style suggest that the whole building was completed before 1500.

The Burghs, the first owners of Gainsborough Hall, were flamboyant, rich and powerful, making their influence felt both in Lincolnshire and in national affairs. Thomas, 5th Lord Burgh served in Queen Elizabeth's army in the Netherlands, keeping the Spanish at bay, while his affairs at home fell into chaos. When the Queen refused Thomas' pleas to return home to sort out his affairs he was obliged to sell Gainsborough Hall, the manor house, estate and manorial rights to the town of Gainsborough to William Hickman, a London merchant...