Happy that, despite some horrible weather, the festival has gone well so far.

Sad that it is nearly over, but we will be back next year.

Here is what we have on offer for the final weekend. We hope you can join us on some of these lovely walks

Fri 26th Oct Start Time 10:00am Dist 6 miles (3hrs)

49, A Walk Through Four Counties, Linked to 50

A walk through the lovely countryside of the four counties surrounding Stamford. We will walk alongside the River Welland, visit the pretty village of Easton on the Hill, stroll through woodland and walk past a historic ruin.

Leader Lincolnshire County Council Countryside Services Team 01522 552808 (office hours)

Organisation Lincolnshire County Council

Grid Ref TF 031 070 OS Explorer 234

Start Point Arts Centre, St Marys Street, Stamford, PE9 2DL

Parking Pay & Display car parks in Stamford

Terrain field paths and tracks – may be muddy

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

 

Fri 26th Oct Start Time 2:30pm Dist 4.5 miles (2.5hrs)

50, Burghley Park 2, Linked to 49

 

A gentle afternoon stroll around Burghley Park, we will go up to the house, take a break at the garden café before we return via The Meadows and quaint streets in Stamford. The cafe at the Arts & Heritage centre will be open on our return.

Leader Pete Ashmore 07808213068 Organisation Heritage Lincolnshire

Grid Ref TF031 070 OS Explorer 234

Start Point TIC & Arts Centre, St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DL

Parking Pay & Display car parks in Stamford

Terrain On the level, gentle slopes, mostly hard surface

Level Easy Cost Donations to SLWF

 

Sat 27th Oct Start Time 10:00am Dist 6.6 miles (3hrs)

52, Vikings On The High Dike, Linked to 53

A spooky walk on the Heath, this time Wellingore Heath, for centuries the haunt of evil highwaymen and where Knights once roamed. Bring a packed lunch if you are doing both walks

Leader Pete Ashmore 07808213068 Organisation Heritage Lincolnshire

Grid Ref TF 010 547 OS Explorer 272

Start Point Temple Bruer Preceptory Tower, High Grange, Temple Bruer, LN5 0DQ,

1.8 miles West off the A15, Sign-posted Welbourn.

Parking At start point

Terrain Mostly level grass, stone and tarmac tracks. Can be muddy if wet

Level Moderate Cost £3.50 (please note! Pay for the morning walk, get the afternoon walk free)

 

Sat 27th Oct Start Time 2:00pm Dist 5.4 miles (2.5hrs)

53, Templars On The Heath, Linked to 52

A walk on the Heath where Knights Templars once roamed. Visit the Preceptory Tower and a Horse Gin. Also passes the site of RAF Wellingore and travels along part of the Roman Ermine Street, which once linked London with Lincoln and York

Leader Pete Ashmore 07808213068 Organisation Heritage Lincolnshire

Grid Ref TF 010 547 OS Explorer 272

Start Point Temple Bruer Preceptory Tower, High Grange, Temple Bruer, LN5 0DQ,

1.8 miles West off the A15, Sign-posted Welbourn.

Parking At the start point

Terrain Gentle gradients, grass, stone and tarmac lanes, can be muddy if wet

Level Moderate Cost £3.50 (Note! Free if you attend and pay for the morning walk)

 

 

Temple Bruer Halloween Event Day, Sat 27th Oct, 11am – 4pm

Temple Bruer Knights Templar Preceptory Tower, Nr. Welbourn, LN5 0DQ
National Grid Reference: TF 00840 53714

Situated between Welbourn and Ashby de la Launde you will find the magnificent remains of the second wealthiest Templar preceptory in England.

Join us for spine-chilling spooks, terrifying thrills and creepy crafts. Uncover the dark legend of the tower ghost; a headless knight that still roams the spiral staircases. Our peculiar puzzle trail is perfect for little witches and werewolves. You’ll be sure to have a fang-tastic time, just remember to look after your mummy!

Halloween costumes encouraged. Proceeds raised from the trail and crafts will go directly to Heritage Lincolnshire, helping the charity to continue looking after special historic sites like Temple Bruer.

 

Sat 27th Oct Start Time 10:00am Dist 10 miles (5hrs)

51, Belton Estate and Witham Valley

Starting in Belton Estate we visit the Bellmount Tower then walk through Syston, Great Gonerby and Manthorpe before returning to Belton House.

Leader Geoff Newmarch 07774 870632 Organisation Lincoln Ramblers

Grid Ref SK 944 389 OS Explorer 247

Start Point Bellmount Tower car park (East of house inside Belton Estate)

Parking At start point

Terrain Minor roads, tracks, footpaths, fields

Level Energetic Cost Donations to SLWF

 

Sun 28th Oct Time 10:00am Dist 8.5 miles (4hrs)

54, Green Lanes of Temple Bruer

A gentle stroll along flat terrain including the ancient Roman Road of Ermine Street including a visit to the Knights Templar Preceptory Tower at Temple Bruer and the church of Temple Bruer.

Leader David Hill Organisation Ramblers

Grid Ref TF013519 OS Explorer 272

Start Point 0.5 miles East of Brauncewell, Nearest Postcode LN5 0DH

Parking From A15 at 5 miles North of Sleaford, turn West on lane for Leadenham and park 0.5 miles beyond the few stone houses of Brauncewell

Terrain Fields & paths

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

 

Sun 28th Oct Start Time 10:00am Dist 2 miles (2hrs)

55, Wild Medicine Walk 3, Linked to 57.

Many of the plants we pass by everyday have the ability to heal and help us maintain good health. Guided by herbalists, we shall uncover plants that have medicinal value, teaching how to identify them, and discuss the health benefits of each.

Leader Emma Barker MNIMH 07887788105 weekdays after 3.30pm

Organisation Fenland Natural Health

Grid Ref TF 247 244 OS Explorer 249

Start Point Spalding Lifestyle & Garden Centre, 210 Spalding Road, Spalding,

Parking At the start point

Terrain Footpaths, river banks, meadows, may be muddy

Level Easy Cost Donations to SLWF

 

Sun 28th Oct Start Time 10:30am Dist 7 miles (3hrs)

56, Boston Town Walk.

Boston is a town full of history and interesting buildings. This walk will explore some of the quieter areas away from the town centre. We will walk beside the river Haven and learn about its past importance to the prosperity of the town.

Leader Mike Chapman 07500 401010 Organisation The Ramblers

Grid Ref TF 328 438 OS Explorer 261

Start Point Market Place, Boston

Parking Boston Market Place car park

Terrain Urban walking, mainly on pavements with some uneven riverbank tracks.

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

 

Sun 28th Oct Start Time 2:30pm Dist 1.5 miles (1hrs)

57, Wild Medicine Walk 4, Linked to 55

Many of the plants we pass by every day have the ability to heal and help us maintain good health. Guided by herbalists, we shall uncover plants that have medicinal value, teaching how to identify them, and discuss the health benefits of each.

Leader Emma Barker MNIMH 07887788105 weekdays after 3.30pm

Organisation Fenland Natural Health

Grid Ref TF 249 244 OS Explorer 249

Start Point Ayscoughfee Hall & Gardens, Churchgate, Spalding

Parking On street or Pay & Display Car Park at The Vista, next to Ayscoughfee Hall

Terrain Riverside paths, with special arrangements for pushchairs & wheelchairs

Level Easy Cost Donations to SLWF

Sunday 28th Oct, from 10:00-16:00

 

Festival Finale 10am to 4pm

Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, Heath Farm, North Rauceby, NG34 8QR
Join us at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre for an RAF 100 themed finale. Plenty to see and do for all the family including four fabulous walks on offer. Prizes to be won! The Old Kings Head Raffle will be drawn at this event. Refreshments will be available throughout the day.
Visit the Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum Website for more information.

ps, BBC Radio Lincolnshire will be starting their Pirate Gold hunt from here

 

Sun 28th Oct Start Time 10:00am Dist 5.5 miles (2.5hrs)

58, Around The Raucebys

A ramble along countryside paths where Buzzards soar, we get a glimpse of Rauceby Hall and pass the site of a deserted medieval village.

Leader Pete Ashmore 07808213068 Organisation Heritage Lincolnshire

Grid Ref TF 022 475 OS Explorer 272

Start Point Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, Heath Farm, North Rauceby, NG34 8QR

Parking At start point

Terrain Field paths, farm tracks, short stretches of road, can be muddy

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

 

Sun 28th Oct Start Time 10:30am Dist 10 miles (5hrs)

59, Bouncing Hill & Boiling Wells

Bouncing Hill and Boiling Wells, all this around North and South Rauceby. Will we see the hills move? Or the wells boil? There’s only one way to find out!

Leader Alex Russel 07903 054604 Organisation Boston Ramblers

Grid Ref TF 022 475 OS Explorer 272

Start Point Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, Heath Farm, North Rauceby, NG34 8QR

Parking At start point

Terrain Farm tracks, field paths, some roads to cross, may be muddy

Level Energetic Cost Donations to SLWF

 

Sun 28th Oct Start Time 11:00am Dist 7.5 miles (3.5hrs)

60, Spinneys, Plantations and a DMV

A ramble around the Raucebys along farm tracks and field-edge paths where Buzzards grace the skies and views are panoramic. Check out the deserted medieval village.

Leader Brian Holman 07719522579 Organisation Heritage Lincolnshire

Grid Ref TF 022 475 OS Explorer 272

Start Point Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, Heath Farm, North Rauceby, NG34 8QR

Parking At the start point

Terrain Field paths, tracks and pavements, may be muddy

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

AND FINALLY, 

Sun 28th Oct Start Time 1:00pm Dist 6 miles (2.5hrs)

61, Heath and High Wood

A ramble around North Rauceby, High Wood, a Deserted Medieval Village and open countryside with views of RAF College Cranwell.

Leader Pete Ashmore 07808213068 Organisation Heritage Lincolnshire

Grid Ref TF 022 475 OS Explorer 272

Start Point Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, Heath Farm, North Rauceby, NG34 8QR

Parking At start point

Terrain Field paths, farm tracks, short stretches of road, can be muddy

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

Don’t forget to buy your raffle tickets, proceeds to save The Old Kings Head at  Kirton near Boston, a Heritage Lincolnshire project, at the finale venue. The draw will take place in the afternoon of 28th October. Tickets also available at the Stamford and Temple Bruer start points on Friday and Saturday. See the walk leader.

Prizes include, Family Ticket to Lincoln Castle, Tickets to Blackfriars The Sound Of Music, A Ride In A Rally Car, Two to TEDx Brayford Pool’s Salon Discussion.

 

Last weekend was very windy, and on Sunday very wet, but this didn’t deter almost 500 walkers and runners on the Spires & Steeples Challenge and lots more walkers over the weekend attending 13 events.

This weekend we have 11 events for you, ranging from 1 mile to 10.75 miles with RAF100 themed walks and a Railway Ramble. Full details below. We hope you can join us, the forecast is looking better.

 

38, In the Shadow of a Castle, Fri 19th Oct Start Time 10:00am Dist 6 miles (3hrs)

A lovely walk taking in the Grantham Canal, the Viking Way and ending with stunning views across the Vale of Belvoir. Fingers crossed for clear skies!

39, Denton Reservoir & Harlaxton Village.  Fri 19th Oct Start Time 2:30pm Dist 4 miles (2hrs)

A relaxing stroll around a reservoir, along the canal and around two picturesque villages at the edge of the Trent and Belvoir Vales where the land rises to join the Kesteven Uplands and the Leicestershire Wolds.

 

40, Railway Ramble – Along the Grantham Canal. Sat 20th Oct Start Time Train departs Grantham at 9:45am to Bottesford (9:56am) Dist 9.5 miles (5hrs)

 

41, Morkery Wood 2018 Style. Sat 20th Oct Start Time 10:30am Dist 8.6 miles (4.5hrs)

Exploring woodland and open fields, Morkery is a small, peaceful, ancient woodland which was used as an ammunition and bomb store during the Second World War (it was RAF South Witham).

 

42, Coleby Circular. Sun 21st Oct Start Time 10:00am Dist 7.7 miles (approx. 5hrs)

 

43, A Castle, Woodland and Water. Sun 21st Oct Start Time 10:00am Dist 10.75 miles (5.5hrs)

 

44, To Antons Gowt – beyond and back. Sun 21st Oct Start Time 10:30am Dist 5 miles (2hrs)

A meander around the Country Park and then following the Witham to Antons Gowt, spotting the sculptures en route.

 

45, We will remember. Linked to 44. Sun 21st Oct Start Time 2:00pm Dist approx. 1 mile (1hr)

A leisurely stroll in the beautiful Victorian Cemetery which is listed as an Historic Park and Garden and a designated Local Wildlife site before visiting the WW1 war graves where we will remember the fallen.

 

46, Roam Around Scopwick & Blankney. Linked to 48. Sun 21st Oct Start Time 9:45am Dist 8 miles (3hrs)

An RAF related energetic ramble in the countryside starting and finishing at the Visitor Centre, we see RAF personnel graves and a memorial to a crashed Lancaster bomber.

 

48, Metheringham Old Airfield Circular. Linked to 46. Sun 21st Oct Start Time 2:30pm Dist 5.2 miles (2hrs)

A wander around the old Metheringham Airfield where 106sqdn operated during the second world war, including a visit to the RAF Memorial, fitting for this #RAF100 year.

Despite the rain on Saturday we had a good weekend of walks (5th – 7th) around the County. This weekend we have 13 walks/events on offer. Here are the highlights of what is coming up. 

Fri 12th Oct.

25, RAF Saltby Walk,

Start Time: 10:00-15:00, Dist 10 miles (5hrs)

The walk is through some of the most splendid countryside Lincolnshire has to offer and incorporates a disused airfield, an ancient Bronze Age track, now adopted as part of the Viking Way. It also passes the little visited village of Saltby.

Leader David Haycox 07855314734 Organisation Stamford Ramblers
Grid Ref SK 898 257 OS Explorer 247
Start Point The Green opposite the ‘Cross Swords Inn’, Main Street, Skillington NG33 5HB. Parking Turn left at the Cross Swords Inn in Skillington and there is plenty of parking on the roadside.
Terrain Grass Paths, tracks and a small amount of road walking and relatively flat.
Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

Fri 12th Oct

26, The Deepings Circular Linked to 29.

Start Time: 10:00am Dist 5.5 miles (3hrs)

 A riverside stroll along the old and new River Welland between Market Deeping and West Deeping.

Leader Pete Ashmore 07808213068 Organisation Heritage Lincolnshire

Grid Ref TF139 099 OS Explorer 235

Start Point Market Square, Market Deeping, PE6 8EA

Parking Market Square and surrounding streets

Terrain Level, some roadside paths, river banks

Level Easy Cost £3.50 Linked to #29.

Fri 12th Oct

27, Stepping out into Heckington.

Start Time 10:30am Dist 6.1 miles (3hrs)

Enjoy the sites of 1000 year old Heckington Village,follow the historic Roman Car Dyke that dates from around AD125. At 76 miles it’s the largest known Romano canal in Britain. Heckington lies at the edge of the rich Fen lands, with beautiful scenery.

Leader Samantha Hagan 01636 892836 (between 8:30 & 16:30) Organisation Countryside NK

Grid Ref TF 142 439 OS Explorer 248

Start Point The village green off the High Street in Heckington, NG34 9QZ

Parking Small amount of parking at the village green

Terrain A mix of grassy banks, rough pasture and farmland which can be muddy. Small amount of road walking on quiet roads. This walk has stiles, kissing gates and steps

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF.

Fri 12th Oct

28, Around Ancaster Again.

Start Time 2:00pm Dist 4 miles (2hrs)

A gentle stroll over tracks and paths in an area visited by the Romans. We wend our way to Woodland Waters then along the Valley then up steps to return via Ermine Way.

Leader David Mellor 01529 461192 Organisation Sleaford Ramblers

Grid Ref SK 984 445 OS Explorer 247

Start Point Car Park, Station Approach, Ancaster Station, NG32 3QY

Parking Ancaster Railway Station Car Park

Terrain Tracks, pathways, field paths, roads

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

Fri 12th Oct

29, BRACE yourself for a GREAT walk Linked to 26.

Start Time 2:30pm Dist 5.5 miles (3hrs)

The walk will take in the pretty villages of Braceborough and Greatford, as well as the surrounding farmland, woods and parkland. We will be on the look out for wild deer.

Leader Countryside Services Lincolnshire County Council 01522 782070

Organisation Lincolnshire County Council

Grid Ref TF 087 119 OS Explorer 234

Start Point Village Hall, Carlby Road, Greatford. PE9 4PP

Parking On street parking in village – please park responsibly

Terrain Tracks, field paths, short stretch of road walking.

Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

Symbols 👣👣 🐕 ☕ 💬 🏛 Linked to Walk #26

Sat 13th Oct

30, Lakes, Woods & Wildlife.

Start Time 10:30am Dist 7.6 miles (3.5hrs)

A moderately paced walk for a leisurely Saturday morning, along field tracks, through woods and round lakes. We end at the Boardwalk Cafe where there should be plenty of cake etc

Leader Pete Ashmore 07808213068 Organisation Lincolnshire Heritage

Grid Ref SK 912 663 OS Explorer 271 & 272

Start Point Natural World Centre, Whisby Nature Park, Moor Lane, Thorpe On The Hill, LN6 9BW

Parking Whisby Nature Park £2 all day at time of printing

Terrain Level, field paths, farm tracks, woodland paths can be muddy

Level Moderate Cost £3.50

Sat 13th Oct

31, Heckington Fen Family Railway walk.

Start Time 10:30am Dist 6 miles (2.5 to 3hrs)

Discover Heckington home to the 8 sailed windmill which dominates the surrounding countryside. Lying at the edge of the rich fen lands the landscape changes with the growing season this walk will take it all in.

Leader Kaye Robinson 01522 553022 Mon, Tues and Thurs 8:30am-4pm

Organisation Lincolnshire County Council

Grid Ref TF 146 435 OS Explorer 248

Start Point Heckington Station, Station Yard, Heckington, NG34 9UP

Parking There is parking at the station or even better travel by train

Terrain This walk is along uneven footpaths /tracks and includes stiles, kissing gates and cattle fencing. The walk along the banks of the Heckington Eau is predominantly flat though unpredictably uneven in the long grass. There may be cattle present along the banks.

Level Easy Cost Donations to SLWF

Symbols 👣 🐕 🚻 🏛 🚌

 

Sat 13th Oct

32, Springfield’s Activity Walk.

Start Time 2:00pm Dist 1 mile (1.5hrs)

Specially designed route for children following numbered tulips around the beautiful Festival Gardens. This route combines challenging educational questions as well as fun activities for children of all ages.

Leader Judy Chapman 01775 680404 Organisation The Ramblers

Grid Ref TF 263 242 OS Explorer 249

Start Point Springfield’s Festival Gardens, Camel Gate, Spalding, PE12 6ET

Parking Springfield’s main car park (charges apply)

Terrain Hard surfaced paths through formal gardens

Level Easy Cost Donations to SLWF

Symbols 👣 🚻 ♿ 👪 ☕ 💬 🚌

 

Sun 14th Oct

33, The Spires & Steeples Challenge 26 (Walk or Run)

Start Time Walkers – 8:30am / Runners – 9:30am Dist 26 miles

There is a time limit of 10 hours for the 26 mile walk, 9 hours for the 26 mile run

The route follows the Spires and Steeples Arts and Heritage Trail

Leader Self Guided. For an entry form Tel: 01522 701308
or enter here
https://www.evententry.co.uk/the-spires-and-steeples-challenge

Organisation Greenwich Leisure Limited | NK Community Sport & Health Team, OneNK, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln, LN6 9AX

Terrain For more information on the route, please visit the official Spires and Steeples Arts & Heritage Trail Website, https://www.better.org.uk/spires-and-steeples-challenge

or you can purchase the official booklet for £1.50; contact us for purchase options. Tel: 01522 701308

Level Energetic

Cost Entry Fee: £18 in advance. Entry Deadline: Postal – Monday 8th October / Online – Wednesday 10th October
Symbols 👣👣👣 🚻 🏛 🚌

 

Sun 14th Oct

34, The Spires & Steeples Challenge 13 (Walk or Run)

Start Time 11:00am Dist 13 miles

There is a time limit of 7 hours for the 13 mile run and walk.

The route follows the Spires and Steeples Arts and Heritage Trail

Leader Self-Guided. For an entry form Tel: 01522 701308
or enter here
https://www.evententry.co.uk/the-spires-and-steeples-challenge

Organisation Greenwich Leisure Limited | NK Community Sport & Health Team, OneNK, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln, LN6 9AX

Terrain For more information on the route, please visit the official Spires and Steeples Arts & Heritage Trail Website
https://www.better.org.uk/spires-and-steeples-challenge

or you can purchase the official booklet for £1.50; contact us for purchase options. Tel: 01522 701308

Level Energetic

Cost Entry Fee: £15 in advance. Entry Deadline: Postal – Monday 8th October / Online – Wednesday 10th October

Symbols 👣👣👣 🚻 🥪 🏛 🚌

 

Sun 14th Oct

35, Fulbeck Wander.

Start Time 10:30am Dist 6 miles (2hrs)

A brief walk around the village of Fulbeck then heading out across the fields towards Caythorpe. walking along the ridge taking in the views of the valley, before dropping down on the Danelaw Way, across fields heading back towards Fulbeck.

Leader Sarah Eddington 07834 121220 Organisation British Walking Federation

Grid Ref SK 948 503 OS Explorer 272

Start Point Playing Field Car Park, Fulbeck NG32 3JJ

Parking At playing fields, just off the A607, opposite the Hare & Hounds public house

Terrain Hilly, fields, tracks, footpaths, bridleways, can be muddy

Level Moderate Cost £3.50

Symbols 👣👣 🐕 👪 🥪 🏛 🚌

 

Sun 14th Oct

36, The Wash – Lincolnshire’s Wilderness.

Start Time 10:30am Dist 7 miles (4hrs)

An unhurried walk of seven miles using old and new sea banks, some field paths with short stretches on quiet roads to access stunning views of the Wash.

Leader John Beaven 07713652119 Organisation Ramblers

Grid Ref TF 461 294 OS Explorer 249

Start Point Village Hall, Gedney Drove End, PE12 9PN

Parking At start point

Terrain Sea banks, quiet country roads, may be muddy in places.

Level Easy Cost Donations to SLWF

Symbols 👣 🐕 👪 🥪

 

Sun 14th Oct

37, Gorse Hill.

Start Time 10:30am Dist 6.75 miles (3.25hrs)

From Creeton a mix of track and fields parallel to the East Coast Main Line to Swayfield and by Gorse Hill to Swinstead. Then back to Creeton crossing the West Glen river. Some steep slopes so a bit of a challenge.

Leader David White 07770652722 Organisation Ramblers

Grid Ref TF 011 098 OS Explorer 247 & 248

Start Point Lay by just south of Creeton (B1176) Little Bytham Road. NG33 4QB

Parking Lay by just south of Creeton. Little Bytham Road

Terrain Hilly, tracks, fields, pathways and minor roads Level Moderate Cost Donations to SLWF

Symbols 👣👣 🥪 💬

For further information on the festival please visit our Facebook Page

Or our Website

Coming up this weekend

Friday 5th October

12, Tea For Two, 10:00-14:00, 8 miles (4hrs)

Leadenham Teahouse & Post Office, 10 Main Rd, Leadenham LN5 0PY

This moderately paced ramble takes us over the (Lincoln) edge and into the valley below, past a manor house and an RAF Memorial followed by a gentle climb back onto the edge and a visit to a church. Refreshments can be purchased at the start & end.

13, Bonnie Scotland, 10:30am Dist 6 miles (2.5hrs)

In front of St Bartholomew’s Church, Ingoldsby NG33 4EN

Visit Scotland without leaving Lincolnshire! Woods, tracks and history

14, Around Ancaster,  2:00pm Dist 4 miles (2hrs)

Car Park, Station Approach, Ancaster Station, NG32 3QY

A gentle stroll over tracks and paths in an area visited by the Romans. We wend our way to Woodland Waters then along the Valley then up steps to return via Ermine Way

Saturday 6th October

15, Around South Rauceby, 11:00am Dist 4.5 miles (2.5hrs)

St Peter’s Church, North Rauceby, NG34 8QU

A very easy walk across the fields and through the woods around the pretty village of South Rauceby. Some undulation in places but no serious hills and only a couple of stiles

16, Burghley Park 1 Linked to 18, 1:00pm Dist 4.5 miles (2.5hrs)

TIC & Arts Centre, St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DL

An afternoon circular stroll around Burghley Park, we will walk to the house, pause at the café for a welcome break before we wend our way back to Stamford. Coincides with Stamford Apple Day where all things apple may be purchased

17, A stroll through History in a Victorian cemetery, 2:00pm Dist 1 mile (1hr)

Holbeach Cemetery, Park Road, Holbeach

The walk leader takes you back to Victorian times as the fascinating lives of people buried in the cemetery unfold. You will hear of the hardships borne and the different trades in Victorian times. Mature trees and carved headstones set the scene.

18, Stamford Four Counties Night Walk Linked to 16, 5:00pm Dist 6 miles (3hrs)

TIC & Arts Centre, St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DL

See Stamford and Four Counties in a different light, taking in Lincolnshire, Rutland, Northamptonshire and Cambridgeshire. Head Torches Essential. Refreshments/Toilets at beginning not the end.

Sunday 7th October

19, Views of the Vale of Belvoir, 10:00am Dist 9 miles (5hrs)

The Green, Allington, Nr Grantham, NG32 2EA

Walking from Allington via Thackston’s Well, towards (but not over) the A1. Returning via the Ashes and the Earthworks with views over the Vale of Belvoir.

20, Folkingham & Sempringham Circular, 10:00am Dist 8.5 miles (4.5hrs)

Church, Market Place, Folkingham, NG34 0SE

Starting in the impressive Market Place of Folkingham this walk passes through rolling countryside taking in the isolated church at Sempringham Priory with its fascinating history and also through the pretty village of Aslackby.

21, Wild Medicine Walk 1, 10:30am Dist 2 miles (2hrs)

Spalding Lifestyle & Garden Centre, 210 Spalding Road, Spalding, PE11 3PB

Many of the plants we pass by every day have the ability to heal and help us maintain good health. Guided by herbalists, we shall uncover plants that have medicinal value, teaching how to identify them, and discuss the health benefits of each.

22, Woods & Wildlife Walk, 10:30am Dist 12 miles (6hrs)

St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Carlton Le Moorland, LN5 9GP.

If you go down to the woods today, you could be in for a big surprise, plenty of wildlife, maybe a bear or two. Maybe even a rare glimpse of some Banded Demoiselles.

23, Walking in Grundy’s Spalding, 2:00pm Dist 1.5 miles (2hrs)

Spalding Gentlemen’s Society, Broad Street, Spalding, PE11 1 TB

John Grundy 1696-1748 was an engineer concerned with drainage and fenland management, in 1731 he was commissioned by Spalding Gentlemens Society to produce a Spalding map (completed 1732) and the walk will compare the early map with Spalding today.

24, Wild Medicine Walk 2,  2:30pm Dist 1.5 miles (1hr)

Ayscoughfee Hall & Gardens, Churchgate, Spalding, PE11 2RA

Many of the plants we pass by every day have the ability to heal and help us maintain good health. Guided by herbalists, we shall uncover plants that have medicinal value, teaching how to identify them, and discuss the health benefits of each

 

On Saturday 29^th September Harlaxton Manor will host the grand opening of the 4^th South Lincolnshire Walking Festival, providing a rare opportunity to visit the stunning historic property and its grounds, now owned by the University of Evansville, Indiana, USA.

The family friendly event offers a packed programme of walks and tours throughout the day*, including:

Harlaxton House Tours (10.15am & 2pm): Learn how the Manor, built in the 1830’s for a wealthy Nottinghamshire businessman, played a key role in England’s history throughout the years.

Harlaxton Walled Garden Tour (10.30am & 1.45pm): Join Harlaxton’s Head Gardner for a tour of the 6.5 acre walled garden, one of the largest in Britain!

Harlaxton Family Garden Trail (10.45am & 2.15pm): A great opportunity for families to go and explore the stunning gardens and see what you can find with the fun family trail.

Harlaxton’s Military History (11.15am & 1.30pm): Harlaxton’s history from the trenches of WW1 to operation Market Garden in WW2.

Safeguarding Harlaxton’s Heritage (12.30pm): Tackling Heritage at Risk in the grounds of Harlaxton Manor.

Canal & Reservoir Circular (12.30pm): A gentle afternoon stroll by canal and reservoir.

Viking Way and Canal Walk (10am): an energetic 10.5 mile walk along the Viking Way and Grantham Canal, departing from Harlaxton Manor and returning in time for tea!

*Some walks have limited availability, places will be allocated on a first come first served basis on the day.

Those wanting to explore the grounds at their leisure can join one of the self-led trails around Harlaxton Woodland.

The event, which runs from 10am to 4pm, offers something for all ages and abilities and with no admission charge it makes for a fun and affordable day out for all the family. Refreshments will be served in the conservatory throughout the day. All walks are free, except house tours where a small fee of £2 applies. Donations to the South Lincolnshire Walking Festival are welcomed.

The launch event marks the start of a 14 day festival, offering over 60 walks on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between 29^th September – 28^th October.

The festival will conclude with a finale event at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre on Sunday 28^th October, where the Heritage Lincolnshire raffle will be drawn. Tickets for the raffle will be on sale at the launch event and can also be purchased at www.heritagelincolnshire.org/raffle. A range of prizes are on offer including a family ticket to Lincoln Castle. All money raised will help Heritage Lincolnshire to save the Old King’s Head in Kirton.

To find out more about the South Lincolnshire Walking Festival, pick up a copy of the festival brochure which is out now. Copies are available from your local library or tourist information centre, or it can be download from the festival website (https://southlincswalking.com). Walks are also listed on the South Lincolnshire Walking Festival Facebook page.

The festival is organised by Heritage Lincolnshire with support from Lincolnshire County Council, Access Lincoln, North Kesteven District Council, South Kesteven District Council, Boston Borough Council and South Holland District Council.

Natalie Lunt, Walking Festival Co-ordinator for Heritage Lincolnshire, said “We are delighted once again to co-ordinate this highly successful walking festival in South Lincolnshire thanks to our partners, supporters and volunteers.”

 

You are probably already aware that the 2018 festival is all ready to go. This year we have 61 events, some of those repeated so you don’t miss out, bringing you 66 events in total.

We are pleased to announce that the launch is at Harlaxton Manor near Grantham, with easy access from the A1/A607.  Harlaxton Manor is not generally open to the public so we are very excited about this not-to-be-missed opportunity.

Refreshments will be available to purchase throughout the day.

There will be plenty to do for all the family, with house tours, garden tours, family garden trail and self-led walks in the woods.

For history buffs there will be two Millitary History tours covering both World Wars from the trenches of WW1 to operation Market Garden in WW2.

Heritage Lincolnshire will explain how they are tackling the subject of Heritage At Risk on a short tour of the Manor grounds.

For those looking for something more challenging, we haven’t forgotten you. We have a 10-11 mile ramble going out of the grounds, along the Viking Way to the Dirty Duck Pub on the banks of the Grantham Canal where refreshments can be purchased prior to returning to Harlaxton Village and Manor via the Canal.

There is also a shorter walk of 5 miles in the afternoon, leaving the morning free for the house and garden tours.

Please do join us, all events are free except the House Tours which cost only £2 per person. All we ask is for a donation towards the running costs of the festival.

We hope you enjoyed last weekend’s walks. Did you take any photos? Share them with us on Facebook, Twitter or by popping them in an email to slwf@heritagelincolnshire.org. We’d love to see them!

This Friday, Saturday and Sunday we have 16 fantastic walks lined up for you, from a 1 mile stroll along the River Banks of Boston with historian Neil Wright to an energetic 11 miles of Green Lanes and a Country House Near Osbournby.

You can discover Hidden Belton, Break Boundaries from Stamford, track down The Welsh Princess, go on a Chocolate Pilgrimage, make your Great Escape and experience the Chicken Run plus many more listed below. 11 of the walks are dog-friendly so you can bring your walking buddy along too!

13. Hidden Belton – BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Walk leader: Rachael Hall, National Trust Archaeologist 01476 566116 or email belton@nationaltrust.org.uk
Friday 30th September at 09:30
Start point: Start point on the Belton House estate will be provided at time of booking
Distance: Up to 4 miles
Cost: Walk is free but ‘grounds only’ admission applies
Dogs welcome
14. Green Lanes and a Country House near Osbournby
Friday 30th September at 10:00
Walk leader: Alison Crow
Start point: High Street, Osbournby NG34 0DP TF068381
Distance: 11 miles
Dogs welcome
15. Algarkirk and Sutterton Circular Walk
Friday 30th September at 11:00
Walk leader: Rosemary Saunders
Start point: Algarkirk Village Hall PE20 2HH TF291351
Distance: 4 miles
Dogs welcome
16. From Market to Mill
Friday 30th September at 11:00
Walk leader: Lincolnshire County Council Countryside Services Team
Start point: Market Place, Market Deeping PE6 8EA TF138099
Distance: 5.5 miles
Dogs welcome
17. Friday at Frampton Marsh #1 – BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Friday 30th September at 14:00
Walk leader: Vincent Chambers 01205 724678
Start point: Start point at RSPB Frampton Marsh will be provided at time of booking
Distance: 2.5 miles
18. A Bit of Sleaford Past
Saturday 1st October at 10:00
Walk leader: Dick Fairhead
Start point: East Banks Car Park, Boston Road, Sleaford NG34 7HH TF072456
Distance: 3.5 miles
19. Navenby, Wellingore and Temple Bruer Church
Saturday 1st October at 10:00
Walk leader: Ray Holloway
Start point: The Venue, Grantham Road, Navenby LN5 0JJ SK987572
Distance: 7.5 miles
Dogs welcome
20. Breaking Boundaries from Stamford – BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Walk leader: Rachael Smith 01476 406080
Saturday 1st October at 10:30
Start point: Start point in Stamford will be given at time of booking
Distance: 7 miles
Dogs welcome
21. Central Park, Witham Bank and Witham Way Country Park Circular
Walk leader: Frances Taylor
Saturday 1st October at 11:00
Start point: Central Park, Park Gate, Boston PE21 6RF TF328443
Distance: 2.5 miles
Dogs welcome
22. The Welsh Princess
Walk leader: Richard Collins, CurlyDog Ltd
Saturday 1st October at 13:30
Start point: Pointon Playing Field and Social Club, Fen Lane, Pointon NG34 0LZ TF119318
Distance: 4.5 miles
Dogs welcome
23. Deeping Lakes Nature Reserve
Walk leader: David Mainwaring and Norah Littler 0771 7408534
Saturday 1st October at 14:00
Start point: DeepingLakes car park. Grid reference TF182083
Distance: 2 miles
24. Freiston High Tide Walk – BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Walk leader: Chris Andrews 01205 724678
Saturday 1st October at 17:00
Start point: Start point at RSPB Freiston will be provided at time of booking
Distance: 3 miles
25. Chocolate Pilgrimage
Walk leader: Ian Marshman
Sunday 2nd October at 10:00
Start point: Meet outside the former Greyhound Inn , Market Place, Folkingham NG34 0TG TF072336
Distance: 6 miles
Dogs welcome
26. The Great Escape
Walk leader: Robert West
Sunday 2nd October at 10:30
Start point: Cut End Car Park, Cut End Road, Fishtoft PE22 0QX TF380391
Distance: 8.5 miles
27. Chicken Run!
Walk leader: Beverley Gormley
Sunday 2nd October at 11:00
Start point: Ruskington Village Hall Car Park, Parkfield Road, Ruskington NG34 9HS TF083513
Distance: 4.5 miles
Dogs welcome
28. River Banks of Boston
Walk leader: Neil Wright
Sunday 2nd October at 11:00
Start point: St Botolph’s Footbridge, PE21 8RZ TF327441
Distance: 1 mile
Dogs welcome
You can download the full programme of walks for 24th September to 30th October or donate to the festival at www.southlincswalking.com