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LINCOLNSHIRE WOLDS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• (0.32 mi) Serendipity at the Priory Hotel
• (0.20 mi) Beaumont Hotel
• (0.18 mi) 2 bedroom accommodation in Louth
• (0.72 mi) The Kings Head Hotel
• (0.28 mi) 5 STAR GOLD LUXURY HEAVENLY HIDEAWAY. SLEEPS 4. LOUTH TOWN CENTRE
• (0.01 mi) The Woolpack Inn
• (0.32 mi) Serendipity Restaurant at The Priory
• (0.52 mi) Baci & Co
• (0.47 mi) Asha Indian Restaurant
• (0.23 mi) Cook-oooz
• (0.19 mi) Louth Riverhead Theatre
• (0.16 mi) The Gas Lamp Lounge Brewery Pub
• (1.09 mi) Louth Distillery
• (0.77 mi) St James Church
• (0.33 mi) OrganFox

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Lincolnshire wolds: a ramblers' paradise

'Walking through the Lincolnshire wolds is like being in Gulliver's Travels," says Helen from the Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service as we stride along the tiny river Bain.

My brother and I can't help but agree – we're finding the wolds a bewildering combination of Brobdingnagian expanses of open countryside that make us feel very small, and a miniature version of the South Downs that allows us to bound in apparently giant leaps to the top of hills.

The area's fictional flavour is fitting for a place outsiders might refuse to believe exists at all – wolds are meant to belong in Yorkshire, aren't they? And everyone knows that Lincolnshire is as flat as a playing card. Yet here we are, looking out over chalky downs that roll comfortably away from us like a mildly perturbed sea.

We decide to take on the wolds' western flank, beginning our weekend's walking at the small Roman town of Caistor and following the Viking Way long-distance footpath to Donington-on-Bain, 20 miles to the south-east.

This means that our first day is spent on a ridge pleading with the skies to clear (the three towers of Lincoln cathedral, 20 miles away, can be seen in more clement weather). When they refuse, we console ourselves that we still have the wildlife to enjoy – hares, lapwings and buzzards share the fields, while snowdrops are strewn about the woods in their tens of thousands.

There is a string of diminutive dozing villages to nose around too, including Tealby ( tealby.com ), in which, remarkably, no fewer than 26 buildings – most of them from the late-Victorian era – are listed ( britishlistedbuildings.co.uk ).

After we've bagged Lincolnshire's highest point (the 168m Normanby Top) and highest village (Normanby-le-Wold), an unfriendly shower of sleet forces us to take refuge in the medieval church of All Saints at Walesby ( lincoln.ourchurchweb.org.uk/walesby ). This is known as "the ramblers' church" on account of a stained-glass window depicting group of 1950s-vintage walkers.

Perhaps even more astonishing are the archaeological finds displayed outside. These range from a halfpenny piece from the reign of King John to a piece of Roman amber "worth more than a slave".

As might be deduced from this, the Lincolnshire wolds have long been a popular place to settle, not least for the area's well-earned reputation as a producer of fine food. Farmers' markets, such as the one at Caistor, are not recent fads but have always been the way of things here. And when we visit the cafe at Sunnyside Up Farm ( sunnyside-up.co.uk ) in Market Rasen for coffee and carrot cake, we find a shop satisfyingly crammed with local victuals.

There's a cavalcade of cheeses ( Cote Hill Yellow Belly is the one everyone talks about, though the unpasteurised Lincolnshire Poacher is also highly lauded), honey, ice-cream, rapeseed oil, simnel cakes, stone-ground flour, various beers and even wine from what must be some of Britain's most northerly vineyards.

"The wolds' most famous speciality is its Lincoln Red beef, though," says the farm's owner, Hazel, who has her own herd of these deep cherry-brown cattle .

The excellent field mushrooms we devour that evening at the 18th-century Advocate Arms in Market Rasen are, naturally enough, also grown in the wolds. The hotel prides itself on its local food-sourcing, which is apt in a town whose market has been going since the 1300s.

The following morning we go in search of another of the wolds' little-known assets: its hundred or so deserted medieval villages ( pastscape.org.uk ), victims variously of the Black Death, the Little Ice Age and clearances as vicious as any undertaken in Scotland.

Rejoining the Viking Way at Tealby, we climb gently upwards through pasture to the river Bain and pass more lost villages than real ones. We call forth the ghosts of West Wykeham and East Wykeham , Calcethorpe , South Cadeby and finally Biscathorpe , whose humps and bumps and single lone house are all that remain of a community of crofters.

Beyond, making us feel small again, there towers the gargantuan mast at RAF Stenigot , virtually all that's left of a cold war listening station – an apposite tribute to a region that has for so long stayed under the radar.

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Hikes & Walks In The Lincolnshire Wolds

England,United Kingdom

The Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), located in the heart of Lincolnshire, is a region of intriguing landscapes, with rolling hills and beautiful villages beckoning keen explorers. Whether you're drawn to the lovely wolds, the ancient Viking Way, circular pathways, or the busy market town of Market Rasen, this travel book is your key to discovering the hidden beauties of the Lincolnshire Wolds. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this AONB while following in the footsteps of Viking history.

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The 10 most beautiful hikes in Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape

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Where can i walk in the lincolnshire wolds.

You're in for a treat if you're seeking for some walking wonder in the Lincolnshire Wolds! This lovely area is your outdoor playground. It's like nature's secret garden, waiting for you to discover it. First, let's talk about the Viking Way, a historic trail that comes with its own Viking helmet. This long-distance walk will take you deep into the wolds, showing lovely villages and undulating hills at every turn. Hubbards Hills in Louth is ideal if you want something a little more laidback. It's like walking through a postcard, with a stream, bridges, and a hearty dose of peace. Bluestone, on the other hand, is a bit of a workout.

The Viking Way: Unleash Your Inner Explorer

Ahoy, brave adventurers! If you're up for a trek that'll make you feel as rugged as a Viking, then the Viking Way is your calling. This epic trail stretches a jaw-dropping 147 miles, so it's basically the 'Lord of the Rings' of walking paths, minus the fiery rings (we hope).  It's like the ultimate historical scavenger hunt from the Humber Bridge up north to Oakham in Rutland. But let's talk about the juicy part – the Lincolnshire Wolds section! The wolds roll and ripple like nature's own carpet, and charming villages like Tealby, Walesby, and Nettleton pop up like hidden treasures along the way.

Catch a bus to the Wolds to discover the historic villages, rippling fields and rolling hills of this former Viking lairDistance 13½ mile (22 km) ...

Willingham Woods: A Journey Through The Heart Of Lincolnshire's Woodlands

Willingham Woods, located in the Lincolnshire Wolds, is a natural wonderland with a variety of trails for all levels of hikers. The woodland offers a captivating atmosphere with rustling leaves and bird songs, making it accessible to all. The woods changes colors every season, making it a destination for families, photographers, and adventurers. The serene atmosphere and woodlands make Willingham Woods a tranquil haven for those seeking nature's charm and enchanting woodlands.

nice flat walk to Market Rasen and back via woods and fields.

Discover The Quaint Market Town Of Louth

Ah, the Louth Circular – where winding lanes and charming streets come together in a grand ol' dance of exploration. Picture strolling through a picture-perfect English market town, where the buildings seem to whisper tales of centuries gone by. This circular walk takes you on a delightful journey through Louth, where you can admire the historic architecture, do some people-watching at the local market, and perhaps even pop into a cozy pub for some well-earned refreshments.

From the historic town of Louth, a walk above Hubbard's Hills, then down into Welton Vale, returning via parkland at South Elkington

Fulletby, Tetford, & Belchford Walk: A Charming Village-Hopping Adventure

The Fulletby, Tetford, and Belchford walk is like a leisurely stroll through a charming storybook. You're in for a treat as you meander through the Lincolnshire Wolds' rolling hills and picturesque villages. Fulletby, Tetford, and Belchford seem to have a competition going on for who can be the quaintest, and you're the lucky judge. Thatched cottages, babbling brooks, and fields of green make up the scenery, painting a picture of rural England at its finest. 

From the village of Fulletby (second highest in the Lincolnshire Wolds), a circular walk across rolling countryside visiting Tetford and Belchford ...

Best things to do in Lincolnshire Wolds AONB

By Discover More UK

Published: 22 June 2022

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Areas like the Cotswolds and the Lake District are perpetually popular year after year. But with the numerous things to do in the Lincolnshire Wolds, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty feels like a bit of a hidden gem!

The Lincolnshire Wolds AONB covers an area of 558km 2 in the county of Lincolnshire and runs parallel to the coastline which is only about 20km east of the Wolds.

With the low hills of the Wolds, the beautiful surrounding Lincolnshire Wolds towns and the North Sea coast to the east, there are plenty of things to do in Lincolnshire Wolds and places to visit around the Lincolnshire Wolds.

This guide covers 20+ best things to do in Lincolnshire Wolds AONB and the best places to visit in the Lincolnshire Wolds, whether you’re planning a weekend away in the Lincolnshire countryside or if you’re a local looking for days out in the Lincolnshire Wolds (we’ve visited most of these places on day trips from our home town)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

How to get around the Lincolnshire Wolds?

The simple answer to this is, by car.

Yes there are buses and trains in the area but they are not regular so waiting times could be long which is especially if you’re only planning a day trip or a couple of days out, Lincolnshire Wolds is easiest to explore by car!

Of course, exploring by bike or foot is also the best way to explore this area of outstanding natural beauty when you arrive, so make sure you pack your walking boots or bike!

Accommodation in the Lincolnshire Wolds

For Lincolnshire Wolds places to stay, Louth is a great base for exploring the Wolds because it’s located fairly centrally on the east side of the AONB and is also a short drive to the coast. In terms of accommodation, Lincolnshire Wolds has plenty to offer, but having a good base with everything you want to see within driving distance will be really helpful.

Where to stay in Louth

Brackenborough Hotel is a great option for staying in Louth. It’s an award-winning boutique hotel, every room is individually designed, there’s an insite bistro, secure parking and free leisure passes. The rooms and décor are modern and just stunning, perfect for a base while you visit the Lincolnshire Wolds.

The Masons Arms Hotel is another great option that’s fairly budget friendly and has modern, industrial boutique rooms and common spaces. Breakfast is also included in the price.

If you’d prefer to stay somewhere more in nature in the Wolds, the log cabins at Parkwood Lodges might be for you. These stunning chalets can sleep up for 4 so they’re perfect for a family with plenty of kitchen and living space for a self-catered stay. There is also a restaurant on site too. The lodges are also located close to Cadwell Park If you’re planning on seeing an event there.

If the Parkwood Lodges are fully booked, another option to try is the iLodges which are also in a similar area.

Things to do in Lincolnshire Wolds: the ultimate guide from an (almost!) local

A reminder that this is a selection of things to do in the Wolds as well as things to do around the Lincolnshire Wolds. These are all places to visit that are worthy of adding to your Lincolnshire Wolds trip itinerary.

Discover more Lincolnshire Days out here.

Start at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds in Alford

Alford is a charming village lying on the southeast edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds.

With picturesque thatched cottages, Alford Manor House, cafes and pubs. 

Plus you’ll also find the bizarre Askew’s Furniture Retailer store inside the most stunning converted church – definitely one of the stranger locations for a furniture store but quite interesting to see if you’re walking by!

Explore the things to do in Louth

Louth is the main town in the Lincolnshire Wolds and is a historic market town.

There really are a surprising number of things to do in Louth.

• Visit and wander around St James’ Church
• Louth Museum
• Walk along the river
• Go to Louth Market which takes place on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays
• Wander Cornmarket
• Try a locally brewed craft beer or ale at The Consortium
• Get some local cheese varieties from The Cheese Shop
• Walk through the beautiful building of the Old Market Hall

Walking in the Red Hill Nature Reserve

Of course there are so many walks in Lincolnshire Wolds, but Red Hill Nature Reserve is an underrated spot with amazing views across the rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds.

There are a small number of parking spaces on the side of the road by the gate entrance to the public footpath.

Follow the path across the field and you’ll see beautiful views of the hills in every direction. 

It’s especially beautiful early in the morning if you get low mist or at sunset.

Visit charming Spilsby

A hidden gem in the Lincolnshire Wolds, Spilsby was a wonderful surprise on a day trip to the Lincolnshire Wolds.

With quite a few antique shops, charity shops and vintage shops, you can spend an hour or two browsing here.

Check out the really interesting Antiques Militaria and Collectibles which has a huge amount of war time memorabilia and fascinating collectable items.

Don’t miss picking up some baked goods or pastries from Cooplands on the High Street, they’ve been selling baked goods since 1885!

The stunning column-fronted Spilsby Theatre was sadly closed for renovation in early 2022 but if you have a chance to even check out the front of this grand building it’s worth a quick walk by!

Visit Gunby Hall

Located at the southern tip of the Lincolnshire Wolds, this country house is owned by the National Trust.

The Gunby Hall Estate, House and Gardens have been owned by the same family for 250 years and dates back to 1700.

With 8 acres of garden, Victorian gardens and house tours available, this is a beautiful estate that feels genuinely loved, lived in and well-kept.

TIckets are £8.50 for adults, £4.25 for children or free for National Trust Members.

Go rambling on the famous Viking Way in the Lincolnshire Wolds

One of the most famous walking routes in the UK, called the Viking Way because it crosses through the area which was taken by Norse invaders in the Middle Ages.

The Viking Way is 147 miles or 237km long and runs from the Humber Bridge to Oakham in the county of Rutland.

Much of the route runs through the Wolds making it a great opportunity to walk this famous trail. Even more so because this trail is very easy, it only has an elevation change of 161m throughout the entire trail, meaning very few hill climbs or scrambles and you can instead enjoy a wonderful ramble through the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Find the trail map here.

See the hundreds of deer at Revesby Abbey Deer Park

Another hidden gem in Lincolnshire Wolds that we stumbled on by accident.

Revesby Abbey is one of the lesser-known places to visit in Lincolnshire Wolds AONB mostly because the Abbey itself is not open to the public during the normal day-to-day.

The Estate hosts large events for the community and wider Lincolnshire including races, fairs and car shows. It’s also open for hire for weddings and various other events.

However the Abbey itself was a Cistercian monastery in the 1100s and now lies in ruins. The Abbey now hosts a series of paranormal events throughout the year.

So while you may not be able to enter the Estate on an average day, there is space to park on the side of the road at the entrance to the estate and see the thousands of deer roaming in the estate’s medieval deer park.

Ride the Lincolnshire Wolds Railway

One of the best Lincolnshire Wolds things to do and also one of the best loved activities in the Lincolnshire Wolds for adults and children alike.

The Lincolnshire Wolds Railway is a heritage steam standard gauge railway and the only one open to the public in Lincolnshire. 

The line runs between Ludborough and North Thoresby and tickets are very budget friendly at £9 return for adults and £5 for children or half the price if you’re only going one way!

You can ride in the rail carriages, enjoy snacks from their buffet and refreshments cart and visit the Museum or go on Engine Shed tours.

This is a perfect open for fun, family friendly activities in the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Learn the history of Tattershall Castle

The imposing red-brick facade of 15th Century Tattershall Castle is well-worth a visit if you’re in the Lincolnshire Wolds Area.

Although the Castle is not technically in the Wolds, it’s located 30 minutes west of the Wolds and is a National Trust property so it’s free to visit if you’re already a member.

The castle is a rare example of 15th century fortifications built in this style and it’s incredibly well-preserved.

Also located in Tattershall is the Battle Of Britain Memorial Flight Visitors Centre, so the village is a great place to visit for history enthusiasts.

Have a unique cinema experience at Kinema in the Woods

Looking for things to do in the Lincolnshire Wolds in the rain?

Around 20 minutes west of the Lincolnshire Wolds is Woodhall Spa which is home to the only functioning back projection cinema still in existence in the UK.

Showing all the latest movies and with very affordable ticket prices, a visit to this unique cinema tucked into the woods is a great option if you’ve been hit with bad weather in the Wolds!

Explore picturesque villages

If you’re someone who just loves to explore the picturesque charm of English country villages then there’s plenty of options for you in the Wolds.

Check out some of the prettiest villages in Lincolnshire Wolds:

• Market Rasen

See the famous grey seals at Donna Nook

Did you know that Britain is home to 40% of the world’s grey seal population?

And a huge number of those are born at the Donna Nook Seal Colony every year during November and December.

This is of course a very seasonal recommendation but a truly fantastic experience to see on the coast, just a short 25 minute drive from Louth.

There’s a large amount of parking and you can walk down to the sand dunes, there is a viewing area so as not to disturb the seals and their pups, seal mothers can get aggressive or protective of their young if they feel threatened.

The parking is pay and display but seeing the seals is free.

Check their website for updates as the breeding season can start as early as late October or finish as late as early January.

See a race at Market Rasen racecourse

With afternoon race days starting from as little as £12 a ticket, a visit to the Market Rasen races and racecourse is a fun addition to your Lincolnshire Wolds trip.

With race afternoons, race weekends, Ladies’ Days and family days, there’s events throughout the year if you’re looking for things to do in Lincolnshire Wolds with a bit of a difference!

Check their website for upcoming events.

Walk in the South Ormsby Estate

Another gem tucked away in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds.

The South Ormsby Estate is a Country House and Parkland and has existed in some form for over 1000 years.

The Estate is home to several walking routes and many popular Wolds trails also pass through the Estate. View their walking routes here .

You can also visit the House if you Become a Friend of the Estate.

Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

Just 10 minutes from Spilsby is the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre which is one of the best things to do near the Lincolnshire Wolds for history and aviation enthusiasts.

The museum is home to exhibits on the WWII Bomber Command and they also host flying events, bike meet ups and other events throughout the year.

The exhibits are fascinating and adult tickets are only £10.

Take advantage of the Lincolnshire Wold cycling route

If you manage to get good weather on your trip to the Lincolnshire Wolds, taking advantage of the cycling trails is a must!

The 180km Lincolnshire Wold cycle route is a great option for all levels of fitness as you can just do small sections of the route to suit you and your group.

The route starts in Louth and takes you through market towns, villages, through Lincolnshire Wolds countryside, by castles and parkland and so much more.

Pub lunch and a pint at a country pub

Is there anything more British than a pub lunch?

Thankfully there are any number of village pubs and eateries to enjoy during your stay in the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Whether you fancy a quick drink in Louth or Market Rasen, or some refreshment on a long walk or cycle, there are plenty of village pubs to enjoy. 

Here are some great pub walks to try.

Visit Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary

Located not far from Alford, close to the coast, is the Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary.

Home to dozens and dozens of donkeys, the sanctuary is open every Saturday and Sunday. No booking is required and it’s free to visit although they do ask for a donation of £1 to help look after the donkeys.

These cute donkeys can also be adopted too for £25.

This is a really fun, quirky option for places to visit in Lincolnshire Wolds and you’ll be supporting the care of these lovely animals too!

Feel adventurous at Wild Pines Park

If you’re someone who loves adrenaline then make sure to add Wild Pines Park to your Lincolnshire Wolds itinerary.

Located on the edge of the Wolds, close to Market Rasen, the adventure park is one of the best things to do in Lincolnshire Wolds for older kids and adults.

There are 6 treetop courses, 22 ziplines and one of the largest rope courses in the UK.

They also offer other activities for younger children like bear hunts and activity rooms plus there’s a cafe on site and activities like archery too, so you could easily spend a day here!

Cadwell Park

Of course many people will know Louth and this area of the Lincolnshire countryside for the famous Cadwell Park circuit.

This motorcycle circuit hosts races, classic and heritage event days and demo events and is a popular place to visit for motorcycle enthusiasts.

If you’re a fan and you’re visiting for an event, staying in or near Louth is the location for reaching Cadwell Park.

Summary: Lincolnshire Wolds things to do

After living on the Nottinghamshire/Lincolnshire border for many years (read, decades!), this guide has hopefully revealed the true beauty of the Wolds and how many amazing places there are to visit in the Lincolnshire Wolds. 

Let us know which of these activities you add to your Lincolnshire Wolds itinerary!

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18 brilliant things to see and do in the wonderful Lincolnshire Wolds

And there are some fabulous places to stay, too

• 06:00, 22 JUN 2017

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The Lincolnshire Wolds were designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty back in 1973 and judging from some of these pictures it's easy to see why.

If you haven't been to the Wolds for a while then these will remind you why a return visit should be top of your to-do list.

1. Splash about at Tattershall Lakes Country Park

2. go vintage at kinema in the woods in woodhall spa.

The Kinema is one of the few back projection cinemas in the country. It was an old pavilion before becoming a cinema and during the last war it was affectionately known as the 'Flicks in the Sticks'.

4. Tuck in at The Elm Tree in Hundleby

4. step back in time at tattershall castle, 5. take a farm tour at quirky brackenborough hall coach house.

The 'comfortable and quirky' Brackenborough Hall Coach House near Louth is set in the grounds of Brackenborough Hall. It is pet friendly and guests can even get a tour of the farm.

6. Race through the woodland at Cadwell Park in Louth

The Lincolnshire circuit is popular with bikers nationwide.

7. Take a tipple and tuck into cake at the Vintage Tea Rooms in Tealby

8. Stroll along Donna Nook near North Somercotes

In the winter months, it is home to seals which come on land for give birth to their pups.

9. Glamp in Style at Tetford's trendy glamping hotspot

10. go back to nature at snipedales nature park near spilsby, 11. dine in at the bluebell inn at belchford.

12. Get set for action at Jubilee Park in Woodhall Spa

The park is an ideal base for walking, cycling or touring. It also offers tennis, bowling, a heated outdoor swimming pool, children's play area, putting and cricket.

13. Talk to the animals at Rushmoor Country Park

The park in North Cockerington near Louth is a great day out for the family with an on site café, plenty of space for a picnic and the chance to meet lots of animals.

14. Step back in time at Gunby Hall near Spilsby

15. Take a walk on the wild side at the Wolds Walking Festival

It hosts more than 100 walks over 16 days.

16. Have a picnic by the river at Hubbard's Hills in Louth

Set in a pretty valley in Louth, its an area of naturally-formed parkland which was given to the town at the beginning of the century.

17. Get back to nature at Tattershall Farm Park

18. go self-catering in stunning countryside at greetham retreat.

The holiday cottage accommodation is set in glorious countryside close to Horncastle.

Where's your favourite place to go in the Wolds? Let us know in the comments box below

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Home » Explore » Lincolnshire Wolds

Lincolnshire Wolds

The Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty body (AONB) was created through the incorporation of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949. The Lincolnshire Wolds were granted this status in 1973.

This legislation is meant to promote the natural beauty of designated zones, as well as opportunities in tourism development. Said areas can be likened to national parks, with emphasis on natural attractions such as forests, grasslands, rivers, swamps, estuaries and shorelines.

The Wolds is believed to have been populated since the primeval period. The landscape was influenced considerably by ancient and contemporary agricultural practices. The Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service works closely with local landlords, farmers, business organisations, parish councils and Wolds residents to improve and protect the terrain.

Places to Visit in the Lincolnshire Wolds

Some of the attractions that tourists love include the following:

Alford Five Sailed Windmill & Tea Room

Located at the border of this historical market town, this is a windmill which still functions today.

The mill churns out flour obtained from organic grain, while the ground shop sells an assortment of unprocessed food products. Tourists can explore the refinery and observe the flour milling procedure, or stop by the tea room for some refreshments and light snacks.

The Old Engine House was converted into a showroom for Victorian and Edwardian antique pieces.

Lincolnshire Wolds Railway

If you’re interested in locomotive history, we’re sure you’ll enjoy a visit to the Lincolnshire Wolds Railway . 

The railway has been carefully restored by a preservation society since the line’s closure in 1984. Visit on one of their running days and enjoy a scenic ride on a steam train through the low hills and green countryside.

Alford Manor House

Constructed in 1611, this manor house is said to be the biggest in England.

It is an extraordinary mansion made of amalgamated structure and showcases a wooden framework with mud and stud panels. The ground-level rooms highlight designs from the Georgian and Victorian times, while the upper floors have remained in tact since the 17th century.

Alford Pottery

Their collection of earthenware and ceramic objects are appropriate for microwaves and dish washers. The ceramics are designed by expert potters Michel and Heather Ducos.

For those of you who want to experience a holiday outside in nature, but still prefer the creature comforts of home, glamping is the perfect solution for you!

There are a number of sites across the Lincolnshire Wolds offering glamping accommodation; from shepherd huts to stylish yurts, you can find the right combination of the great outdoors and home comforts.

Plan your trip around the Wolds with one of these handy maps or guides:

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We hope you find a route to suit your walking style. The routes below are a mixture of ones produced and promoted by the LWCS, listed first,  and other organisations below.

Please note, we do not undertake maintenance on these routes, that is the remit of the relevant highways authority – either Lincolnshire County Council or North East Lincolnshire Council. Due to the on-going financial constraints that all authorities are working under and the need to reduce spending, some maintenance programmes are being reduced and this may impact on some routes. Please contact the relevant highways departments with any issues you may have.

Market Towns - Gateway Walks

Why not make the most of the market towns on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds? Horncastle, Market Rasen, Spilsby and Caistor are all communities that have worked to ensure their area is great for walking with good routes and facilities, to find out more click on the links below.

Wolds Walks

With great footpaths and bridleways, the Wolds is a fantastic place to stretch your legs and enjoy unspoilt countryside and some fresh air.  Whether you enjoy longer walks or simply want to stroll, there are walks for everyone. 

Useful links

Walking in Lincolnshire  Looking for further afield than the Wolds? Visit Lincolnshire for more ideas!

Access for All There are a number of trails, paths and maps available that show routes that are suitable for pushchairs & wheelchairs promoted by Visit Lincolnshire and Lincolnshire County Couuncil. Many of them are based round nature reserves so if you're looking for a shorter trail for everyone in the family to enjoy,  try these!

The Happy Trundler Carefree walks in the countryside to help you relax, de-stress or study. British landscapes, moving slowly and steadily through nature, taking my time, and finding joy in the simple things.

Take the bus for a walk!   Stagecoach are introducing a series of walks across the Lincolnshire countryside, all of which are accessible by their InterConnect buses . Hop on and see where it takes you!

The Viking Way  Length 149 miles (237 km)  The route is called the Viking Way because it crosses an area which was occupied by Norse invaders.

The route starts on the banks of the Humber in the north and winds through some of the best walking in Lincolnshire.  It finishes at Rutland Water.  The route is available to download in sections.

Walking Clubs

Walkers are Welcome is a nationwide initiative launched in 2007 to be 'welcoming to walkers'. We enable the development of over 100 accredited Towns and Villages members to assist with their community's economic, physical, health and mental well-being through walking.

Active Lincolnshire - Health Walks are FREE organised walks in rural areas and towns, led by volunteer walk leaders. Walks are suitable for beginners lasting between 45 minutes and one hour. They take place at various times of the day, throughout all districts in Lincolnshire.

Lincolnshire Ramblers - help local people enjoy walking and protect the places we all love to walk. Areas help look after paths and green spaces, open up new places to explore and act as the leading voice on walking matters near you. They also support our local groups to organise regular walks led by local experts – a great way to get outside, make new friends and discover how walking boosts your health and happiness.

Lincolnshire Walking Group - a Lincolnshire group of the Ramblers aimed for people in their 20's, 30's and 40's. If you'd like to get away from the day to day stresses of modern life or you enjoy the countryside and you simply want to get some exercise; then we offer you an easy way to make new friends and enjoy the great outdoors. We have a wide variety of walks, ranging from easy rambles to energetic mountain hikes, all led by experienced walk leaders, so you don't have to worry about getting lost. We also hold regular social events in Lincolnshire and walking weekends away in variety of locations across the country.

For more information on public rights of way or visiting the countryside, click on the links below.

Lincolnshire County Council

North East Lincolnshire Council

Discover something new at the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival this month

The Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival returns this Saturday 11 May with an action-packed programme to celebrate the natural beauty of this special landscape.

The festival, which started in 2022, aims to encourage people to visit and explore the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, take part in a range of organised activities and learn more about its history.

There are more than 100 events and activities programmed during the festival, many of which are free of charge or at a reduced entry cost.

From fly-fishing to gliding, dancing in nature, sea dipping at Anderby Creek, a pop-up theatre in Spilsby and Jurassic Wolds at Horncastle and South Ormsby, there is something taking place for all ages across the length and breadth of the Wolds.

The festival includes a number of themed walks include dog walks, fruit farm walk, ice cream walk, Louth flood walk, birdwatching walk, wellbeing walks, nature walks, village and town trails and much more.

There is a Festival Activity Day at Stourton Woods from 10am-4pm on Sunday 12 May which includes archery and axe throwing, bushcraft and foraging, free-movement in woodland, a football shoot out, bat tours, farm safaris, walks and much more.

Councillor Adam Grist, Portfolio Holder for Market Towns and the Rural Economy at East Lindsey District Council, said: “The beautiful Wolds are a real gem in Lincolnshire’s crown. Anyone who lives, works or visits the Wolds knows how special a landscape it is.

“I am delighted that the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival will give even more people an opportunity to enjoy the Wolds, learn about its history and the communities which thrive there.

“The schedule of events really provides something for all interests and also support the wellbeing of residents and visitors by enjoying a social activity in the great outdoors.

“You never know, you may discover a new hobby or skill as well as finding out more about local businesses and producers based in the Wolds.

“Have a look at the action-packed programme for yourselves and take the opportunity of trying one of the many free or reduced-cost events during the festival. You never know what you will discover!”

The festival – on until Bank Holiday Monday 27 May - is organised by a steering group of organisations, including: Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service, The Ramblers, Active Lincolnshire, Stourton Estates, South Ormsby Estate, Lincolnshire County Council, East and West Lindsey District Councils; with East Lindsey District Council serving as lead delivery partner.

Some festival events require booking in advance. All details of activities, along with booking instructions, can be found at woldsoutdoorfestival.com .