In the midst of these challenging and unprecedented times, the short, often dreary days of winter can only add to low mood and lack of motivation, but we’re here to help!
As the second largest county in the UK ,most of Lincolnshire’s 2,200 square miles is rural with all 82 miles of the wonderful Witham wending its way through farmland and open countryside, as well as towns and villages and, of course, the beautiful and historic city of Lincoln. We also have over 50 miles of coastline to explore.
The fact that the county is relatively flat and open also means that in winter, especially, we are treated to some stunning sunrises and sunsets.
With the constantly changing, strict Government guidelines over the past nine months, telling us what we can and cannot do, there has been one constant – exercise outdoors. Ok, so we may not be able to go to the pub this winter or even visit with our families, but we can get outdoors and enjoy everything nature has to offer.
You can even meet up with another person (dependent on current advice), be it friend or family member, and walk outdoors. So, what are you waiting for? – get your warm coat and pull on your boots (it may well be muddy!), make a flask of hot chocolate and check out these walks to find one in your local area.
Not only will you be able to burn off a some of your Christmas excesses, you will also feel the cool, refreshing air on your skin, hear the birds, the rustling breeze or even the sound of the river flowing and see some of the spectacular sights Lincolnshire has to offer – you may even spot some exciting wildlife along the way
There are hundreds of walk routes available in Lincolnshire and you could even purchase an OS map and plan your own. We’ve listed a few here to give you a head start.
In and around Lincoln
The Witham Valley Country Park incorporates Sites of Specific Scientififc Interest (SSSI), Nature Reserves and Local Wildlife Sites in and around Lincoln, including South Common, Whisby Nature Reserve and the 200acre Hartsholme Park with its Victorian Landscaped Gardens.
The Sustrans Water Railway route runs between Lincoln and Boston and offers up over 15 miles of flat, riverside pathway which in the main is traffic free aside from bicycles. There are even interesting sculptures inspired by Lincolnshire-born Lord Tennyson along the way. You can get fabulous views across the river, the fens and the city of Lincoln with its imposing cathedral from the viewing platforms. More information about the route can be found here:
North Lincolnshire
Grimsby Louth Ramblers Circular Walks
East Coast
Boston Waterways Walk A long 12-mile route following the Haven, the Hobhole drain and the Maud Foster drain and passes through two nature reserves.
There are several coastal destinations in Lincolnshire including RSPB Nature Reserves at Frampton , and Gibraltar Point and of course the bracing seaside resort that is Skegness.
If you fancy a challenge you could take on all or part of the 16 mile East Coast Path – Skegness to Mablethorpe
For a quieter walk away from the hustle and bustle of seaside resorts you could try Anderby Creek or Huttoft beach
In and around Grantham
Starting in Wyndham Park enjoy a walk along the River Witham through Queen Elizabeth Park or head out towards Woolsthorpe to enjoy a walk along Grantham Canal the Grantham Canal.
Londonthorpe Woods Woodland Trust
Grantham and surrounding village
Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust Reserves
With over 90 reserves across Lincolnshire, you’re bound to find one nearby where you can enjoy a walk. Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust
All Trails
This website offers you the options to search for routes by length, type or specific features. With 67 easy trails in Lincolnshire ranging from 1.3 to 33.8 km the you can sign up for free access to the site to find nearby walks, with all of the basic information you might need about each route.
The Lincolnshire County Council website also lists several Lincolnshire Walks with details of routes, parking etc as well as maps to download