There is so much to see in West Lindsey and a great way of experiencing this is by walking.
Walking routes for you to explore
Willingham Woods on the eastern edge of Market Rasen, is the perfect setting for walking.
Witham Valley Country Park is made up of a number of green spaces in the heart of Lincolnshire. The park is a great place to unwind in beautiful, unspoilt countryside, rich in wildlife and history.
Chambers Farm Nature Reserve is a fascinating place for anyone interested in flora and fauna. Situated on the site of a medieval woodland it contains ancient Limes and a wealth of butterflies.
Limewood walks are a series of six circular walks ranging from 3.75-9.25 miles which have been produced by Lincolnshire County Council’s Countryside Access team.
Fiskerton Fen Nature Reserve lies beside the River Witham. It was created from the huge pit that was left when clay was dug out to reinforce the river banks and reduce flood risk. The site has been developed to benefit wildlife associated with fen and reed beds.
Scotton Common is rich in heathland plants and attracts many breeding birds, butterflies and has a thriving population of emperor moths. Located west of Scotton village with a car park off the A159. The site is managed by Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust.
The Viking Way footpath runs 130 miles, starting at the Humber Bridge and ending in Oakham, Rutland. The path passes through the centre of Caistor, and the picturesque village of Tealby near the town of Market Rasen.
The Lindsey Trail is a 69 mile trail across the Lincolnshire Wolds. Suitable for carriage drivers, horse riders, cyclists and walkers it extends from Willingham Woods in the north to Horncastle in the south.
Gateway Walks are a collection of walks starting from various Market Towns on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds. There are a number of walks that start in Market Rasen allowing you to take in the breath-taking views of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Wolds Walks are a series of walks that start in various villages of the Lincolnshire Wolds including Nettleton which is just a few miles from Caistor. This circular route takes in picturesque views and a chance to climb the highest point of the Wolds – Nettleton Top! The area was also used for extensive iron mining over 100 years ago.
Market Rasen Heritage Trail takes you around the historically important landmarks in the town including the railway station which houses a heritage centre with display boards and audio stories. You can do this on foot or on their website.
Caistor Walkabout is designed to take you around the town to see sites that are considered to be of most interest to visitors. Along the way, there will be various places for you to stop off and eat of just to sit down and enjoy the surroundings.
Gainsborough Heritage Trail [pdf / 2.6 MB] is a 90 minute walking tour past some of the most iconic sights and attractions of this market town. Begin at the Gainsborough Heritage Centre, before passing landmarks such as the Old Nick Theatre, Marshall's Yard, Old County Court House, Gainsborough Old Hall and more!
Owlet Wood's varied landscape is popular with visitors who enjoy walking and relaxing in natural surroundings. Its all ability path means that it’s very accessible; the route being suitable for wheelchair users and buggies.
Tuetoes Woods and Laughton Forest. Enjoy the tranquillity of the woodland, home to flapping herons and elusive nightjars. Most of Laughton Forest privately owned. However, Tuetoes is owned by the Forestry Commission and people are welcome to explore.
Mill Wood is a small piece of woodland surrounded by arable land and developed areas. One local oddity is the old wind powered steam laundry that still stands next to the wood.
Lea to Knaith Woods. A 3.4km circular trail heading towards Lea Park and Knaith Woods. This short walks takes approximately 50 minutes to complete. Ideal for a short stroll or to walk the dog. This walk passes farmland so please remember to keep dogs on leads.
The Stephen Langton Trail. Follow in Magna Carta’s footsteps with this 16.5 miles trail from Langton-by-Wragby, the birthplace of Archbishop Stephen Langton who was key in the sealing of the Magna Carta, to the historic City of Lincoln.
Ashing Lane Nature Reserve is a community woodland owned by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and managed by Nettleham Woodland Trust. An excellent opportunity to view a variety of wildlife.
Water Rail Way, Southrey to Stixwould [pdf / 2.5 MB]. The Water Railway follows the bank of the River Witham and is on the track bed of the railway which travelled from Lincoln to Boston. Southrey to Stixwould is a short part of the route (approx. 1.7 miles linear and 3.4 miles circular). View the full 33 mile route on the Sustrans website.
Stagecoach InterConnect Bus Walks are a great way explore the Lincolnshire countryside using the bus network. Each walk starts at a bus stop and is a linear walk that will finish at another to allow you to travel back to your starting point. Walking routes in West Lindsey include:
- Faldingworth to Market Rasen
- Nettleton to Market Rasen
- Gainsborough to Knaith Park
- Gainsborough to Stow
Walking links and downloads
- Countryside Access
- Public Rights of Way
- Walks in the Wolds
- Visit Lincolnshire
- Walks along the Trent Vale
- Love Lincolnshire Wolds
There are also walks in and around the districts towns enabling you to explore the history and beauty of these locations. We have produced a range of leaflets which are available in the downloads section.