COUNTRYSIDE
STEPPING OUT
in North Kesteven
North Kesteven is a district of picturesque villages, ancient woodland, historic buildings, medieval churches and wide open vistas, rich in wildlife North Kesteven is the privileged home to a variety of landscapes, ancient woodlands and historic buildings. The fascinating history woven into the landscape extends from the Roman waterways of the Car Dyke, through medieval settlements and agricultural methods, to the more recent airfields of World War II. To help discover this fascinating heritage and enjoy the diverse wildlife of our countryside, North Kesteven District Council offers an extensive network of way marked Stepping Out walks. The walks are complimented by informative leaflets and a website providing easy to use maps and directions together with points of interest along the way. The walks cover a variety of landscapes and histories to encourage residents and visitors to explore the delightful countryside. For those interested in history, the Knights Templar (Walk 9) is a must. The walk takes you to a square tower, once part of a large Knights Templar Preceptory. The tower is open to the public allowing you to explore the two floors joined by a winding stone staircase. Engraved into some of the stones are the names of some of the airmen who were based at former RAF Wellingore in World War II, doubtless seeking a moment’s peace from the horrors of war. Woodland walks are always a favourite and Walk 18 contains details of a number of walks around some of the district’s ancient woodland. A particular favourite is Skellingthorpe Old Wood found in Walk 1. A visit in the spring will reveal carpets of bluebells and anemones which fill the 6