Welcome to the Heart of Lincolnshire
Set in the Heart of Lincolnshire, North Kesteven is full of charm – with peaceful countryside, lively towns, and welcoming villages. There’s plenty to enjoy, come rain or shine.
It’s ideal for getting outdoors, whether on two wheels or on foot. The area is known for its easy access and a network of cycle-friendly roads, lanes and walking trails, which also offer scenic and enjoyable walking routes.
A real highlight is the rich Aviation Heritage – with historic sites and great opportunities for plane spotting throughout your visit.
Wherever you are in North Kesteven, you’re close to coastlines, castles, stately homes, stunning scenery, and vibrant towns and cities – all within an hour’s drive.
This guide – and the website www.heartoflincs.com –will help you make the most of your time in the Heart of Lincolnshire.
Follow us on social media @HeartofLincs for inspiration, updates and hidden gems.
guide is produced by
Kesteven District Council.
Information www.heartoflincs.com
NKDC Enquiries: District Council Offices
Kesteven Street Sleaford Lincolnshire
NG34 7EF
Tel: 01529 414155 www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
For tourism enquiries or to advertise in the annual Visitor Guide, please contact the Heart of Lincs team at heartoflincs@n-kesteven.gov.uk
Whilst great care has been taken in compiling the information in this brochure, North Kesteven District Council cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions or alterations contained within it.
Enjoy Nature
Credit: Lisa Clingan
Time Outdoors
Big skies, open spaces, mile upon mile of waymarked paths and peaceful villages make the Heart of Lincolnshire perfect for outdoor adventures.
The North Kesteven Walking Festival returns from 6 - 21 June 2026, celebrating the district’s rich network of walking routes. From gentle strolls to longer hikes, there’s something for all ages and abilities. Over 60 guided walks will lead you through scenic countryside, historic villages, and wildlife-rich landscapes.
This year marks a special milestone – 50 years of the Viking Way, a long-distance trail that winds through Lincolnshire’s varied landscapes. It’s part of a wider network of inspiring routes in North Kesteven, including Spires and Steeples and Ridges & Furrows, each offering unique ways to explore the district’s heritage, art, and natural beauty. All are featured on the AllTrails app, making it easy to plan your next adventure.
Whether you’re stepping out for a day or embarking on a longer journey, North Kesteven is a wonderful place to walk, explore, and connect with nature. Extend your stay with camping, glamping or selfcatering options – perfect for adventurers or those seeking a peaceful break.
Wild Spaces and...
With 94% of North Kesteven classified as green space, the district is a sanctuary for nature lovers and outdoor explorers alike. Its diverse landscapes – woodlands, wetlands, meadows and riversides –offer countless opportunities to unwind, discover wildlife, and enjoy the changing seasons.
Spot seasonal wildlife at Whisby Nature Park, where lakes and reedbeds attract birds yearround, including the spectacular murmurations of starlings in winter. Or enjoy a quiet stroll along the Millennium Green in North Hykeham, a tranquil space perfect for reflection and relaxation.
The Wilder Doddington project is transforming a historic estate around Doddington Hall into a haven for nature through rewilding and regenerative farming. With public access routes and a growing network of trails, it offers a unique opportunity to experience nature recovery in action – ideal for walkers seeking something a little different.
Nature Highlights
• Whisby Nature Park: Once a gravel pit, now a thriving wetland reserve with accessible trails, bird hides, and the Natural World Centre offering family-friendly facilities.
• Murmurations at Whisby: Watch thousands of starlings dance across the winter sky in a breathtaking natural display.
• River Slea Walks: Discover Lollycocks Field and The Nettles in Sleaford – wetland reserves with kingfisher nesting banks, willow sculptures, and boardwalks that bring you close to nature.
...Woodland Wonders
North Kesteven is home to a wealth of ancient woodlands that offer peaceful escapes and rich natural heritage.
AllTrails
Tunman Wood, near Eagle Barnsdale, is a restored woodland known for its springtime bluebells and birdsong. With historic links to the Knights Templar, it’s a quiet spot for reflection and gentle walks.
Skellingthorpe Old Wood features a mix of native oak and lime trees, with conservation work helping to restore its natural character. A scenic 4.6-mile trail winds through the wood, perfect for walking, cycling or horse riding.
Hill Holt Wood, near Norton Disney, is a community-managed woodland offering nature trails, wildlife habitats and outdoor learning. It’s a key part of the Countryside NK partnership and a great place to connect with nature.
Together, these woodlands form part of the Witham Valley Country Park – a green corridor linking nature reserves, heritage sites and walking routes across the district.
Discover local walking trails and routes by visiting the AllTrails website: https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb
Cycling Adventures
North Kesteven is a fantastic place to explore by bike, with quiet country lanes, gentle trails and cycle-friendly routes that suit all abilities.
Ride out to the International Bomber Command Centre for sweeping views over Lincoln, or pedal past historic homes like Doddington Hall, perfect for a scenic stop and a bite to eat. Discover aviation heritage along the way and enjoy trails dotted with public art and sculptures.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, Lincolnshire offers a wealth of opportunities to get pedalling. Visit Lincolnshire’s, Cycle Lincolnshire website is your go-to guide for discovering new routes, planning adventures, and finding bikefriendly places to stay and eat. From coast to countryside, the county is crisscrossed with scenic trails, heritage rides, and familyfriendly paths that showcase the very best of Lincolnshire’s landscapes and landmarks. Explore more, ride further, and uncover hidden gems on two wheels.
Lincolnshire cycle page For the latest information on cycling in the Heart of Lincs: www.visitlincolnshire.com/cycle-lincolnshire
Elms Farm Cottages
The Elms, Boardsides, Hubbert’s Bridge, Boston, PE20 3QP
Award-winning holiday cottages. Relax and enjoy the peaceful Lincolnshire countryside with a stay in one of the ten self-catering cottages. Set around a pretty courtyard garden, all cottages are fully equipped and furnished to a high standard. Level access throughout. Some cottages have wood burners, en-suite bathrooms and shower rooms suitable for wheelchair users. Two private nature lakes set in over 18 acres of grassland. Walk to the local pub and golf course close to RSPB Frampton Marsh, two miles from Boston. EV Car Charging point available.
Tel: 01205 290840 / 07887 652021
Email: carol@elmsfarmcottages.co.uk
Website: www.elmsfarmcottages.co.uk
Opening times: Holiday Cottages open all year including Christmas and New Year
World Centre
Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill, Lincoln, LN6 9BW
Situated in Whisby Nature Park, the Natural World Centre is just 5 miles from Lincoln City centre. Enjoy the Boardwalk Café with gluten free and vegan choices, browse the shop filled with Lincolnshire makers, and relax in dog friendly seating indoors and outside. Little Darter’s Wildlife Play offers tunnels, towers, a balance beam, stepping logs and a wheelchair accessible sand table. Otter’s Reach Indoor Adventure is ideal for younger visitors up to 1.3m, with stilt posts, a raptors nest and more. The Cygnet Suite, overlooking Thorpe Lake, is also available for celebrations.
Tel: 01522 688868
Email: naturalworld@lincsinspire.com
Website: www.naturalworldcentre.org
Opening times: Every day, 10am-4pm (toilets open 9.30am-4.30pm)
Natural
History & Heritage
History & Heritage in the Heart of Lincolnshire
North Kesteven is rich in history, where every step takes you through centuries of stories. From Iron Age tribes minting coins in Sleaford, to the Roman roads and waterways of Ermine Street and the Car Dyke, the district has long been shaped by those who came before.
Viking, Norman, Saxon, Medieval, Elizabethan, and Tudor – kings and countrymen have all left their mark. So too have generations of airmen and industrial pioneers, whose legacy lives on in the area’s unique landmarks.
Discover Europe’s only eight-sailed windmill in Heckington, Britain’s last Navigation office, the largest malthouses in England, and some of the nation’s most iconic churches. Aviation heritage runs deep here, with historic airfields and the oldest RAF base still in operation.
Many of the district’s 31 Stepping Out Walks, and both of the Spires & Steeples and Ridges & Furrows long distance trails, are inspired by this rich past, guiding you through landscapes shaped by history – from churches and halls to airfields and ancient routes.
And just beyond North Kesteven, history continues to unfold in nearby Lincoln, Grantham, Newark, Boston, and the Lincolnshire Wolds – each revealing its own unique heritage and captivating stories.
Historic Sleaford
Sleaford is a town where history is woven into every street and skyline. At its heart stands St Denys’ Church, a Grade I listed masterpiece of medieval architecture. With origins dating back to the late 12th century, the church’s decorated gothic nave and intricate tracery have earned national acclaim.
The town owes much of its prominence to Bishop Alexander of Lincoln, who in the 12th century reshaped Sleaford. The original Saxon settlement, known as Old Sleaford, lay to the east near the River Slea and was an important centre even in Roman times. Bishop Alexander established New Sleaford further west, creating a planned town focused around St Denys’ Church and the Market Place. His vision also included the construction of Sleaford Castle, whose ruins still stand as a reminder of Norman power and ecclesiastical influence. The castle served as a bishop’s palace and a symbol of authority, anchoring Sleaford’s role in medieval Lincolnshire.
Recent improvements to Sleaford Castle Field, have made this historic site more accessible and engaging for visitors. A new pathway now provides easier access across the grounds, while updated interpretation panels share the fascinating story of the castle’s origins, its role
as a bishop’s palace, and its place in medieval Lincolnshire. These enhancements ensure that everyone can enjoy the site’s heritage and appreciate the significance of the ruins within the town’s landscape.
To uncover these stories in depth, visit Sleaford Museum, a hub of local heritage. Its exhibits explore everything from the town’s prehistoric roots and Roman settlement through medieval expansion, industrial growth, and community life.
Through photographs, artefacts, and personal narratives, the museum brings Sleaford’s evolution vividly to life.
Along the River Slea, Navigation House – Britain’s last surviving Navigation Office – brings the age of waterways and trade to life, while Cogglesford Watermill, continues a thousand-year tradition of milling grain on site.
Walk Through History – Heritage Trails and Blue Plaques
Sleaford’s heritage isn’t confined to its landmarks – it’s written into its streets. The Sleaford Heritage Trail and When in Sleaford walking routes guide visitors through centuries of stories. Along the way, blue plaques mark buildings of historic significance, from coaching inns to homes of notable figures, offering fascinating insights into the town’s past. These trails are the perfect way to experience Sleaford at your own pace, uncovering hidden details and architectural gems that bring its rich history to life.
Aviation Heritage
Aviation Heritage
Known as the ‘Home of the Royal Air Force’, Lincolnshire’s aviation legacy is deeply rooted in North Kesteven, where stories of courage, innovation and remembrance are part of the landscape. The district played a vital role during World War II, hosting key Bomber Command operations and shaping the course of aviation history.
Today, this legacy lives on through a network of heritage sites that honour the past and invite exploration. The North Kesteven Airfield Trail offers a unique journey through time, with highlights including the Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre and the historic RAF Digby Ops Room. At Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum, visitors can uncover the stories of iconic figures who trained at RAF College Cranwell
Central to this heritage is the International Bomber Command Centre, a nationally
significant site of remembrance and education. With its striking memorial spire, peace gardens, and immersive exhibitions, the centre pays tribute to the thousands who served and sacrificed. It stands as a powerful place for reflection, learning, and connection – ensuring that the stories of Bomber Command continue to resonate with future generations.
Take off on a journey through the history of aviation with the North Kesteven Airfield Trail. This popular and longstanding publication connects the district’s remarkable aviation heritage sites, celebrating the bravery and innovation that shaped our past. Explore former RAF stations, memorials, and museums that tell the stories of the men and women who served during pivotal moments in aviation history.
Highlights include Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum, home to fascinating exhibits on RAF College Cranwell, and poignant memorials that honour the legacy of Bomber Command.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique day out, the Airfield Trail offers an unforgettable journey through landscapes steeped in wartime stories and engineering triumphs.
www.heartoflincs.com/northkestevenairfieldtrail
When:
Where: Sleaford Market Place
Discover Sleaford’s Easter Garden for seasonal crafts, garden games, an Easter trail and photo opportunities for lasting memories.
6 – 21 June 2026
Various walking routes across North Kesteven
A two-week festival of guided walks through the beautiful landscapes of North Kesteven.
When: August 2026
Where: Sleaford Market Place
Enjoy a pop-up beach in Sleaford Market Place from mid-July to August, plus an exciting beach-themed event day (exact dates are to be confirmed).
Plant Sale & Swap
When: Saturday 23 May 12-3pm
Where: Mrs Smith’s Cottage, Navenby
Prepare your garden for summer by participating in this plant sale and swap event. Donations of labelled plants are welcome, with all proceeds supporting the cottage.
Midsummer Sleaford
When: Saturday 20 June 2026
Where: Sleaford town centre
A celebration of the longest day of the year, with food, films, live music, and a host of activities.
Heckington Show
When: Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July 2026
Where: Heckington Showground
The largest village show in England, offering agricultural displays, entertainment, and family activities.
Events
There are great events in the Heart of Lincs throughout the year. Here we’ve given you a few of the headline dates, but check the events calendar on our website for more details and timings: www.heartoflincs.com/events
Children’s Trail & Activities
When: 23 October – 2 November 2026
Where: Navigation House
Mark 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh with a trail inspired by the original stories and a creative short-story activity.
Sleaford Classic Car and Motorcycle Show
When: Saturday 4 September 2026
Where: Sleaford town centre
A showcase of classic cars and motorcycles, with live music and family-friendly activities.
Sleaford Christmas Market
When: Sunday 29 November 2026
Where: Sleaford town centre
A festive market featuring local crafts, food stalls, and entertainment to get you into the Christmas spirit.
When: Saturday 19 December 2026
Where: Sleaford Market Place
A community celebration of winter and light, with free ice skating, music and dance entertainment, a lantern display and lots more.
Lincolnshire
Heritage Open days
When: 11 – 20 September 2026
Where: Heritage sites across Lincolnshire
Explore the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Lincolnshire through a variety of events and open houses.
Sleaford Festival
When: September 2026
Where: Sleaford Recreation Ground
A family friendly festival with music, entertainment, food and a selection of beers.
When: Saturday 24 October 2026
Where: Sleaford Market Place
A town centre pumpkin patch, with free pumpkins, crafts and entertainment.
When: Saturday 20 February 2027
Where: Sleaford Market Place
A healthy heart event with free health tests, activities to get people moving and tips, information, and advice from local organisations.
REGULAR EVENTS
Wellbeing Walks
When: Weekly throughout 2026
Where: Multiple locations including Ruskington, Waddington, Skellingthorpe, Sleaford, Metheringham, Navenby, and Whisby Nature Park
Join free and friendly short walks aimed at promoting fitness, fresh air, and friendship. Suitable for all abilities
Traditional Milling Day
When: Second Sunday, Monthly
Where: Cogglesford Watermill, East Road, Sleaford
Experience the historic Cogglesford Watermill in action as staff and volunteers operate the machinery to grind flour. A wonderful living history event suitable for all ages. Donations are welcome.
NavenBEEs Toddler Group
When: Second & Fourth Friday, Monthly 11am – 12pm
Where: Mrs Smith’s Cottage, Navenby
A hands-on learning session for toddlers aged 2-5, featuring rhymes, crafts, and gardening activities. £2 per child; adults attend for free. No prior booking required.
Make It Mondays at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum
When: Mondays throughout school holidays
Where: Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum, North Rauceby
Take a break from the screens and join the team at the museum for some creative and educational fun.
Riverside Guardians
When: First Sunday, Monthly
Where: Navigation House, Sleaford
Litter picking is a powerful way to improve our environment and promote sustainability. All equipment is provided, so just pop by during opening times and speak to a member of staff.
Why not advertise here next year?
If you would like to advertise in the next visitor guide and on the Heart of Lincs website please contact the team via phone or email:
Tel: 01529 414155
Email: heartoflincs@n-kesteven.gov.uk
Eighth page: £100
Quarter page: £138
Half page: £240
Full page: £400
Prices include VAT - registered charities qualify for zero rating
Made in North Kesteven
Credit: Emilie Nunn
Shop Local
North Kesteven is full of character and charm, with Sleaford standing proudly as the district’s traditional market town.
Its blend of heritage architecture, independent shops, and welcoming cafés creates a unique shopping experience at the heart of the community.
Beyond Sleaford, the district’s busy village centres offer their own distinctive appeal, with local traders, artisan boutiques, and creative enterprises bringing life to high streets and hidden corners. Whether you’re browsing for handmade gifts, stylish homewares or locally crafted goods, North Kesteven’s independent spirit shines through in every purchase.
Local Growers, Makers and Producers
At the heart of Lincolnshire’s countryside, North Kesteven is home to a passionate community.
Local growers, makers, and producers are dedicated to quality and sustainability. From farm gates and local markets to specialist food shops and artisan studios, the district is brimming with fresh, delicious, and distinctive local produce. Discover butchers, bakers, millers, and makers offering everything from seasonal vegetables and handmade cheeses to award-winning preserves and craft beverages. With over 90% of food retailers achieving the highest hygiene ratings, you can shop with confidence and enjoy the very best the Heart of Lincolnshire has to offer.
Mayfield Vineyard is a family-run vineyard based on a 100-year-old farm near Sleaford in rural Lincolnshire. Founded around 2011, the current owner planted vines suited to the local soil and climate and produced the first harvest in 2017 – launching what became known as “The Owl Collection.” The completely ‘wild’ vineyard prides itself on environmentally conscious practices, hand-picking grapes, avoiding artificial interventions, and sequestering more carbon than it emits. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings of white, rosé, red, and sparkling wines in a cosy tasting room or outdoors when weather permits – a charming spot to experience English wine and countryside hospitality.
Tel: 07976 912883
Email: Fraser@mayfieldvineyard.co.uk
Website: www.mayfieldvineyard.co.uk
Opening times: Tues: 8am – 5pm Weds: 8am – 5pm Thurs: 8am – 4.30pm
Mayfield Vineyard
Mayfield Vineyard, Glebe Farm, Burton Pedwardine. NG34 0BX
Eat, Drink & Stay Local
Across North Kesteven, independent cafés, restaurants, pubs, and hotels offer more than just a place to eat or rest – they’re woven into the fabric of their communities. From cosy village tearooms and characterful country inns to stylish eateries and welcoming guesthouses, each establishment brings its own flavour of local hospitality.
Many proudly source ingredients from nearby farms and producers, serving up fresh, seasonal dishes that celebrate Lincolnshire’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast, a relaxed lunch, or an evening meal by the fire, you’ll find a warm welcome and a genuine connection to place.
Staying overnight? Independent hotels and B&Bs offer comfort with a personal touch, with friendly hosts who enjoy sharing their knowledge of local history, character, and places to explore.
Two self catering cottages situated in peaceful and beautiful surroundings amongst eight acres including woodlands and the use of the garden summer house.
Tel: 01526 320 329
Email: info@watermillfarm.net
Web: www.watermillfarm.net Opening times: Year round WWW.WATERMILLFARM.NET
Watermill Farm Cottages
Watermill Farm, Main Street, Kirkby Green, Lincoln, LN4 3PE
Time to Visit Lincolnshire
Rediscover what matters
From the biggest of skies and widest of beaches, to a city with the finest of cathedrals and charming market towns set in the most unspoilt countryside, it’s time to Visit Lincolnshire.
Enjoy your visit to Lincolnshire with Places to Stay | Things to Do | Events Nearby
Time to pause
Time to make
memories
Time for press
discovery
New Discoveries...
North Kesteven is home to around 4,800 businesses, the vast majority of which are small or micro enterprises (97.1%). This thriving network of familyrun and independent ventures powers the local economy.
From long-established names to exciting new arrivals, these businesses tell the story of our district’s resilience and creativity. Recent additions include Butties & Bakes in Ruskington, which opened in October 2025, and Little Oven Bakehouse in Sleaford, welcoming customers since August 2025. Empra UK Menswear in Sleaford began a new chapter under fresh ownership in May 2025, while Robin Rose Bakes in Navenby has been open since May 2024.
...and Old Favourites
Alongside these newcomers stand businesses that have served generations.
Manor Farm Shops in Leasingham has been a staple since 1964, and White & Sentance in Sleaford has proudly traded since 1867. Paddy Harland, a trusted barber in Sleaford, has been part of the community since 1979, while Appetites in Sleaford has been satisfying cravings since 1987. And of course, Flowers by Suzanne in North Hykeham continues its tradition of floral excellence, since opening in 1986.
Together, these enterprises reflect the strength and diversity of North Kesteven’s business landscape.
Discover & Experience
Moments that Matter
Create lasting memories with hands-on experience days across our beautiful district.
Step back in time as an apprentice for an afternoon at Cogglesford Watermill in Sleaford. Mill your own flour, take it home, and savour freshly baked scones along the way. For a full heritage day, head to Heckington Windmill for a guided tour, hands-on milling, a delicious lunch, and baking in a unique eight-sailed windmillthe only one of its type left in the world.
Prefer something indulgent? Explore the art of wine making at Mayfield Vineyard in Burton Pedwardine, complete with tastings paired with tempting nibbles. Or enjoy a quintessentially English afternoon at Clarke’s Farm, where you’ll craft beautiful needle-felt creations before relaxing with a classic Afternoon Tea.
Growing in popularity, the Padel courts at Doddington Hall offer an exciting new way to get active. Whether you’re a seasoned player or trying something fresh, it’s the perfect place to pick up a racket and enjoy a fun, social game.
For Families
Family Adventures
From hands-on activities to big days for little explorers, North Kesteven is the perfect place to create memories together.
For adrenaline filled days out, head to Lincoln Water Park. Swing, jump and plunge into the lake, take on the thrilling Aqua Park, or test your balance and bravery on the Water Warrior obstacle course.
Little explorers are well catered for too. Daisy Made Farm is a firm favourite, serving freshly made ice cream alongside friendly animals. Just a short distance away, The Natural World Centre offers a full day of adventure with indoor and outdoor play areas, lakeside trails, wildlife habitats and hands on activities.
Arts & Culture
North Kesteven offers a vibrant and growing arts scene, with creative spaces and cultural experiences to enjoy all year round.
At the heart of it all is The Hub in Sleaford – home to a national centre for craft and design. With multiple exhibition spaces hosting a changing programme of contemporary art, craft and design, it’s a must-visit for anyone with a creative spark. The latest exhibitions and workshops are listed at www.hub-sleaford.org.uk.
Nestled beside The Hub, the area around Navigation Yard offers a welcoming, creative atmosphere, with a mix of independent studios, galleries, and workshops. Visitors can browse exhibitions, join occasional hands-on sessions, and discover locally made pieces by artists and makers from the area.
Home to a national centre for craft and design, our celebrated exhibitions showcase contemporary artists and makers from around the world. Our shop stocks an ever-changing collection of handmade craft objects and design gifts, and our CaféBar is a great place to enjoy locally sourced speciality food and drink.
Raisa Kabir
I only dance, I wish we could sing Main Gallery, 28 Mar – 5 Jul 2026
For current exhibitions and workshops visit hub-sleaford.org.uk @hubsleaford
FREE ENTRY, Daily 10am–5pm & Sun 10am–4pm Hub, Navigation Wharf, Carre Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 7TW
Image: Diluviate, Raisa Kabir, 2024
The district also boasts two unique theatres. The Terry O’Toole Theatre in North Hykeham is an intimate 200-seat venue with a lively programme of music, comedy, theatre and dance.
In Sleaford, the historic Playhouse Theatre, built in 1825, is one of the few remaining squared auditorium playhouses in the country. Now home to Sleaford Little Theatre, this local group stages a variety of performances throughout the year. The venue also hosts live music, comedy, and a newly introduced community cinema, offering a diverse programme of entertainment in the heart of the town.
