Walks from Lincoln

A straightforward route through lovely Lincolnshire countryside and villages, following the Spires and Steeples Trail almost all the way. It is mostly tarmacked cycleway or track, with some field footpaths, quiet road walking and one early set of steps. Sections can be very muddy or flooded after heavy rain. Follows the waymarked Spires and Steeples Trail almost the whole way (signage through villages can be confusing or missing). Starts on the flat, tarmacked Water Rail Way to Washingborough. Branston has a useful Co-op and a main bus route.

Time: 5h–10h

Warnings: The level crossing between Branston and Potterhanworth marked on the GPX is no longer usable and is blocked off; use the road nearby to cross under the tracks instead. Sections between Washingborough and Branston can flood badly after heavy rain, sometimes requiring a sizeable diversion. An early footbridge with steps. Can be muddy.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

A mix of public footpath, country lanes and some pavement alongside busier roads through Lincolnshire farmland. Some footpaths are not well trodden and cross ploughed fields and but the route is generally well signposted.

Time: 8h–16h

Lunch: Numerous refreshment options in Nettleham.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

The Foss Dyke section is excellent. A largely flat, very accessible route following the Foss Dyke canal on firm tarmac or gravel paths for most of the way and with a short grassy section near the Pyewipe Inn. The final couple of miles leave the canal to follow a decent but noisy pavement alongside the busy A57. Follows the Foss Dyke; Lincoln Cathedral is visible from a long way off.

Waterway: nine tenths along the Fossdyke Navigation.

Time: 3h–5h30

Lunch: Excellent chippy on the approach to Saxilby station; cafe by the A57 junction.

Warnings: Follows a busy road for a fifth of the walk. The A57 crossing on the alternative direct line has no central refuge; this route uses a safer signposted cycle crossing with a central refuge but no lights. The A57 pavement is noisy and narrow in places.

Walk details: Slow Ways.