Leisure Guide 2022 - Heart of Lincolnshire

Heart of

A guide to North Kesteven and the surrounding area

Welcome to the Heart of Lincolnshire

Nestling at the Heart of Lincolnshire, North Kesteven has much to offer – both on its own merits and also as an ideal place from which to explore neighbouring locations.

The area is characterised by endless countryside, interspersed with bustling and charming towns and villages and a surprisingly rich tapestry of both attractions and distractions – public art, heritage, leisure, culture and shopping –meaning there’s plenty to do, whatever the weather.

It’s a perfect place for getting out and about and particularly good for saddling up and cycling; across an area renowned for its easy access and bike-friendly highways, byways and cyclable routes.

A real highpoint of any visit to the area is its enviable aviation heritage. With three operational RAF bases in the District, there is huge heritage interest and ample opportunity for active planespotting during your stay. With the International Bomber Command Centre now drawing worldwide attention, the unique and extensive wealth of aviation heritage within North Kesteven and a little further afield can be easily discovered with the aid of our Airfield Trail.

Wherever you are in North Kesteven, you’re at the heart of it all; only an hour’s drive or less from coast, castles, stately homes, sensational scenery, towns, cities and country walks.

This guide – and its website www.heartoflincs.com – will help you experience the very best at the Heart of Lincolnshire. Look regularly for latest dates and event details throughout the year.

This guide is produced by North Kesteven District Council.

Visitor Information www.heartoflincs.com

Enquiries: District Council Offices Kesteven Street Sleaford Lincolnshire NG34 7EF Tel: 01529 414155 www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

To advertise in the next Leisure Guide, please contact the Heart of Lincs team on 01529 308102 or email 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 to information contained within it.

4

Exploring

8

Cycling

12 Historic Lincolnshire

16 Historic towns

18 Shopping

View www.heartoflincs.com

20 Arts and leisure

22 Aviation

Contents frequently for latest dates and event details and to sign up for a regular newsletter from the Heart of Lincs team.

International Bomber Command Centre 26 Family activities

24

Exploring the heart of Lincolnshire

The Heart of Lincolnshire is characterised by big skies and wide open spaces dotted with small settlements within a beautiful patchwork of natural and historical delights.

From the comfort of a car, the saddle of a bike, the back of a horse or fully absorbed on the ground at walking pace, there is so much to see and sense. A trip around North Kesteven unveils a place of unique beauty and miles upon miles of natural beauty that can be appreciated at any time of the year.

the heart of Lincolnshire

And one of the very best ways is to immerse yourself in it, taking in the sights, sounds, smells and splendours of the area on long-distance, short distance, circular and linear waymarked paths that criss cross North Kesteven to give easy access to wideranging natural, artistic and historic places of interest.

The Spires and Steeples Trail goes from Sleaford St Denys’ Church to Lincoln Cathedral via some of the most beautiful sights and villages in North Kesteven. Every year, the Spires and Steeples Challenge sees hundreds of people walking and running the full 26-mile route.

The cliff villages of Navenby, Harmston, Coleby and Boothby Graffoe provide some stunning

views out onto the ‘Lincoln Edge’, an escarpment which provides stunning views as far as the eye can see, spreading on to neighbouring counties.

Ridges & Furrows is an arts & heritage trail accompanied by cultural events and arts experiences celebrating the communities, heritage and landscape of the Lincoln Edge in North Kesteven.

The ‘When in Sleaford’ trail is a free way to explore the town whilst learning about some of its history. Maps are available from Cogglesford Mill, Navigation House and The Hub.

More detail of some of the free and easy opportunities to explore are overleaf.

“Lincolnshire is a colourful patchwork of villages and heritage”

the heart of Lincolnshire

Whisby Nature Park

As you would expect, green spaces feature prominently at the Heart of Lincolnshire.

Presenting opportunity for adventure and exploration, chief among them is Whisby Nature Park off the A46 on the outskirts of Lincoln.

Across vast acres of reclaimed gravel pits there are tranquil lakeside walks teaming with wildlife, rare flora and rich fauna which will really reconnect you with nature and offer endless delights according to the changing seasons.

The park is managed by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and at its heart is the Natural World Centre where the Boardwalk Café, shop and award-winning Little Darters and Otter’s Reach play locations allow for adventurous activity indoors and out.

Whisby Nature Park is a part of the Witham Valley Country Park which comprises a number of high quality green spaces around the Lincoln fringes; all outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.

There are sites of special scientific interest, local wildlife sites, areas rich in biodiversity and habitats supporting diverse plant, bird and insect life, all perfect for bird-watching and nature-based activities.

www.naturalworldcentre.org

www.withamvalleypark.co.uk

Stepping Out Walks

Helping you get to the heart of the North Kesteven countryside is a comprehensive network of Stepping Out Walks devised by the District Council to present free, year-round, easy-access, walking routes within distinct landscapes.

With ancient woodlands, public art, World War II airfields and historical locations at their heart and navigating around Roman waterways, deserted Medieval villages, lost priories and spectacular churches, there are almost 20 distinct routes ranging in distance and rigour.

Each walk is available through the Alltrails app, available on App Store and Google Play, and also at www.hillholtwood.co.uk , complemented by informative interpretation boards along the route – all providing easy-to-use maps, directions and fascinating points of interest.

Collectively they add up to more than 140 miles of way-marked, mapped and managed walks, each with handy parking and refreshment stops identified.

Sleaford Trails

Sleaford Heritage Trail

This can be picked up at any point in Sleaford and is unique in that the trail is made up of QR codes that can be scanned on phones to find out more about the local area.

Find out more at:

www.sleafordheritage.co.uk

When in Sleaford and Sleaford Riverside Trails

The When in Sleaford trail takes its inspiration from Sleaford’s rich history.

Eighteen bronze roundels make up a walking tour of Sleaford leading you to discover historic buildings, fascinating facts, visitor attractions and existing artworks in the town.

The Riverside Trail will allow you to discover many points of interest about Sleaford’s historic riverside

With the easy to use map and directions and intriguing historical facts, this self-guided trail is the ideal way to experience the Sleaford of days gone by.

Find out more at: www.heartoflincs.com/ sleaford-riverside-art-trails

Ridges & Furrows

Newly instigated as a long-distance footpath, linking The Hub in Sleaford to Whisby Nature Park via the panoramic views along the Lincoln Edge, the Ridges & Furrows Arts & Heritage Trail takes you deep into the culture and countryside of North Kesteven.

Explore local heritage, discover new artworks and uncover hidden stories as the 30-mile trail passes through bustling villages and along quiet byways and scenic fieldpaths.

Along the way, stop off at the Terry O’Toole Theatre, Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum, Knight’s Templar Preceptory at Temple Bruer, Welbourn Forge, the Waddington Village Trail and many more points of interest.

And don’t forget to look out for inns, farm shops and cafes for rest and refreshment too.

Find out more at: www.ridgesandfurrowstrail.org

Spires & Steeples

The longer-established Spires & Steeples Arts and Heritage Trail presents another village-to-village journey through the Heart of Lincolnshire.

From Lincoln Cathedral to St Denys’ Church in Sleaford it presents a 26-mile marathon-length walk or running opportunity to discover some of the very best artistic and historical treasures of North Kesteven, as it passes through more than a dozen villages and alongside scores of pieces of art located alongside.

Free and easy to access and to step on, step off, the route provides a peaceful, traffic-free option for getting to the heart of the Heart of Lincolnshire, where history is woven into the very landscape at your own pace.

www.heartoflincs.com/spires-steeples

Cycling in North Kesteven

Cycling your way around North Kesteven

Take in the sights and delights of North Kesteven as you leisurely explore the county on two wheels

Lincolnshire is a wonderfully diverse county to explore by bike. From the hills and high points of the Wolds and the charming cathedral city of Lincoln to the wide open spaces of the fens with flat roads, distant views, fresh air and vast skies you’ll find countless hidden gems to explore.

And with miles and miles of quiet country lanes, safe, easy-going and dedicated cycle routes, North Kesteven – at the Heart of Lincolnshire – is way out front.

Ride to the inspirational site of International Bomber Command Centre to take-in stunning views over the city of Lincoln to the Castle and beyond. Pedal leisurely past stunning historic homes like Doddington Hall, perhaps stopping for a bite to eat at the cycle shop and café. Explore unrivalled aviation heritage on a self-guided trail or maybe join the relaxing traffic-free Water Rail Way (Sustrans 1) reaching out to the east of Lincoln, or the Sustrans 64 route heading west, which are enlivened with unique sculptures and public art along the way.

Cycle Lincolnshire has developed a selection of new long-distance cycle routes to explore the breadth of the county with a great mix of leisure and distance rides for all abilities. In partnership with North Kesteven District Council, it is adding even more rides to our cycle-friendly, rural district. Whether you are local to the area

“A district where everyone is inspired to cycle”

looking for a few hours’ worth of staycation exploration on two wheels, or a visitor to our impressive county wanting to take in new experiences, you’re sure to find a route to explore that offers you a unique view from the saddle.

No bike? No problem! Take a look at the specialist cycle shops in our area that can offer you rental packages for your stay. Perhaps even upgrade to an e-bike and let battery power take the strain! There are even orange community hire bikes in the north of the area. See www.hirebikelincoln.co.uk

Discover more, explore cycle-friendly places to stay, eat and drink along the way, and plan your active break in Lincolnshire by visiting www.cycle-lincolnshire.com or take a look at our Facebook page at @Cycle-Lincolnshire

Cycling in North Kesteven

Culturally CuriousCYCLING

Escape the everyday and take in the sights and delights of Lincolnshire as you leisurely trail around the city and countryside. Here, Visit Lincoln shares four Cycle England routes for you to enjoy this summer.

Escape the everyday and take in the sights and delights of Lincolnshire as you leisurely trail around the city and countryside. Here, Visit Lincoln shares four Cycle England routes for you to enjoy this summer.

Travelling west along the Fossdyke Navigation

1 Historic Lincoln

Trail, you’ll discover Doddington Hall and Gardens and ancient woodlands. Venture out east, and you’ll reach the home to the Dambusters at The Petwood Hotel and the 15th-century Tattershall Castle.

Cycle to see the diverse cultural offering in Lincoln’s surrounding countryside, journeying towards magnificent castles and handsome Georgian houses from Lincoln city centre.

Enjoy a choice of traffic-free, accessible cycle routes that shadow ancient waterways and are decorated with locally inspired sculptures along the way.

Travelling west along the Fossdyke Navigation Trail, you’ll discover Doddington Hall and Gardens and ancient woodlands. Venture out east, and you’ll reach the home to the Dambusters at The Petwood Hotel and the 15th-century Tattershall Castle.

2 Southern Stately Homes

Embark on a voyage of cultural discovery and cycle your way past the historical highlights of South Lincolnshire.

Follow riverside parkland routes near

2 Southern Stately Homes

Embark on a voyage of cultural discovery and cycle your way past the historical highlights of South Lincolnshire.

Belton House, travel along quiet country lanes to Grimsthorpe Castle and Sir Isaac Newton’s birthplace at Woolsthorpe Manor and finish your journey at one of the finest stone towns in England. While in Stamford, take the time to explore the breathtaking Elizabethan mansion, Burghley House, to round off an unforgettable trip.

Follow riverside parkland routes near Belton House, travel along quiet country lanes to Grimsthorpe Castle and Sir Isaac Newton’s birthplace at Woolsthorpe Manor and finish your journey at one of the finest stone towns in England. While in Stamford, take the time to explore the breathtaking Elizabethan mansion, Burghley House, to round off an unforgettable trip.

vibrant traditional seaside attractions and onwards to the port of Boston, once an ancient powerhouse of trade.

3 Humber to The Wash

Make the most of the boundless skies and fascinating features of the Lincolnshire coast on an extensive and challenging cycle route covering the county’s entire length.

4 Lincolnshire Wolds

Roam around a web of almost deserted lanes between dykes and deep hedges that stretch from the coastal flatlands to the rolling Lincolnshire Wolds.

Pedal past hedge-lined lanes and over the limestone cliffs that skirt the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds as you head towards miles of rolling sand dunes and sweeping golden beaches. The bewitching sea marshes of Donna Nook will inspire your curiosity, and you will also enjoy a local coffee-shop stop overlooking the North Sea and striking offshore wind farms from the North Sea Observatory. There’s more diversity en route as you head towards Skegness’ vibrant traditional seaside attractions and onwards to the port of Boston, once an ancient powerhouse of trade.

4 Lincolnshire Wolds

Roam around a web of almost deserted lanes between dykes and deep hedges that stretch from the coastal flatlands to the rolling Lincolnshire Wolds.

A procession of quiet country lanes, canal-side cycleways and reclaimed railway paths will take you on a leisurely journey across Lincolnshire’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore the culture of the Georgian market town of Louth before riding along the canal to Ticklepenny Lock, passing abbeys and ruined castles, and some of Britain’s oldest churches.

A procession of quiet country lanes, canal-side cycleways and reclaimed railway paths will take you on a leisurely journey across Lincolnshire’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore the culture of the Georgian market town of Louth before riding along the canal to Ticklepenny Lock, passing abbeys and ruined castles, and some of Britain’s oldest churches.

Lincolnshire and build your itinerary. Explore cycle-friendly places to stay and the finest places to eat and drink local produce along the way: cycle-lincolnshire.co.uk

Discover more about the cycle routes amongst the cultural destinations in Lincolnshire and build your itinerary. Explore cycle-friendly places to stay and the finest places to eat and drink local produce along the way: cycle-lincolnshire.co.uk

Historic Lincolnshire

Wherever you wander at the Heart of Lincolnshire you’ll find yourself walking in historic footsteps. From the Iron Age tribe which minted coins at Sleaford to the Knights Templar who settled locally, via the Romans who built the Ermine Street and dug the Car Dyke, visitors from across the centuries have bequeathed a lasting legacy of historical riches throughout North Kesteven.

Historic Lincolnshire

Viking, Norman, Saxon, Medieval, Elizabethan and Tudor, kings and countrymen; they’ve all left their mark, as have more recent generations of prestigious airmen and entrepreneurial industrial pioneers.

North Kesteven boasts the only eight-sailed windmill in Europe – if not the world – rare survivors of the Industrial Age, the largest malthouses in England, Britain’s only remaining Navigation office, some of the nation’s most iconic churches and a unique wealth of aviation assets including the oldest of all RAF bases.

Historical discovery provides the inspiration to most of the District’s 20 Stepping Out Walks through which you can actively explore the area’s tangible history; all centred on a church, a hall, an airfield or similar.

And when you’re ready to explore further afield, there’s a rich seam of history to be found around you; most notably in Lincoln with its 1,000-year old castle, cathedral and Magna Carta; Grantham with Belton House; Newark with its Civil War Museum; Boston with its association with the Pilgrim Fathers and east of the district there’s Tattershall Castle, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, East Kirkby’s Aviation Heritage Centre and the Lincolnshire Wolds.

“Visitors from across the centuries have bequeathed a lasting legacy of historical riches”

Historic

Cogglesford Watermill

In a picturesque setting by the River Slea, this beautiful historic gem is thought to be the only Sheriff’s Watermill still operating in England, and millers have produced flour on this site for over a thousand years.

After a restoration project during 2021, Cogglesford Watermill is once again open to visitors! The waterwheel has now been restored by local firm R.H Displays and Exhibitions and turns every Sunday. Visitors are able to experience the traditional milling process on the second Sunday of every month; watch the building come to life as the millstones and machinery turn and see the stone-ground flour being freshly milled. Flour is available to buy from the gift shop alongside local produce and souvenirs.

Follow us on Twitter @Cogglesford and keep your eyes on the website for milling days and special events!

A lovely end to a walk along the River Slea, enjoy an ice cream in the shade of this historic building during the summer months, or enjoy a hot chocolate to the beautiful sound of the trickling river in the chilly winter months.

Cogglesford Watermill is open weekly from Friday-Monday, 12pm-4pm

Please visit: www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk

Email: cogglesfordwatermill@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Navigation House

In the shadow of St Denys’ Church and the impressive Hub stands Navigation Houseone of the quirky historic gems of Sleaford.

Originally intended to be a shed, Navigation House became a grand display of wealth with a crest above the door designed by Sir Joseph Banks.

A fascinating glimpse of a time when the Sleaford Navigation Company made the town one of the wealthiest and most vibrant in the country - find out more about what actually happened to Sleaford Castle and why it’s still present in buildings of Sleaford, sit at the desk of the canal company clerk, pick up some local leaflets or explore the lovely retail space showcasing handmade gifts from local crafters. With its wonky window frames and friendly feel, this is one building you won’t want to miss.

Navigation House is open from Friday-Monday, 10am-2pm.

Please visit: www.navigationhouse.co.uk

Email: navigationhouse@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Mrs Smith’s Cottage

Step into a different era and make yourself at home…

Mrs Smith was well known and well-loved in Navenby where she lived until she was 102. Her cottage provides a rare insight into the life of a rural Lincolnshire community through an entire century.

The contents and appearance have been preserved from when Hilda Smith last lived there in 1995. She knew all the local history, families and secrets and kept a diary every day.

With events, craft days and exhibitions planned throughout 2022, each day at the Cottage is slightly different. As a guest you can learn how she lived through the seasons and how contentment can be found in simple things. Help yourself to a sweet from the tin and take a seat. Smell the roses in the garden and maybe pull a few weeds. Here you are more than a visitor; you are a helpful guest.

Mrs Smith’s Cottage is open from FridayMonday, 12pm-4pm.

Please visit: www.mrssmithscottage.com

Email: mrssmithscottage@n-kesteven. gov.uk

Follow Mrs Smith’s Cottage on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook: @mrssmithscottage

Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum

With a rotating programme of fascinating exhibitions at its core, exploring the wealth of remarkable aviation heritage near and far, Cranwell offers the ideal launchpad to discover more of Lincolnshire airfields and aviation attractions.

Located in the shadow of the iconic Royal Air Force College, it principally portrays the fascinating story of this most historic and iconic establishment from its early days more than a century ago.

Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum has a programme of changing exhibitions. Up to April 30, it is ‘Rebuilding Heroes’ which focusses on the poignant and uplifting story of the Guinea Pig Club – a social group formed by young men during their recovery after receiving experimental plastic surgery treatment for burns sustained during their service in the Second World War. This will be followed by further fresh exhibitions throughout 2022. Past exhibitions are featured on the website, including ‘High Flying Women’, ‘Gallantry in the Air’ and ‘Animals at War’.

The museum shop offers a fantastic selection of books and a wide range of gift ideas – perfect to find something unique for an aviation enthusiast!

Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum is open from Friday-Monday, 10am-3pm.

Please visit: www.cranwellaviation.co.uk

Email: cranwellaviation@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Twitter @CranwellMuseum

Historic towns

A traditional market town at heart, with a rich array of independent shops jostled alongside recognised national brands, Sleaford enjoys a unique and vibrant mix of shopping opportunities.

With the scenic River Slea flowing through, there is unrivalled access to open space, nature, active leisure, easy relaxation, way-marked walking trails, fine architectural heritage, contemporary culture and creative opportunity at every turn.

The beautiful St Denys’ Church overlooks a traditional yet vibrant marketplace: Sleaford is a town with an abundant history.

Sleaford’s rich history is coupled with a bright future...

Sleaford is also a town that looks towards the future. Regeneration projects have brought fresh aspects to the Market Place, to the riverside, to the historic Cogglesford Watermill and to the National Centre for Craft and Design at The Hub, with its new waterfront terrace.

Remodelled within a vibrant arts hub, the National Centre includes new gallery spaces, multi-use studios workshop and a larger, more vibrant cafe-bar and shop areas.

North Hykeham is ideally located to explore the delights of the historic city of Lincoln, surrounding countryside and catch a glimpse of the world-

famous Red Arrows practicing locally. A more modern town with a Roman road at its core, award-winning leisure facilities at ONE NK, a vintage transport museum and Whisby Nature Park in close proximity, North Hykeham is a further leaping off point for some great adventures.

“The National Centre for Craft and Design is located in historic Sleaford with free exhibitions throughout the year”

Historic towns

Shopping in the heart of Lincolnshire

One of the striking aspects of life at the Heart of Lincolnshire is the ready availability of passionate independent traders, makers, crafters and producers all working to give you the very best they can offer. From farm gates and county markets to boutiques, country stores and speciality shops, it’s all here in abundance.

As the county town, the bustling city of Lincoln unites many of the country’s best-loved high street names alongside a rich variety of locallyowned specialist shops, the charms of farmers’, artists’ and vintage markets and lively entertainment. Likewise Newark, Boston and the larger towns are just a short drive away.

But it is market towns which are so distinct within Lincolnshire; Sleaford among them where some of the very best in British contemporary craft can be found at the The Hub.

As you journey around the Heart of Lincolnshire you will be spoilt for choice as you discover farm shops, butchers, bakers, millers and makers offering fairly-priced, fresh, delicious and distinct local produce and find comfort in the fact that well over 90%

of all food retailers achieve the highest hygiene ratings for quality assurance.

Within the area, Doddington Hall is a growing complex of surprises with high-end homewares, cycling, fashion and a farmshop all making for a full day out alongside the historic attraction itself. And look out for other local delights as you travel around.

And not far away at Springfields Outlet near Spalding quite literally bags of high-end fashion can be found within a setting of festival gardens.

“As you journey around the Heart of Lincolnshire you will be spoilt for choice”

Arts and leisure

There are plenty of delightful attractions awaiting your visit to North Kesteven, providing an unforgettable experience. From award-winning leisure centres featuring exclusive, interactive watery fun to museums packed with historical fascination and creative exploration on an epic-scale, there’s a wealth of things to do whatever the weather. From a wonderful watermill to amazing aviation, they all add even more fun to your holiday and make for a great day out. and leisure

ONE NK in North Hykeham and Sleaford Leisure Centre provide a modern, enjoyable leisure and fitness experience for all the family. Both venues have Splash Zones for the little ones, as well as a swimming pool and full gym facilities. ONE NK is also home to an interactive water slide that plays music and will take a photo of you on the way down!

If you have an interest in arts and crafts, then a trip to The Hub, a National Centre for Craft and Design in Sleaford, is a must. The centre is home to several exhibition spaces that are occupied allyear-round with many different displays and installations. More information about the centre and up-to-date information about exhibitions can be found at www.hub-sleaford.org.uk

North Hykeham is home to the Terry O’ Toole Theatre, an intimate 200 seater theatre which provides an entertaining

programme of music, comedy, theatre and dance throughout the year.

The Playhouse in Sleaford was originally built in 1825 and is one of the only squared auditorium playhouses left in the country. Since its reopening in 2000, the Playhouse has been host to theatre, comedy and music.

& leisure

“The Heart of Lincolnshire is full of fun and fitness, with something to cater for all ages and tastes.”

Arts and leisure

Aviation

Known as the ‘Home of the Royal Air Force’, Lincolnshire has a vast aviation heritage –and nowhere more so than North Kesteven.

Airfields were first developed during World War I, with the RAF’s first bases and training stations set up here, and in World War II Lincolnshire became the most important home of Bomber Command.

North Kesteven is still home to three operational bases while former airfields, museums and memorials are testament to the bravery of those who served here.

Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum and the International Bomber Command Centre are at the heart of the story, with more to be found throughout the North Kesteven Airfield Trail. Download a guide map of the trail at www.heartoflincs.com

In nearby East Kirkby there is the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, which is home to ‘Just Jane’, a beautiful example of the Lancaster Bomber that has such a close association with Lincolnshire.

RAF Coningsby, nestled half way between Sleaford and Horncastle, is where you will find the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre. The hangar tours let you walk around the Lancaster Bomber, Dakota, Spitfire and Hurricane.

Newark Air Museum in nearby Winthorpe is also a must for aviation enthusiasts, with a diverse collection of aircraft from all over the world. 76 aircraft are on display either on the open grounds of the museum or in one of the four hangars, including the iconic Avro Vulcan – a true symbol of Lincolnshire’s aviation heritage.

“Lincolnshire has a rich heritage of aviation as well as active bases”

International Bomber Command Centre

The International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) has been created to provide a world-class facility to serve as a point for recognition, remembrance and reconciliation for Bomber Command.

Lincolnshire earned the title of ‘Bomber County’ when the Headquarters of both 1 and 5 Groups and a third of all the UK’s stations were based in the county. This deep connection and linked history defined the location for the new centre on Canwick Hill, to the south of Lincoln in the north of the District.

International Bomber Command Centre

IBCC is the only single national or international facility that exists to commemorate Bomber Command. The height of the memorial spire is the wingspan of the Avro Lancaster and the centre tells the history and heritage of Bomber Command for present and future generations through interactive displays and an extensive digital archive.

After taking in some of the poignant stories of this unique venue, there’s a chance to unwind and enjoy some refreshments in The Hub Cafe. Meet with friends or simply relax and enjoy amazing views of the Spire whilst sampling some of the fresh food and drink on offer.

The International Bomber Command Centre has quickly become established as one of the best visitor centres in the country and is a must during your visit to the Heart of Lincs. For more information or to contribute to the memorial appeal visit www.internationalbcc.co.uk

“This inspiring centre for remembrance is located just outside Lincoln”

International Bomber Command Centre

A great family day out, whatever the weather

Whisby Animal Park and Play Barn

Part of the Whisby Garden Centre complex, the animal park and play barn are a great day out near Lincoln. The play barn includes a soft play area and café, and is joined by a large outdoor play area and a selection of animals including deer, chickens, goats and parrots.

The park is open seven days a week, and an admission fee applies

www.whisbygardencentre.com

Soft Play for Children

Crazee Bongos and Stacks Funhouse in Sleaford are both large sized soft play areas; the ideal place for the little ones to let off some steam! Both have an area for the under-5s, hot and cold food available, hot drinks and are open every day.

Fun Farm in North Hykeham is another soft play choice if you are closer to Lincoln for the day. It gets very busy during the summer so booking is advised. Open daily, seven-days-a-week from 9:30 until 6pm

www.stacksfunhouse.com

www.crazeebongos.com

www.funfarmlincoln.co.uk

Daisy Made Farm and Ice Cream

A fun trip out for all the family in Skellingthorpe just outside the city of Lincoln. Daisy Made is not just your average ice cream parlour! There is lots of entertainment too, including a nine-hole crazy golf course, a children’s play area and farm animals to meet.

The café also serves drinks and light bites, but if you are on-the-go you can get one of their delicious fresh ice creams from one of the drivethru hatches .

Open 10am-6pm from March to October; 10am5pm from November to February.

Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe, Lincoln, LN6 5SA

www.daisymadefarm.co.uk

Kinema in The Woods

An absolute gem of a day out nestled in the woods in Woodhall Spa. There aren’t many cinemas like this one left in the UK! Complete with its own famous organist who plays during the intermission, the Kinema in The Woods is a real trip back in time. The Kinema is open seven days a week, and screens all the latest blockbusters alongside family films. Bookings can be made online.

www.thekinemainthewoods.co.uk

Ancaster Leisure

If you are after fun and adventure, Ancaster Leisure has it all.

Whether you fancy Go-Karting, Paintball, Ten-Pin Bowling, Archery or Laser Tag, you can do it all here! Just outside the village of Ancaster, fifteen minutes from Sleaford, Ancaster Leisure is a must for thrillseekers visiting the Heart of Lincs.

www.ancasterleisure.co.uk

Activities Away

Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, Open water swimming.

www.activitiesaway.uk

Lincoln Water Park

Giant inflatable water park in Thorpe-On-The-Hill near Lincoln.

www.lincolnwaterpark.co.uk

Jubillee Park, Woodhall Spa

Open-air heated swimming pool located in the picturesque village of Woodhall Spa. A large poolside area to relax and lots of facilities nearby. The pool is open seven days a week during the summer, but booking is essential

www.jubileeparkwoodhallspa.co.uk

“Rain or shine, there’s always plenty of fun to be had in North Kesteven”