Leisure Guide 2024-25 - Heart of Lincolnshire

2024/25

Leisure Guide

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; characterised by endless countryside interspersed with bustling and charming towns and villages with a rich tapestry of both attractions and distractions 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 cycle-able routes.

A real highpoint of any visit to the area is its enviable aviation Heritage, with sites of significant heritage interest and ample opportunity for active plane spotting during your stay.

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.

This guide is produced by North Kesteven District Council.

Visitor 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 next annual 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 contained within it.

Enjoy Nature

Time Outdoors

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.

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. The North Kesteven Walking Festival is a two-week celebration of the countless walking opportunities available within the District. Hundreds of walkers have tied their laces and taken part in the walking festival every year since its conception in 2014. From short saunters to long hikes, all ages, abilities, and fitness levels enjoy the social walking experience only a festival can provide. The festival demonstrates North Kesteven District Council’s commitment to physical activity and is part of the Countryside NK partnership with Hill Holt Wood (a charity and social enterprise) who maintain over 130 miles of Stepping Out walks in the District.

The 2024 summer festival will allow you to get out and explore over 60 walks that traverse across North Kesteven’s 356 square miles of picturesque villages, medieval churches and thriving landscapes. With 94% of the District classified as green space you will explore rural towns full of history, arable land rich in wildlife and see why the area is favoured by many for exploration and outdoor adventures. A great place to walk together.

The festival runs from Saturday 15th June until Sunday 30th June.

Visitors can explore the communities, heritage and landscape of the District anytime, through various trails, walks and nature reserves; find more details overleaf.

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 awardwinning Little Darters and Otter’s Reach play locations allow for adventurous activity indoors and out.

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.

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

Each walk is available through the Hill Holt Wood website, as well as the Alltrails app, available on the App Store and Google Play. You’ll find easy-to-use maps, directions and fascinating points of interest, and walks are complemented by informative interpretation boards along the route.

Find out more at: www.hillholtwood.co.uk

Sleaford Trails Ridges & Furrows

The Sleaford Heritage Trail 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

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 Heritage 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.

The new Sleaford Mosaic Trail, produced for the RiverLight Festival 2022, highlights the stunning mosaics throughout the town.

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.

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 field paths.

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.

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

Embark on the Spires & Steeples Walking Route, a scenic path through historic villages and picturesque landscapes and explore beautiful artworks, churches, interesting landscapes and picturesque skies. Scan the QR code for more information.

Uncover the fascinating ties between Norton Disney and the iconic Disney family this year, with the exciting launch of the NK Disney Trail. Get a taste for the trail during the led walk around Norton Disney during the 2024 NK Walking Festival.

Find out more at: www.ridgesandfurrowstrail.org

Cycling around North Kesteven

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

Whether you are local to the area looking for a few hours’ of staycation exploration, or a visitor to our impressive county wanting to take in new experiences, you’re sure to find a route to explore that offers a unique view from the saddle, with miles and miles of quiet country lanes, safe, easygoing and dedicated cycle routes.

Ride to the inspirational site of International Bomber Command Centre to take-in stunning views over the city of Lincoln to the Cathedral, 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 and enjoy routes enlivened with unique sculptures and public art along the way.

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!

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.

Cycle Routes and Bike Hire

Cycling in the Heart of Lincs

For the latest information on cycling in the Heart of Lincs: www.heartoflincs.com/things_to_do/cycling

River Witham Cycle Trail

The Water Rail Way path was named for its former life as a railway line and also for the shy Moorhen-like Water Rail which has been spotted from this path. This route follows dedicated cycle ways and quiet country roads making for a relaxed and easy to follow ride.

Sleaford Spires & Sails

This great ride will take you on a tour of the gently rolling countryside and villages around Sleaford and includes a visit to the famous 8 sail windmill in Heckington. The circular route is mainly on quiet roads and lanes with some off road cycle paths alongside the busier stretches in and out of Sleaford.

No bike? No problem!

Take a look at some specialist cycle shops offering rental packages:

Discover more, explore cycle-friendly places to stay, eat and drink along the way, and plan your active break in Lincolnshire by visiting cycle-lincolnshire.com

Enjoy History

History & Heritage in the Heart of Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire certainly is a county of contrasts; with the rolling chalk hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds gradually making may to the flatlands of the marshes and fens in the south, and with miles of stunning coastline to the east.

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.

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 Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre and the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Norton Disney Village

Unveiling the Enchanting Connection: Disney Corporation and Norton Disney

At the western edge of North Kesteven lies the charming village of Norton Disney, an idyllic locale where history and fantasy intertwine. While it may seem whimsical, there exists an exciting link between Norton Disney in Lincolnshire and the iconic Disney Corporation, the entertainment giant founded by Walt Disney.

Norton Disney’s historical roots run deep, and it’s believed to be the ancestral home of the Disney family, dating back to Norman Conquest. The intriguing part? The village’s very name is said to have inspired the surname of none other than Walt Disney himself. While the concrete evidence for this connection remains elusive, the echoes of this intriguing possibility captures the imagination of

Disney fans and history enthusiasts. The village has a character and history that make it an appealing destination in its own right. But what truly sets it apart is the fascinating notion that the Disney legacy might have been influenced by this very place.

In July 1949, Walt Disney made his own enchanting visit to the village, with his wife and daughters, seeking a connection to his family’s European heritage. Details of his trip are proudly displayed at St Peter’s Church alongside a grand 14th century tomb to Sir William D’Isney. The three lions from this tomb went on to inform the iconic crest that features on Disney castles and in the opening titles of all Disney films since 2006.

To mark Disney’s 100th anniversary, Disney illustrator Kim Raymond gave to the village this special drawing.

Norton Disney’s connection to the Disney Corporation is a story that transcends time and place. It’s an extraordinary fusion of history, folklore, and the magic

of imagination, making Norton Disney a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore this enchanting link and experience the charming beauty of Lincolnshire’s countryside – not least for a trip to the local pub and historic church, as Walt did, or neighbouring Hill Holt Wood.

Cogglesford Watermill

Nestled in a picturesque setting by Sleaford’s riverside, Cogglesford Watermill is a timeless gem that promises an enchanting experience for all.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family seeking a day out, or someone simply in search of tranquillity, this historic watermill has something special to offer.

For the adventurous, our Experience Days let you step back in time and learn the secrets of traditional milling, grinding your own grains and experiencing the age-old process of turning grain into flour. It’s handson history, and an opportunity to connect with our heritage in a truly immersive way.

Don’t forget to explore the charming gift shop, where you can find unique souvenirs and locally produced treats to remember your visit by. And when you’ve worked up an appetite, our cosy refreshment area awaits, offering a selection of snacks, treats, and hot beverages to savour while taking in the picturesque surroundings.

Cogglesford Watermill is a window into history, where every visit promises to be a memorable and fulfilling experience. Come and uncover the magic of our traditional mill – it’s more than a day out; it’s a journey through time.

Cogglesford Watermill is open weekly from Friday-Monday, 12pm-4pm and milling days are held on the second Sunday of every month.

Website: www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk

Email: cogglesfordwatermill@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Social media: @Cogglesford

Navigation House

In the shadow of historic St Denys’ Church and impressive Hub art centre stands Navigation House - one of the quirkiest 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 county - find out more about what happened to Sleaford Castle and why parts of it are still present in buildings of Sleaford, sit at the desk of the canal company clerk, pick up some local leaflets and explore the lovely retail space showcasing handmade gifts from local crafters.

With its wonky window frames and friendly feel, this is one hidden gem you won’t want to miss.

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

Website: www.navigationhouse.co.uk

Email: navigationhouse@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Social media: @NavigationHouse

Mrs Smith’s Cottage

Take a step into a different era and make yourself at home. Here you are surrounded by what is familiar and yet unfamiliar; ordinary and yet extraordinary. This is Mrs Smith’s home where her unique presence is felt in every authentic object, as if she has just stepped out for a moment.

Beyond nostalgia, Mrs Smith’s Cottage offers valuable insights into a principled and forward-thinking existence. Mrs Smith’s forward-looking nature inspires visitors to reflect on their own lives. It’s a place where you can embark on a gentle challenge to your attitudes and values, or perhaps, find a poignant reminder of what truly matters in life.

Mrs Smith’s Cottage is not just a destination; it’s an enriching journey through time, making history feel vivid and pertinent today. Come and experience the unique blend of the past and present, as you step into Mrs Smith’s world.

Mrs Smith’s Cottage is open weekly from Friday-Monday, 12pm-4pm and special event days are held throughout the year.

Website: www.mrssmithscottage.com

Email: mrssmithscottage@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Social media: @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, the museum offers the ideal launchpad to discover the rest of Lincolnshire’s airfields and aviation attractions.

Located across the A17 from the iconic Royal Air Force college, it chiefly portrays the fascinating story of this most historic and iconic establishment from its early days more than a century ago.

During 2024, the exhibition will be a revamp of ‘High Flying Women’ which tells the stories of the women who fought against adversity to achieve aviation history. Past exhibitions are featured on the website, including ‘A Tale of Two Apprentices’, ‘Gallantry in the Air’ and ‘Animals at War’.

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

Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum is open weekly from Friday-Monday, 10am-3pm, with a last entry of 2:30pm.

The museum is available for private hire and group visits from Tuesday-Thursday for a nominal charge.

Website: www.cranwellaviation.co.uk

Email: cranwellaviation@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Social media: @CranwellMuseum

Enjoy Shopping

Shop Local in the Heart of Lincs

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, waymarked 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 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 Hub, with its new waterfront terrace.

If you’re in Sleaford in June 2024, look out for the RiverLight festival, with a week of activities culminating in a day-long celebration on June 22nd.

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, awardwinning 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.

Shop Local in the Heart of Lincs

One of the striking aspects of life at the Heart of Lincolnshire is the readily 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 locally owned 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 Hub-Sleaford, and weekly markets are held throughout the year in the traditional Market Place.

As you journey around the Heart of Lincolnshire you’ll 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 highend homewares, cycling, fashion and a farm shop all making for a full day out alongside the historic attraction itself. And look out for other local delights as you travel around.

Discover

retailers across North Kesteven

We’ve made it easy to discover retailers across North Kesteven through our shop local directory. The directory provides a snapshot of all the amazing retailers and businesses operating across the district. You can search based on business type or location and instantly find what you’re looking for, or even better discover a hidden gem.

Enjoy Aviation

Learn about Aviation in North Kesteven

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

Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre, nestled halfway between Lincoln and Sleaford is a volunteer run museum housed in original wartime buildings on the domestic area of the former RAF Metheringham. Their stimulating displays and knowledgeable volunteers share the story of the base and those who served with 106 Squadron of Bomber Command. www.metheringhamairfield.co.uk

The historic RAF Digby Lima Sector Operations Room is a restored former WWII operations room bunker. The museum offers an insight into the feel of a 1940’s wartime station. Find opening times on their Facebook page: LimaSectorOps

The Red Arrows, famed for their aerobatic prowess, call RAF Waddington their home base, serving as the operational hub for these iconic aircraft. From here, the skilled pilots of the Red Arrows embark on breathtaking displays worldwide, showcasing precision, agility, and teamwork. Their presence at Waddington adds to the rich aviation heritage of the base. www.newarkairmuseum.org

Enjoy Family

Family Adventures

There are plenty of family friendly attractions awaiting your visit to North Kesteven, providing an unforgettable experience for any age. Rain or shine, there’s always plenty of fun to be had in North Kesteven.

Whisby Animal Park and Play Barn is a great day out near Lincoln and is open seven days a week; part of the Whisby Garden Centre complex, the venue includes a soft play area and café and boasts a large outdoor play area and a selection of animals including deer, chickens, goats and parrots. Visit www.whisbygardencentre. com for more details and admission fees.

Other great soft play areas in the District include Fun Farm in North Hykeham (booking is advised during the busy summer months) as well as Crazee Bongos and All Aboard in Sleaford. The ideal place for the little ones to run off some steam, each venue has an area for the under-5s and hot and cold food is available.

At Skellingthorpe just outside the city of Lincoln you’ll find Daisy Made Farm. Not just your average ice cream parlour, there’s lots of entertainment too! Here you’ll find a nine-hole crazy golf course, a children’s play area and lots of farm animals to meet. The café 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 drive-thru hatches. www.daisymadefarm.co.uk

For a real trip back in time, head just over the border to Woodhall Spa’s iconic Kinema in the Woods. Nestled among the woodland, the cinema boasts its own famous organist who plays during the intermission. There aren’t many cinemas left like this in the UK! The Kinema is open seven days a week and screens all the latest blockbusters alongside family films.

Bookings can be made online at www.kinemainthewoods.co.uk.

Nearby you’ll find Jubilee Park, an open-air swimming pool located in this picturesque village. There’s 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.

Visit www.jubileeparkwoodhallspa.co.uk.

If you’re 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 thrill seekers visiting the Heart of Lincs.

Add to the above working watermills to amazing aviation, they all add even more fun to your holiday or day out, and you’ll find something every member of the family.

Enjoy Attractions

Arts & Leisure

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

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.

ONE NK in North Hykeham and Sleaford Leisure Centre both 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 all-year-round with many different displays and installations. More information about the centre can be found overleaf 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.

The Hub

The Hub delivers an inspiring programme of contemporary craft, design, dance, and creative arts experiences, in Sleaford, across North Kesteven and beyond.

Home to a national centre for craft and design, the 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.

The Hub offers a dynamic learning programme of workshops, talks, classes, competitions, special events and performances for all people, ages, and abilities. We deliver creative activities in schools, community & care settings and online; and we work with our communities & partners to coordinate participatory arts projects, events, festivals, celebrations, and public commissions.

A major, £1.2 million refurbishment of the Hub was completed in May 2021. This investment sees the centre now provide a multi-arts offer that incorporates a strong dance programme at the Hub and in the community of North Kesteven. The refurbishment saw us completely reshape and re-purpose the centre with new studio, workshop and gallery spaces on the ground floor, alongside an improved shop and cafe bar that now incorporates a stunning jetty seating area overlooking the River Slea.

The Hub is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation (NPO), owned and supported by North Kesteven District Council.

In November 2022 the Hub had its NPO status renewed for a further three years through to 2026.

www.hub-sleaford.org.uk

Key Events for 2024

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

MARCH

• Until Sun 28th April

Spring Bulb Pageant: Doddington Hall

• Until Sun 7th July

‘Tailored’ Exhibition: Hub, Sleaford

• Throughout 2024

‘High Flying Women’ Exhibition: Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum

APRIL

• Throughout 2024

‘Discover Sleaford Castle’ Exhibition: Navigation House

• Tues 9th

Spy Club: Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum

• Sat 13th

The Great Escape Activity Day: IBCC

• Until Sun 14th

Art in the Barn Exhibition: Doddington Hall

MAY

• Sun 5th

Dawn Chorus: Whisby Nature Park

• Mon 6th

Retro Games Day: Navigation House

• Sat 11th (regular event)

Milling & Steaming: Heckington

Windmill

• Sun 19th

Inspire Ride 2024 -

The Great Escape at 80: IBCC

JUNE

• Fri 7th (regular event)

Nature Tots: Whisby Nature Park

• Sat 15th-Sat 22nd

RiverLight Festival 2024: Sleaford

• Sat 15th-Sun 30th

NK Walking Festival, celebrating 10 years

• Sun 30th

Swaton Vintage Day

JULY

• Sat 20th July-Sun 1st September

Sculpture Exhibition: Doddington Hall

• Sat 20th-Mon 22nd

Washday Weekend: Mrs Smith’s Cottage

• 27th & 28th

Heckington Show: the largest Village Show in England

AUGUST

• Sat 10th & Sun 11th

Salute to the 1940s Weekend: IBCC

• Sat 17th

Bake Off: Cogglesford Watermill

• Fri 23rd-Mon 26th

Washday Weekend: Mrs Smith’s Cottage

• Tues 27th & Weds 28th

Hamlet: Doddington Hall

SEPTEMBER

• Sun 1st

Wings & Wheels: IBCC

• Sat 7th

Classic Car & Motorcycle Show Town

Crier British Championships: Sleaford

• Sat 7th

Apple Day: Mrs Smith’s Cottage

• Sun 29th

Harvest Family Fun Day: Heckington

Windmill

OCTOBER

• Sat 5th (regular event)

Sleaford Farmer’s Market

• Sun 20th

World Food Day: Cogglesford Watermill

• Fri 25th-Sun 27th

Halloween Weekend: Heckington Windmill

• Mon 28th

Mrs Smith’s Birthday: Mrs Smith’s Cottage

NOVEMBER

• Sat 2nd (regular event)

Junior Wardens Club: Whisby Nature Park

• Sun 10th

Remembering Sidney: Mrs Smith’s Cottage

• Sat 30th

Mini Christmas Market: Cogglesford Watermill

DECEMBER

• Sun 1st

Christmas Market & Light Switch-On: Sleaford

• Weds 4th-Tues 10th

Seasonal Wreaths: Doddington Hall

• Sat 7th & Sun 8th

Christmas at the Mill: Heckington Windmill

• Sat 14th

Father Christmas at the Cottage: Mrs Smith’s Cottage

REGULAR EVENTS

NavenBees Toddler Group

Mrs Smith’s Cottage, Navenby, LN5 0EP

• 11am-12pm on the second and fourth Friday every month

• Join us for hands-on learning about our natural world with rhymes, crafts, and gardening for ages 2-5. £2 per child, adults free.

Cogglesford Watermill Milling Days

Cogglesford Watermill, Sleaford, NG34 7EQ

• 12-3:30pm on the second Sunday of every month

• Come and see this historic building in full action as staff and volunteers grind flour the traditional way. A great living history lesson!

Make It Mondays at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum

Mondays throughout school holidays, 10am-2pm

• Take a break from the screens and join the team at the museum for some creative and educational fun, with exciting aviation-themed craft activities suitable for all ages.

Events, Exhibitions and Workshops

The Hub, Sleaford

• The Hub delivers an inspiring programme of contemporary craft, design, dance and creative arts experiences, in Sleaford, across North Kesteven and beyond and is home to the national centre for craft and design.

Weekly Wellbeing Walks Across North Kesteven

• visit www.lincolnshire.coop/ wellbeing-walks for the full list.

Natural World Centre

Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill, Lincoln, LN6 9BW

Situated within Whisby Nature Park, The Natural World Centre is just 5 miles from Lincoln City centre. You’ll find a great selection in the bistro as well as a wellstocked shop featuring local makers from across Lincolnshire. Our Little Darter’s Wildlife Adventure is packed full of exciting tunnels and exploration towers. Older kids can try their hand at the mini assault course which features a ramp and rope ascent, balance rope traverse and climbing net. Stay and play whatever the weather in Otter’s Reach Indoor Adventure, an educational resource for younger visitors up to 1.3m. Experience the park’s history through the gravel plant with hands on features, bulrush stilt posts, spider’s web climb, raptors’ nest and more!.

Tel: 01522 688868

Email: naturalworld@lincsinspire.com

Website: www.naturalworldcentre.org

Opening times: Every day, 9:30am-4:30pm (toilets open 9am-5pm)

Elms Farm Cottages

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

Email: carol@elmsfarmcottages.co.uk

Website: www.elmsfarmcottages.co.uk

Opening times: all year

Rates: £750 to £950 per week

Sleaford Museum

81 Southgate, Sleaford, NG34 7RQ

Award-winning Sleaford Museum explores the history of Sleaford’s past, its people and the local area through informative, well-researched exhibitions. Detailed illustrated boards, fascinating artefacts and items, plus personal stories in attractive displays that change frequently - so there is always something new to see - are on view. An eye-catching scene in the large picture-window encourages visitors (14,000 so far) into its FREE entrance, only to be amazed at the colourful Tardis-like interior. Entirely set-up and run by enthusiastic dedicated volunteers, it appeals to all ages with maps, old photographs, research books, films-on-loop, a quiz, and dressing-up for children. Please discover this unique, quirky, ever-changing attraction situated in Monument Gardens.

Tel: 07518 972 016 to arrange a group visit

Website: www.sleafordmuseum.org.uk

Open: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday 10-3 plus special occasions.

Facebook: Sleaford Museum

Twitter: @MuseumSleaford

The Ferry Boat Inn

High Street, Washingborough, Lincoln. LN4 1AZ

The Ferry Boat is a traditional, familyfriendly pub located on Washingborough High Street, serving a wide range of fresh cooked food and delicious drinks as well as live music, quizzes and much more.

With a spacious car park, outside seating area, open fire and a TV showing sport or other events available on Freeview. This includes FA Cup football, Six Nations rugby and Wimbledon tennis. There’s also a children’s menu available during all food service hours.

Catering available for functions of any size or type, and the team are always happy to discuss bespoke requests and requirements.

Tel: 01522 790794

Email: ferryboat@eversosensible.com

Website: www.ferryboatwashingborough.co.uk

Opening times:

Mon-Sat: 12pm-11pm, Sun: 12pm-10.30pm

Food served: Mon-Sat: 12pm-9pm, Sun: 12pm-8pm

A national centre for craft & design — delivering an inspiring programme of contemporary craft, design, dance and creative arts experiences, in Sleaford, across Lincolnshire and beyond.

FREE ENTRY

Open 10am–5pm & Sun 10am–4pm Sleaford, NG34 7TW

info@hub-sleaford.org.uk 01529 308710

hub-sleaford.co.uk

Watermill Farm Cottages

Watermill Farm, Main Street, Kirkby Green, Lincoln, LN4 3PE

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.PILLARBOXCOTTAGES.CO.UK

If you would like to advertise in the next Leisure Guide and on the Heart of Lincs website please contact the team via phone or email:

WWW.HEARTOFLINCS.COM Why not advertise here next year!

Tel: 01529 308102

Email: heartoflincs@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Eighth page: £60

Quarter page: £80

Half page: £140

Full page: £230

Prices exclude VAT - registered charities qualify for zero rating.