4.5
(301)
1,527
hikers
95
hikes
Hikes around South Willingham explore the varied landscape of the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, expansive woodlands, and public footpaths that follow the River Bain. This provides a range of walking trails suitable for different abilities, from gentle riverside strolls to more extensive routes through the countryside.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
3
hikers
4.43km
01:07
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(30)
95
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
3.8
(5)
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(5)
17
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
6
hikers
22.2km
05:53
210m
210m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The patronage of this church takes us far back to the beginnings of Christianity in the third/fourth century. Saint HELEN was the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great (who recognized Christianity as a religion after his victory at the "Milvian Bridge" in front of Rome and ended the long period of persecution with the "Edict of Toleration" of Milan). In the early fourth century, she made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land (Israel/Palestine) and brought numerous relics back to Europe, including the "True Cross" on which Jesus Christ was crucified. She is therefore often depicted in paintings or as a statue with a cross as an attribute. The feast day of Saint Helena in the calendar of saints is August 18th.
0
0
These small lakes formed in the working of old sand and gravel pits. Today nature has reclaimed the area, and it's a lovely mix of scrub and woodland, dotted with ponds. The Viking Way long distance trail follows this path on its 149 mile (240 km) journey from the River Humber through Lincolnshire and Leicestershire to Rutland.
1
1
This is a tough short climb with 8 & 9% gradients. The Bluestone Heath Road that follows is very comfortable riding.
0
0
Good high cut waterproof boots needed to enjoy this highlight with dry feet.
0
0
You can take the path to avoid the ford. Good pub here too.
0
0
St Helen’s is a small, rural church that was built in 1847 in the Gothic style. Due to some damage to the roof, the church is currently disused. However, it remains an atmospheric building in a peaceful location and boasts some charming 19th-century stained glass. The church is Grade II-listed.
1
0
Yes, the area is well-suited for circular walks. Many trails loop through the woodlands and along the River Bain, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For a shorter, accessible loop, consider the View of the River Bain Dam – Donington on Bain Lakes loop from Burgh on Bain, which is a pleasant walk of about 4.2 kilometers.
Many trails in the South Willingham area are dog-friendly, especially in open spaces like Willingham Woods. A review for this popular park notes it's a "great place for dogs." The region also features long-distance paths like the Viking Way, which has dog-friendly sections. Always keep your dog under control, especially near farmland and wildlife.
Definitely. The region offers numerous gentle paths suitable for all ages. Willingham Woods is a top choice for families, with easy-to-follow trails, a picnic site, and a café. For a specific route, the Donnington on Bain to Biscathorpe via River walk is a straightforward 4.4-kilometer trail that follows the river, making it a great option for a family outing.
Willingham Woods, a major starting point for many local walks, has a large car park. While it's a popular and convenient option, it's always a good idea to arrive early during peak times like summer weekends. Other trailheads may have limited on-street parking in nearby villages, so be sure to park considerately.
Hikers in the region have several favorite spots. Willingham Woods is a highly-regarded, large pinewood forest with numerous trails for all abilities. For a different landscape, Snipe Dales is a cherished nature reserve offering beautiful scenery year-round. For more expansive views, many explore the broader Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape, known for its rolling hills. Finally, Ostler’s Plantation offers a unique mix of woodland paths and historic remnants from its time as an RAF base.
Yes, the most notable long-distance path in the area is the Viking Way. You can join sections of this trail from nearby villages like Ludford. It offers a more challenging hiking experience, taking you through the historic landscapes of the Lincolnshire Wolds.
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands, the scenic paths along the River Bain, and the variety of routes that cater to both casual walkers and serious hikers.
You can find nearly 100 hiking routes around South Willingham on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls of just a few kilometers to challenging full-day hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and interest.
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous day out, the area offers some demanding routes. The Rooster Sculpture – Gouleby Village Shop loop from Donington on Bain is a great example. At over 22 kilometers, it's a substantial hike that explores the wider Lincolnshire Wolds and requires a good level of fitness.
The landscape is a defining feature of hiking around South Willingham. You'll encounter a diverse mix of scenery, including the large pinewoods of Willingham Woods, the gentle valley of the River Bain, and the rolling hills characteristic of the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB. Some paths also pass through quiet meadows and secluded vales.
Absolutely. There are plenty of short walks available. For instance, the View of the River Bain Dam – Donington on Bain Lakes loop from Donington on Bain is a gentle 4.3-kilometer route that's perfect for a quick and refreshing walk, taking about an hour to complete.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.