Why Spires & Steeples

The Spires & Steeples route across North Kesteven was put together to make it easier for visitors and residents to find their way from village to village to discover their artistic and historical treasures.

North Kesteven does not have a wealth of dramatic scenery, cliffs and mountains, but it does have a rich history and heritage, stories that are part of the fabric of Lincolnshire and intertwined with the character of its landscape, flat fens and heath, reflecting open, changing skies.

This website has been produced to add to this experience and to make it easier for families, residents and visitors to explore and enjoy the walk, and some of the remarkable things North Kesteven residents have achieved.

Many of the North Kesteven villages, and especially those on this trail, have worked with artsNK, the District Council and other partners to research, explore and record their distinctive stories and go on to find creative and inspirational ways of sharing and celebrating them. This is the first step to valuing, caring for and protecting our culture, our villages and the wider environment.
These village trails and artworks have been made possible by the boundless enthusiasm, passion and energy of the residents that have been involved. They are also a reflection of the vision, as well as practical support and funding, that have been given over lots of years, by North Kesteven Councillors and officers.

The name refers to the Spires of churches being the landmarks to which visitors make their way and to the rural sport of Steeple chasing. It is also recognition of the important part they have played in the lives of these communities, as well as how they are a reflection of the times, families and cultures that created, altered and rebuilt them.

For the artsNK team, this booklet and the Spires & Steeples Trail is a testimony to what magnificent and inspirational things can be achieved when a community works together to celebrate what makes a place special.

We hope you find something special here too.

Nick Jones
artsNK Visual Arts Manager