Linked to Public Transport Network
Over recent years public attitudes towards our environment, and access to it, have changed. This is reflected in the Spires & Steeples walk as it is designed to be easily accessible by public transport. Metheringham and Ruskington, along with both Lincoln and Sleaford of course, have railway stations and there are regular bus services that link the other villages on the route (Timetables are available on the Lincolnshire County Council website www.lincolnshire.gov.uk).
We have tried to give advice on parking and details of usefully located Stepping Out car parks. Remember too that most inn landlords will, if asked first, permit use of their car parks in return for the purchase of a pint (or two) at the end of your walk.
The walk plan centres on Metheringham station - roughly the halfway point. Each of the two main sections is further sub-divided into six shorter (some very short!) stages thus giving walkers a wide choice of options in linking sections according to inclination and ability. It is hoped this approach will encourage not only regular walkers but families, those unable to walk long distances and new or inexperienced walkers, creating the chance for everyone to tackle the trail in short manageable stages. Hardened ramblers may well complete the trail in two outings; over a weekend for example.
Many of the Villages have their own distinctive trails to explore along with (or in addition to) the Spires & Steeples trail. Details of these are given in the appropriate sections of the guide and relevant leaflets should be available locally (e.g. libraries, village shops etc) and from Tourist Information Offices. You can also download them from the Spires & Steeples website. A few detours from the main route are also suggested. And NKDC's admirable Stepping Out guides offer further ideas for exploration of the district.
Spires & Steeples has been designed around three transport hubs: Lincoln, Metheringham and Sleaford. All have rail and bus links.
For information call the Traveline on
0871 200 22 33 or visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/busrailtravel
