Explore the beauty and landscapes of North Kesteven at the 2026 NK Walking Festival
Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of North Kesteven’s towns, villages and open spaces, by taking part in a range of more than 70 led walks at this summer’s NK Walking Festival.
Whether you want a short or long trek, to enjoy an array of themed walks, or even try out some walking sports, there will be something for everyone and every pace at the 2026 NK Walking Festival, which takes place over 16 days between June 6 and 21, 2026.
The festival is an annual celebration of the district’s extensive walking trails and last year it attracted hundreds of participants who covered more than 200 miles of walking trails, spread across 60 routes. The walks will be dispersed across North Kesteven’s 356 square miles of villages, churches, and landscapes – more details, including how to book your place, can be found on the Heart of Lincs website at https://www.heartoflincs.com/event/2026-nk-walking-festival/
The NK Walking Festival is inclusive of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels and aligns with North Kesteven District Council’s commitment to physical activity, the authority says. It is also an integral part of the Countryside NK partnership with Hill Holt Wood, which maintains more than 130 miles of Stepping Out walks in the region and has been organising the event since 2018, the council adds.
The walking locations for this year’s NK Walking Festival are spread across North Kesteven and include Sleaford, North Hykeham, Whisby Visitor Centre, Hill Holt Wood, Bassingham, Heckington, RAF Cranwell, Ruskington, Metheringham, Waddington, Branston, Skellingthorpe, Navenby and more.
Anyone wanting to take part in a themed walk, can enjoy nature, history, poetry, the Gruffalo story, a walk in the woods with an Alpaca, and even a teddy bears' picnic.
Coun Richard Wright, leader of North Kesteven District Council, said: “Our district is full of charming villages and sweeping landscapes, and the NK Walking Festival is a great chance to explore them further.
“The festival relies on the dedication and expertise of volunteer walk leaders, local businesses and partners who collectively make the Walking Festival a reality, and the council would like to say a big thank you to them for their continued invaluable contributions and support over the years.”