Just in time for the balmy British summer, Cycle Lincolnshire in partnership with West Lindsey and East Lindsey District Councils and Boston Borough Council has launched a further four cycle routes.
With two routes taking in the pretty villages to be found in West Lindsey, one taking riders on a BIG challenge, and the final route designed to encourage short breaks in the south of the county, this final release of routes sees Phase Two of Cyle Lincolnshire come to a close.
After two phases of development, 24 routes in total have been created in partnership with seven Councils across Lincolnshire (Lincolnshire County Council, West Lindsey District Council, East Lindsey District Council, Boston Borough Council, North Lincolnshire Council, North East Lincolnshire Council and North Kesteven District Council) to showcase towns and villages, wildlife and landscapes across Yellowbelly Country.
Helen Smith, Cycle Lincolnshire Project Manager, said: “It’s been great working with so many partners on these new routes. Some of the shorter routes can be done in just an hour or so, which will hopefully open up the market and get new people to seriously consider cycling.
“For me, the next stage will be the most exciting! Phase three will see us actively marketing these routes to both the domestic and international markets, especially the Netherlands and Germany, showcasing our great county and welcoming more visitors.”
The four new routes:
Snakeholme to Wragby, created in collaboration with West Lindsey District Council, is a short circular 11.5 mile / 18.5 km route that starts and finishes at Snakeholme Pit Nature Reserve. Developed to offer visitors the opportunity to also experience nearby destinations, cyclists are encouraged to stop off at Bardney with its pretty village, Bardney Abbey, Snakeholme Pit Nature Reserve, Fiskerton Fen Nature Reserve, Apley and Wragby itself.
The second route – Edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds – also developed with West Lindsey District Council, can be done in two parts or one long ride in a figure of eight. Part one starts in Market Rasen and goes to Caistor passing Osgodby, North Kelsey, Caistor, Nettleton, and Claxby returning to Market Rasen. Part two takes riders from Market Rasen to Wickenby, exploring Friesthorpe, West Torrington, North Willingham, Tealby and back to Market Rasen.
Over in East Lindsey, in collaboration with the area’s District Council, is The Wolds’ Challenge. A new route, which, unlike others, offers the visitor, well, a challenge. You could of course opt for an e-bike and take the pressure off. This route is a full 80 miles of slow-burning climbs, rapid downhills and pretty villages that offer much-needed refreshments. A circular route, riders will start and finish in Horncastle.
The last route is Boston’s, Pilgrims and Wildlife. Developed to encourage cyclists to experience a short break in Boston and enjoy the local produce and independent shops – with an array of different types of accommodation to choose from to make a staycation in Boston a home-from-home. Highlighting two short routes for visitors to enjoy during their stay, cyclists can choose from a short ride out to Pilgrim Fathers’ Memorial or the Frampton Marsh Nature Reserve. Or, do both!
Digital assets are available for all 24 of Cycle Lincolnshire’s routes, as well as printed materials which can be found at Giant at Doddington Hall, Lincoln Visitor Information Centre, and accommodation providers across the county.
Faye Pudney, Visitor Economy Officer at West Lindsey District Council, said: “We are delighted to have supported the creation of two new cycle routes in West Lindsey. Cycling is increasingly popular, and we look forward to welcoming visitors to explore some of the most scenic parts of Lincolnshire.
“Helen’s knowledge and expertise have allowed us to create routes with varying lengths that suit most cyclists, and we are excited to see them launch as part of the Cycle Lincolnshire product.”
Councillor Andy Izard, Boston Borough Council portfolio holder for Communities (Place), said: “I am delighted that this fantastic cycle route is now available for residents and visitors coming to Boston to explore and see not only Pilgrim Father’s Memorial, but some of the other wonderful buildings in our town centre, visit our independent shops and view stunning nature and wildlife in a new way.
“I hope that people will make the most of it over the Summer and Autumn months, get out in the fresh air, discover new areas and get involved with some of the great things Boston has to offer.”
Councillor Adam Grist, East Lindsey District Council portfolio holder for Market Towns and the Rural Economy, said: “We are delighted to be able to work with Cycle Lincolnshire to launch this great new cycle route through the heart of the East Lindsey and the stunning Lincolnshire Wolds.
“It will provide a challenging ride to anyone looking to take part, with the hills and twists of our beautiful Wolds landscape to enjoy. I hope it will bring enthusiasts from far and wide to the area to test their limits and sample some of the local shops, produce and hospitality in our towns and villages.”
