Market Deeping

This lovely circular walk takes you through the Deepings countryside between Market Deeping and West Deeping, passing a number of water mills. Stretches of the walk are alongside the old Stamford canal and the river Welland. This walk uses field paths and roadside paths. The A15 is crossed once.

5.5 miles (nine kilometres)
2.75 hours

1. Leave the Market Square and walk west along Stamford Road, keeping to the right hand side roadside pavement.
2. At the roundabout cross the busy road with care to continue in the same direction towards Stamford. Continue over the drain known as the Greatford Cut with the old water mill on your left.
3. Approximately 100m past the old mill cross the road with care and follow the public footpath between the hedge and fence until you come to a tributary of the River Welland, and possibly the line of the old Stamford Canal. Follow the path along the bank for approximately 1.25 miles (two kilometres).
4. As you arrive at West Deeping do not cross the river but follow the path right between the house wall and fence. Follow the path between the houses to a lane. Walk down the lane to the centre of West Deeping, the Red Lion pub is immediately on your right.
5. Turn left down what was the old Roman road of King Street which was originally used for cattle droving and trading but is now the main street through the village. At the end of the houses take a detour right down Church Lane to admire St Andrew's Church and the old water mill.
6. Retrace your steps up Church Lane and turn right (from here there is a lovely view of the church across the meadows ). Cross the river over two stone bridges (next to each other) before turning left onto a public footpath into the meadows by the river. Walk the length of the field to a stile and bridge over a small stream. The path continues along the edge of the next field, through some trees and back onto the banks of the River Welland. Follow this lovely stretch of river to the sluice gate the roar of which can be heard as you approach through the trees. Continue over the sluice and follow the grassy area to the road at the corner of Maxey Mill which is the building on your right.
7. Turn left and after approximately 100m, turn left onto a public footpath and follow it alongside the trees until you are once again on the banks of the River, this time on the south bank and actually now in Peterborough. Continue following the river bank with views of the village of Maxey to your right. Eventually the path passes a small mast and continues under a bridge carrying the A15. Continue alongside the meandering river until you come to the old Market Deeping Bridge and road.
8. Turn left and walk over the bridge and return to the Market Square, Market Deeping.

Market Deeping route map

The walk uses roadside pavements and field paths.  The busy A15 is crossed once. There are stiles and you may encounter livestock.

• parking
• refreshments
• toilets
• village/town

• historical interest
• wildlife interest