Brilliant new scheme for walkers has launched at the Lincolnshire Show
Visitors to this year’s Lincolnshire Show will be the first to see something special for the Viking Way’s 50th anniversary - a badge scheme designed to get even more people exploring one of Lincolnshire’s best‑loved walking routes.
Launching at the Show, the scheme gives walkers the chance to earn a bronze, silver or gold Viking Way badge by completing different lengths of the 149‑mile trail. It’s a simple idea, but one that taps into the affection so many people have for the route - whether they know it in tiny stretches or have tackled the whole thing end-to-end.
Badge applications officially open on 5 September 2026, exactly 50 years to the day since the Viking Way first launched. From that date, people will have a full 12 months (until 5 September 2027) to complete their chosen distance and apply for their badge.
Chris Miller, Head of Environment at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The Viking Way has been part of Lincolnshire life for half a century, and this year we’ve really enjoyed shining a light on it.
“The badge scheme is a great way to keep that momentum going. It gives people something to aim for, whether they’re trying a new stretch for the first time or finally ticking off the full 149 miles.
“We know how much the route means to people, and this feels like a fitting part of what we’re doing to celebrate its 50th year.”
The badges themselves will be on display at the Lincolnshire Show on the LCC stand, with staff on hand to talk people through how the scheme works and how to get involved once applications open after this summer.
It’s also a chance for VW visitors to see more about the FREE I‑Spy sheets, find out more about the Walk of the Month series, and hear about the improvements that have made the route safer and more accessible.
Anyone wanting more information about the badge scheme, the Viking Way or the wider anniversary activity can find it on the Visit Lincolnshire website.