50 years ago, the famous route got underway
The Viking Way reached a major milestone on Saturday with walkers, volunteers and supporters gathering in Woodhall Spa to mark 50 years since the route was officially opened.
Launched on 5 September 1976, the 149-mile trail has become one of the country’s most recognised long-distance walking routes running from Barton to Oakham, attracting generations of people keen to explore the county's landscape, heritage and wildlife.
The anniversary day event brought together many of those who have walked, promoted and cared for the route over the past five decades (pictured above). After refreshments, attendees headed out on a short walk along the Viking Way, following part of the trail that has become so familiar to thousands of walkers over the years. The route took attendees to the first of a series of five special benches that are being installed on the Way. Carved by Xtreme Chainsaw of Louth, and using British-sourced wood from Horncastle, each is a bespoke work of art and will act as a real focus destination point for walkers to aim for as they rack up the miles.
Andrew Fletcher, Public Rights of Way and Access Manager, (pictured above) said: "As we celebrate the Viking Way's 50th anniversary, this project marks the culmination of several years of work to reinvigorate and improve the route for current and future generations.
“With the new benches creating destination points for walkers to aim for and enjoy along the way, providing inspiring public art by a local artist using local materials, providing a place for people to rest and reflect, and an opportunity to learn more about Lincolnshire's Viking heritage.
“The commemorative badges give people a tangible reminder of their journey and inspire even more people to explore this iconic Lincolnshire trail."
For 50 years, the Viking Way has taken people through rolling Wolds countryside, quiet woodland, river valleys and historic market towns. It has challenged those determined to complete all 149 miles and provided countless opportunities for shorter walks closer to home. Along the way, it has become woven into Lincolnshire's outdoor and walking culture.
The event also marked the official start of Lincolnshire County Council (LCC)'s Viking Way badge scheme anniversary challenge.
From 5 September 2026, walkers can begin submitting applications for completed sections of the route or for the entire Viking Way as part of a year-long programme running throughout the anniversary celebrations. The scheme gives people the chance to set their own challenge, whether that means tackling a favourite stretch of the route or taking on all 149 miles.
The anniversary year is expected to encourage even more people to discover the trail, revisit sections they have not walked for years or finally complete a route that has long been on their list.
Stuart Parker, Area Secretary of the Lincolnshire Ramblers (pictured above) added: “It’s only fitting that on this 50th anniversary occasion that we pay a tribute to those rambling pioneers Nev Cole, Tom Dagwell, Brett Collier, Chris Hall and cllr John Hedley-Lewis, who created the route.
“Today, we enjoy a much-improved long-distance path and it stands as an attraction for walkers to visit Lincolnshire to see it is such an area of contrasts taking in some of our most attractive countryside.
“We thank the Lincolnshire County Council and officers for their continued maintenance of the path and all their promotional work this year marking the anniversary.”
While the celebrations in Woodhall Spa reflected on the Viking Way's history, they also looked firmly ahead. The launch of LCC's badge scheme ensures the golden anniversary is more than a single day of events. Instead, it marks the beginning of a year of walking, exploration and achievement across the length of the route.
To take part in the Viking Way badge scheme, go to: badge challenge - Visit Lincolnshire
To watch the BBC Countryfile special programme on the Viking Way, go to: BBC One - Countryfile, Fifty Years of the Viking Way