The official 50th annivesary year of the Viking Way has begun, so get out there and take on the badge challenge
The Viking Way badge scheme is now live, giving walkers a new way to celebrate the route’s 50th anniversary.
The scheme officially opened proper on 5 September, the day that marked an exactly half a century since the Viking Way launched.
If you want a badge then the idea is simple. Walkers can earn a bronze, silver or gold badge depending on how many miles they complete along the 149‑mile route. You don’t have to do it all in one go, and you don’t even have to start at the beginning - just pick the sections you want to walk and build up your total over the year. Some people will chip away at it in short stretches, others will take on bigger chunks at weekends, and a few will go for the full end‑to‑end challenge.
People have until 5 September, 2027 to complete their chosen distance and apply for their badge which sounds a bit serious, but we really want this to be more enjoyable than something competitive. The scheme gives walkers something to aim for while exploring some of Lincolnshire’s most distinctive landscapes.
Chris Miller, Head of Environment at Lincolnshire County Council, said: "The build up to this anniversary year has been a great chance to highlight the route and encourage more people to discover it. As part of that, the Viking Way 50 badge scheme adds a bit of fun and gives walkers a reason to try new sections or revisit old favourites. The Viking Way has been a part of Lincolnshire life for generations, and marking its 50th year with something people can take part in feels like a positive part of the ongoing story."
The scheme sits alongside a whole range of activity celebrating the Viking Way’s anniversary. BBC Countryfile recently featured the route with the programme (which is still available on the iPlayer) shining a light on the landscapes it passes through and the improvements that have made it safer and more accessible. There’s also plenty to explore on the Visit Lincolnshire website, including maps, short walks, family‑friendly ideas and the popular Walk of the Month series.
If you’re walking with children, the free I‑Spy sheets are a good way to keep younger walkers involved. And if you’re already working through the Viking Way Shorts, the badge scheme is an easy way to turn those miles into something you can proudly show off.
Anyone wanting more information about the badge scheme or the wider Viking Way anniversary activity can find it on Visit Lincolnshire. You can explore more through Viking Way information or check out badge scheme details and lots more about what to do in the county.