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The Lincolnshire Wolds  The Linconshire Wolds were designated as an "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty" in 1973. They cover an area of 216 square miles running in a north easterly direction, roughly parallel with the coast, from Spilsby in the south to the Humber in the north. The wolds are intensively farmed but there is very little industry so there is a marked absence of modern development. The towns in the area a small. The largest town is Louth. The other market towns are Alford, Caistor, Market Raisen and Spilsby. All of these towns lie around the perimeter of the higher ground. Only three major roads cross the central region. Two of these cross the narrow axis in the east/west direction, the third runs north-east from Horncastle to Louth. The latter is a very atractive route which, by dropping into deep valleys and climbing out again, dispels the notion that Lincolnshire is totally flat. The absence of other vehicles on this road is amazing to visitors from more populous parts and adds to the pleasure. Nevertheless, he best way to see the Wolds in a car, or on a cycle, is to explore the country lanes. Here there is even less traffic; ones progress is hindered only by the tractors working the farms. One route of note is that known as the Bluestone Heath Road. This by-road runs for 14 miles along the spine of the wolds giving marvellous views of sleepy hamlets, cornfields, hills and valleys. It follows the course of an ancient drove road probably used by farmers 4000 years ago. Since it passes through no villages along its entire length it is not easy to provide directions. The best place to start from is the cross-roads just to the north of South Ormsby. From there it runs westward for six or seven miles and then travels north-west. It is clearly marked on the Ordnance Survey Landranger map number 122 (Skegness Area). For those who wish to explore the Wolds on foot there is a wealth of footpaths, green lanes and bridle paths. Of particular note is the Viking Way. This enters the Wolds near Horncastle and then travels north along their length until it ends on the shores of the Humber.
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