Where the Viking Way Begins: Celebrating 50 Years

In 1976, a long-distance walking route was created to showcase the very best of Lincolnshire's countryside. Fifty years later, the Viking Way remains one of England's most celebrated walking trails - and every single journey still begins right here in North Lincolnshire.

In 2026, the Viking Way celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of footsteps, stories and spectacular landscapes. Although the full route stretches 147 miles from Barton upon Humber to Oakham in Rutland, its official starting point sits here in North Lincolnshire beside the Humber Estuary. Walkers begin their journey heading south, leaving sweeping estuary views behind as they move towards the rolling Lincolnshire Wolds. Around 12–15 miles (19–24 km) of the trail lie within North Lincolnshire, offering some of the most scenic and varied early miles of the entire route.

From the Humber-side start point, the trail continues through open countryside and across the Wolds' sweeping landscapes, leading walkers towards villages such as Barnetby le Wold before carrying on into West Lindsey, the wider Lincolnshire Wolds, market towns including Caistor and Horncastle, and eventually towards the historic city of Lincoln.

Barton-upon-Humber to Barnetby le Wold

The opening section of the Viking Way offers a varied and rewarding day walk of approximately 14 miles (22.5 km).

Highlights include:

• Estuary views near the Humber Bridge
• Expansive farmland and big Lincolnshire skies
• Rolling Wolds countryside
• Quiet bridleways and peaceful rural landscapes
• The welcoming village setting of Barnetby le Wold

This stretch perfectly captures the character of North Lincolnshire - open, scenic and rich in natural beauty.

How to Find and Follow the Viking Way

The Viking Way is clearly waymarked throughout its length, using the yellow disc with the Viking helmet icon. Recent improvement projects have enhanced waymarking and updated paths across the route. Making it easier than ever to follow the trail.

Routes can be found here:www.visitnorthlincolnshire.com/routes/barnetby-and-the-viking-way.

50 years of walking history

The 50th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate not only the route itself but the generations of walkers who have experienced it.

To mark this milestone, walkers are invited to take on the “First Miles” Challenge – whether you choose to walk 5 miles, 10 miles, or tackle the full North Lincolnshire section the route offers a chance to reconnect with nature and walk in the footsteps of five decades of explorers.

Share your experience using #VikingWay50Years or tag @visit.north.lincs there's never been a better time to lace up your boots and experience the beginning for yourself.

Because while the Viking Way may stretch 147 miles... The journey always begins in North Lincolnshire

Discover our full walking routes in North Lincolnshire here: Walking in North Lincolnshire | Visit North Lincolnshire