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The North Kesteven Walking Festival returns from 14 to 29 June, offering over 60 walks across the district’s picturesque countryside. From relaxed village strolls to more challenging scenic routes, there’s something for every age, ability, and pace. Organised by Hill Holt Wood in partnership with North Kesteven District Council through CountrysideNK, the festival is a celebration of the area’s extensive trail network and a fantastic way to embrace the physical and mental benefits of walking.
 Last year, participants covered over 200 miles, and this year’s festival is set to be even more varied—spanning 356 square miles of charming villages, green lanes, and historic landmarks.
Alongside the festival, Hill Holt Wood lead monthly guided walks year-round, including an evening walk along the River Witham in July, the magical Hunters Moon walk in October, and a volunteer hedge laying day at Millennium Green in February. These ranger-led experiences offer ongoing opportunities to explore, connect with nature, and support the care of local green spaces.
View the full festival schedule at www.hillholtwood.co.uk/nk-walking-festival.
RiverLight Festival 2025 is set to light up Sleaford once again with an exciting celebration of local culture, creativity, and community. Following its recent win as Best Event/Festival in the 2024–25 Tourism Excellence Awards, this year’s festival runs from Saturday 14 to Saturday 21 June, with the vibrant Finale Parade on the final day.
 Credit - Matthew Cawrey
The theme, "Circles, Cycles and the Summer Solstice," draws inspiration from the area's rural traditions, medieval mills, and folklore. Expect a rich programme of walkabout acts, workshops, music and dance, plus the spectacular Giant Wheel by Autin Dance Theatre.
Events and activities will take place at the newly renovated Market Place, at the Hub and Eastgate Green, Bristol Arcade, Riverside Centre and Sleaford Museum as well as sites along the River Path up to Cogglesford Watermill. RiverLight also coincides with the North Kesteven Walking Festival, giving visitors the perfect opportunity to explore local trails.
Don't miss this uplifting celebration of all things Sleaford! Find the full programme here.
Get ready, Sleaford - The Zone, an award-winning pop-up space for 11–18s, is coming to the Market Place this June – and it’s all completely FREE. Brought to you by North Kesteven District Council and funded by the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, The Zone offers a brilliant mix of hangouts, creative workshops, gaming, book corners, and even adrenaline-fuelled parties – all designed by and for young people.
 Open after school and at weekends, The Zone is a chance to take a break, try something new, or just enjoy the atmosphere.
Opening Hours:
- Thurs 5 June: 3pm – 7pm
- Fri 6 June: 3pm – 7pm
- Sat 7 June: 11am – 5pm
- Sun 8 June: 11am – 5pm
The Zone will also coincide with Sleaford’s first Teenage Market of 2025, taking place on Saturday 7 June from 11am to 5pm. Come and discover unique crafts and products and show your support. Young people wishing to take part can get involved by creating a profile as a trader or performer on the Teenage Market website.
If you can’t make it, don’t worry – The Zone returns in September! Find out more: zesttheatre.com/thezone/sleaford
A short ceremony will be held in Sleaford Market Place at 10.30am on Monday June 23 for the raising of the Armed Forces Day flag.
Attendees are invited from 10.15am, with the event concluded around 11.30am. It will include veterans, serving personnel and young people, including a school choir.
Father’s Day is Sunday 15 June! Maybe celebrate in North Kesteven with a tour at Mayfield Vineyard, a pint at the 8 Sail Brewery in Heckington, or a walk and pub lunch. Enjoy Whisby Nature Park’s breakfast walk, Gruffalo Story Walk, or the Hill Holt Wood Archaeology Walk.
There’s also a brilliant schedule of events within the RiverLight Fringe in Sleaford - including printing your own T-shirt, Slea Paddlers taking to the river and an international act commissioned specially for the occasion.
Get ready for a weekend of rural charm and family fun at Heckington Show, one of England’s oldest and largest village shows. Enjoy show jumping, livestock displays, crafts, local food, live music, historical reenactments, and plenty of activities for all ages – a true summer highlight.
Have you taken a beautiful photo of the district that you'd like to share?
Email heartoflincs@n-kesteven.gov.uk with your favourite photo and you could feature in our next newsletter.
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