Heart of Lincs Newsletter - July 2026

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Discover Inspiring Exhibitions at the Hub, Sleaford

This summer and autumn, the Hub presents two thought-provoking exhibitions celebrating heritage, creativity and our connection to place.

New Exhibitions

Opening in the Main Gallery from 18 July–8 November 2026, Common Ground: Sleaford’s Shared Stories is a major collaboration with Sleaford Museum. Through new artist commissions, residencies and community participation, the exhibition reimagines objects from the museum’s collection, exploring whose stories are represented in local heritage and how more diverse voices can be included. Part of the Sleaford: People, Place, Possibility trilogy, it follows the acclaimed Together We Are Powerful (2023). 

Also showing in the Ground Floor Gallery from 4 July–6 September 2026, Where the Air Does Laugh by Hannah Waldron celebrates the quiet beauty of gardening and weaving through naturally dyed textiles inspired by time spent on her allotment. 

Join the Hub for the exhibitions launch on Friday 17 July, 5–7pm, starting at Sleaford Museum before walking to the Hub for a welcome drink. 


Sleaford-on-Sea Returns for Summer Fun

Get ready for the return of Sleaford-on-Sea, as Sleaford Market Place is transformed into a traditional seaside destination from 25 July to 23 August.

Sleaford on Sea

For four weeks, visitors can enjoy a pop-up beach right in the heart of town, bringing buckets, spades and plenty of summer fun to Sleaford. The beach will be open daily, giving families the chance to enjoy a taste of the seaside without leaving Lincolnshire.

A highlight of this year's event will be the free Family Fun Day on Saturday 8 August, from 11am to 4pm. Visitors can enjoy free Helter-Skelter rides, a classic Punch and Judy show, live performances from Chelsey Bamford, a bubble performer, balloon activities and free children's crafts.

So grab your bucket and spade and head to Sleaford Market Place – we'll see you at the beach!


Heckington Show: A Summer Tradition Not to Be Missed

One of Lincolnshire’s most loved summer events, Heckington Show, returns on the last full weekend in July, bringing together the charm of a traditional village show with attractions and competitions on a national scale.

Heckington Show

A true family day out, the show celebrates the very best of rural life, with something for all ages to enjoy. From livestock and horticulture competitions to entertainment, food, shopping and activities, it’s a fantastic opportunity to experience one of the county’s flagship events.

Be sure to visit the North Kesteven District Council marquee, where the Heart of Lincs team will be showcasing the very best of North Kesteven’s rich heritage and tourism offer.

Run by volunteers and enjoyed by thousands each year, Heckington Show is a highlight of the summer calendar. To book your tickets, visit linktr.ee/heckingtonshow. We look forward to seeing you there!


Stay, Dine and Unwind in the Heart of Sleaford

Looking for somewhere to stay in North Kesteven? The Carre Arms Hotel offers a warm welcome, comfortable accommodation and a relaxed atmosphere in the historic town of Sleaford.

Carre Arms

With beautifully refurbished bedrooms that blend modern comfort with traditional charm, it's an ideal base for a short break, visiting friends and family, travelling for business or exploring Lincolnshire.

The Carre Arms is also a great place to eat, drink and unwind, with a reputation for quality food, friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere. This charming Edwardian hotel is also a popular venue for weddings, celebrations and special events.

With more improvements planned, there's never been a better time to visit the Carre Arms and discover everything Sleaford has to offer.

Events & activities in July


Weekly & ongoing throughout the month

Exhibitions, Workshops, Clubs and Dance Programme: Hub-Sleaford

Weekly Wellbeing Walks: Across North Kesteven

Gallantry in the Air Exhibition: Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum

Young Sculptor Exhibition 2026: Doddington Hall

90 Years of Bomber Command Summer Trail: IBCC, starts 11 July


Wednesday 08 July

Uniform Collection Tour: Doddington Hall


Friday 10 July

IBCC Cinema: Lancaster Film Showing and Q&A: International Bomber Command Centre


Saturday 11 July

Dragonfly Day: Pond Dipping and Family Activities: Whisby Nature Park

90 Years of Bomber Command Summer Trail: IBCC, 11 July-06 Sept

Artisan Market: Leadenham House


Sunday 12 July

Artisan Food & Drink Fayre: International Bomber Command Centre

Traditional Milling Day: Cogglesford Watermill


Friday 17 July

New Exhibitions Preview Night: Sleaford Museum and the Hub


Saturday 18 July

Sleaford Repair Cafe: Riverside Church


Thursday 23 July

International Bomber Command Day 2026 Service: International Bomber Command Centre


Friday 24 July

‘King John – Was He the Worst English King?’ – Children’s Trail and Activities: Navigation House, until 10th August


Saturday 25 July

Sculpture at Doddington Exhibition Opens: Doddington Hall

Heckington Show 2026: Heckington Showground

Sleaford-on-Sea 2026: Sleaford Market Place


Sunday 26 July

Heckington Show 2026: Heckington Showground


Wednesday 29 July

Uniform Collection Tour: Doddington Hall


Thursday 30 July

Wild Summer Whisby: Pond Dipping: Whisby Nature Park


Have an event for our 'What's On' calendar?

Send us an email: heartoflincs@n-kesteven.gov.uk


Get involved in Heritage

NKDC is calling for heritage volunteers to support local museums and events.

Whether you enjoy guiding visitors, conservation work, or administrative tasks, opportunities await across the District. Explore volunteer opportunities with NKDC.


Feature in our newsletter header

This month's photo was sent by Cogglesford Watermill - bat watching at Lollycocks Nature Reserve.

Send us your photos for a chance to feature as next month’s highlight!

bat watching

NK Walking Festival