From sunrise to sunset lovers of the great outdoors - and indeed lovers of Lincolnshire - will be able to immerse themselves in Mother Nature’s beauty, at the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival 2024 (LWOF 2024).

From learning new skills to seeing Lincolnshire’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) from a different perspective, the team behind this activity-based festival have really put in the work to make sure this year’s event is the best yet.

The 2023 event was recognised as a finalist in the Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards for the 'Active Event' category, in recognition of the fantastic work it did in allowing more people to try new activities, and get active and healthy in the beautiful outdoors.

Karen Edwards, Place Officer at East Lindsey District Council, said: “We are so excited to see the festival return this year and get underway in May. Following last year’s event which saw residents and visitors get out and about across the Wolds to create some memorable moments, this year’s festival will offer people even more opportunities to get outdoors and explore the stunning Lincolnshire Wolds.

“This AONB makes up such a large part of our district and county, we hope that even more people will take this chance to come and enjoy the vast selection of activities and events that are planned for 2024. This year will offer up countless opportunities to try something new or, equally, visit somewhere you’ve always wanted to, all while experiencing the incredible surroundings that only the Lincolnshire Wolds can deliver.”

After last year’s 50 for 50 programme - which celebrated five decades since the Lincolnshire Wolds secured its AONB status - 2023’s Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoors Festival broke out of the mould previous years had set and incorporated everything from research sessions and immersive conservation activities to walks - of course. 2023 was also the year that we saw this Lincolnshire festival celebrate its second billing since transitioning from its Lincolnshire Wolds Walking Festival roots.

Get Active in the Lincolnshire Wolds This Year

Now focusing on all of the ways you can get moving while experiencing Lincolnshire’s AONB, the LWOF 2024 will be shining a light on the diverse range of activities that take place throughout the Wolds, helping to make the undulating hills as accessible as possible.

“There is a big misconception that the Wolds is a place reserved for ramblers, when in actual fact there is a wide range of activity taking place, going far beyond the origins of this festival,” said Paul Chandler, steering group committee member.

“Wildlife, history, heritage, stunning scenery, market towns - who all support the programme - the Wolds has it all. In addition to supporting the drive for additional inbound visitors, the festival itself brings together a collective community that champions the offering that lies in this area of Lincolnshire. It’s an event that not only showcases the opportunities that exist to enjoy the Wolds actively but also celebrates the rural communities the AONB serves and the visitors it entices.”

Expanding on an Already Incredible Offering

While 2023’s Outdoor Festival predominantly centred around walking, it was encouraging to see night walks, bird-watching sunrise sessions and other variations included in the programme. Building on this, 2024’s edition will see a wide variety of activities brought together so people can tailor an itinerary to suit their activity level and the time they want to spend in the Wolds.

Incorporating three weekends into the festival’s two-week duration, the 2024 timeline will help ensure as many people as possible can explore the plethora of activities featured in the line-up; and it all kicks off at Stourton Estate.

“The launch event this year, taking place at Stourton Estate, is going to be the perfect way to start the festival” added Paul. “Visitors can enjoy a tour of the estate itself and various other guided walks, with two action-packed weeks to follow.

“There are so many new additions for 2024, with most activities either being free or discounted, including walking trails at Cadwell Park - there are some incredibly scenic parts of the race course to explore - and some races that will be free to attend too. Then, due to their stellar year in 2023, the Gliding Club will once again be taking part in the LWOF, with taster flights available to book, allowing visitors to see the Wolds from an entirely new perspective!”

Taking place from May 11 until May 27, there’s no better excuse to kick off a summer of activity than at the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival 2024.

The 2024 Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards

Nominations for the 2024 Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards will open soon. Follow us on social media to look out for our announcements.

Find out more about the 2023 Award winners here