Image shared for Southrey to Kirkstead Bridge: Water Rail Way riverside return
Canal / Riverside Out & back

Southrey to Kirkstead Bridge: Water Rail Way riverside return

Lincolnshire

Distance
7.4 mi
Est. time
3h 15m
Difficulty
Easy
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Start at the public riverside car park at the end of Ferry Road in Southrey, beyond the Riverside Inn. Walk out to the former station platforms and turn southeast along the surfaced Water Rail Way towards Woodhall Spa. Stay on the shared railway path beside the River Witham, passing the old Stixwould station platforms and continuing through the open fen landscape to Kirkstead Bridge. Turn back on the path just beyond the bridge underpass and retrace the same route to Southrey.

Allow about three and a quarter hours for this level walk. Most of the route is tarmac with short concrete sections; the Southrey parking surface is uneven compacted stone. There are gates and cyclists use the same path. Keep children and dogs close beside the waterways, leave room for passing bikes and avoid the route during flooding. Bring water and weather protection for the open stretches. Refreshments are available in Southrey subject to business opening times. The route stays on the east bank at Kirkstead and does not cross the road bridge or enter Woodhall Spa.

Route and parking information checked against Lincolnshire County Council, Visit Lincolnshire and the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust Water Rail Way map. The Lincoln to Washingborough section is closed until 31 October 2026; this walk uses the separate Southrey to Kirkstead section. Follow any local notices before setting out.

Walk details

County
Lincolnshire
Walk type
Out & back
Category
Canal / Riverside
Distance
7.4 mi (11.8 km)
Est. time
3h 15m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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