WOODHALL SPA AIRFIELD WALK
A 1.2-mile linear route along the former RAF runway, combining open skies, wetland wildlife and aviation heritage.
CONTACT THE TRUST BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
The pedestrian gate is locked and the access code changes regularly. Call Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust during office hours on 01507 526667. For a weekend visit, obtain the code on a weekday. Wheelchair users should call ahead too. Ordinary dogs are not permitted; assistance dogs only.
OPEN WATER, REEDBEDS & RAF HISTORY
The reserve occupies part of the former RAF Woodhall Spa, once home to 97, 617, 619 and 627 Squadrons. The main visitor route uses the broad concrete runway, while paths lead to viewing points and a bird hide.
Restored sandy soils, acid grassland, heath, marsh and open water now support skylarks, wildfowl, birds of prey and insects. The atmosphere is intentionally quiet: follow the signed visitor route and protect sensitive habitat.
MAP, SURFACES & GRADIENTS
Start at Woodhall Spa Airfield, Tattershall Road, Woodhall Spa, LN4 4JT. OS grid reference TF 206 608; What3Words ///copycat.disco.opposing.
Old runway surfaced with concrete and tarmac. Viewpoint paths are compacted stone; the bird-hide approach is grass.
Steepest uphill and downhill sections are 1:8 (12.5%) for 40 metres.
All main paths are more than one metre wide. The bird-hide doorway is 0.8 metres wide.
Official access information states all cross slopes are less than 1:33 (3%).
WILDLIFE & REMEMBRANCE
WETLAND WILDLIFE
Open water and reedbeds provide refuge for wildfowl through the seasons.
AVIATION HERITAGE
The former runway preserves the scale and atmosphere of this important wartime base.
PLACE OF REFLECTION
Wildlife recovery and remembrance sit together in a wide, peaceful landscape.
BEFORE YOU GO
- Call 01507 526667 during office hours for the current gate code.
- Weekend visitors must obtain the code on a weekday.
- Wheelchair users should contact the Trust before travelling.
- Organised groups must arrange permission in advance.
ON ARRIVAL
- Free parking is just inside the reserve entrance.
- The car park is compacted stone with loose gravel.
- Only assistance dogs are permitted and must be kept under close control.
- Facilities include viewing areas and a bird hide.
RESERVE CARE
- Remain on the signed visitor route and obey any temporary restrictions.
- Keep noise low around wildlife and the bird hide.
- Take litter home and do not disturb plants or animals.
- Conditions and access arrangements can change; the Wildlife Trust’s current advice takes priority.