A historic hike in the footsteps of Norse invaders — Viking Way

The Viking Way explores a region of England that was occupied by Norse invaders in the 9th century, which came to be known as Danelaw. With countless historical sites, endless tranquil countryside, chocolate-box villages and a sumptuous sense of solitude throughout, this long-distance hike truly allows you to step back in time.

Starting in the shadow of the mighty Humber Bridge, the Way heads south into the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) before snaking west along the Bain Valley to Horncastle, onto Woodhall Spa via the Spa Trail and through Witham Valley to the cathedral city of Lincoln. The route then goes southwest to Long Bennington and onto Woolsthorpe by Belvoir before heading south through farmland past Buckminster, Thistleton, Greetham and Exton to Rutland Water and finally bending west to finish in Oakham.

While this route explores three counties — Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Rutland — it spends the majority of its time on the characteristically level landscapes of Lincolnshire. For the most-part, the trail follows public footpaths, bridleways and green lanes, with some brief sections on quiet lanes and roads. As such, there is never anything too challenging, making it a good choice for all abilities.

Danelaw began with Viking invasions into England in the 9th century (however, the term was not used until the 11th century). It describes a regional area and set of legal terms created in the treaties between Alfred the Great, the King of Wessex, and Guthrum, the Danish warlord, written after Guthrum's defeat at the Battle of Edington in 878. The Treaty of Alfred and Guthrum was formalised in 886, defining kingdom boundaries and paving the way for peaceful relations between the English and the Vikings.

Highlights along the Way include: Humber Bridge, an awe-inspiring suspension bridge across the Humber Estuary; Far Ings Nature Reserve, a brilliant place to spot migratory birds; Horncastle, a quintessentially-English market town famed for its antiques; Snakeholme Pit Nature Reserve, a haven for butterflies, dragonflies, damselflies and water voles; Lincoln, with its breathtaking cathedral, impressive castle and iconic Steep Hill independent shopping street; Woolsthorpe Lock, a picturesque spot on the Grantham Canal; Belvoir Castle, a historic fortress and stately home in beautiful gardens; Rutland Water, the largest man made lake in England by surface area; countless historic churches and other buildings; plus plenty of beautiful riversides.

The Viking Way is 147 miles (237 km) long. However, with some clearly-marked detours to worthy sites, this Collection totals 156 miles (251 km). I have divided the route into 11 stages of between 11 - 16.8 miles (17.7 - 27 km) per day. I opted to tackle the Way from north to south but there is nothing stopping you hiking the other direction.

There is accommodation and opportunity for food and drink at the end of each stage. In more remote areas I have given advice on potential alternatives, however. Advance booking is essential. The Way is fairly well-served by accommodation and eateries throughout, making it easy to divide it into as many days as you feel comfortable with.

As the route follows established trails through low landscapes, it is possible to hike the Viking Way at any time of year. Sturdy boots and waterproofs are recommended in all seasons. As a lot of the trail is in open countryside with little tree cover, sunscreen and a hat are advisable in summer. Each hike is fairly well served by pubs, cafes and shops to resupply. Even still, be sure to bring enough food and drink as refreshment opportunities are not always abundant.

The start of the route is linked to the Yorkshire Wolds Way (to see a Collection on this trail, click here: komoot.com/collection/895632) and the end is linked to the Rutland Round trails, meaning you can extend your hike you feel like it.

As the Way starts and finishes in places with railway stations, it is super easy to access by public transport.