Best natural monuments around Washingborough include the River Witham and its surrounding landscape, which forms a key natural element of the area. The village is situated on the south bank of the river, with the land sloping upwards from the water. This river corridor provides flat riverside paths, offering views of open fenland meadows. Nearby, several nature reserves and country parks offer extensive natural spaces for exploration.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
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The Lion Statue is situated in the middle of the Aboretum.
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The lion is a Grade II listed statue, dating from 1872. It was by Austin & Seeley and was presented by FJ Clarke. It is a composition figure, larger than life size, on a rendered pedestal with a moulded plinth and panelled sides.
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Swanholme Lakes Local Nature Reserve was formed from a series of flooded sand and gravel pits. After quarrying finished in the 1960s vegetation was able to colonise and this has resulted in a mosaic of different habitat types in an area covering 63 hectares.
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The larger-than-life size lion statue created in 1872 is a listed monument that guards the paths of Lincoln Arboretum. The Arboretum also offers it's visitors tea rooms, a Victorian bandstand, a cast iron folly, and extensive gardens with terrace features, ponds and bridges.
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The new lincoln bypass cycle route is pretty decent low resistance surface, this is one of the sites enroute, but also, theres loads of cycle routes accessible from the main route
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"As you stare at the limestone cliffs, it is worth reflecting that the rocks were formed in shallow warm tropical seas 165 million years ago in the Middle Jurassic period. Dinosaurs ruled the nearby land and waves were breaking on coral reefs above. There are many fossils in the limestone, mainly broken shells and corals, but you might be lucky and find a giant Plesiosaur, they have been found here!" Thankfully no Dinasours but plenty of Lorries trundling past on the A15.
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It just looks like a stone till you notice the plaque that for some reason faces the road and not the pedestrian - read the plaque when there for the history.
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Washingborough is situated along the River Witham, offering flat riverside paths like the Water Rail Way for walking and cycling. Nearby, you can explore extensive natural spaces such as Swanholme Lakes, a nature reserve formed from flooded sand and gravel pits, and the geological formations of Jurassic Limestone Cliffs, Lincoln.
Yes, several natural areas are suitable for families. Hartsholme Country Park, a Green Flag Award-winning park, features landscaped gardens, a reservoir, and woodlands. Swanholme Lakes and the Water Rail Way are also great for family walks and exploring nature.
The Water Rail Way offers accessible riverside paths directly from Washingborough. For more varied options, you can find numerous easy hikes, including circular routes, around the area. Explore these routes further on the Easy hikes around Washingborough guide.
Areas like Swanholme Lakes and Hartsholme Country Park are rich in biodiversity. Swanholme Lakes, with its mosaic of habitats, is home to various bird species and aquatic life. Hartsholme also boasts resident wildlife and seasonal blooms, making them excellent spots for nature observation.
Yes, within the natural settings, you can find unique features like the Lion Statue, Lincoln Arboretum, a listed monument from 1872 set within extensive Victorian gardens. Another interesting spot is the Sadlerock Millennium Stone, which has a plaque detailing its history.
The Water Rail Way provides a flat, scenic route ideal for cycling. For longer rides, there are various cycling routes that explore the wider Lincolnshire area, including paths along the Fossdyke Navigation. You can discover more options on the Cycling around Washingborough guide.
Yes, the Jurassic Limestone Cliffs, Lincoln are a notable geological feature. These rocks were formed 165 million years ago in shallow tropical seas and contain many fossils, primarily broken shells and corals, offering a glimpse into ancient history.
The natural areas around Washingborough can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, wildflowers, and active wildlife, ideal for walking and cycling. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter provides a tranquil, crisp atmosphere, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Yes, the region offers routes suitable for gravel biking. These often combine paved sections with unpaved tracks through natural landscapes. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, refer to the Gravel biking around Washingborough guide.
Beyond Washingborough, you can visit Whisby Nature Park near Thorpe on the Hill, which offers miles of parkland and diverse wildlife. Other notable reserves in the broader Lincoln area include Greetwell Hollow SSSI, Swanhomle SSSI (which includes Swanholme Lakes), and Boultham Mere, all contributing to the rich local biodiversity.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural features, from the tranquil river corridors and expansive lakes to unique geological formations. The opportunities for walking, cycling, and observing wildlife are highly valued, as is the chance to connect with both nature and the historical elements present in these landscapes.


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