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South Common & Edge

Start/Finish

Anywhere on South Park in Lincoln. This is not to be confused with South Park Avenue which runs from the South Park roundabout to the Canwick Road traffic lights. South Park is the old road which is behind the new South Park Avenue. It used to go over a bridge on the now dismantled railway line but is now a dead end and the only way in and out is from Canwick Road. If coming along South Park Avenue then turn right at the traffic lights, for Branston and Washingborough, then take the first right into South Park. Houses will be on your right and the gradually rising South Common on your left. The common used to have a municipal golf course but this was closed many years ago. If coming from Lincoln, over Pelham Bridge, go through the traffic lights then as above. If coming from Branston, go down Canwick Hill, past the Washingborough turning (on the right) then turn left into South Park before the traffic lights. From Washingborough, turn right onto Canwick Road then as above.

Distance/Time

4 km/2.5 miles   About 1 – 2 hours

Introduction

South Common gradually rises to what looks like and edge from below but is actually the start of an extensive plateau. From this edge, there are some of the best views over the city of Lincoln. In recent years a memorial to Bomber Command has been built near the eastern end of the edge so this could be combined with the walk. It's “tower” can be seen from South Park. This walk is best in winter when the trees are bare and views of the city are less likely to be obscured.

Route

(1) Access the common and start walking away from Canwick Road. Paths are easy to find. Pass the old railway bridge and try to follow the edge of the common with its bulk on your left. You are essentially heading for the top right hand corner. Avoid any paths which appear to be leaving the common. If it is clear enough, a large telecommunications mast is a useful guide but only to begin with. The ascent up the steepening common can be a little strenuous but remember to try and keep to the right but without leaving the common. Eventually, you will emerge on the track along the top edge. The route goes left but if you want to walk the full length of the edge then turn right and follow it to the road before retracing. It is only a short detour.

(2) Walk along the obvious edge path above the common. There is little gradient now and the views across the city slowly begin to open up. The views are especially good to the castle and cathedral. Pass the memorial to Bomber Command. It is fenced off so you cannot walk around unless you pay! Continue but turn off downhill at the last path before reaching Canwick Road. Pick a way down on a choice of paths until the common starts to level out then walk back to the start.

Notes

(a) This walk took place in December, 2020.