What makes the Lincolnshire Wolds special?
Why, the Wolds are gorgeous of course – but seriously, there are some key reasons why it’s so stunning and these exceptional qualities were recognised specifically in its designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) back in 1973:-
A unique physiography – The physical geography of the Lincolnshire Wolds is unusual and distinctive. The upland chalk landscape, extensively modified by glaciations, is reflected in the steep sided coombs whilst the wider river valleys contain drift deposits, all providing the basis for the diverse range of soils.
A scenic, working landscape – The high scenic quality of the Wolds depends almost entirely upon the area’s use for agriculture, with its charm derived from the seasonally changing field and cropping patterns, interspersed with pasture and small woodlands. Much of the attractiveness of the Wolds today is a result of the activities of generations of landowners and farmers.
A major archaeological resource – The Wolds is rich in prehistoric sites and historic landscape features. Most of Lincolnshire’s long barrows are in the Wolds, with a high concentration of round barrows, together with many important ancient trackways. The Wolds also has one of the largest densities of deserted and shrunken medieval villages in the country.
A valued cultural landscape – Alfred, Lord Tennyson spent much of his formative years in the Wolds and is featured in ‘The Brook’ poem; and Peter de Wint, the mid-19th century painter, captured many scenes of the working landscape. The Wolds continues to provide inspiration for artists, photographers, crafters and writers today.
