(2.78km)
The name Sleaford is derived from the old English words Sliow and ford meaning ‘ ford over a muddy or slimy river’. In a 12th century document Sleaford is recorded as being called Sliowaforda.
Starting point
Sleaford Station, Station Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 7RG
Linked to Public Transport
Points of interest:
The first settlement formed in the Iron Age where a prehistoric track crossed the River Slea. Sleaford now has the remains of a 12th century Castle situated on a low lying fen boasting a moat, however it fell into disrepair some 400 years later and today remains only a small part of masonry wall. Thought to be called a castle it was more of a fortified Manor built by the Bishop of Lincoln. Sleaford is still to this day a market town and was officially granted the right to hold markets in the 12th century.
- 1Sleaford Station
- The station boasts a lovely community garden called Poachers Patch, this is tended to by our Station adopters, there is also a recently renovated ‘old waiting room’ on the middle platform painted in the heritage GNR colours.
- 2The Little Tyme House
- This unusual looking shop is triangular and is a locally listed heritage asset. The small building is said to have been used as a toll building for the river.
- 3St Deny’s Church
- There has been a church here that formed part of a manor owned by the 1st bishop of Lincoln and has been here since the late Saxon period. This church was dedicated to St Deny’s in 1140 in the Domesday Book.
- 4Cogglesford Mill
- The Mill dates back to the Saxon times, it is thought that it is the only Sheriff’s watermill to be still in operation to this day. Whilst the mill at present was built mainly in the early 18th century it has been the site of flour production for over 1,000 years.
- 5The Hub
- This gallery and exhibition centre hosts up to 20 exhibitons a year from up and coming artists. The main gallery exhibits ever changing features and it also supports programs to teach and encourage arts, crafts, design and dance.
- 6Navigation House
- This building was built in 1838 and is believed to be the only one of its kind still in existence, This grade II listed building stands in the old public wharf area known as Navigation Yard. Presented inside is the story of the Navigation and development of the new River Slea and the impact on Sleaford’s history.
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Poacher Line Station Walks
Enjoy a collection of walking routes accessible by rail. All along the Poacher Line you can find historic landmarks to visit, scenic walks, visitor attractions and monuments that are accessible up and down the award winning Poacher Line railway.
