Waymarked trail launched through woods on edge of Grantham

A new waymarked trail has been launched at Londonthorpe Woods.

The Woodland Trust and the National Trust have launched the trail that guides walkers around Londonthorpe Woods and Bellmount, as part of the Reconnecting Grantham project.

The Tower Trail is a circular route through 100-year-old woodland and areas of open grassland, designed to bring you closer to history and nature.

Walkers can discover veteran trees and grade two listed hay meadows, rich in wildlife and flowers. The trail will take them past Bellmount Tower, built in 1750, offering views of the east avenue and Belton House in the distance.

Following the route, people pass through the recently reopened Thorpe Fields, which were closed to allow sheep to graze effectively. These fields form part of the Bellmount hillside and are grade two listed land, providing a vitally important habitat for a multitude of different forms of wildlife.

It is important that dogs are kept on a lead in this area, as ground nesting birds, adders, and insects need peace to thrive.

Walkers can find this new route on the recently launched app, simply search for ‘Londonthorpe Woods & Bellmount’ in the Apple or Android store and download ahead of their visit. Here you can find the Tower Trail map, step-by-step guide, and additional information about what wildlife and history to look out for.

Heather Cook, Project Officer for the Reconnecting Grantham project, said: “There’s so much wildlife and history at Londonthorpe and Bellmount, and we’re hoping that this new trail will help walkers to connect with and appreciate the nature that can be seen. As well as making it easier to walk around both Londonthorpe and Bellmount on a signposted circular route.

“We’ll continue to update the new app, which already has a wildlife guide, information about access, and a quick guide to trees and plants that can be found here.”

Visitors are asked to follow the updated dog signage, which aims to clearly highlight where dogs should be kept on a lead. Owners looking for an off-lead area can follow the new green arrows which will direct you to the nearest area.

The National Trust and Woodland Trust have joined forces to enhance the natural landscape at Londonthorpe Woods and Bellmount, and improve access for local visitors, as part of the Reconnecting Grantham project, with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

For more information join the Reconnecting Grantham group on Facebook or email the team at reconnectinggrantham@woodlandtrust.org.uk.