by Martin Thomas | Dec 29, 2025 | Lincoln, Lincolnshire, Lincolnshire Blogger, Lincs Connect, LincsBlogger, LincsConnect, Nordic Walking, Pennell's Garden Centre, ShopLincs
Happy New Year 2026
Happy New Year 2026. I hope you manage to achieve all of the goals that you have set for 2026. Just as important though, I hope you have a happy year.
Apologies for taking so long to get this blog out but, as you might expect, I’ve been very busy at work.
Christmas And New Year
The delayed blog is partially due to the Christmas and New Year holidays of course but in addition to that I’ve been away for a three weeks holiday in Cambodia and Vietnam. Yes, I have been working extremely hard but we all need to take a holiday too. I’ve taken my late summer holiday in November/December. The weather was lovely and thankfully we weren’t affected by the typhoons. With temperatures ranging from 24C to 32C it was a bit of a shock when we landed back in the UK during winter though!
Illuminated Notre Dame Cathedral in Vietnam
It was lovely to see how much Christmas is celebrated in Vietnam and Cambodia. Predominantly Buddhist, both countries have really embraced the spirit (and decorations) of Christmas. I asked locals why this is the case and was informed that the Buddhists appreciate the idea of love, kindness and family gatherings surrounding the Christmas message. While Christianity accounts for less than 10% of the population the celebrations would make you feel otherwise!
The Notre Dame Cathedral is draped in a cloak of lights. Each light you see in the picture is an individual LED bulb! In the foreground ofthepicture you’ll see lots of motor scooters and motorbikes. It’s common to see 3 or 4 people on a scooter and just as common are the scooters with large trailers and huge loads attached. It really does seem like a different word to the one we are used thin the UK.
As planned we arrived back in the UK in time for me to do some local Christmas shopping. That is something I always try to do as I think it’s very important to support local businesses and charities.
Local Support For New Year 2026
I always appreciate local support for my businesses and in return I return the favour whenever I can. For those of you who know me, you’ll remember that I’m a Christmas lover. I decorated our artificial Christmas trees at the beginning of November (before going away on holiday). After arriving back in the UK on Saturday we planned a trip to Heighington Christmas Market on the Sunday. We didn’t have time for jet lag! Later in the week we made the trip to Doddington Hall for our real Christmas Trees.
I think it’s important to support as many local businesses as possible so our artificial trees were purchased from Pennells Garden Centre, real trees from Doddington Hall, additional tree decorations and lights from Pennells Garden Centre (plus a few Christmas presents). While on my travels I popped in to Horncastle Garden Centre for some Christmas presents as well as Horncastle for local gift shopping. On reflection, I’m pleased to say that I didn’t buy any gifts from the multi national stores. Even our food was purchased locally with the turkey being supplied by Simpsons butchers.
Shopping local #ShopLincs is my aim wherever possible. I hope this blog will inspire you to do the same. If you hadn’t considered it before, perhaps you can make your New Year 2026 resolution to support local traders.
Merry Christmas 2025 And Happy New Year 2026
Happy New Year 2026
Happy New Year 2026
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy New Year 2026 from #LincsConnect and MandarinLeisure. Please do consider supporting local traders wherever possible. After all, we are here to serve you and always look forward to your custom.
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Best wishes to you all
Additional Blogs
That’s me! Back in the office and working hard for LincsConnect. Click on the picture to discover more about The Lincolnshire Blogger LincsBlogger
by Nigel Wass | Dec 10, 2024 | Lincolnshire, Lincolnshire Blogger, Lincolnshire Heritage, Lincolnshire Wolds, Lincs Connect, LincsBlogger, LincsConnect, Rambling, Restaurant
WassOnCoffee Ramblings – A Railway Ramble Part 2
Welcome to WassOnCoffee Ramblings Part 2. Following on from Part 1 we’ll continue with the Spires and Steeples route from Lincoln to Metheringham.
A Chilly Start
On a cold frosty Friday January morning myself and Ian met as the only passengers joining at Metheringham Station on the East Midlands Railway train to Sleaford. The warmth of the train was a nice welcome from the cold station. As we approached Ruskington the sun was just breaking on the horizon and the day was looking good.
Before we knew it we had arrived at Sleaford and we had disembarked the train and the realisation dawned! We now had a thirteen mile walk back to Metheringham to complete our Spires and Steeples journey. Follow this link Spires And Steeples for details.
The First Coffee
Getting my fix of coffee, a call at Costa Sleaford was needed to top up the caffeine levels and give a boost for the day ahead. We soon arrived at The Hub which is an Arts and Crafts venue on the Sleaford Canal and worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Daylight was now breaking as we followed the towpath saying hello to the passing dog walkers and people heading for a swim at the leisure centre. We had a real treat as a flash of bright blue skimmed pass. It was a Kingfisher and a real bonus.
Dawn broke with a great sunrise as we passed under the busy A17 with vehicles rumbling on their busy journeys. We, however, had the peace of the riverbank.
Ruskington Coffee Time
Our canal journey soon ended as we picked up tracks and minor roads to take us in the large village to Ruskington. It was now busy as it had gone nine o’ clock. We already had over four miles in the bank now and were ready for a refresh and something to eat. A nice welcoming cafe called Cuppa Bliss in the village centre was our choice and we enjoyed a cup of coffee, carbs and a good chat to put the world to rights. A check on the watch meant it was time for our next part of our of journey, which will be continued. in Part 3.
WassOnCoffee Ramblings – A Railway Ramble Part 1
Wassoncoffee Ramblings – A Railway Ramble.
Rambling or drinking coffee was the choice recently on Monday? Why not do both was the decision.
Myself and friend Ian left Metheringham station at 07:30 on the train to Lincoln. We met up with a fellow rambler convert James to head out via the Witham to Washingborough route on a dry morning. It certainly was an early start for James, who had been there since 06:00 as he couldn’t sleep! I don’t know if it was excitement or nerves lol.
A spirited pace took us via the river Witham and Stamp End lock via the old Titanic Building, so called as when built it was to the same dimensions as the ill fated liner. As we followed the old railway line out of Lincoln, in the footsteps of the original main line from Scotland to London until the 1890s we passed quite a few commuters heading in to Lincoln on their cycles. None looked happy to be heading to work!
On reaching the old station at Washingborough we left the level route and climbed up through the village past the hotel. The climb was our first test of the day, and it finished very near the railway tunnel near Heighington. It is a very small tunnel, and most people will not know it is there!
We then followed the Spire and Steeples route to Branston, via Branston beck which is one of the few Chalk Streams in the area. On reaching Branston we enjoyed a good coffee and bacon butty at the old Library cafe and can certainly recommend a visit.
Our route then followed the villages via Potterhanworth where we encountered our first Sqad (Lincolnshire for mud). The farm estate village of Nocton then followed, formally Smith Crisps and now Dysons (yes, the vacuum cleaner man). Most of the Strawberries you consume this time of year are grown here in massive glasshouses.
The lane to Dunston followed via paths I had not walked before so a nice bonus. We could finally see Meg (Metheringham) which was our journeys end. We felt proud of our achievement. Twelve miles walked in under four hours was a good ramble and we arrived back in Meg before the rain.
by Martin Thomas | Aug 20, 2024 | Around Me, Hubbards Hills, Lincs Connect, Louth, WhatsOnLincs
WhatsOnLincs – Hubbards Hills
WhatsOnLincs – Hubbards Hills in Louth, Lincolnshire is a true gem in the Lincolnshire Wolds and is a ‘must visit’ if you’re in the area.
It’s certainly not the best picture I’ve ever taken but it does show an image of the park. This is part of the poster that is situated at the entrance of Hubbards Hills at Halfpenny Lane. There are two entrances (one at Halfpenny Lane) with the second entrance via Crowtree Lane (accessible from Edward Street). This map gives a location for finding the hills but more importantly (for the purpose of this blog) it gives a key to the facilities provided.
Car Parking
There is a pay and display car park ( postcode LN11 0QW) from the Crowtree Lane entrance which is very convenient for the cafe and toilets. The Halfpenny Lane entrance (postcode LN11 9QU) has free but very limited car parking. Hubbards Hills are very popular all year round so don’t be too disappointed if you can’t get a free car parking space.
Cafe
The cafe is small and basic but is an ideal stop for walkers. There is a freezer too which is well stocked with ice creams so very handy during the warmer weather.
Hubbards Hills By Bus
WhatsOnLincs – Hubbards Hills by bus: There are local bus stops at Crowtree Lane and Love Lane which give you a short but picturesque very short walk to the Hubbards Hills. I haven’t tried the bus route so I can’t comment too much on it. However, I do believe that the bus runs from the Louth bus station.
Hubbards Hills – Getting In
If you manage to park on Halfpenny Lane you’ll be level with the park paths and will be able to walk straight in. This lower level is accessible by wheelchair. If you look immediately right at this entrance you’ll see some steep steps which lead to the top of the hills. The path runs across the top of the park along the edge of the grounds of the Louth Golf Course. If you’re able to tackle the steps you’ll be rewarded with some beautiful tree top views over the park land.
Hubbards Hills Treetop View In Summer
There is no denying that the autumn colours are truly spectacular. This photo was taken as the sun went behind a cloud but is still beautiful nonetheless. If you have any of your own photos to add please do leave them in the comments below. Hopefully I’ll be able to post a snow scene here this year too. I may even get to post a Valentine’s Day picture as I do think this is one of the more romantic walks to take with your loved one.
Early Autumn Hubbards Hills Treetop View
Hubbards Hills Treetop View In Summer
Early Autumn Hubbards Hills Treetop View
The path from the top of the steps is not paved and by its very nature, is riddled with tree roots. As a result you’ll need to exercise caution if you are visually impaired or unsteady on your feet.
From the top of the steps you’ll notice that there is a signpost offering additional walking routes. Remember though that this is the Lincolnshire Wolds so be prepared to have to tackle a few hills and rougher terrain.
Follow The Path
The path along the top the park runs the length of Hubbards Hills. The descent is fairly gentle and the track leads down to the single track, leading to Crowtree Lane. Turn left to make your way back into Hubbards Hills at the cafe and toilets entrance. As you turn left look for a small bridge on the right of the road. Cross this bridge and follow the path which runs parallel to the road.
If you park at the pay and display car park at Crowtree Lane entrance be aware that there is a descent from the car park to the paved path along the bottom of Hubbards Hills. It’s worth noting this small descent if you are planning on taking a wheelchair. It is accessible but you’ll need to take care.
WhatsOnLincs – Hubbards Hills At Water Level
The paved path running along the bottom of Hubbards Hills is most definitely wheelchair friendly. Grassy banks alongside are significantly steeper though. However, with that said, don’t let my words put you off. You’ll be glad you visited even if you can’t manage the steep banks, The River Lud is beautiful and well maintained (as is the rest of Hubbards Hills) by the charity trust who run the area.
During the summer Hubbards Hills is a magnet for families with young children. The river flows gently, is shallow and very clear. As a result it’s ideal for young paddlers while the family set up for a picnic. In order to get the best visual experience you’ll need to visit at least once every season.
Ideal For Paddling InThe Shallows At Hubbards Hills Summer View
In autumn it’s a lot less busy but regular visits will give you the best photo opportunities.
The Shallows At Hubbards Hills Early Autumn View
Shallows At Hubbards Hills
Can you spot these trees while walking around?
Hubbards Hills – Health And Safety
I’m no expert but looking at the condition of the banks, paths and bridges it appears evident to me that health and safety of visitors is a high priority for the trust as they maintain the grounds. Some of the trees have been taken down since I visited previously but the opening up of the stream area seems to have worked well.
Getting Out
this paved path (with the cafe behind you) will take you back to the Halfpenny Lane entrance and free car park. However, if you have time, do stay to enjoy this beautiful space. It’s great for children to play and explore, ideal for a picnic and a paddle but equally as pleasant to just sit, enjoy nature and contemplate.
Hubbards Hills is open all year so you can enjoy all of the seasons here. If you look at the map above you’ll see Louth town centre. Yes, it ‘is’ that close! When you’ve finished at Hubbards Hills do take some time to explore Louth too. It has a vibrant market every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
Donations To Hubbards Hills
If you would like to make donations to the upkeep of Hubbards Hills please follow this link: www.hubbardshillslouth.co.uk
Until Next Time…
Further Reading In The WhatsOnLincs Library
by Martin Thomas | Apr 4, 2024 | Blogging, Lincolnshire Blogger, Lincs Connect, LincsBlogger, LincsConnect
The Original Lincolnshire Blogger
The original Lincolnshire Blogger (AKA Martin Thomas, ‘Simply Fit’) came to prominence in January 2011 (with the Lincolnshire Blogger concept being born in 2009) and quickly grew in popularity. The dedicated website followed in November 2015.
Initially writing as a columnist in the Lincolnshire Echo, The Target, Retford Times, Horncastle News, Louth Leader, Market Rasen Mail, Weddings Today and a few other newspapers and magazines the theme has always remained the same. Helping and informing people has, and is still at the top of the agenda for the newspaper and web based blogs and columns.
The Original Lincolnshire Blogger – The Beginnings
Initially the published works began as health and fitness columns with links to local charities, organisations and clubs to help give them a voice in the media.
The first regular column was instigated on 7 September 2011 in The Lincolnshire Echo but prior to that the published writing goes back to November 2009 in my capacity as the sponsor for The Midwife Of The Year (MOTY). The domain names were established at the same time while waiting for the website to be built.
Here are a couple of my early columns dating back to 2011 and early 2012:
Early Columns
The Lincolnshire Blogger – Moving On
The popularity of my columns soon grew and demand increased as more invitations for writing and radio interviews began to arrive. I wrote articles both as ‘Simply Fit’ and ‘Lincolnshire Blogger’ but the latter didn’t take off properly until 2015.
Fast forward to Covid in 2020. The blogs took on a new focus. The supportive blogs to help and inform people were gratefully received.
The Last Blogs Before Covid
The last Blogs before the pandemic included ‘New Website’ and ‘The New Logo’ with one of the last blogs being an advertising blog for the ‘Comedy Hotspot’ events. Little did I know what was going to happen in just a matter of days after its publication!
Little did we know what was to come in just a few days time! If you would like to read one of the last blogs before the Pandemic lockdown just click on this link: Comedy Hotspot
The Lincolnshire Blogger With Covid
It’s ironic that it took a major pandemic to shake me out of my fear of writing blogs. Everything up until then felt like ‘practice’ for the real thing!
Having contracted Covid the day before lockdown I was quarantined in the house. Luckily my bedroom was next door to my office so as a result I made use of my time by brushing up on my blogging skills. The writing has always been easy for me. The fear of the technology (along with my dyslexia) had been holding me back. I find the computer quite easy to use but WordPress (the website & blogging platform) somehow felt extremely difficult.
My first lockdown blog doesn’t look the slickest in the world but it was the start of my ever improving blogging journey. Thank goodness for YouTube tutorials and the help from the local Twitter community.
“Have We Become Numb” was the first lockdown blog of many. Thankfully they improved over time! Click on the blue link above if you would like to have a look.
Moving Up-To-Date
We faced many challenges during the pandemic and the LincsConnect blogs certainly went a long way towards helping people to navigate their way through it. Post pandemic blogging helped us through new challenges as many of us were nervous about reverting back to our pre-pandemic lifestyle. Once again, I did my bit with my blogs to help as many people as possible.
Blogs For Advertising
Rather than becoming ‘old fashioned’, blogging has become even more relevant recently as many people turn away from familiar social media platforms and embrace new ones. Readership has become very fragmented across the many platforms with ever more confusing sites launching on a regular basis. Twitter has certainly changed (not for the better) and Facebook experiences ever increasing updates which makes it more and more difficult to navigate. The blog has remained constant and as a result continues to be the perfect advertising medium.
Gala Fireworks used a LincsConnect blog to advertise their event at the Lincolnshire Showground. The blog is extremely useful as it’s much bigger than a standard advert. It contains more information than a standard newspaper editorial yet has a small link that can be easily copied and posted on any social media platform. The link comes with its own advertising picture (of your choice) which can be embedded onto a website as a permanent advert. All in all, it ‘is’ the perfect advertising tool. Click on the blue link above to see how effective a blog can be for advertising.
More Blogs By LincsConnect
Take Your Advertising Forward
Get in touch if you would like to have a blog written for your business, organisation or charity. It’s ideal for advertising on any platform so contact me if you would like more information.
Alternatively, if you already write your own blogs you can get in touch to chat about sharing links.
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18lb 6oz River Pike in the Dark.
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by Martin Thomas | Feb 26, 2024 | Advertise, Lincolnshire, Lincolnshire Blogger, Lincs Connect, LincsBlogger, LincsConnect, Networking, What's on Lincs
The LincsConnect Hour
The LincsConnect Hour is on Twitter (X) every last Monday evening of the month from 8.00pm.
How To Join The LincsConnect Hour
Hop across to Twitter (X) on the last Monday evening of the month from 8.00pm. It’s simple to join in, all you need to do is go to the Twitter search bar, type in #LincsConnect then tap on the ‘search’ button if you’re using the App or hit ‘return’ if you’re logged in from a computer search engine. Then tap or click ‘Latest’.
That’s it! Once you’re there, simply follow the instructions from whoever is hosting the Hour. The #LincsConnect Hour often starts off with introductions and adverts along with an invitation for embers to post any adverts they may have. General chat between members follows as part of the introductions then sometime around 8.10pm the host will post a question. There are often 3 or 4 questions during the Hour but the format is flexible and dependant on the host on the night.
This Monday 25 August 2025
Please do join us at 8.00pm
As well as being a successful author @EllieJayWrites is also a primary school teacher. Please do join her on Monday to discuss education. What do you think is most important in the current national curriculum? Perhaps you would like to share your thoughts on what should be taught in schools. Is home economics still relevant? Should pupils be taught to cook healthy meals? Perhaps ‘finances’ might be an important issue? We all need to budget and get the best deals so who taught you these skills? Monday will be your chance to discuss all manner of education so don’t forget to put a reminder on your phone.
The next #LincsConnect Hour will be on 29 September 2025 with Nigel Wass @Wass74
It could be you hosting…
Please do join us on Twitter at 8.00pm
Who Can Host?
Hosting is open to all local followers so if you would like to have a go just get in touch to organise a date.
Why Host?
Hosting is a great way to get yourself known and is ideal for promoting what you do. It’s FREE networking across the whole County and more often than not, the #LincsConnect hashtag can be found ‘trending’ across the world. That’s great free advertising for you!
Use this template for your advertising when you host the #LincsConnect Hour
Simple
That’s it! I told you it was simple!!
Trending
The #LincsConnect Hour trends almost every week so that makes it the ideal place for you to be networking and advertising.
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This blog is sponsored by Mandarin Therapies
Contact Mandarin Therapies for your mobile complementary therapies, injury prevention and rehabilitation sessions. Tel 07966 174878
LincsConnect Hour Host Advertising
Hosts can now have their details and advert added to this blog so let me know if you would like to host and advertise. You can use this blog to advertise the fact that you are hosting and encourage more people to join you. The more people who join, the more exposure your advert gets!
Please Note…
As numbers dwindle on Twitter (X) and engagement falls I have made the decision to make this the last of the regular weekly #LincsConnect Hour sessions.
Depending on demand I may run a monthly, quarterly or bi-annual #LincsConnect Hour so please do get in touch if you would like to host.
Monthly #LincsConnect Hour
More Blogs By LincsConnect
We look forward to seeing you (virtually) on Monday evening.
