Top 10 Walks In Northamptonshire

Written by Paul Gent in Places to WalkLast Updated January 30, 2025

top 10 walks in northamptonshire
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Northamptonshire, often called the “Rose of the Shires,” is a county in the East Midlands known for its picturesque countryside, historic landmarks, and charming villages. It offers a diverse landscape that includes rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and tranquil rivers, making it a haven for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. The county is also rich in history, with many of its walking trails passing by historic estates, medieval churches, and quaint market towns.

One of Northamptonshire’s highlights is its connection to England’s heritage, with sites like Althorp Estate, the ancestral home of the Spencer family, and the Harringworth Viaduct, an engineering marvel set against a scenic backdrop.

The ancient Rockingham Forest, once a royal hunting ground, provides lush woodland trails teeming with wildlife, while the Grand Union Canal offers peaceful towpaths for leisurely strolls.

Whether you’re exploring its historic villages, meandering through country parks, or enjoying views of reservoirs and viaducts, Northamptonshire is a delightful destination for those seeking beautiful walks and a connection to England’s pastoral charm.

The Top 10 Walks In Northamptonshire

1. Barnwell Country Park Walk

  • Start/End Point: Barnwell Country Park Car Park
  • Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
  • Terrain: Lakes, meadows, flat paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Oundle Mill

A peaceful walk around Barnwell Country Park with its picturesque lakes, riverside paths, and an abundance of wildlife. Ideal for families and nature lovers.

2. Everdon Stubbs Bluebell Walk

  • Start/End Point: Everdon Stubbs Car Park
  • Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)
  • Terrain: Ancient woodland, gentle trails
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Bluebell Wood (seasonal)

A short yet enchanting woodland walk, especially stunning in spring when bluebells carpet the forest floor.

3. Salcey Forest Elephant Walk

  • Start/End Point: Salcey Forest Visitor Centre
  • Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)
  • Terrain: Forest trails, flat paths
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Treetop Walkway

This scenic walk through Salcey Forest includes wide paths, ancient trees, and the chance to spot deer. The Treetop Walkway offers a unique perspective over the canopy.

4. Castle Ashby Gardens and Countryside Walk

  • Start/End Point: Castle Ashby Gardens
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Gardens, fields, rolling countryside
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Castle Ashby House

A picturesque walk combining the manicured gardens of Castle Ashby with scenic views of the surrounding Northamptonshire countryside.

5. Pitsford Reservoir (Brixworth Country Park) Walk

  • Start/End Point: Brixworth Country Park Car Park
  • Distance: 7 miles (11.2 km)
  • Terrain: Reservoir, flat paths
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Pitsford Reservoir

A circular route around Pitsford Reservoir, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying tranquil water views. Well-suited for walkers and cyclists alike.

6. Brigstock and Fermyn Woods Walk

  • Start/End Point: Fermyn Woods Country Park Car Park
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Woodlands, meadows, countryside trails
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Fermyn Woods

This walk combines the beauty of Fermyn Woods with the surrounding countryside, offering a mix of shaded woodland trails and open landscapes.

7. Althorp Estate Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Great Brington Village
  • Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)
  • Terrain: Parkland, fields, gentle hills
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Althorp House

Explore the countryside around the Althorp Estate, the historic home of the Spencer family, with peaceful parkland and rural scenery.

8. Blisworth and Grand Union Canal Walk

  • Start/End Point: Blisworth Village
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Canal towpaths, flat trails
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Blisworth Tunnel

A tranquil walk along the Grand Union Canal, passing narrowboats, wildlife, and the entrance to the historic Blisworth Tunnel.

9. Rockingham Forest and Harringworth Viaduct Walk

  • Start/End Point: Harringworth Village
  • Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)
  • Terrain: Forest paths, meadows, gentle hills
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Harringworth Viaduct

A scenic route through the ancient Rockingham Forest, with stunning views of the Harringworth Viaduct, one of Britain’s longest railway viaducts.

10. Stanwick Lakes Walk

  • Start/End Point: Stanwick Lakes Visitor Centre
  • Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km)
  • Terrain: Lakes, wetlands, flat trails
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Stanwick Lakes Nature Reserve

A family-friendly walk through the Stanwick Lakes Nature Reserve, featuring a mix of wildlife-rich wetlands, play areas, and peaceful water views.

Summary – Top 10 Walks in Northamptonshire

We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Northamptonshire. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.

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