Walking, Cycling and Riding in Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire is a gem for getting outdoors, offering a mix of flat, easy-going lakeside strolls and more rugged woodland trails. Whether you are on two wheels, four hooves, or your own two feet, here is the lowdown on the best spots to head to.

Brixworth Country Park & Pitsford Water

Located just north of Northampton, this is the big one. It features a 7-mile circular route around the reservoir.

• The Vibe: The surface is mostly well-maintained hard-packed gravel, making it perfect for cyclists, walkers, and those with sturdy buggies. It’s almost entirely off-road.
• What to do: You can hire bikes on-site, hit the large play areas, or try some birdwatching.
• For the kids: It’s a winner for all ages. There’s enough space for teens to speed off on bikes and plenty of “distractions” (playgrounds) for younger kids.
• The Logistics: People usually spend 3 to 4 hours here if doing the full loop. There is a solid café on-site, but it’s a prime spot for a picnic to save cash.
• Nearby: You are right next to the village of Brixworth, which has some lovely old pubs if you want a proper meal afterwards.

Stanwick Lakes

Situated in the Nene Valley, this is a massive 750-acre countryside attraction.

• The Vibe: It offers over 7 miles of footpaths and dedicated cycling routes. The terrain is flat and accessible, mostly on crushed stone or tarmac paths.
• What to do: Aside from the trails, there is a massive adventure playground, an assault course, and a climbing tower.
• For the kids: This is “parent gold.” You can let older children roam the adventure areas while you grab a coffee nearby. It’s definitely more “hands-on” than just a walk.
• The Logistics: You could easily spend a full day here. Parking is the main cost, so car-sharing is a smart move. There are plenty of snack kiosks and a large visitor centre café.

Salcey Forest

Found between Northampton and Milton Keynes, this is the go-to for a woodland fix.

• The Vibe: There are various circular trails ranging from a short 1-mile wander to a 6-mile primary cycle route. The surface can get muddy and uneven off the main tracks, so bring decent boots or a mountain bike.
• What to do: It’s famous for its “Tree Top Way,” though even from the ground, the ancient oaks are impressive. There are dedicated bridleways here too, making it one of the best spots for horse riders.
• For the kids: Great for “den building” and exploring. Younger children will love the play areas, while teens might find the longer bike trails a decent challenge.
• The Logistics: A typical visit is about 2 hours, or longer if you’re cycling. Parking is paid, but the forest itself is free to enter.

Fermyn Woods Country Park

Located near Brigstock, this is a bit quieter and more “nature-focused.”

• The Vibe: It features linear and circular woodland walks on mostly firm tracks.
• What to do: Keep an eye out for the Red Kites flying overhead. There’s a great Skylark café here that is very popular with locals.
• For the kids: It’s a bit more “educational/nature” than Stanwick, but there is still a play area to burn off energy.
• The Logistics: Usually a 2-hour visit. It’s a great one to combine with a trip to the nearby Lyveden New Build (an unfinished Elizabethan summerhouse) if you want a bit of history.

Money Saving Tips & Perks

• Parking: Most of these sites use a similar parking system. If you plan on visiting Northamptonshire’s country parks frequently (Brixworth, Sywell, Irchester, etc.), it is definitely worth looking into an annual season ticket for parking to save a fortune.
• Discounts: Keep an eye out for Blue Light Card discounts at the on-site cafés.
• Freebies: If you want to avoid parking charges entirely, the Nene Way or the Grand Union Canal towpaths (especially around Braunston or Stoke Bruerne) offer miles of linear, flat walking and cycling for free—just find a safe spot to park in a nearby village.