A Quick Guide To The Best Scenic Walks Within An Hour Of Billing Aquadrome

25 September 2017

Scenic Walks

 

Northamptonshire is often described as the hidden gem of the UK, situated in the heart of England.

The area plays host to a wide range of wonderful walks within an hour of our very own leisure park,  providing easy access across the county to our visitors.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, a countryside exploration or a town meander, there is something for everyone.

Here, we’ve chosen some of the best scenic walks within an hour of Billing Aquadrome.

 

Canons Ashby

This route is located only a 35 minute drive from the site and recommended by the Telegraph as one of their walks of the week. It contains a 13th-century priory and historic villages in rural Northamptonshire.

Around 5.75 miles in distance, this walk passes many points of interest including the medieval village of Moreton Pinkney. As well as tranquil farmland, and Canons Ashby lakes, developed by the medieval Augustinian friars for their fishing.

Mostly following farm tracks and field terrain, this is a fairly easy route with only one sharp hill. You can find a map of the route here.

 

The Brampton Valley Way

The Brampton Valley Way is a concrete trail built on the former Northampton to Market Harborough railway. With a full distance of 14 miles, this can be adapted to suit any ability and can be joined at any point along the way.

One possible route is a 12 mile walk joining four small villages in the area, across arable land. Only a 20-minute drive and starting in Brixworth, this passes through Cottesbrooke, Hollowell, and Creaton, with the chance to visit the Cottesbrooke Hall and Gardens part way through.

Alternative routes take in Brixworth Country Park and various reservoirs. For more information, visit this page.

 

Ouse Valley Park

Ouse Valley Park is just a short 30-minute drive away from our leisure park and offers a great day out for the whole family.

One possible route sets out from Ouse Valley Park along a section of canal towpath, via Manor Farm to the Iron Trunk aqueduct, before returning via the river Ouse.

This short walk of 1.3 miles can be extended up to 4 miles and is on easy, well-maintained hard footpaths. Unfortunately, this route is not wheelchair accessible, due to some steep steps.

 

Northampton

Providing a more metropolitan feel, while still taking in much of the countryside, this route is the ideal compromise.

Suitable for beginners and pros alike, it is easily accessible from several points in the western region of Northampton. It’s only a 15 minute drive from Billing Aquadrome. The full distance of the walk is 7 miles but can be shortened to 5.5 miles or 4 miles depending on where you start.

Providing a flat route that takes in Storron’s Gravel Pits, a wildlife site known for its otters, and a memorial to WWI victim Walter Tull, a footballer who played for Northampton FC, this route can conclude in the centre of the town.

 

Castle Ashby

Another popular walk, this route doesn’t require any travel – you can start it right here at Billing Aquadrome!

Taking in some quaint villages and beautiful scenery, this walk offers the chance to see kingfishers and dragonflies in abundance.

Following the River Nene towpath and the Nene Way, walkers have the opportunity to visit Castle Ashby. Dating from the 11th century, the castle provides a welcome stop off during this more challenging 10-mile walk.

 

Whilton Locks

Another relatively challenging walk, this 8-mile route follows the Grand Union Canal up the Buckby Flight of locks. At only a 30-minute drive from our site, it offers a pleasant day out for more long- distance walkers.

The Grand Union Canal is considered the longest merged canal in the UK. It runs from Birmingham to London for 137 miles. This route takes you along the canal until reaching the top lock, before crossing into fields and meadows and through a number of peaceful villages.

This route offers a good variation of tracks and paths. Along with an opportunity to witness canal architecture and boating up close. Passing through Whilton and Muscott Mill, you also have a chance to see some charming stone churches and marinas.

 

We hope these walks give you some inspiration for your time in Northamptonshire. Check out our holiday lodge hire here if you fancy somewhere warm to lay your head after a hard day’s walking.