Attractions and Places To See around Islip - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Islip include a variety of historical sites, natural landscapes, and local amenities. This region, located in Northamptonshire, offers opportunities for exploring significant landmarks and enjoying scenic outdoor areas. Visitors can discover ancient monuments, expansive nature preserves, and charming local spots.
Best attractions and places to see around Islip
- The most popular attractions is Stanwick Lakes, a lake that features a visitor centre and amenities. It is a notable spot for those exploring the area, often passed on routes via a disused railway track.
- Another must-see spot is Eleanor Cross, Geddington, a man-made monument and historical site. This is one of the more spectacular surviving Eleanor crosses, marking a significant historical journey.
- Visitors also love Beans, Oundle, a cafe that caters to cyclists. It is known for its friendly atmosphere, good coffee, and even offers bike spares.
- Islip is known for its historical sites, natural areas, and local cafes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient monuments to tranquil lakes and welcoming community spots.
- The attractions around Islip are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 17 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Beans, Oundle
Highlight • Cafe
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Eleanor Cross, Geddington
Highlight • Monument
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Lyveden New Bield
Highlight • Historical Site
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Lyveden Manor House
Highlight • Historical Site
The house is grade one listed and was owned by the Tresham family until 1649 when it was sequestered during the Civil War because of continued Catholic links. In 1660 Charles II granted Lyveden to the Earl of Sandwich and from then the house passed through various family members including the Earls of Ossory and Robert Vernon Smith, 1st Lord Lyveden who acquired the house in 1841.
Sometimes referred to as ‘Lyveden Old Bield’ the house is in fact newer than the ‘New Bield’. This refers to the garden lodge at the top of the hill. It is believed that the manor house is built on the footprint of an older Elizabethan house, possibly built by Sir Thomas’ great grandfather around 1570.
The manor itself was built by Lewis Tresham, Sir Thomas' second son, and completed around 1615. It has changed a lot since this date, including the removal of an extensive wing to the north of the current building, the modernisation of the historic interiors and the addition of modern extensions to house the kitchen and additional guest suites.
The original oak staircase was removed from Lyveden House around 1920. It's believed this was in payment of a gambling debt to the Ford motor family. Henry Ford’s son Edsel Ford, built his country house around the staircase which still stands and can be seen in the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Michigan, USA. An exact replica of the original was re-built within the house at Lyveden in 2000.
In 2013 the National Trust was successful in acquiring Lyveden House and 27 acres of grounds. The Lyveden Reconnected project is going to offer visitors the opportunity to experience the Elizabethan garden as Tresham once envisaged; beginning at the manor and journeying through his symbolic garden to the lodge at the top of the hill.
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Titchmarsh Village Shop
Highlight • Cafe
A good spot to stop and stock up.
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Tips from the Community
When King Edward I’s beloved first wife, Eleanor of Castile, died in 1290, he spent three days in intense mourning, unable to leave the Nottinghamshire village of Harby where she died. He then led her funeral procession, journeying some 200 miles to London over many days. To commemorate Eleanor, Edward commissioned three tombs and had 12 stone crosses built to mark each place where her body rested overnight on its final journey. He employed the best masons in the land to build them. (Text from: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/eleanor-cross-geddington/history/ )
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Cyclist-friendly cafe with outdoor seating. No specific bike parking although there's plenty of spots to prop a bike outside.
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One of our 2 favourite coffee stops in Oundle. Normally have a vegan cake option, sadly didn't on our last visit.
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Great stop off, good coffee and even have vegan cake options (2) also very comfortable parking the bike up as well away from the road, situated towards the back of the garden centre.
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This unfinished Elizabethan summer house is a magnificent Grade I listed building open to the public to explore. Feel free to roam the rest of the beautiful grounds whilst you're here, there is plenty to discover.
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A haven for local cyclists - super friendly staff and great coffee. Not much outdoor space as it's in the centre of town, so be mindful of where you stack your bike(s) and don't block the path.
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Anything to do with the one time TV gardener? Doubtful, but you can ask inside if you like... bet they love that! A good spot to stop and stock up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of attractions to explore around Islip?
The area around Islip, Northamptonshire, offers a mix of natural landscapes, historical sites, and local amenities. You can find expansive lakes with visitor facilities, significant historical monuments, and charming local cafes.
Are there any historical sites worth visiting near Islip?
Yes, a prominent historical site is Eleanor Cross, Geddington, which is one of the more spectacular surviving Eleanor crosses. Another significant historical location is Lyveden Manor House, a Grade I listed building with a rich history, including connections to the Tresham family and its Elizabethan garden.
Where can I enjoy nature and outdoor activities around Islip?
For nature and outdoor activities, Stanwick Lakes is a popular choice. It features a lake, a visitor centre, and is often part of routes along a disused railway track. The area also offers various hiking and gravel biking opportunities.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Islip area?
Absolutely. Stanwick Lakes is considered family-friendly, offering amenities and space for outdoor enjoyment. The historical sites like Eleanor Cross, Geddington and Lyveden Manor House are also suitable for families interested in history and exploration.
What kind of walking or hiking routes are available near Islip?
You can find a variety of walking and hiking routes around Islip. Options range from easy to moderate, with routes like 'Bench with a View of the Park – View of Woodford Lock loop' being easy, and others like 'Overgrown Byway – View of Lowick Church loop' offering a moderate challenge. For more details, explore the hiking guide for Islip.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or food while exploring?
Yes, there are a couple of notable cafes. Beans, Oundle is a popular cafe known for its friendly atmosphere and good coffee, especially among cyclists. Another option is Titchmarsh Village Shop, which also offers coffee and freshly baked goods with outdoor seating.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Islip?
Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings, from the natural beauty and facilities at Stanwick Lakes, which provides food, drink, and toilets, to the historical significance of Eleanor Cross, Geddington. The local cafes are also highly rated for their welcoming atmosphere and quality refreshments.
Can I go cycling or gravel biking near Islip's attractions?
Yes, the area is suitable for cycling, including gravel biking. Routes like 'River Nene Path – View of Woodford Lock loop' and 'Stanwick Lakes – River Nene Path loop' are available. You can find more information on these routes in the gravel biking guide for Islip.
Are there any easy walks suitable for all abilities near Islip?
Yes, there are several easy walks. For example, the 'Bench with a View of the Park – View of Woodford Lock loop' is an easy route. You can find more easy options in the easy hikes guide for Islip.
What facilities are available at Stanwick Lakes?
Stanwick Lakes offers a visitor centre, food and drink options, and toilet facilities. There is a charge for parking.
What is the significance of Lyveden Manor House?
Lyveden Manor House was planned by Sir Thomas Tresham as a starting point for visitors to experience his pleasure grounds and garden lodge. It is a Grade I listed building with a rich history, including its connection to the Tresham family and its Elizabethan garden, which the National Trust is working to restore to Tresham's original vision.
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