The best walks and hikes in Northamptonshire
4.5
(2585)
18,381
hikers
1,543
hikes
Hiking in Northamptonshire features a rural landscape characterized by undulating hills, farmlands, and numerous lake loops. The county is defined by the Nene Valley, which includes rivers, wetlands, and several nature reserves. Ancient woodlands like Salcey Forest and Badby Woods offer additional exploration opportunities. The terrain is generally gentle, making many routes accessible for various fitness levels, often following waterside paths along reservoirs and canals.
Best hiking trails in Northamptonshire
- The most popular hiking route is Pitsford Water Circuit, a 6.9 miles (11.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 50 minutes to complete. This route offers views around the large Pitsford Water reservoir.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Sywell Reservoir loop, an easy 2.9 miles (4.6 km) path. This trail provides a peaceful walk around Sywell Reservoir, suitable for bird spotting.
- Local hikers also love the Salcey Forest loop, a 5.4 miles (8.7 km) trail leading through historic woodland, often completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- Hiking in Northamptonshire is defined by gentle hills, extensive woodlands, and numerous waterside paths along reservoirs and the Nene River. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to longer moderate trails.
- The routes in Northamptonshire are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,500 reviews. More than 18,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Northamptonshire's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.8
(82)
767
hikers
11.1km
02:49
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(32)
573
hikers
4.62km
01:11
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(55)
196
hikers
9.15km
02:20
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.3
(25)
125
hikers
8.67km
02:14
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(12)
77
hikers
16.1km
04:14
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(22)
47
hikers
11.0km
02:54
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(8)
70
hikers
3.62km
00:56
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(8)
16
hikers
4.90km
01:21
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(14)
44
hikers
10.7km
02:49
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
50
hikers
2.70km
00:42
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Bring a beer for a date with the sun and the birds of prey!
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Elton is a ridiculously pretty village and it has a great pub as well, just to put the π on the π§.
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Glide high above the treetops and enjoy magnificent views over Salcey Forest in Northamptonshire.
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If visiting in the spring months, you'll be treated to a beautiful display of wildflowers.
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Beautiful Grade II listed building in the small village of Maidwell.
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Roadside parking available where Manor Road meets Brampton Valley Way.
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More Information
Exploring the rivers and waterways of Northamptonshire
With reservoirs, lakes, rivers and a major canal, exploring the waterways on your walks in Northamptonshire is a fantastic way to see the county. The Grand Union Canal runs from Welford down to Daventry before cutting across south east. You can hike the length of it, as well as the many trails along its scenic branches.Β
Rivers, reservoirs and wetlands can be found across the county and the River Nene is a particularly good watercourse for hikes in Northamptonshire. As it passes south of Northampton, youβll find trails along the riverside, through the nature reserves and into the countryside. Further along the Nene, the Titchmarsh wetlands and nature reserve is a particularly vibrant area to explore.Β
Strolling around country parks and woodlands
Some of the best hiking trails in Northamptonshire can be found in the many country parks. Fermyn Woods, Daventry and Barnwell are just some of the beautiful country parks here with woodland trails, streams and open meadows.Β
Thanks to the rural nature of the county, you can go on day hikes easily from wherever you are. The whole area is covered in footpaths across fields and through pockets of forest, making circular walks easy to plot and follow.Β
For multi-day hikes, you can still follow the endless trails, linking them up as you go. By hiking from country park to country park or following the River Nene, youβll get to embrace a true adventure while never being too far from accommodation or a good cafe.Β
Northamptonshireβs vibrant nature
With its wealth of nature reserves and wetlands, wherever you walk in the charming county youβll find the air buzzing with life. From transformed quarries to revitalised meadows, many of the nature reserves here are brimming with songbirds, butterflies, bees and beetles. The meadows in spring and summer are havens for wildlife and even old industrial sites have been reclaimed by nature.Β
Reserves like the Glapthorn Cow Pastures in the north have stunning woodlands where birdsong streams through the air and the leaves glow green in the sunshine. The meadows throughout the county are some of the best places to enjoy nature in Northamptonshire and you can explore sites like Barnes, Abington and Barford.Β
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Northamptonshire?
Northamptonshire offers a wide variety of hiking options, with over 1,500 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more moderate trails, catering to different fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Northamptonshire?
The terrain in Northamptonshire is generally gentle, characterized by undulating hills, farmlands, and extensive waterside paths along reservoirs, rivers, and the Grand Union Canal. You'll also find ancient woodlands, making for varied and accessible walks.
Are there family-friendly hiking routes in Northamptonshire?
Yes, many routes in Northamptonshire are suitable for families due to the gentle terrain. Places like Stanwick Lakes offer accessible trails, and the Sywell Reservoir loop is an easy option perfect for a peaceful family walk.
Are dogs allowed on hiking trails in Northamptonshire?
Most hiking trails in Northamptonshire are dog-friendly, especially those in woodlands and along public footpaths. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly around livestock or in nature reserves to protect wildlife. The Salcey Forest loop is a popular choice for dog walkers.
Can I find circular hiking routes in Northamptonshire?
Yes, Northamptonshire has numerous circular hiking routes. Many trails around reservoirs, such as the Pitsford Water Circuit, and through woodlands like the Badby Woods loop, are designed as loops, bringing you back to your starting point.
Are there hikes that feature water views or reservoirs?
Absolutely. The Nene Valley is a central feature, offering numerous lakes, rivers, and wetlands. You can enjoy walks around reservoirs like Pitsford Water, Sywell Reservoir, and Ravensthorpe Reservoir. The Fotheringhay to Elton loop via River Nene provides scenic riverside views.
Where can I find woodland hikes in Northamptonshire?
Northamptonshire is home to several ancient woodlands perfect for hiking. Popular choices include Salcey Forest, Badby Woods (especially beautiful with bluebells in spring), and Harlestone Firs, which is stunning in autumn. The Salcey Forest loop is a great example of a woodland trail.
What historical landmarks or attractions can I explore while hiking in Northamptonshire?
You can combine your hike with visits to historical sites. Consider exploring the ruins of Fotheringhay Castle or the historic DelaprΓ© Abbey. The Lyveden Way also passes by historical points of interest.
Are there any good viewpoints or scenic spots in Northamptonshire?
While Northamptonshire is generally low-lying, you can find lovely viewpoints. The Honey Hill Summit and Viewpoint offers panoramic views, and you can enjoy a View of Nene Valley from Glassthorpe Hill. Many reservoir walks also provide expansive, scenic vistas.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Northamptonshire?
Spring is particularly enchanting with bluebell displays in woodlands like Badby Woods and Everdon Stubbs. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, especially at Harlestone Firs. The gentle terrain also makes many routes suitable for winter walks, particularly around Stanwick Lakes with its accessible paths.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Northamptonshire?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful waterside paths, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the accessibility of routes for various fitness levels.
Are there any long-distance trails or unique routes in the region?
Yes, Northamptonshire is home to sections of longer trails. The Nene Way follows the River Nene for 70 miles, offering diverse environments. The Brampton Valley Way, a 14-mile walk and cycle trail along an old railway line, is known for its historic tunnels and varied landscapes. The Maidwell Loop via Brampton Valley Way is a great way to experience a section of it.
Most popular routes in Northamptonshire
Most popular attractions in Northamptonshire
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