Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Northamptonshire
Wellingborough

Wilby

Attractions and Places To See around Wilby - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Wilby, a village in Northamptonshire, offers a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. The area is characterized by its proximity to the River Nene and large reservoirs, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore historical landmarks and enjoy the surrounding countryside. This region provides a variety of attractions for those interested in history, nature, and recreational pursuits.

Best attractions and places to see around Wilby

  • The most popular attractions is Pitsford Water, a lake that features a cafe, public toilets, and bike hire. This large reservoir offers facilities like picnic areas, a children's play area, and walking/cycling paths.
  • Another must-see spot is Nene Way, a viewpoint and trail along the River Nene. This path offers scenic views and is appreciated for its natural beauty.
  • Visitors also love Castle Ashby Rural Shopping Yard, a historical site with facilities. It provides a stop for refreshments, shopping, and exploring unique items.
  • Wilby is known for historical sites, lakes, and scenic trails. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to expansive reservoirs.
  • The attractions around Wilby are appreciated by the komoot community, with 73 upvotes and 9 photos contributed by users.

Last updated: June 22, 2026

Castle Ashby Rural Shopping Yard

Highlight • Historical Site

castle ashby deli good ice cream

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington

Highlight • Historical Site

The church in Hannington is dedicated to St Peter and St Paul and is one of only two in England with a bisected nave; the other (at Caythorpe in Lincolnshire) had a north aisle added in Victorian times, spoiling the symmetry, and therefore this church could be considered to be unique in England.

Once a major part of village life, the church was built in the late 13th century, though it incorporates some stonework from an earlier period.

By the mid 19th century the church had fallen into a serious state of disrepair and was little more than a ruin, but thankfully in 1869 the building was restored to its former glory and a new Rectory was built alongside it. The person responsible for this was the Rector, John Downes. He personally paid for the restoration and for the building of the Rectory, now called Hannington House. It was John Downes' wife Lucy who founded the school in Hannington in 1871, and this school building still exists and is used as the Village Hall.

Ref. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hannington,_Northamptonshire

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Pitsford Water

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

There is a cafe, public toilets and bike shop providing bike hire at the top of the main carpark, with open grassed areas (perfect for picnics) leading down to a childrens play area and then the main walking/cycle path around the water. To the left of the grass beside the other footpath is an accessible garden with raised beds.

Tip by

Save

Footbridge Over the Stream

Highlight • Trail

The ford is too deep to paddle through in walking boots but there are some rather tricky stepping stones to one side that you can use to get across.

Tip by

Save

Pitsford Dam

Highlight • Lake

Pitsford Dam is an expansive reservoir surrounded by countryside. It was completed in the 1950s and serves as a vital water supply for the region. There are walking and cycling paths surrounding the lake and lots of beautiful landscaps and wildlife.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Wilby.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Wilby

Hiking around Wilby

Road Cycling Routes around Wilby

Cycling around Wilby

MTB Trails around Wilby

Running Trails around Wilby

Gravel biking around Wilby

Tips from the Community

Martin Stevens
July 1, 2025, Pitsford Water

n

0

0

Nice flat walk. quite corner of the nature

0

0

Paula
January 22, 2025, Pitsford Water

Easy Gravel Ride with some stunning views

0

0

Beautiful old church, worth seeing

0

0

Grace Mulligan
September 23, 2024, Pitsford Dam

Pitsford Dam is an expansive reservoir surrounded by countryside. It was completed in the 1950s and serves as a vital water supply for the region. There are walking and cycling paths surrounding the lake and lots of beautiful landscaps and wildlife.

1

0

If you don't fancy the stepping stones - Coming from the West, go straight on from Jerusalem steps or right from the bridleway, over the bridge (highlighted) then immediately left along the field edge. Coming from Whiston go left just before the ford (you will see the track) and follow the field edge until you get to the bridge then cross the stream there.

0

0

Gentle hill climb, good view of the Castle and a nice coffee and cake at the cafe Little shops nice to look round too

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of attractions can I find around Wilby, Northamptonshire?

Wilby, Northamptonshire, offers a mix of historical sites and natural landscapes. You can explore ancient churches, enjoy expansive reservoirs like Pitsford Water, and walk scenic trails along the River Nene. The area provides opportunities for those interested in history, nature, and various recreational pursuits.

Are there any historical sites to visit near Wilby?

Yes, Wilby and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the 12th-century St. Mary's Church in Wilby itself, known for its Norman architecture. Another significant historical site is St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington, which is unique for its bisected nave. Nearby, you can also find the Wellingborough Museum and the Irchester Narrow Gauge Railway Museum for insights into local heritage.

What natural features can I explore around Wilby?

The area around Wilby is characterized by its natural beauty, particularly the River Nene and large reservoirs. Pitsford Water is a prominent natural attraction, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities. You can also explore the Nene Way, a trail that runs along the River Nene, providing scenic walks and a chance to enjoy the countryside.

Are there family-friendly activities or attractions near Wilby?

Absolutely, there are several family-friendly options. Pitsford Water features a children's play area and open grassed spaces perfect for picnics. Other nearby attractions include West Lodge Farm Park, Rock Up Rushden Lakes (an indoor climbing center), 360 Play Rushden Lakes, Inflatapark, and Fuzzy Ed's at the Priory, all offering various activities for children and families.

What outdoor activities can I do near Wilby?

The Wilby area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, running, and road cycling on various trails. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Wilby guide, the Running Trails around Wilby guide, and the Road Cycling Routes around Wilby guide, which feature routes like the Sywell Reservoir loop and trails along the Nene Way.

Are there hiking trails around Wilby?

Yes, there are numerous hiking trails. The Nene Way is a popular trail running along the River Nene, offering scenic views. You can find various routes, including easy and moderate options, in the Hiking around Wilby guide, such as the Sywell Reservoir loop and trails near the River Nene.

Can I go cycling near Wilby?

Yes, cycling is a popular activity in the area. Pitsford Water offers dedicated walking and cycling paths, with bike hire available. For more extensive rides, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Wilby guide, which includes routes like the Sywell Reservoir loop and longer rides around Pitsford Water.

Are there any accessible trails or attractions for visitors with mobility needs?

Yes, Pitsford Water is noted as wheelchair accessible. It features an accessible garden with raised beds, and its main walking/cycling path is suitable for various mobility levels. Always check specific trail conditions for the most up-to-date accessibility information.

What do visitors enjoy the most about Wilby's attractions?

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The serene escape offered by the River Nene and the picturesque countryside, along with the well-maintained facilities at places like Pitsford Water (including cafes, toilets, and picnic areas), are frequently highlighted. The scenic views along the Nene Way are also a favorite.

Are there any unique or hidden gems to discover?

While not exactly hidden, St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington, with its unique bisected nave, is a less common architectural find. For a more adventurous discovery, the Footbridge Over the Stream offers an interesting crossing point, with options for stepping stones or a bridge, providing a small adventure for walkers.

Can I find places for wild swimming near Wilby?

While specific designated wild swimming spots are not detailed for Wilby itself, the River Nene flows through the area, and some hiking routes in the Hiking around Wilby guide mention potential wild swimming spots along the river. Always exercise caution and check local regulations before attempting wild swimming.

Most popular routes around Wilby

Hiking around Wilby

Most popular attractions around Wilby

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

SywellEctonEarls BartonMears AshbyLittle HarrowdenEaston MauditHardwickWellingboroughOrlingburyBozeatGrendonWollastonStrixtonGreat DoddingtonIrchesterGreat HarrowdenIshamFinedon

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Mears Ashby

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy