Northamptonshire's top 10 summertime cycle routes
It is fun, healthy, cheap, liberating and good for the planet – so why not dust down the bike and get pedalling this summer?
Whether you are looking for a gentle meander or an action packed trek, a bike ride is the perfect way to enjoy the summer with family and friends.
The miles of unspoilt Northamptonshire countryside provide the perfect backdrop. If you fancy a two wheeled adventure check out these top Northamptonshire trails...
Brampton Valley Way
A car free ‘linear’ park surrounded by beautiful scenery and rich in natural and historical heritage. The Northampton and Lamport Railway Society also operate train rides along a short section of line at the former Pitsford and Brampton station. The Brampton Valley Way can be accessed on mountain bike from Brixworth Country Park via the Merry Tom Bridleway.
Bluebell Line
This 20 mile cycle tour begins and ends in the market town of Daventry and winds through breathtaking countryside and attractive villages. The tour does have some challenging hills but you will be rewarded with stops along the way at a quaint country pub or picnic in a country park. Spring is the perfect time to cycle through the beautiful meadows and trees dotted along the route so why not get out on your bike now?
The Nene Valley
The route runs from Flore, near Daventry to Wansford, near Peterborough and covers 65 miles. The cycle route is divided into three tours of varying lengths, all of which take you through beautiful countryside, picturesque villages and past historic sites and buildings. Some of the interesting sites you will see along the way include Fotheringhay Castle, Prebendal Manor, Castle Ashby, Irchester Country Park and Oundle Village.
Stanwick Lakes
A network of over seven miles of footpaths/cycle paths (wheelchair accessible). In addition to circular routes around the lakes there is a four mile linear route running from Irthlingborough towards Thrapston, providing safe off-road walking and cycling – and a means of ‘green’ travel for local visitors. This former railway line can also be used by horse riders (on a permit basis).
Fineshade Woods
The family cycle route is 5 miles in length with some gentle to moderate hilly sections. Designed for gentle cycling, the route takes you through most of the main woodland block and the varied habitats within it. The Family Cycle Trail can be started from Top Lodge, Fineshade Wood which is part of Rockingham Forest.
Pitsford Cycles
Based at Brixworth Country Park, overlooking Pitsford Reservoir, just north of Northampton, you'll find Pitsford cycle hire. With 7.5 miles of traffic-free cycle paths that run round the reservoir. The ride is relatively flat making it great for families with young children. Child seats, which are suitable for children from 9 months of age, are available for attachment to our cycles.
Get Mountain Biking
Provides mountain bike courses, off-road guided rides and bike maintenance courses at various venues in Northamptonshire and across the country. The mountain bike courses they run will give all the knowledge and experience needed to get riding and keep mountain biking in all terrain and conditions.
