I've been trying to find lesser known quieter spots for our family walks & much needed PlayStation/YouTube breaks. Often these lesser known places have no cafes/toilets etc so are not recommended for lengthy stays. Obviously the country parks are great & we all know & love Sywell, Brixworth, and Irchester etc (and they have toilets!) but I've tried to focus elsewhere as there have been reports these places have been very busy.
Northampton Washlands (behind Riverside) is a vast open space with the River Nene flowing along side it. There's a small marina and often horses, sheep and ducks/swans/geese.
River Nene (Brackmills) further up from the washlands you can walk along the Nene. We walked in a loop going past Northampton Active. You can walk all the way to Midsummer Meadow but the 9 year old wasn't quite up to that!
Upton Country Park can be busy but is a big space and the lesser known area away from the car park/football pitch is much quieter. There are currently sheep in one of the fields and is flat & perfect for buggies and bikes. There is a car park available.
Brampton Valley Way. This is a 14 mile stretch taking you all the way to Market Harborough. We have only visited a small section but loved it. I can recommend Draughton Crossing car park to Kelmarsh Tunnels. Last year we also walked from The Windhover for a couple of miles & then had a break at The Brampton Halt which will be open again later in the summer (hopefully!) Several free car parks are dotted long the walk.
Bradlaugh Fields which is not really so unknown anymore but depending on the day/time can be very quiet.
Irthingborough Lakes is a lovely quiet spot & you can walk all the way to Rushden Lakes quite easily and grab a takeaway drink & sit on the boardwalk before your return journey (top tip from my sister).
Harlestone Firs is one of my personal favourites grower in popularity you can still easily find pockets of complete solitude and perfect on a hot day as lots of shade from the trees. Free parking is opposite.
Villages we have some beautiful villages in Northamptonshire which are perfect for a stroll away from the hustle and bustle. We visited one yesterday and found a stream for the kids to paddle in & very few people.
A few of these places do not have specific car parks so take care parking, make sure you read the signs and don't obstruct roads/paths etc.
Have fun, take care & stay safe in this crazy new world.
Emma xxx