Autumn Walks to Enjoy in Northamptonshire

What is it about autumn that pulls you outside? Is it the crunch of leaves underfoot, the crisp air that makes you zip up your jacket, or the sight of the landscape, now painted in vibrant shades of orange and gold? In Northamptonshire, the season works its magic, turning the county’s parks, forests, and hidden gems into perfect autumn walk destinations. Whether you’re after a peaceful ramble, a bit of history, or simply somewhere to admire the fiery colours, here’s your guide to the best walks. We’ve thrown in the length, difficulty rating, and even where to get that much-needed cuppa afterwards!

1. Delapré Abbey – History and Tranquillity Combined
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///beyond.chew.tolls

Delapré Abbey offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Northampton. As you wander through its extensive 500-acre parkland, the towering trees create a dazzling display of autumnal colours—perfect for an easy, refreshing stroll. The historic abbey, with over 900 years of history, is a stunning backdrop to this walk, combining both beauty and heritage. You can take in the view of the swans gliding across the lake, explore the carefully landscaped gardens, and lose yourself in the tranquillity of the wooded paths.

The whole area offers a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to slow down and enjoy the changing seasons. With ancient trees casting long shadows and the leaves crunching underfoot, it’s an ideal spot to embrace autumn.

Post-walk stop: Enjoy a visit to The Orangery Café, where a hearty bowl of soup or slice of cake will warm you up.

2. Stanwick Lakes – A Haven for Nature and Wildlife
Length: 5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 2 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///renders.places.hologram

Stanwick Lakes is a vibrant nature reserve set across 750 acres of wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. In autumn, the landscape transforms into a fiery mix of red, orange, and gold, making this a truly picturesque setting for a walk. The flat, well-maintained trails are perfect for all abilities and families with children, offering plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Look out for migrating birds overhead and even the occasional otter in the water.

The circular route around the lakes provides incredible views, with the still water reflecting the warm colours of the trees. It’s a peaceful, scenic option, and the easy paths make it accessible for everyone, including wheelchair users.

Post-walk stop: Head to Café Solar for a warm drink and slice of cake, offering great views of the lakes from inside.

3. Salcey Forest – Woodland Trails Among Ancient Giants
Length: 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///remains.ferried.clutches

Salcey Forest is an enchanting woodland walk with a rich history, perfect for an autumn adventure. The towering oaks, many of which are centuries old, transform into a sea of amber, gold, and russet as the season takes hold. Walking beneath the canopy of these ancient giants is a magical experience, especially in autumn when the sun filters through the leaves, casting dappled light across the forest floor.
The forest offers several walking trails, ranging from short family-friendly routes to longer, more challenging hikes. The Elephant Walk, a popular 2.5-mile loop, is named after the elephants that were used to haul timber during World War II. For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Woodpecker Trail takes you deeper into the woods, offering a peaceful, off-the-beaten-track experience.

Salcey Forest also has a Tree Top Walkway, where you can climb above the trees and take in stunning views of the forest from a higher vantage point—an ideal spot to fully appreciate the autumn colours. Wildlife is abundant here, so keep an eye out for deer and birds as you explore.

Post-walk stop: The on-site café serves a variety of refreshments, including hot drinks and snacks—perfect after an afternoon wandering through the forest.

4. Abington Park – Northampton’s Oldest Green Space
Length: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
What3Words: ///junior.casual.still

Abington Park is Northampton’s oldest and one of its most cherished green spaces. It’s a perfect autumn destination, with centuries-old trees lining the wide pathways, their leaves turning shades of fiery red, gold, and orange. The park is full of history and beauty, offering a peaceful, easy-going walk that’s ideal for families, dog walkers, or anyone who wants a quick but scenic escape into nature.
As you walk, you’ll pass two serene lakes reflecting the vibrant foliage. The park’s Victorian bandstand, surrounded by a carpet of fallen leaves, adds a touch of nostalgia, making this a lovely spot for photography. Another highlight is the Abington Park Museum, housed in a 16th-century manor, adding a touch of history to your stroll.

The walk itself is short and gentle, with plenty of places to sit and admire the views, making it a perfect option if you’re looking for a relaxing autumn stroll without committing to a long hike.

Post-walk stop: The Park Café is a cosy spot to enjoy a hot drink or a sweet treat, perfect after soaking in the crisp autumn air.

5. Sywell Country Park – A Reservoir Walk Full of Wildlife
Length: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///accented.instant.vacancies

Sywell Country Park offers a peaceful circular walk around its large reservoir, making it an ideal destination for a relaxed autumn stroll. The flat, accessible paths make this route perfect for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking for a gentle walk in a beautiful setting. In autumn, the trees that line the reservoir’s edge burst into rich hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning reflection on the still waters.

The park is rich in wildlife, with many bird species flocking to the reservoir. Birdwatchers can look out for swans, kingfishers, and herons, all frequent visitors to the area. The old water pumping station adds an interesting historical element to the walk, giving insight into Sywell’s past. There are plenty of benches along the route where you can sit, take in the views, and enjoy the tranquillity.

It’s a relatively short and easy walk, perfect for a crisp autumn day when you want to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air without venturing too far.

Post-walk stop: Head to the on-site café for a cup of tea and a snack, or take a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings by the water.

6. Kelmarsh Tunnels – A Unique Autumn Adventure
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///recover.kickbacks.compose

For an autumn walk with a twist of history and adventure, head to Kelmarsh Tunnels. These disused railway tunnels, built in the 1850s, offer an atmospheric experience as you move between the dark, cool interior of the tunnels and the brightly coloured countryside. The striking contrast between the golden autumn foliage outside and the eerie quiet inside the tunnels makes for a truly memorable walk.

The approach to the tunnels is scenic, with vibrant autumn trees framing the tunnel entrances. As you emerge from the other side, the countryside opens up, bathed in autumnal hues. The walk is popular with both walkers and cyclists, and the tunnels add a sense of discovery to what is otherwise a peaceful countryside stroll.

This route is perfect for those looking for something a little different—combining the beauty of autumn with the intrigue of an industrial relic.

Post-walk treat: After exploring the tunnels, head to Kelmarsh Hall for a well-deserved cup of tea and cake.

7. Harringworth Viaduct – Walk Beneath the Arches
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
What3Words: ///smaller.keyboards.nappy

Harringworth Viaduct, Britain’s longest railway viaduct, makes for an impressive backdrop to an autumn walk. Stretching across the Welland Valley, the viaduct’s 82 arches create a breathtaking sight, especially when framed by autumn’s fiery colours. This walk takes you beneath the arches, offering spectacular views of both the countryside and the Victorian engineering marvel towering above.

The paths around the viaduct wind through rural landscapes, dotted with autumn trees and fields, creating the perfect environment to pause, take a deep breath, and admire the beauty of the season. The contrast of the towering stone arches against the soft autumnal hues makes it a photographer’s dream. Whether you stand back to capture the full length of the viaduct or take a shot from underneath, you’re in for a visual treat.

This walk is ideal for history lovers and those looking to pair a peaceful countryside stroll with the grandeur of industrial heritage.

Post-walk stop: After soaking in the views, pop into the White Swan, it’s a beautiful 16th Century country pub in the heart of the Welland Valley which will, round off your day nicely.

8. Harlestone Firs – A Pine Forest Escape
Length: 3 to 5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
What3Words (Parking across the road): ///cool.taking.bike

Harlestone Firs offers a peaceful, autumnal woodland walk through a towering pine forest that feels worlds away from the rush of everyday life. This stunning pinewood is ideal for a relaxed, refreshing escape, with wide paths perfect for families, dog walkers, and those who simply love the fresh air of autumn. As you stroll through the forest, the floor is carpeted with golden pine needles, and the air is filled with the earthy scent of pine and damp leaves.

In autumn, the light streams beautifully through the trees, casting long shadows and creating a tranquil atmosphere that makes Harlestone Firs a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike. The trails are mostly flat and well-maintained, making it easy to lose yourself in the peaceful environment while exploring the different routes, whether you’re out for a short walk or something a little longer.

Post-walk treat: A visit to the nearby Fox & Hounds Lower Harleston is a great way to end your walk with a cosy drink or meal.

9. Pitsford Reservoir – Scenic Lakeside Loop
Length: 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 3 to 4 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///comb.slate.sounds

Pitsford Reservoir, also known as Brixworth Country Park, offers one of Northamptonshire’s most scenic autumn walks. This 7-mile circular route takes you around the reservoir, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the water framed by trees glowing in shades of red, orange, and gold. The mostly flat path makes it a comfortable yet rewarding walk for those looking to stretch their legs.

As you meander along the lakeside, the trail offers varied scenery—from open stretches of water to woodlands and grassy meadows, all teeming with wildlife. Pitsford is a haven for birdwatchers, with ducks, geese, and other waterfowl commonly seen. There’s even a bird hide along the route for those looking to get a closer view. The tranquil surroundings make this walk a great escape from daily life, perfect for soaking in the beauty of the changing seasons.

For a shorter route, you can cross the causeway at the halfway point, but the full loop is well worth the effort, especially in autumn when the landscape is at its most vibrant.

10. Brampton Valley Way – A Journey Through Countryside and History
Length: 14 miles (or as much as you like)
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 4 to 6 hours for the full route
What3Words (Car Park – Boughton Car Park): ///boom.expert.stick

Brampton Valley Way is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful, flat walk along a disused railway line that stretches from Northampton to Market Harborough. The 14-mile route takes you through beautiful rolling countryside, with the path bordered by autumnal trees in shades of gold, orange, and red. It’s an ideal trail for walkers, cyclists, and even horse riders, with its long, straight stretches making it easy to cover as much or as little ground as you’d like.

The path winds through old railway bridges, alongside former stations, and under tree canopies, making it perfect for history lovers who enjoy a bit of nostalgia with their nature walks. In autumn, the entire route feels like a corridor of seasonal colour, and the quiet surroundings make it easy to lose yourself in thought while enjoying the peaceful views.

For those seeking a shorter walk, you can start or stop at various points along the trail, such as the Boughton car park. The lack of steep inclines makes this walk suitable for all ages and abilities, and it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the Northamptonshire countryside.

Post-walk pitstop: There are several quaint cafés dotted along the way, perfect for grabbing a hot drink or snack to recharge during or after your walk.

11. Fineshade Wood – An Autumn Haven
Length: 3 to 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1.5 to 3 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///flirts.strumming.hazy

Nestled in the heart of the Northamptonshire countryside, Fineshade Wood offers an immersive woodland walk, perfect for soaking in the rich colours of autumn. This vast forest is a paradise for nature lovers, with towering trees transforming into a glowing canopy of reds, yellows, and oranges as the season changes. Several marked trails cater to different walking preferences, whether you’re after a short wander or a more adventurous hike.

As you explore the winding paths, you’ll find the tranquillity of the woods a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle. The autumn leaves crunch underfoot as light streams through the thinning canopy, making Fineshade a photographer’s dream. Wildlife is abundant here—keep an eye out for deer quietly moving through the trees or squirrels busily preparing for winter. For birdwatchers, there are several hides where you can spot woodpeckers, finches, and other woodland species.

Whether you’re looking for a quick autumn stroll or a longer, more adventurous trek, Fineshade Wood offers a beautiful blend of seasonal charm and peaceful woodland atmosphere.

Post-walk stop: The on-site café offers hot drinks and a variety of snacks—just what you need to warm up after your autumnal adventure.

12. Brackmills Woods – A Hidden Woodland Gem
Length: 2 to 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1 to 2 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///buck.grace.tube

Brackmills Woods may not be as well-known as some of Northamptonshire’s larger parks, but that’s part of its charm. Nestled just outside Northampton, this quiet woodland offers a serene escape for a short, peaceful walk. Autumn transforms Brackmills Woods into a sea of colour, with golden leaves carpeting the forest floor and the trees above turning shades of amber, orange, and red.

The woodland paths are gentle and easy to navigate, making this a perfect spot for a casual stroll, particularly for families or dog walkers. As you walk, the tranquillity of the woods allows you to take in the calming atmosphere—just the rustle of leaves in the breeze and the sound of birds in the trees. It’s a great place to escape for a bit of quiet reflection or to enjoy a relaxed afternoon outdoors.

Though it’s smaller than some of the other parks on this list, Brackmills Woods offers a slice of nature that feels far removed from the urban surroundings nearby.

13. Hunsbury Hill Country Park – History Meets Nature
Length: 2 to 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
What3Words (Car Park): ///dating.armed.keys

Hunsbury Hill Country Park is a fantastic blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, perfect for a peaceful autumn walk. The park’s ancient woodland bursts into shades of red, gold, and amber during the autumn months, creating a stunning backdrop for a leisurely stroll. At the heart of the park lies the site of an Iron Age hillfort, with visible earthworks that offer a glimpse into the area’s long history.

The park’s gentle trails weave through woodlands and open spaces, making it an ideal spot for families, dog walkers, and history enthusiasts alike. As you wander, you might spot local wildlife like squirrels, birds, and maybe even deer. The park’s serene atmosphere, coupled with its historical significance, makes it a must-visit during the autumn months when the leaves turn and the landscape becomes even more enchanting.

Post-walk stop: After your walk, you can grab a drink or snack at the Hunsbury Hill Café or head into the town centre to explore Northampton’s various coffee shops.

And there you have it—a perfect lineup of autumn walks to get you out and enjoying Northamptonshire’s best seasonal spots. So grab your walking boots, and maybe a flask of tea, and head out to experience these stunning trails before the leaves fall!