Image shared for Barnwell Country Park: lakes and River Nene
Park / Green space Circular

Barnwell Country Park: lakes and River Nene

Northamptonshire

Distance
1.3 mi
Est. time
1h
Difficulty
Easy
Put a date on this walk View route
PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

A gentle walk around Barnwell Country Park’s former gravel-pit lakes, with a riverside stretch beside the Nene. This route combines the western riverside circuit with the southern lakeside loop, meeting near the car park between them. The plotted distance is about 2.2 km. Allow around an hour if you stop to watch waterbirds or use the lakeside benches; brisk walkers will finish sooner.

Start at the pedestrian path on the western side of the main car park off Barnwell Road. Follow the path around Mill Lake and continue beside the river towards the upper lake. Return through the park’s central paths, then make the second loop around the southern lake before returning to the same car-park entrance. The council’s visitor map is useful at the central junction, where several short trails overlap. This walk stays within the park and does not require crossing Barnwell Road or the main River Nene.

The lakes, woodland strips and river margins give plenty to look at over a short distance. Keep to the public paths around the Lowlands wildlife refuge rather than entering protected ground. Bird hides and quieter corners provide places to pause, but wildlife sightings will vary with the season and conditions.

Paths include firm surfaces and earthy stretches. They are generally gentle, though puddles, mud and slippery leaves are possible after rain. There are unguarded waterside edges: supervise children, keep dogs under control and give anglers space. If floodwater covers a path, turn back rather than trying to cross it.

Parking is charged. Check the machines or local signs for the current payment arrangements; the council also advertises PayByPhone. Toilets, including the visitor-centre facilities, and the Kingfisher Café are near the central part of the park. Their opening hours are shorter than the car park’s, so check before relying on them. Dogs must be kept out of the play areas and any signed restricted areas.

Source: North Northamptonshire Council’s Barnwell visitor information and park map: https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/barnwell-country-park

Walk details

Walk type
Circular
Category
Park / Green space
Distance
1.3 mi (2.1 km)
Est. time
1h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

Route map

Use the route details to plan your walk

If the map image does not load, the route description and starting-point details are still on this page.

The interactive map will load when you reach this section.

Where to start

Directions to start

Walking on your own?

Start when you're ready and add the walk to your history. No group date needed.

Walk this route on your own

This walk is waiting for a date

Not ready to pick a date? Follow it and you'll hear when somebody else does.

No commitment. You can follow it now and pick a date later.

Joining a walk

A few things to know before you make plans.

Can I join if no one else is going?

You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.

What if there is no date yet?

Choose Put a date on this walk to organise a group walk. Not ready to choose a day? Follow the route for scheduling updates, or save it for later.

What does the organiser do?

The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.

Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.

Can I walk this route on my own?

Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.

What happens after I join?

Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.

How do I confirm plans with the group?

Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.