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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
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