Here are 5 Interesting Places along the Nene Valley. It is such a wonderful place to explore, whether you are local to it or have come from further afield. There is an abundance of nature, wildlife, history, archaeology and plenty of fabulous places to eat, drink and stay over.
So we thought we would feature 5 interesting parts of the Nene Valley that encompass some or all of these subjects that might just whet your appetite for an exploration. It was a difficult choice as there are so many fab places – but here are the chosen five. Starting with Stanwick Lakes and then heading down the Valley towards Peterborough. Enjoy!
Stanwick Lakes
Situated around 3 miles from our base at Rushden Lakes, Stanwick Lakes is a unique 750-acre countryside attraction and nature reserve located in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley. There are extensive and imaginative play areas, open spaces and paths that families, walkers, cyclists and nature lovers can explore at leisure.
The visitor centre, with café, shop and function space, hosts events, family celebrations, business meetings and craft workshops throughout the year. Stanwick Lakes is managed as a social enterprise by environmental charity, Rockingham Forest Trust. Stanwick Lakes can be accessed via road, bike or canoe directly from our base at Rushden Lakes. Check out their site for more information and what’s on: https://stanwicklakes.org.uk/
Boughton House
Boughton House is nestled within the beautiful Nene Valley Countryside. The closest town being Kettering. Here you will discover one of Britain’s grandest and best-preserved stately homes. Enjoy the world-renowned collection of fine art, furniture, tapestries, porcelain and carpets.
Boughton also has some of the best-preserved baroque State Rooms in the British Isles. Here you can walk through grand apartments of the House’s golden era.
Once you’ve enjoyed your tour of the House, step out into the surrounding gardens and country park. Restored over recent years you can enjoy wide sculptured lawns, serene lakes, waterways, woods and stunning avenues of trees. For more information check out their website and fabulous pictures: https://www.boughtonhouse.co.uk/
All Saints Church, Aldwincle
The elegant square tower of All Saints’ lies at the edge of the picturesque village of Aldwincle near the River Nene. Its medieval interior is almost cavernous in feel with few furnishings, offering a rare chance to see its beautiful limestone arcades and arches up close.
The seventeenth-century poet John Dryden was born nearby and baptised in the church – his grandfather was the rector. Look out for strange carved birds, beasts and other creatures on the exterior. The Chambre chantry chapel of 1489 is also of exceptional quality. What is extra special about this church is that you can stay overnight in it.
It is one of several churches throughout the country that is looked after by the Churches Conservation Trust and they have a select few that are available to stay in as part of their “Champing” business. Camping in a Church! Do head over to their website https://champing.co.uk/ to find out more – you can even canoe to this Church!
Oundle Town
Approximately 12 miles from Peterborough, Oundle is a historic market town in Northamptonshire famous for its Georgian streetscapes and impressive limestone buildings. With a range of independent shops and eateries, one of which is The Talbot Inn, with its abundance of history and links to Mary Queen of Scots and King Charles l.
Oundle has a population of around 6,500, sitting amidst the rolling countryside of Northamptonshire’s picturesque Nene valley. A bridging point on the Nene, it has been occupied continuously since the Iron Age. Walking around the alleyways and paths of Oundle is a delight, with St Peter’s Church (with the tallest spire in Northamptonshire.) to help guide you back to the central “conservation area”, with mostly listed buildings, many of which date from the seventeenth century.
The town was granted its market charter in the year 972 and there continues to be a weekly market and a monthly Farmers Market. Each year there is also an International Arts Festival, a Christmas Market, Food Festival, local music and drama festival and various other events including a Vintage Festival. When exploring the Nene valley this town is definitely not one to miss.
Yarwell Mill Country Park
If camping is your thing, whilst exploring the Nene Valley, you will be glad to know there are a few campsites to choose from in varying sizes and amenities. One in particular is Yarwell Mill Country Park, ideally located and very picturesque. Situated roughly between Oundle and Peterborough, Yarwell Mill Country Park is a secluded 27 acre Camping and Caravan Park set in an idyllic rural location.
In the middle of the Park is a 5-acre lake which is stocked and made available to those staying on the site for fishing. The River Nene runs round the perimeter of the Park, which, with its wide-open areas, provide plenty of space for the kids to enjoy getting back to nature.
There are great Pubs nearby and it is not too far from The Nene Valley Railway if you are into trains or you have kids, it is a great hit with kids. For further information about the campsite visit their website: https://www.yarwellmillcountrypark.co.uk/camping/camping-holidays/
Well, we do hope you enjoyed this little insight into the Nene Valley and even though it is only a fraction of what there is to offer, maybe you will feel inspired to do a little research of your own and then come and explore. It would be great to see you!
Visit us here at Rushden Lakes or visit: https://www.canoe2.co.uk/
We are in The Boathouse, Boardwalk, Rushden Lakes, Northamptonshire, NN10 6FA.
