Attractions and Places To See around Foxton - Top 20

Foxton is rich in canal heritage. The most prominent historical site is Foxton Locks, featuring the 'staircase' of ten canal locks and the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift, which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. You can also visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse at Foxton Locks. Additionally, St Andrew's Church, Arthingworth, a Grade II*-listed building with parts dating back to the 12th century, offers another glimpse into the region's past.

Yes, Foxton Locks is very family-friendly. It's set in 34 acres of natural green spaces, perfect for nature spotting. Families can enjoy boat trips on Vagabond II (summer only), hire a day boat, or participate in guided walks and themed events. There's also a pre-loved bookshop and plenty of space for picnics. The site has two pubs and two cafés for refreshments.

The area around Foxton offers excellent cycling opportunities. A notable route is National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough, which includes two tunnels and a mix of tarmac and gravel paths. You can also cycle through the unique Great Oxendon Tunnel, a disused railway tunnel that requires lights. For more options, you can explore various cycling routes listed in the Cycling around Foxton guide, including routes like 'Mega Bike loop from Harborough' and 'Welland Park – Foxton Swing Bridge loop from Gumley'.

Foxton offers several walking and hiking opportunities, particularly around the canal system. You can enjoy the natural green spaces surrounding Foxton Locks, which are great for nature spotting. For dedicated trails, consider the 'Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop' or the 'Grand Union Canal Bridge Walk via Foxton Junction'. More hiking options can be found in the Hiking around Foxton guide, which also includes easy hikes.

While Foxton is known for its man-made canal system, the 34 acres of natural green spaces surrounding Foxton Locks provide excellent opportunities for nature spotting. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as herons, swans, swallows, and kingfishers along the canal and river areas.

Foxton Locks is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find two pubs, two cafés (including the Top Lock Cottage café), a museum (the historic Canal Museum), and a welcome station. Boat trips and day boat hire are also available, along with a pre-loved bookshop. Public facilities and picnic areas are provided across the site's extensive green spaces.

Yes, the Foxton Locks Basin is a key part of the Foxton Locks site. It marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. It's a great spot to observe the canal boats and the engineering marvel of the locks.

If you plan to cycle through the Great Oxendon Tunnel, be aware that it's a disused railway tunnel and can be very dark, so good lights are essential. The surface can be uneven with puddles and potholes, so it's advisable to take it steady. There's a coffee shop at Waterloo Farm Leisure nearby on the Market Harborough side for a break.

Yes, there are easy walks available. The 'Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop' is an easy hike, as are several shorter loops around Foxton Locks Basin. These routes allow you to enjoy the canal scenery without strenuous effort. For more easy options, consult the Easy hikes around Foxton guide.

Foxton Locks hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year. These include guided walks, themed activities, and a summer events programme that sometimes features paddleboarding and canoeing. It's a vibrant site with plenty to keep visitors engaged beyond just observing the locks.

At Foxton Locks, you'll find two pubs, the Foxton Locks Inn and Bridge 61, as well as two cafés, including the Top Lock Cottage café, which serves hot and cold drinks, snacks, and locally produced ice cream. If you're cycling National Cycle Route 6, the Willow Tree Café at Pitsford Country Park is a good stop, and there's a coffee shop at Waterloo Farm Leisure near the Great Oxendon Tunnel.