4.5
(513)
3,530
hikers
191
hikes
Hiking around Scaldwell offers a diverse range of outdoor activities within Northamptonshire, characterized by notable landscapes and extensive trail networks. The region features prominent natural attractions such as Pitsford Water, a large reservoir with accessible paths, and Harlestone Firs, a forest with numerous criss-crossing trails. Additionally, the Brampton Valley Way, a converted railway trackbed, provides a unique hiking experience, including disused railway tunnels. This varied terrain provides options for different hiking preferences.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.8
(6)
106
hikers
8.52km
02:10
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
45
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
21
hikers
5.64km
01:30
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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31/5/26 - the ruts have been filled in - see photos.
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31/5/26 - walked past site, which is on a mound in a clump of trees, and couldn't see a way in that wasn't overgrown.
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The Brampton Valley Way is a 14-mile (22 km) traffic-free trail between Northampton and Market Harborough, following a disused railway line. It’s popular with cyclists, walkers, and horse riders thanks to its mostly flat, scenic route through countryside and woodland. Two long, unlit tunnels at Kelmarsh and Oxendon add an adventurous twist – lights are essential. The surface is a mix of gravel and dirt, best suited to hybrid or mountain bikes.
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Watch this if you are on a bike - it's pretty badly rutted by Vehicles as it's a BOAT. Probably very muddy in winter?
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Roadside parking available where Manor Road meets Brampton Valley Way.
1
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An idyllic spot to pull up a picnic blanket and enjoy the views.
1
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A great little cafe to fuel up before your walk. You can also hire bikes here if you'd prefer to cycle around the water.
1
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Steep slippery sections at each end. Watch out for dog walkers.
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There are over 190 hiking routes available around Scaldwell, offering a wide variety of experiences for different skill levels and preferences.
The majority of hikes in Scaldwell are classified as easy or moderate. You'll find approximately 75 easy routes and 109 moderate routes, making the area accessible for most hikers. There are also a few more challenging options for experienced trekkers.
The terrain around Scaldwell is diverse, featuring large reservoirs, dense forests, and converted railway lines. You can expect easily accessible paths around areas like Pitsford Water, criss-crossing trails through woodlands such as Harlestone Firs, and relatively flat sections along the former railway trackbed of the Brampton Valley Way.
Yes, many of the trails around Scaldwell are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Pitsford Water Woodland Trail loop from Northamptonshire is a popular circular route that follows the reservoir's shores.
Absolutely. Hikers can explore unique features like the Kelmarsh Tunnels, disused railway tunnels that are part of the Brampton Valley Way. Other notable natural attractions include the expansive Pitsford Water and the serene woodlands of Harlestone Firs. You might also encounter historical sites such as St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington.
Yes, the region is known for its water features. Pitsford Water is a prominent reservoir with accessible paths, and you can also find other scenic spots like Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir and Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide, offering pleasant waterside walks and birdwatching opportunities.
Many trails in Scaldwell are suitable for families, especially the easier routes. Areas like Pitsford Water offer paths that are generally flat and well-maintained, perfect for a family outing. The Brampton Valley Way – View of Brampton Valley loop from Lamport is an easy option that provides picturesque views.
Yes, Scaldwell offers many dog-friendly walking routes. The diverse landscapes, from open countryside to woodlands like Harlestone Firs, provide ample space for dogs to enjoy. Always ensure your dog is under control and check for any local signage regarding leash requirements, especially near livestock or nature reserves.
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and attractions. For instance, Harlestone Firs provides roadside parking, and Pitsford Water has dedicated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for precise parking information.
Yes, you'll find amenities such as cafes and pubs in the vicinity of many hiking routes. Pitsford Water, for example, has a café, and the area around Harlestone Firs includes access to a garden centre with a café, perfect for refreshments after your walk.
The trails around Scaldwell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 490 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from the tranquil waterside paths of Pitsford Water to the unique experience of the Brampton Valley Way, including its disused tunnels. The accessibility and well-maintained nature of many routes are also frequently highlighted.
Yes, a unique feature of the hiking trails in Scaldwell is the presence of the Kelmarsh Tunnels. These are disused railway tunnels, 480 meters long, located along the Brampton Valley Way. Traversing them requires a light, offering a distinctive and memorable part of the hiking experience.


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