Attractions and Places To See around Staverton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Staverton include a variety of historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. The region offers opportunities to explore significant landmarks and engage in outdoor recreation. Staverton is characterized by its connection to industrial heritage and diverse landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Staverton
- The most popular attractions is Draycote Water, a lake that functions as an artificial reservoir and leisure park. It is known for its rich bird life and offers facilities for activities like angling and sailing.
- Another must-see spot is Napton Windmill, a red brick tower mill built around 1835. This Grade II-listed building offers a historical viewpoint, with a nearby rest stop for visitors.
- Visitors also love Borough Hill B-17 Bomber Memorial Bench, a man-made monument. This memorial bench commemorates the USA AF B-17 Bomber crew who lost their lives in 1944.
- Staverton is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and man-made monuments. The area provides a range of attractions to see and explore, from reservoirs to historical memorials.
- The attractions around Staverton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 upvotes and over 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Draycote Water
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
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Canons Ashby House and Priory Church
Highlight • Castle
Built by the Drydens using the remains of a medieval priory, the house and gardens have survived largely unaltered since 1710 and are presented as they were during the Victorian era.
The warm, welcoming house features grand rooms, stunning tapestries and Jacobean plasterwork, contrasting with the domestic detail of the servants' quarters.
Stroll in the historic parkland and catch glimpses of early medieval landscapes, while a wander through the priory church reveals the story of the canons of Canons Ashby."
Cit. nationaltrust.org.uk/canons-ashby#Overview
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Borough Hill B-17 Bomber Memorial Bench
Highlight • Monument
The Norton B-17
On the 15th of December 1944 B-17G Flying Fortress 43-38973 of the 305th Bomb Group, 422nd Bombardment Squadron based at Chelveston was returning from a bombing mission over the mashalling yards at Kassel in Germany.
It had been badly damaged and one engine was out. The aircraft managed to return from the raid but once over the coast it began to have difficulty in maintaining height. The problems were compounded by a complete blanket of fog over England.
Not sure of their position they flew lower and lower and eventually collided with the Air Ministry GEE mast on Borough Hill Daventry. The port wing was severed during the collision and the aircraft crashed at Norton Fields killing the crew of nine.
On August the 24th 2014 Sywell Aviation Museum carried out an excavation to locate the remains of the aircraft. All artefacts recovered during this excavation may be viewed in a special display within the museum.
On the 24th of August 2015 a memorial service was held at the Daventry War Memorial and a plaque was unveiled to the crew by the son and grand daughter of the ball gun turret operator Sgt. Burry.
The USAF was represented at the memorial service by Lieut.Col Ford, Commander of the 422nd Medical Squadron USAF from RAF Croughton and sir Tim Boswell, Deputy Lord Lieut. of Northamptonshire representing the county.
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Napton-on-the-Hill WWII Observer Post
Highlight • Monument
Inscription on the Plaque reads
“You are welcome to use the seat on this private property at you own risk. This seat and Rowan tree are on the site of the WWII Observer Post operated by the Royal Observer Corps. It was part of a network of observer towers built for the purpose of providing a system for detecting and tracking aircraft. The Blitz on Coventry (to the north of this spot) in November 1940 would have been observed from the tower. Villagers also witnessed the event from the fields. The Tree was planted on the 50th anniversary.
The Oxford Canal is close by and also played a part in the defences of the area in WWII.
Following the fall of France in 1940 a German invasion was considered imminent and part of Britain’s defence system was a network of Inland Stop Lines. The canal around Napton was part of Western Command’s Napton to Coventry Stop Line.
Evidence of these defences can still be found along the canal to the south of this spot. There are still Stent pillboxes on the side of the canal and anti-tank blocks just off the canal.
The support to this country in its desperate hours by such people as the Observer Corps, The Home Guard, The Women’s Land Army and the Agricultural and Horticultural workers who fed and protected this Nation is not always adequately remembered.
So, please take time to sit and reflect on the freedom we have today.”
The Observer Corps
The Corps was awarded the title ‘Royal’ by His Majesty King George VI in April 1941. During the Second World War the Royal Observer Corps undertook the long range tracking and reporting of enemy aircraft.
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Napton Windmill
Highlight • Monument
The mill lay derelict until about 1972 when it was restored, converted into a house and fitted with four patent sails. In January 1976, two of the sails blew off in a gale and were later restored.
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Tips from the Community
Draycote Water is an artificial reservoir (23 million m3), which was completed in 1969. In addition to its function as a water reserve, it is a leisure park u.a. for anglers, sailors, hikers. The rich bird life invites also to observations. Swimming is not allowed in the lake.
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Great to walk around looks very impressive
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"A tranquil Tudor manor house set in rare terraced gardens, with the 'antient' Dryden family at its heart Built by the Drydens using the remains of a medieval priory, the house and gardens have survived largely unaltered since 1710 and are presented as they were during the Victorian era. The warm, welcoming house features grand rooms, stunning tapestries and Jacobean plasterwork, contrasting with the domestic detail of the servants' quarters. Stroll in the historic parkland and catch glimpses of early medieval landscapes, while a wander through the priory church reveals the story of the canons of Canons Ashby." Cit. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/canons-ashby#Overview
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Memorial bench with inscription "In memory of the USA AF B-17 Bomber crew who lost their lives on December 15, 1944." The Norton B-17 On the 15th of December 1944 B-17G Flying Fortress 43-38973 of the 305th Bomb Group, 422nd Bombardment Squadron based at Chelveston was returning from a bombing mission over the mashalling yards at Kassel in Germany. It had been badly damaged and one engine was out. The aircraft managed to return from the raid but once over the coast it began to have difficulty in maintaining height. The problems were compounded by a complete blanket of fog over England. Not sure of their position they flew lower and lower and eventually collided with the Air Ministry GEE mast on Borough Hill Daventry. The port wing was severed during the collision and the aircraft crashed at Norton Fields killing the crew of nine. On August the 24th 2014 Sywell Aviation Museum carried out an excavation to locate the remains of the aircraft. All artefacts recovered during this excavation may be viewed in a special display within the museum. On the 24th of August 2015 a memorial service was held at the Daventry War Memorial and a plaque was unveiled to the crew by the son and grand daughter of the ball gun turret operator Sgt. Burry. The USAF was represented at the memorial service by Lieut.Col Ford, Commander of the 422nd Medical Squadron USAF from RAF Croughton and sir Tim Boswell, Deputy Lord Lieut. of Northamptonshire representing the county.
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You cant go right up to the windmill, but the land owner installed a rest stop with a bench. He even planted the tree that can be found there.
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There is one problem with this side of Draycote water and that's the bugs. The wind blows across the lake and you get a face of bugs. But the views are good and it's always a good section of a ride, always busy when the weather is good...
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You cant get close to the windmill, due to private land, but there is a super cute little picnic area on the right to grab a snack and breather, before heading back off. The keeper of the livestock nearby, actually planted the tree that overhangs the bench amny years ago. It's still going strong today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Staverton?
Around Staverton, you can visit Draycote Water, a large artificial reservoir known for its rich bird life, making it ideal for observations. While swimming is not permitted, it's a popular spot for anglers, sailors, and hikers. Additionally, the nearby Daventry Country Park offers further opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Are there any historical sites or monuments to visit in the Staverton area?
Yes, the area around Staverton is rich in history. You can visit Napton Windmill, a Grade II-listed red brick tower mill built around 1835, offering a historical viewpoint. Another significant site is the Borough Hill B-17 Bomber Memorial Bench, which commemorates the USA AF B-17 Bomber crew who lost their lives in 1944. Also, the Napton-on-the-Hill WWII Observer Post features a commemorative plaque detailing its role in wartime defence.
What are some family-friendly activities available near Staverton?
For families, Draycote Water is an excellent choice, offering a leisure park with facilities like a children's playground and areas for BBQs. The historical sites such as Napton Windmill and Borough Hill B-17 Bomber Memorial Bench are also suitable for family visits, providing educational insights into the region's past.
Where can I find walking or hiking trails around Staverton?
There are several walking and hiking opportunities. Draycote Water offers paths popular with hikers. For more structured routes, you can explore various easy hikes around Staverton, including routes near Daventry and Braunston. The Staverton Nature Reserve in Devon, though a different Staverton, is also a significant woodland for nature walks.
Are there any cycling routes near Staverton's attractions?
Yes, the area provides several cycling opportunities. Draycote Water is a popular spot for cyclists. You can also find various road cycling routes around Staverton, with options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, often starting from Daventry and exploring the surrounding countryside.
What are some lesser-known historical gems in the Staverton area?
Beyond the main highlights, you can discover the historical significance of the Napton-on-the-Hill WWII Observer Post, which played a role in tracking aircraft during the war. Additionally, St Mary's Church, Canons Ashby, a former Augustinian priory, offers a glimpse into medieval history with parts dating back to 1250.
Can I go running near the attractions in Staverton?
Absolutely! Draycote Water features a popular circular path ideal for running. For more options, you can explore various running trails around Staverton, including routes of moderate difficulty originating from Daventry and Staverton itself.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Staverton?
The region is home to diverse wildlife. At Draycote Water, you can observe a rich variety of bird life. If you venture to the Staverton Nature Reserve (in Devon), you might spot badgers, roe deer, bats, and various woodland birds, while Little Bradley Ponds are known for dragonflies and damselflies.
Are there any religious or ancient structures to visit?
Yes, St Mary's Church, Canons Ashby is a significant religious and historical site, with parts of the Augustinian priory dating back to the 13th century. The Church of St. Paul in Staverton, Wiltshire, also has parts dating to the 13th century, showcasing the area's long history.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Staverton?
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and recreational opportunities, especially at Draycote Water, highlighting its rich bird life and facilities like BBQs and playgrounds. The historical sites like Napton Windmill and the Borough Hill B-17 Bomber Memorial Bench are appreciated for their historical significance and the stories they tell.
Are there any places to relax or have a picnic near the attractions?
Yes, Draycote Water offers tables and free-to-use BBQs next to the children's playground, making it a great spot for picnics. Near Napton Windmill, there's a super cute picnic area with a bench, thoughtfully installed by the landowner, perfect for a snack and a breather.
Most popular attractions around Staverton
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