Best attractions and places to see around Sutton Bassett include historical landmarks and natural features within the Welland Valley in Northamptonshire, England. This picturesque village offers a tranquil rural setting. The area is characterized by its historical buildings and scenic countryside, providing opportunities for exploration.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Sutton Bassett.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Things to do Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat. Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton: Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only) Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history Guided walks, themed activities and events Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. source: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
0
0
Decent front light a must to ride through. Surface is not too bad but best to go slowly if you can't see well.
1
0
You will need a decent light to go through riding! There is a ventilation shaft halfway through which provides some relief from the gloom.
1
0
Another tunnel with another cool blast of air on these hot summer days.
1
0
The Kelmarsh Tunnels are disused railway tunnels. The original tunnel was single-track, and when the line was doubled a second single-track tunnel was built. Due to the small bore, the tunnels were known as "the rat-holes" by train drivers. The former "up" line tunnel at Kelmarsh is open as part of the Brampton Valley Way, running along the former railway trackbed. The tunnel is unlit and the tunnel length is 480 metres (1,570 ft). You will need lights!
3
0
A great route from Northampton to the picturesque town of Market Harborough and beyond, an especially easy route to and from the Railway Station in both towns. There are two tunnels, one at Kelmarsh and another at Oxendon so don't forget your lights, other things to mention are, where route 6 crosses the A5199 at the Windhover Pub to un-adopted road leading to Northampton via Windrush Way the path is tarmac, north from the Windhover is all gravel and quite bumpy in parts. If you have time why not visit Pitsford Country Park, its roughly 7 miles round some stunning countryside and you can grab drinks and eats at the Willow Tree Café!
2
0
Lovely place for a picnic, but be aware that most of the routes out involve some serious climbing for this part of the world. Like Norfolk, not all Rutland is as flat as many think.
0
0
Within Sutton Bassett itself, the most notable historical site is the Church of All Saints. Parts of this church date back to the Norman period, featuring 12th-century columns with unique carvings. The village also boasts several other listed buildings, including Hillside Cottage, Sutton Bassett House, and The Manor House, which showcase the area's architectural heritage.
Sutton Bassett is nestled within the scenic Welland Valley, offering a picturesque English countryside backdrop. A significant natural feature nearby is Eyebrook Reservoir, a large lake known for its quiet lanes and short climbs, providing a tranquil experience.
Yes, Foxton Locks is a great family-friendly destination. It offers 34 acres of green space for nature spotting, a Canal Museum, boat trips, and guided walks. There are also two pubs and two cafés on site. Another historical site, St Andrew's Church, Arthingworth, is also considered family-friendly.
The area around Sutton Bassett is excellent for outdoor activities, particularly cycling and hiking. You can explore trails like the Kelmarsh Tunnels, which are part of the Brampton Valley Way, or cycle along the National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough. For more structured routes, you can find various gravel biking and hiking tours in the area. For gravel biking, explore options in the Gravel biking around Sutton Bassett guide. For hiking, check out the Hiking around Sutton Bassett guide, which also includes easy hikes.
Absolutely. The National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough is notable for including two tunnels, one at Kelmarsh and another at Oxendon, requiring lights for passage. The Kelmarsh Tunnels themselves are disused railway tunnels, 480 meters long, offering a unique cycling experience along the Brampton Valley Way.
Visitors appreciate the unique experiences offered, such as navigating the unlit Kelmarsh Tunnels, which requires good lights but offers a decent surface. The tranquility of Eyebrook Reservoir, with its quiet lanes and scenic views, is also highly valued as a quieter alternative to busier spots. The historical and natural blend of sites like Foxton Locks also receives high praise for its diverse activities.
Yes, there are several easy walking routes available. For example, the Easy hikes around Sutton Bassett guide lists routes like the 'The George at Ashley loop from Ashley' (5.35 km) and 'Welton's Store loop from Great Bowden' (4.21 km), which are rated as easy and suitable for a relaxed stroll.
If you visit Foxton Locks, you'll find two pubs and two cafés directly on site, including the Top Lock Cottage café and the Foxton Locks Inn. Additionally, the historic village of Arthingworth, near St Andrew's Church, is home to The Bull's Head, a traditional drovers' inn known for good food.
While specific data for Sutton Bassett isn't provided, the Welland Valley, where the village is located, is characteristic of the English countryside. Generally, late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers the most pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and exploring outdoor attractions. During these months, you'll find longer daylight hours and milder temperatures.
Beyond Sutton Bassett, Foxton Locks is a significant historical site featuring a unique Inclined Boat Lift, now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Another notable site is St Andrew's Church in Arthingworth, a Grade II*-listed building with parts dating back to the 12th and 14th centuries, offering a grand sight in the Northamptonshire countryside.
Yes, Eyebrook Reservoir offers scenic viewpoints of the lake and surrounding natural landscape. Additionally, Foxton Locks provides elevated perspectives of the canal system and the picturesque countryside.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: