Attractions and Places To See around Old - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Old include a mix of natural landscapes and historical features. The region offers diverse outdoor experiences, from expansive forests and tranquil lakes to disused railway lines converted into trails. Visitors can explore historical sites and enjoy various recreational activities within this area. The area provides opportunities for easy walks near Old with parking and family friendly attractions Old.
Best attractions and places to see around Old
- The most popular attractions is Pitsford Water…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Kelmarsh Tunnels
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington
Highlight • Historical Site
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Harlestone Firs
Highlight • Forest
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National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Pitsford Water
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Tips from the Community
The area is great, lots of paths and variety, but the route given sticks to busy roads where you have to keep your dog on a lead. It also directs you down a private drive with no public right of way. Come to the area and follow your nose, not this route.
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Decent front light a must to ride through. Surface is not too bad but best to go slowly if you can't see well.
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You will need a decent light to go through riding! There is a ventilation shaft halfway through which provides some relief from the gloom.
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Another tunnel with another cool blast of air on these hot summer days.
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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!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best attractions for families around Old?
For families, Pitsford Water is an excellent choice, offering a children's play area, an accessible garden, and a main walking/cycle path. It also has facilities like a cafe and bike hire. Additionally, St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington is listed as family-friendly and offers a glimpse into local history.
Are there any dog-friendly walking spots near Old?
Yes, Harlestone Firs is highly recommended for dog owners. It features miles of criss-crossing paths perfect for exploring with your dog. Roadside parking is available, and there's a garden centre nearby with a cafe.
Where can I find historical sites or unique architecture in the Old area?
The region offers several historical points of interest. The Kelmarsh Tunnels are disused railway tunnels that are now part of the Brampton Valley Way, offering a unique historical trail. Another significant site is St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington, known for its unique bisected nave and late 13th-century origins.
What outdoor activities can I do near the attractions in Old?
The area around Old is great for outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along the National Cycle Route 6, which connects Northampton to Market Harborough and passes through the Kelmarsh Tunnels. For walking, Harlestone Firs offers extensive forest paths. You can also find various cycling, hiking, and running routes, including those around Pitsford Water. For more detailed routes, explore the Cycling around Old, Hiking around Old, and Running Trails around Old guides.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails or attractions around Old?
Yes, Pitsford Water features an accessible garden and a main walking/cycle path that is suitable for wheelchairs. It also provides facilities like public toilets.
Where can I go for an easy walk with parking near Old?
For an easy walk, Harlestone Firs offers miles of paths and has roadside parking available at its main entrance. Pitsford Water also has a main walking path and a large car park with facilities.
What should I know before visiting the Kelmarsh Tunnels?
The Kelmarsh Tunnels are disused railway tunnels, each 480 meters long, and are unlit. It is essential to bring your own lights if you plan to pass through them, whether walking or cycling. The surface is generally decent, but it's advisable to take it slow, especially if others are on foot.
Are there cafes or places to get refreshments near the attractions?
Yes, both Pitsford Water and Harlestone Firs have cafes nearby. At Pitsford Water, there's a cafe located at the top of the main car park. Near Harlestone Firs, you can find a garden centre with a cafe just a short walk from the forest entrance. An ice cream van often parks at Harlestone Firs on busy days.
What natural landscapes can I explore around Old?
The region boasts natural landscapes such as Pitsford Water, a tranquil lake with a scenic walking/cycling path. Harlestone Firs offers an expansive forest with numerous paths for exploration. The area also features former railway lines converted into trails, providing a mix of natural and historical scenery.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Old?
Visitors appreciate the diverse outdoor experiences, from the tranquil waters of Pitsford Water to the extensive forest paths of Harlestone Firs. The unique historical aspect of the Kelmarsh Tunnels and the convenience of amenities like cafes and parking are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any cycling routes that incorporate the attractions around Old?
Absolutely. The National Cycle Route 6 runs through the area, connecting Northampton to Market Harborough and passing through the Kelmarsh Tunnels. Pitsford Water also features a main walking/cycle path around the lake. You can find more cycling options in the Cycling around Old guide.
Most popular attractions around Old
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