The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Drayton Reservoir
4.4
(254)
1,474
hikers
141
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Drayton Reservoir are characterized by accessible waterside paths and gentle, rolling countryside in Northamptonshire. The area features a network of footpaths that encircle the reservoir, offering continuous views and opportunities for wildlife observation. Many routes integrate with the historic Grand Union Canal towpath, providing varied landscapes and points of interest.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Drayton Reservoir
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Café and Visitor Centre – Braunston Tunnel loop from Drayton Fields Industrial Estate, a 5.6 miles (9.1 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 20 minutes to complete. This route combines reservoir views with sections along the Grand Union Canal.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The Boathouse, Braunston – The Stop House, Braunston loop from Daventry, a moderate 7.8 miles (12.6 km) path. This trail explores the wider countryside around the reservoir, offering a longer outing.
- Local hikers also love the Brays Family Memorial Plaque – The Stop House, Braunston loop from Drayton Fields Industrial Estate, a 5.8 miles (9.4 km) trail leading through open meadows and along canal sections, often completed in about 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Drayton Reservoir is defined by waterside paths, gentle countryside, and sections of the Grand Union Canal towpath. The network offers options for various ability levels, from short, easy strolls to longer, moderate hikes.
- The routes in Drayton Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 250 reviews. Nearly 1,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Drayton Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
10
hikers
5.00km
01:20
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Good to see so many canal boats together
1
0
Have a bike rack, so you can enjoy the view and treat
0
0
The Braunston Tunnel is 2,042 yards in length on the Grand Union Canal about 830 yds east of Braunston, Northamptonshire, If you take a small ride up the service road and look out for some nice tech trails back down to the towpath, great fun 👍
0
0
This plaque is dedicated to the Whitlocks one of the three Braunston boatmen families who worked the canals to their end. In 1940 Rose and an all female crew of mother, sister, and niece Laura aged eleven, set the record for Samuel Barlow Coal Co. by loading coal twice in one week at Coventry, after unloading the first in London. When the trade ceased in 1970 the Whitlocks tied up here and lived the next six years on Butty Lucy afloat in the old way, until Rose's arthritis forced them to move onto the bank. Rose Whitlock (born Ward) 1917 1999 Bill Whitlock 1915 2001 Laura Carter 1929 20
1
0
THIS PLAQUE IS DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF THE BRAYS ONE OF THE THREE BRAUNSTON BOAT MEN FAMILIES WHO WORKED THE CANALS TO THE END. FINALLY THEY CARRIED COAL ON THE JAM OLE RUN FROM THE MIDLANDS TO LONDON UNTIL THE TRADE CEASED IN OCTOBER 1970 AND WITH IT THE BOAT MEN'S WAY OF LIFE. HERE THE BRAYS THEN TIED UP AND LIVED THE REMAINDER OF THEIR LIVES AFLOAT IN THE OLD WAY. ARTHUR BRAY (CAPTAIN) 1905 1998 ROSE BRAY/ KENDALL /(BORN WARD) 1898 1971 ERNIE KENDALL 1927 1996
0
0
Butcher's Bridge No 1 is a minor waterways place on the Grand Union Canal (Grand Junction Canal - Main Line - Braunston to Norton) between Braunston Visitor Moorings (marina end) (½ furlongs to the west) and Welton Junction (proposed) (Proposed location of the Junction with the, as yet to be built, Daventry Canal) (3 miles and ½ furlongs and 6 locks to the east). It is the centre of Braunston. The nearest place in the direction of Welton Junction (proposed) is Braunston Marina (eastern entrance) (Entrance into Eastern end of Braunston Marina Moorings); ¾ furlongs away.
0
0
Braunston Marina (western entrance) is a minor waterways place on the Grand Union Canal (Grand Junction Canal - Main Line - Braunston to Norton) between Braunston Turn (Junction of the Grand Union, Oxford and Grand Junction Canals - Bridges No 93 & No 94) (3¼ furlongs to the west) and Braunston Visitor Moorings (marina end) (¼ furlongs to the east) It is part of Braunston. The nearest place in the direction of Braunston Turn is Gongoozler's Rest Café Boat; ¼ furlongs away.
0
0
Braunston Stop is a minor waterways place on the Grand Union Canal (Grand Junction Canal - Main Line - Braunston to Norton) between Braunston Turn (Junction of the Grand Union, Oxford and Grand Junction Canals - Bridges No 93 & No 94) (3 furlongs to the west) and Braunston Visitor Moorings (marina end) (½ furlongs to the east). It is part of Braunston. The nearest place in the direction of Braunston Turn is Braunston Road Bridge No 91; 1¼ furlongs away. The nearest place in the direction of Braunston Visitor Moorings (marina end) is Gongoozler's Rest Café Boat; a few yards away.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Drayton Reservoir?
There are nearly 140 hiking routes around Drayton Reservoir, with 47 classified as easy and 85 as moderate, making it a great destination for family-friendly adventures. Many of these trails offer gentle terrain suitable for all ages.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family walks around Drayton Reservoir?
The trails around Drayton Reservoir are generally flat and easily accessible, featuring scenic waterside paths and gentle, rolling countryside. Many routes integrate with the historic Grand Union Canal towpath, offering varied landscapes. This makes them suitable for strollers and young children.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, Drayton Reservoir and the surrounding area offer several family-friendly circular routes. For example, you could explore the Draycote Water Circular Path – Café and Visitor Centre loop from Welton, which is an easy 7 km option. Many paths around the reservoir itself also form natural loops.
Can we bring our dog on the hiking trails?
Drayton Reservoir is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companions. Please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after them. Some areas might require dogs to be on a lead.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks we might see?
Hikers can enjoy continuous waterside views of Drayton Reservoir, observe diverse wildlife, and experience the tranquil rural setting of Northamptonshire's open meadows. Many routes also follow the Grand Union Canal, offering glimpses of historic waterways and structures like the nearby Braunston Tunnel.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Drayton Reservoir?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 250 ratings. Reviewers often praise the accessible, well-maintained paths, picturesque waterside views, and the peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for family outings and leisurely strolls.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes for older children?
For families looking for a slightly longer adventure, routes like the Café and Visitor Centre – Braunston Tunnel loop from Drayton Fields Industrial Estate offer a moderate 9 km experience, combining reservoir paths with canal sections. Another option is the Brays Family Memorial Plaque – The Stop House, Braunston loop from Drayton Fields Industrial Estate, which is around 9.4 km.
Is there parking available for families visiting Drayton Reservoir?
Yes, parking facilities are available at Drayton Reservoir, making it convenient for families to access the trails. Specific parking details can often be found on local signage or visitor information boards upon arrival.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the trails?
Yes, there are amenities near Drayton Reservoir. You can find cafes and visitor centres that are great for a break or a meal before or after your hike. Some routes, like the The Boathouse, Braunston – The Stop House, Braunston loop from Daventry, pass by points of interest where refreshments might be available.
What is the best time of year to visit Drayton Reservoir with family?
Drayton Reservoir is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather, ideal for picnics and wildlife spotting. Autumn brings beautiful colours, while winter walks can be crisp and refreshing, though paths might be muddy. The accessible nature of the trails makes them suitable for most seasons.
Are the trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Many of the paths around Drayton Reservoir are easily accessible and generally flat, making them suitable for strollers. Some sections, particularly along the reservoir's edge, are well-maintained. However, it's always advisable to check specific route conditions if you have a robust stroller or wheelchair, as some canal towpath sections might be uneven.
Most popular routes around Drayton Reservoir
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
