4.5
(137)
2,339
riders
269
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Rothersthorpe traverse tranquil countryside characterized by undulating land and small streams that flow into the River Nene. The area features the Grand Union Canal, which provides picturesque towpaths for cycling. The landscape includes a mix of open fields and forested areas like Harlestone Firs, offering varied terrain for cyclists. Ancient features such as Banbury Lane and The Berry, a medieval earthwork, are also present in the local environment.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
3
riders
20.9km
01:18
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
37.3km
02:18
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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6
riders
19.2km
01:16
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
9.03km
00:34
90m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
10.2km
00:36
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Nice little cafe for a mid-ride stop. There are bike racks but they're around the side of the cafe out of sight when you're inside, so bring bike locks if intending to eat/drink inside.
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Go a few hundred yards into the village and visit the Sun Inn (a proper pub with sensible prices) instead of the Cromwell
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The magnificent Blisworth Tunnel is the longest on the Grand Union Canal and the third-longest navigable canal tunnel in the UK.
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A nice view from the town of Gayton - worth a quick stop to take it in (or more likely take a photo).
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In order to get from the canal to the footpath over the hill you have to cross the West Coast Main Line via the road bridge. There is no direct access to the bridge from the canal so you have to carry on to the next Canal bridge and follow the road round and over from there.
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Nice pub in the grand Union canal, great place to stop have a drink and take in the canal.
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Beautiful bridge north of Gayton Junction, used by horse to cross the canal without releasing the tow rope on the canal boat
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Rothersthorpe offers a wide selection of no traffic touring cycling routes, with nearly 300 options available. These routes cater to various fitness levels, ensuring there's a suitable ride for everyone looking for a peaceful cycling experience.
Yes, Rothersthorpe has over 75 easy, traffic-free touring routes, perfect for beginners or families. These often utilize flat canal towpaths or quiet country lanes. An excellent example is the Blisworth Tunnel – The Navigation, Stoke Bruerne loop from Rothersthorpe, which offers a gentle ride along the Grand Union Canal.
The no traffic touring routes around Rothersthorpe feature a mix of terrains. You'll find many routes along the scenic Grand Union Canal towpaths, which are generally flat. Other routes traverse tranquil countryside roads and paths, some with undulating land and small streams. While many are paved, some may include well-maintained gravel sections, especially along canal paths.
Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes around Rothersthorpe are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Gayton Junction – Gayton Manor loop from Rothersthorpe is a moderate circular route that takes you through the peaceful local landscape.
Along the no traffic touring routes, you can discover several interesting features. The Grand Union Canal itself is a historical attraction, with its towpaths offering picturesque views. You might also pass by the Eleanor Cross at Hardingstone, a significant medieval monument. For nature lovers, Harlestone Firs offers extensive paths for exploration nearby.
Absolutely. While many routes are easy or moderate, there are nearly 50 difficult no traffic touring routes for those seeking a greater challenge. These routes may include more significant elevation gains or longer distances, providing a rewarding experience for experienced cyclists.
Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments along many routes. The Grand Union Canal towpath, a popular feature of many no traffic rides, often has pubs and cafes in the villages it passes through. For example, the Blisworth Tunnel – The Navigation, Stoke Bruerne loop passes by The Navigation pub in Stoke Bruerne, a popular stop for cyclists.
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Rothersthorpe, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 130 ratings. Users frequently praise the tranquil countryside, the well-maintained canal towpaths, and the variety of routes that allow for peaceful, traffic-free exploration.
Yes, the significant National Cycle Route 6, which connects Northampton to Market Harborough, runs through the area. This route offers scenic countryside views and features two tunnels, providing a longer, traffic-free touring option.
Cycling along the Grand Union Canal towpath offers a unique, traffic-free experience. You can enjoy picturesque views of the waterway, observe canal boats, and pass through charming villages. Routes like the Grand Union Canal Towpath – Tiffield Viaduct loop from Rothersthorpe provide easy access to this tranquil environment.
While this guide focuses on touring, for those seeking more adventurous cycling, the Northampton Bike Park is a short distance away. It offers nine trails ranging from flowy green to black flow and jump trails, providing options for all skill levels and is free to ride.
The duration of no traffic touring routes varies significantly. Shorter, easy loops like the Grand Union Canal Towpath loop from Rothersthorpe can be completed in under an hour, while longer, moderate routes such as the Grand Union Canal Towpath – Nether Heyford Village Sign loop from Rothersthorpe might take over two hours, depending on your pace.


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