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United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Northamptonshire
Northampton

Duston

The best traffic-free bike rides around Duston

4.5

(23)

166

riders

16

rides

No traffic touring bike trails Duston offer access to a varied landscape shaped by the Grand Union Canal, former iron ore quarry areas, and the River Nene. The region features a mix of paved canal towpaths, gravel paths through country parks, and quiet routes connecting natural spaces. Gentle elevation changes are common, with some routes offering views of reservoirs and historical estates.

Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Duston

  • The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Grand…

Last updated: July 1, 2026

4.0

(1)

11

riders

#1.

Grand Union Canal Towpath – Upton Country Park Gravel Path loop from Duston

23.3km

01:43

110m

110m

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Duston

Traffic-free bike rides around Duston

Tips from the Community

Glynn Mitchell
August 18, 2025, Start of the Brampton Valley Way

I stopped at Windmill Farm just past the Oxendon tunnel. Cafe serves full breakfast, cakes and snacks.

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The Brampton Valley Way is a 14-mile (22 km) traffic-free trail between Northampton and Market Harborough, following a disused railway line. It’s popular with cyclists, walkers, and horse riders thanks to its mostly flat, scenic route through countryside and woodland. Two long, unlit tunnels at Kelmarsh and Oxendon add an adventurous twist – lights are essential. The surface is a mix of gravel and dirt, best suited to hybrid or mountain bikes.

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51m
November 14, 2024, Brampton Valley Way

The Bampton Valley Way is a 14-mile (22.5km) disused railway trail between Northampton and Market Harborough. It's a well surfaced multi-user trail, perfect for easy rides, families or as part of a commute. The trail follows a section of the old Northampton–Market Harborough railway line. It opened in 1859 and closed in 1981.

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This bridge spans both the River Nene and the Grand Union Canal on Northampton's southeastern side. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, and they are plenty of connecting cycle paths making it an ideal spot for scenic rides.

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Opened on 1st May 1815, the Northampton Arm of the Grand Union Canal includes 17 locks and connects the canal with the River Nene in Northampton.

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Daniel
August 7, 2024, Harlestone Firs

Watch out for the ants in summer!

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which way 🤔 ???

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Easter special 🐰

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Duston?

There are 18 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Duston, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These include 7 easy routes, 10 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option.

What types of surfaces can I expect on these no-traffic cycling routes?

Many of the no-traffic routes around Duston feature mostly paved surfaces, such as sections of the Grand Union Canal Towpath and the Brampton Valley Way. Some routes, like those through Upton Country Park, also incorporate gravel paths, offering a mix of terrain suitable for touring bikes.

Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes near Duston?

Yes, several routes are suitable for families looking for an easy, traffic-free ride. The Grand Union Canal Towpath – Upton Country Park Gravel Path loop from Duston is an excellent option, offering mostly paved surfaces and a gentle elevation gain. Another easy choice is the Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes – Upton Country Park Gravel Path loop from Storton's Pits, which is shorter and also features paved sections.

What are some notable natural attractions or viewpoints along the no-traffic routes?

Cyclists can enjoy several natural attractions. The Brampton Valley Way – View of Pitsford Reservoir loop from Duston offers scenic views of Pitsford Reservoir. You can also explore Harlestone Firs, a natural area with criss-crossing paths, which can be combined with a cycling trip. The River Nene also plays a significant role in the local geography, offering riverside paths and natural beauty.

Are there any circular no-traffic cycling routes available?

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes around Duston are designed as loops. For example, the Brampton Valley Way – Brampton Valley Way loop from Duston provides a moderate circular ride, while the View of Pitsford Reservoir – Merry Tom Lane loop from Duston offers another moderate option with varied scenery.

What historical landmarks can I see while touring cycling near Duston?

While cycling, you might pass by historical sites such as the Althorp Estate Entrance and Holdenby Archway, which add a cultural dimension to your ride. The Eleanor Cross at Hardingstone is another notable man-made monument in the vicinity.

Are there places to stop for refreshments or cafes along these routes?

Yes, several routes offer opportunities for refreshment stops. The area features pleasant rides with 'Ice Cream Stop' loops, suggesting cafes or shops. For instance, the Nene Whitewater Centre has a cafe, and Harlestone Firs has a garden center with a cafe. Pitsford Country Park also features the Willow Tree Café, making it an attractive destination for a longer ride.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Duston?

The no-traffic touring cycling routes around Duston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.44 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the routes, the scenic beauty, and the accessibility of paths like the Grand Union Canal Towpath and Brampton Valley Way for a relaxed cycling experience.

Is there parking available for accessing these no-traffic cycling routes?

While specific parking locations for each route are best checked on individual tour pages, Duston and its surrounding areas are generally accessible. Many routes start from or pass through areas where public parking might be available, especially near popular spots like Upton Country Park or along the Grand Union Canal.

What is the best time of year to experience no-traffic touring cycling in Duston?

Duston offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with autumn offering vibrant foliage. Even winter can be suitable for cycling on well-maintained, paved no-traffic routes, though checking local weather conditions is always advisable.

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