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.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.0
(1)
11
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
18
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
14
riders
29.0km
02:08
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
10
riders
22.9km
01:39
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
33.6km
02:33
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Duston
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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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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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