Attractions and Places To See around Hardwick - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hardwick include a variety of trails, historical sites, and natural features. The area offers opportunities for cycling, walking, and exploring local heritage. Visitors can find routes that traverse countryside and woodland, alongside historical buildings and water bodies. This region provides diverse outdoor and cultural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Hardwick
- The most popular attractions is Pitsford Water, a lake that features a walking and cycle path around the water.…
Last updated: May 25, 2026
St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Pitsford Water
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Tip by
Footbridge Over the Stream
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Brampton Valley Way
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Hardwick.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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.
0
0
If you don't fancy the stepping stones - Coming from the West, go straight on from Jerusalem steps or right from the bridleway, over the bridge (highlighted) then immediately left along the field edge. Coming from Whiston go left just before the ford (you will see the track) and follow the field edge until you get to the bridge then cross the stream there.
0
0
The ford is too deep to paddle through in walking boots but there are some rather tricky stepping stones to one side that you can use to get across.
0
0
A great route from Northampton to the picturesque town of Market Harborough and beyond, an especially easy route to and from the Railway Station in both towns. There are two tunnels, one at Kelmarsh and another at Oxendon so don't forget your lights, other things to mention are, where route 6 crosses the A5199 at the Windhover Pub to un-adopted road leading to Northampton via Windrush Way the path is tarmac, north from the Windhover is all gravel and quite bumpy in parts. If you have time why not visit Pitsford Country Park, its roughly 7 miles round some stunning countryside and you can grab drinks and eats at the Willow Tree Café!
2
0
The church in Hannington is dedicated to St Peter and St Paul and is one of only two in England with a bisected nave; the other (at Caythorpe in Lincolnshire) had a north aisle added in Victorian times, spoiling the symmetry, and therefore this church could be considered to be unique in England. Once a major part of village life, the church was built in the late 13th century, though it incorporates some stonework from an earlier period. By the mid 19th century the church had fallen into a serious state of disrepair and was little more than a ruin, but thankfully in 1869 the building was restored to its former glory and a new Rectory was built alongside it. The person responsible for this was the Rector, John Downes. He personally paid for the restoration and for the building of the Rectory, now called Hannington House. It was John Downes' wife Lucy who founded the school in Hannington in 1871, and this school building still exists and is used as the Village Hall. Ref. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hannington,_Northamptonshire
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best cycling routes around Hardwick?
Hardwick is well-known for its cycling opportunities. A popular choice is National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough, which is a cycle way connecting these two towns and features two tunnels requiring lights. Another excellent option is the Brampton Valley Way, a 14-mile traffic-free trail popular with cyclists, walkers, and horse riders, offering a flat, scenic route through countryside and woodland. For more cycling routes, you can explore the MTB Trails around Hardwick guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions near Hardwick?
Yes, there are several family-friendly attractions. Pitsford Water is ideal, featuring a walking and cycle path, a cafe, public toilets, a bike shop with bike hire, open grassed areas for picnics, and a children's play area. The Brampton Valley Way is also family-friendly, offering a traffic-free trail suitable for walking and cycling through scenic countryside.
What historical sites can I visit around Hardwick?
You can visit St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington. This church, dedicated to St Peter and St Paul, is notable for being one of only two in England with a bisected nave. Built in the late 13th century, it incorporates stonework from an earlier period and was extensively restored in 1869.
What natural features can I see near Hardwick?
The most prominent natural feature is Pitsford Water, a large lake offering beautiful views and opportunities for walking, cycling, and picnicking. The area also features rivers and streams, such as those crossed by the Footbridge Over the Stream, providing picturesque spots for nature lovers.
Are there good walking or hiking trails around Hardwick?
Absolutely. The Brampton Valley Way is a popular 14-mile traffic-free trail suitable for walkers. Pitsford Water also has a dedicated walking path around its perimeter. For more detailed hiking options, check out the Hiking around Hardwick guide, which includes routes like the 'Sywell Reservoir loop' and 'Hardwater Mill – Great Doddington Mill loop'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Hardwick?
Visitors particularly enjoy the scenic beauty and accessibility of the trails. The Pitsford Water is praised for its pleasant ride along the causeway and its amenities. The National Cycle Route 6 is appreciated for its ease and connection to picturesque towns, while the Brampton Valley Way is loved for its flat, traffic-free nature through countryside and woodland.
Are there any accessible trails for wheelchairs near Hardwick?
Yes, Pitsford Water offers wheelchair-accessible paths. There is an accessible garden with raised beds located to the left of the main grassed area, beside the footpath, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs.
Can I find running routes in the Hardwick area?
Yes, there are several running routes available. You can find options like the 'Cheesecake Spinney loop from Hardwick' or the 'Home loop from Great Harrowden'. For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the Running Trails around Hardwick guide.
What should I know about the tunnels on the cycle routes?
When cycling on National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough and the Brampton Valley Way, you will encounter two long, unlit tunnels at Kelmarsh and Oxendon. It is essential to bring lights for your bicycle as these sections are dark and add an adventurous twist to your ride.
Are there any unique historical architectural features to see?
Yes, St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hannington is architecturally unique. It is one of only two churches in England with a bisected nave, making it a rare and interesting historical structure to observe.
Where can I rent a bike near Hardwick?
You can rent bikes at Pitsford Water. There is a bike shop located at the top of the main car park that provides bike hire services, allowing you to explore the paths around the water and nearby trails.
Most popular attractions around Hardwick
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
