Attractions and Places To See around Kilsby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Kilsby, a village in West Northamptonshire, England, offers a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The area is characterized by its picturesque setting and rich past. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from ancient churches to significant railway history, alongside opportunities to enjoy the surrounding countryside.
Best attractions and places to see around Kilsby
- The most popular attractions is Draycote Water, a lake that functions as a water reserve and a leisure park for anglers, sailors, and hikers. It is known for its rich bird life and offers opportunities for observation.
- Another must-see spot is Daventry Country Park Reservoir, a lake within a popular country park. This park features a large reservoir, an adventure playground, and a nature trail, making it a family-friendly destination.
- Visitors also love Borough Hill B-17 Bomber Memorial Bench, a man-made monument. This memorial bench commemorates the crew of a USA AF B-17 Bomber that crashed on December 15, 1944, offering a historical insight.
- Kilsby is known for historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to picturesque countryside.
- The attractions around Kilsby are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 upvotes and over 60 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Draycote Water
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
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Borough Hill B-17 Bomber Memorial Bench
Highlight • Monument
The Norton B-17
On the 15th of December 1944 B-17G Flying Fortress 43-38973 of the 305th Bomb Group, 422nd Bombardment Squadron based at Chelveston was returning from a bombing mission over the mashalling yards at Kassel in Germany.
It had been badly damaged and one engine was out. The aircraft managed to return from the raid but once over the coast it began to have difficulty in maintaining height. The problems were compounded by a complete blanket of fog over England.
Not sure of their position they flew lower and lower and eventually collided with the Air Ministry GEE mast on Borough Hill Daventry. The port wing was severed during the collision and the aircraft crashed at Norton Fields killing the crew of nine.
On August the 24th 2014 Sywell Aviation Museum carried out an excavation to locate the remains of the aircraft. All artefacts recovered during this excavation may be viewed in a special display within the museum.
On the 24th of August 2015 a memorial service was held at the Daventry War Memorial and a plaque was unveiled to the crew by the son and grand daughter of the ball gun turret operator Sgt. Burry.
The USAF was represented at the memorial service by Lieut.Col Ford, Commander of the 422nd Medical Squadron USAF from RAF Croughton and sir Tim Boswell, Deputy Lord Lieut. of Northamptonshire representing the county.
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Oxford Canal Locks and Narrowboats
Highlight • Structure
canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/canal-and-river-network/oxford-canal
Great cycle way and/ or pathway from Rugby to Braunston
google.co.uk/maps/dir/52.3892348,-1.2524688/52.353078,-1.2023153/52.3401376,-1.2207475/52.3154839,-1.2348238/52.2928375,-1.2185159/Admiral+Nelson/@52.2900026,-1.2107912,15z/data=!4m23!4m22!1m0!1m0!1m0!1m0!1m10!3m4!1m2!1d-1.2188647!2d52.2890597!3s0x48773e60d46e0089:0x8a04422f8724ffa!3m4!1m2!1d-1.2019483!2d52.289051!3s0x48773e6b3e93dd7b:0x52c782c89348f7ca!1m5!1m1!1s0x0:0xdc4226d41cebe428!2m2!1d-1.196714!2d52.288669!3e2
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Daventry Country Park Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Hillmorton Locks
Highlight • Rest Area
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Tips from the Community
Draycote Water is an artificial reservoir (23 million m3), which was completed in 1969. In addition to its function as a water reserve, it is a leisure park u.a. for anglers, sailors, hikers. The rich bird life invites also to observations. Swimming is not allowed in the lake.
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A number of amenities are on offer at Hillmorton Locks. This is one of the busiest stretches along the Oxford Canal. The Canalchef Cafe is a simple establishment that serves terrific, hearty portions.
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Memorial bench with inscription "In memory of the USA AF B-17 Bomber crew who lost their lives on December 15, 1944." The Norton B-17 On the 15th of December 1944 B-17G Flying Fortress 43-38973 of the 305th Bomb Group, 422nd Bombardment Squadron based at Chelveston was returning from a bombing mission over the mashalling yards at Kassel in Germany. It had been badly damaged and one engine was out. The aircraft managed to return from the raid but once over the coast it began to have difficulty in maintaining height. The problems were compounded by a complete blanket of fog over England. Not sure of their position they flew lower and lower and eventually collided with the Air Ministry GEE mast on Borough Hill Daventry. The port wing was severed during the collision and the aircraft crashed at Norton Fields killing the crew of nine. On August the 24th 2014 Sywell Aviation Museum carried out an excavation to locate the remains of the aircraft. All artefacts recovered during this excavation may be viewed in a special display within the museum. On the 24th of August 2015 a memorial service was held at the Daventry War Memorial and a plaque was unveiled to the crew by the son and grand daughter of the ball gun turret operator Sgt. Burry. The USAF was represented at the memorial service by Lieut.Col Ford, Commander of the 422nd Medical Squadron USAF from RAF Croughton and sir Tim Boswell, Deputy Lord Lieut. of Northamptonshire representing the county.
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Daventry Country Park is a popular park ideally situated in the urban fringe of Daventry, within one mile of the town centre and easily accessible by car, bicycle or on foot with the benefit of cycle ways and footpaths from the surrounding areas. With a large reservoir, a cafe selling hot and cold food, an adventure playground, outdoor gym equipment, numerous picnic spots, a nature trail, accessible bird hides, and a wealth of wildlife, Daventry Country Park is a great family day out. The Park has been awarded the Country Parks Accreditation and also holds a Green Flag Award recognising it as being among the best green spaces in the country.
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There is one problem with this side of Draycote water and that's the bugs. The wind blows across the lake and you get a face of bugs. But the views are good and it's always a good section of a ride, always busy when the weather is good...
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Draycote Water is an artificial reservoir (23 million m3), which was completed in 1969. In addition to its function as a water reserve, it is a leisure park u.a. for anglers, sailors, hikers. The rich bird life invites also to observations. Swimming is not allowed in the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Kilsby?
Kilsby is rich in history. You can visit the significant Kilsby Tunnel, an engineering marvel by Robert Stephenson, with its distinctive 1830s ventilation shafts. Other notable historical sites include the original Kilsby Hall, dating back to 1390, and Hunt House, a 16th-century building. The village also features historic pubs like The George Hotel and The Red Lion, and the old Roman Watling Street borders the parish.
Are there any cultural sites or places of worship to visit in Kilsby?
Yes, Kilsby offers several cultural and religious sites. St. Faith's Church, a Grade II listed building constructed in the fourteenth century from local Jurassic stone, is a prominent example. You can also find the Kilsby United Reformed Church and the Edith Katherine Cowi Memorial Hall, which has parts dating back to 1953.
What natural features and outdoor spaces are there in Kilsby?
For natural beauty, Kilsby has The Village Green, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for walking and cycling. You can also visit Kilsby Cemetery, which offers views of one of the Kilsby Tunnel air shafts, and explore the Kilsby Conservation Area, known for its attractive historic buildings.
What are some family-friendly attractions near Kilsby?
Families can enjoy several attractions in the vicinity. Draycote Water is a leisure park with rich bird life, and while swimming isn't allowed, it's great for observation and walks. Daventry Country Park Reservoir offers an adventure playground, a nature trail, and picnic spots, making it an excellent family day out.
Where can I go for a walk or cycle ride near Kilsby?
The area around Kilsby is ideal for outdoor activities. You can explore the picturesque countryside surrounding the village. For a dedicated cycling experience, the Oxford Canal Locks and Narrowboats offers a great cycle way from Rugby to Braunston. There are also many walking and running routes available, such as those found in the Running Trails around Kilsby guide.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for all abilities near Kilsby?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails. For example, you can find routes like the 'Dunchurch Pools Marina loop from Barby' or the 'Canal Chef Pub – Hillmorton Locks loop from Kilsby'. These are generally well-suited for a relaxed walk. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Kilsby guide.
What is the historical significance of Kilsby village?
Kilsby boasts a rich history, having been founded around 900-920 AD. It was the birthplace of Sir William de Kildesby, a key advisor to King Edward III, and was a center of Puritanism in the late 1500s and early 1600s. The village was also the scene of a skirmish in 1642, which some believe may have marked the first shots of the English Civil War.
Are there any memorials or significant historical monuments nearby?
Yes, you can visit the Borough Hill B-17 Bomber Memorial Bench. This poignant monument commemorates the crew of a USA AF B-17 Bomber that tragically crashed on December 15, 1944, offering a significant historical insight into the area's wartime past.
What kind of mountain biking trails are available near Kilsby?
For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are various trails in the region. Options include the 'Draycote Water – Draycote Water loop from Rugby' for an easy ride, or more moderate routes like the 'Malt Kiln Farm Shop – Pond in Brandon Wood loop from Rugby'. You can explore more trails in the MTB Trails around Kilsby guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Kilsby?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Highlights like Draycote Water are enjoyed for their rich bird life and opportunities for observation, while Daventry Country Park Reservoir is popular for its family-friendly amenities, including an adventure playground and nature trail. The historical sites offer a deep dive into the region's past.
Are there any ancient churches with interesting architecture near Kilsby?
Absolutely. Besides St. Faith's Church in Kilsby, you can visit All Saints' Church, Braunston. This ancient church features architectural details dating back to the 13th century, including 12th-century font, medieval paintings, and a unique 'Sheela-na-gigs' stone figure found in the churchyard.
Most popular attractions around Kilsby
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