Barnwell Country Park

The River Nene curves through this patch of Northamptonshire countryside, and Barnwell Country Park sits right where the water bends most dramatically. It's proper walking country - footpaths wind through meadows and along the riverbank, with the ruins of Barnwell Castle standing as a reminder that this spot mattered once. The castle itself is modest by English standards, but that's part of its appeal: no crowds, no gift shop, just stone walls crumbling gradually into history.

Walkers will get the most from Barnwell. You're looking at anything from a gentle stroll along the river to a couple of hours exploring the wider park and castle grounds. The terrain is flat and accessible, so families with younger kids won't struggle, though the ruins themselves require a bit of scrambling. What makes it worth the trip from Peterborough (just a short drive north) is that it works brilliantly as part of a longer park stay. Both Castle Farm Campsite and Brightside Caravan Park are within easy striking distance, so you can base yourself at either and add Barnwell as a half-day outing.

Best visited outside summer weekends if you want any peace. Admission appears free and there are no opening hours restrictions - it's the kind of place you turn up to when you fancy it. Bring decent shoes though; the riverside paths get muddy after rain. Not spectacular, but genuinely rewarding if you actually like walking and don't need attractions to shout about themselves.