St Crispin's Park

The River Nene cuts through St Crispin's Park like a proper green corridor, and that's really what you're after here - riverside walking rather than manicured gardens. It's a working nature reserve just outside Northampton, the sort of place where you'll actually see wildlife if you keep quiet and move slowly. Wetland areas, woodland patches, open grassland. The walking is straightforward and accessible, nothing demanding.

Who'd enjoy it most? Bird watchers absolutely. Dog walkers too - there's room to let them off. Families with younger children will find an hour or so here pleasant enough, though it won't keep them riveted. If you're after dramatic views or woodland drama, look elsewhere. But as a gentle morning wander before heading into Northampton proper, or as part of a longer canal and riverside loop, it works well.

The reserve is free and open access - that's the beauty of it. Allow an hour minimum if you're actually paying attention to birds and plants; you could walk it in thirty minutes if you're just moving through. Early morning or dusk is when the wildlife appears, so plan accordingly.

It sits nicely within reach of the local caravan sites - Kirkely Meadows and Magic Mushroom Cabin are both within easy driving distance. Pair it with a walk along the Nene Valley Way if you're basing yourselves at one of the CAMC or independent parks nearby. Not a destination in itself, but a solid addition to a Northamptonshire break.