Brampton Valley Way, Kelmarsh
Northamptonshire
The Brampton Valley Way follows the trackbed of the old Northampton to Market Harborough railway for 22.5 km end to end, but the Kelmarsh section is the most rewarding stretch for a dog walk. From the old station car park, the out-and-back route heads south through open Northamptonshire farmland, crossing bridges over the infant River Nene and gradually narrowing as it approaches the Kelmarsh tunnel — cool, unlit, and dripping, with a strong echo that surprises most dogs the first time. The gravel and earth surface drains reasonably well and dogs can be off-lead for the full length once away from road crossings.
Red kites are a near-constant overhead presence on this section. The scent along the corridor is that particular combination of old iron ballast, warm dry verge grass, and in summer the faint sweetness of meadowsweet along the field edges — unmistakably a railway path. The Northampton and Lamport heritage railway runs alongside part of the trail, adding an occasional steam-engine encounter.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 8.0 km (5.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 2 hr
- Walk Type
- Historic
- Route Type
- Out and Back
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- None on route; pubs accessible in nearby villages
- Parking
- Free car park at former Kelmarsh Station, off the A508, NN6 9SL area
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brampton Valley Way, Kelmarsh dog friendly?
The Kelmarsh section of Brampton Valley Way is a great choice for dogs , it's a flat, open railway path through Northamptonshire farmland with a well-draining gravel and earth surface that holds up well in all weathers. The route is quiet and unhurried, finishing at the atmospheric Kelmarsh tunnel, and red kites are a regular sight overhead. There are no facilities on the route itself, but pubs in nearby villages are within reach if you need a post-walk stop.
Can dogs be off lead at Brampton Valley Way, Kelmarsh?
Yes , dogs can be off lead for the full length of the route once you're clear of the road crossings near the start. The old railway corridor is bordered by open farmland rather than busy roads, making it a relaxed walk for dogs who like to roam. Just be aware that the Northampton and Lamport heritage railway runs alongside part of the trail, so you may encounter the occasional passing steam engine.
What should I know before visiting Brampton Valley Way, Kelmarsh with my dog?
The walk starts from the free car park at the former Kelmarsh Station, off the A508 in the NN6 9SL area, and heads south on an out-and-back route of up to 22.5 km end to end , though you can turn around whenever suits you. The highlight near the far end is the Kelmarsh tunnel: cool, unlit, and dripping, with a strong echo that can startle dogs on a first visit, so it's worth being prepared for that reaction. There are no facilities on the route itself, so bring water for your dog, especially in warmer months when the trail can be warm and exposed through the open farmland sections.
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