Brixworth Country Park and Pitsford Water
Northamptonshire
Pitsford Water is one of Northamptonshire's largest reservoirs, and its 11.3 km perimeter circuit is among the most popular longer walks in the county for good reason: hard-surfaced track throughout, long views across open water, and a café and facilities at the Brixworth Country Park start point. The route follows the reservoir edge through open water, light woodland, and across the northern arm via a causeway, never straying far from the water.
The hard surface makes this genuinely reliable in any weather and at any time of year. Dogs are welcome off-lead on the main trail and throughout the country park, with the exception of the eastern Pitsford Nature Reserve section where leads are required to protect the breeding bird population. The dominant smell is water — cold and mineral from the open reservoir — with boggy margins where the water level drops and reed and willow on the northern stretches. Tufted duck, great crested grebe, and goosander in winter. Café and toilets at the start and finish.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 11.3 km (7.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 3 hr
- Walk Type
- River, Park
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Café, toilets, cycle hire and play area at Brixworth Country Park
- Parking
- Free car park at Brixworth Country Park, Brixworth, NN6 9DG
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brixworth Country Park and Pitsford Water dog friendly?
Yes, Brixworth Country Park and Pitsford Water is a great choice for a day out with your dog. The full 11.3 km reservoir circuit welcomes dogs, and the hard-surfaced track makes it comfortable underfoot in all weathers.
Can dogs be off lead at Brixworth Country Park and Pitsford Water?
Dogs are welcome off-lead on the main trail and throughout the country park. The one exception is the eastern Pitsford Nature Reserve section, where leads are required to protect the breeding bird population , so it's worth being aware of that stretch as you make your way around.
What should I know before visiting Brixworth Country Park and Pitsford Water with my dog?
The route is 11.3 km in total, so it's a solid half-day outing , though the hard surface and flat terrain make it accessible year-round. Remember to put your dog on the lead when you reach the eastern nature reserve section. On the plus side, there's a café and toilets at the start and finish at Brixworth Country Park, and parking is free at NN6 9DG.
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