Stanwick Lakes
Northamptonshire
Former Nene Valley gravel workings have been transformed into one of central England's most significant wetland habitats at Stanwick Lakes — 750 acres of open water, reed margins, grassland, and the old railway corridor that threads through the site. The 7.2 km Heritage Trail is flat throughout on good mixed surfaces, passing a replica Iron Age roundhouse, carved stone markers, and extensive views across the water that feel genuinely expansive by Northamptonshire standards.
There is one significant caveat: dogs must be on leads throughout the site under the North Northamptonshire Public Spaces Protection Order, which covers the entire Upper Nene Gravel Pits Special Protection Area. It is worth knowing this before you arrive. That aside, the scale and sensory richness of the route are considerable — the complex smell of shallow gravel pit margins, cold mineral water, and the resident geese and cormorant colonies makes for a stimulating lead walk. Otters are occasionally visible on quiet winter mornings.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 7.2 km (4.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 2 hr
- Walk Type
- River, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Visitor centre, café, shop, toilets, play areas
- Parking
- Pay and display at the main car park off the A45, Stanwick, NN9 6GY
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stanwick Lakes dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Stanwick Lakes. The 7.2 km Heritage Trail is flat with good mixed surfaces, and the 750-acre wetland site offers a genuinely stimulating walk for dogs , the scents of shallow gravel pit margins, open water, and resident wildlife colonies make it a rich sensory experience on a lead.
Can dogs be off lead at Stanwick Lakes?
No , dogs must be kept on leads throughout the entire site. This is a legal requirement under the North Northamptonshire Public Spaces Protection Order, which covers the Upper Nene Gravel Pits Special Protection Area that Stanwick Lakes falls within. It's worth knowing this before you visit so you can plan accordingly.
What should I know before visiting Stanwick Lakes with my dog?
The key thing to be aware of is that leads are required throughout the site under a Public Spaces Protection Order , there are no off-lead areas. On the practical side, there's a pay and display car park off the A45 at Stanwick (NN9 6GY), and good facilities on site including a visitor centre, café, toilets, and a shop. The Heritage Trail is flat the whole way round, which makes it an easy outing whatever the season.
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