Best attractions and places to see around Orton include a variety of historical sites, natural features, and cycling routes. This region, primarily Orton in Northamptonshire, offers a blend of historic landmarks and accessible outdoor activities. Visitors can explore significant architectural structures and enjoy trails that cater to different interests. The area provides opportunities for both cultural discovery and active recreation.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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When King Edward I’s beloved first wife, Eleanor of Castile, died in 1290, he spent three days in intense mourning, unable to leave the Nottinghamshire village of Harby where she died. He then led her funeral procession, journeying some 200 miles to London over many days. To commemorate Eleanor, Edward commissioned three tombs and had 12 stone crosses built to mark each place where her body rested overnight on its final journey. He employed the best masons in the land to build them. (Text from: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/eleanor-cross-geddington/history/ )
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Decent front light a must to ride through. Surface is not too bad but best to go slowly if you can't see well.
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You will need a decent light to go through riding! There is a ventilation shaft halfway through which provides some relief from the gloom.
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Another tunnel with another cool blast of air on these hot summer days.
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The Kelmarsh Tunnels are disused railway tunnels. The original tunnel was single-track, and when the line was doubled a second single-track tunnel was built. Due to the small bore, the tunnels were known as "the rat-holes" by train drivers. The former "up" line tunnel at Kelmarsh is open as part of the Brampton Valley Way, running along the former railway trackbed. The tunnel is unlit and the tunnel length is 480 metres (1,570 ft). You will need lights!
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Orton and its surroundings offer several historical sites. You can explore the 13th-century St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Hannington, known for its unique bisected nave. Another significant historical landmark is the Eleanor Cross in Geddington, one of the most spectacular surviving crosses commissioned by King Edward I. Additionally, the village of Orton itself features St. Mary's Church, dating back to the 12th century, and All Saints Church, which houses the Orton Trust teaching traditional stonemasonry.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Pitsford Water is a great choice, offering a children's play area, open grassed spaces for picnics, and bike hire. Nearby, you can also find Wicksteed Park, a family-friendly amusement park in Kettering, and West Lodge Farm Park, a farm attraction, both within a short drive.
The primary natural feature is Pitsford Water, a large lake with scenic views and a circular path. The area also offers green spaces like East Carlton Country Park, providing opportunities for enjoying the countryside.
Orton is well-suited for cycling enthusiasts. You can ride along National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough, which includes passing through the unlit Kelmarsh Tunnels. For more cycling routes, explore the 'Cycling around Orton' guide, which features various tours like the 'Great Oxendon Tunnel – View of the River Ise Valley loop from Harrington' and 'Mawsley Trig Point loop from Loddington'. You can find more details on these routes in the Cycling around Orton guide.
Yes, there are easy hiking trails available. For example, you can explore routes like the 'Kelmarsh Station – Kelmarsh Tunnels loop from Draughtton' or the 'The Three Farthings Pub – Sailing on Cransley Reservoir loop from Cransley'. These and other options are detailed in the Easy hikes around Orton guide.
The Kelmarsh Tunnels are disused railway tunnels that are now part of the Brampton Valley Way. They are 480 meters long and unlit, so it's essential to bring your own lights if you plan to pass through them, whether on foot or by bike. The surface inside is generally decent, but it's advisable to proceed slowly.
Yes, bike hire is available at Pitsford Water. There's a bike shop located at the top of the main car park, making it convenient to rent a bike and explore the paths around the water.
To experience local history and architecture, visit the 12th-century St. Mary's Church in Orton and the All Saints Church, which preserves traditional stonemasonry. Don't miss the unique St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Hannington and the historic Eleanor Cross in Geddington. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's rich past and architectural heritage.
Yes, for those interested in aviation history, both the Harrington Aviation Museum and the Sywell Aviation Museum are located within a reasonable distance of Orton, Northamptonshire.
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical sites and accessible outdoor activities. The family-friendly facilities at Pitsford Water, including its cafe and bike hire, are highly appreciated. The unique experience of cycling through the Kelmarsh Tunnels on the Brampton Valley Way is also a popular highlight.
Yes, Orton offers excellent opportunities for gravel biking. You can find various routes, such as the 'View of Pitsford Water – View of Pitsford Reservoir loop from Kelmarsh' and the 'Kelmarsh Tunnels – Great Oxendon Tunnel loop from Harrington'. More detailed routes are available in the Gravel biking around Orton guide.


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