Barnwell Country Park

Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden gem in the countryside?

Just a stone's throw from the charming Northamptonshire market town of Oundle, Barnwell Country Park is waiting for you to discover it.

This former gravel extraction site has been transformed into a haven for nature enthusiasts and families alike, with five lakes, winding pathways, and the River Nene backwater that's home to kingfishers and otters.

As you explore the park, what will you spot?

A flash of blue as a kingfisher darts across the water? The playful antics of otters in their natural habitat?

With a play area for kids, a visitor's centre, and the Kingfisher Cafe, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And the best part? Admission is free, with parking available for a small fee.

Pair of Mandarin ducks mating

A Classroom Beneath the Sky

Children are welcome at Barnwell Country Park, where the great outdoors becomes a living, breathing classroom.

What secrets will they uncover as you explore the park's wildlife haven together?

Will your kids be able to identify the mysterious objects hidden in our touch boxes, or recognise the skulls of the creatures that call the park home?

From bug-hunting to tree-spotting, our engaging activities are designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds to learn about the natural world.

Whether they are toddlers or school-age adventurers, we have something for everyone - from ranger-led Nature Tots events to mini-beast safaris, orienteering, and pond-dipping excursions.

The Bird Hides at Barnwell Country Park

Have you ever found yourself mesmerised by the fleeting glimpse of a kingfisher's iridescent feathers or the distinctive chatter of a reed warbler? If so, you're in luck!

The park is perfect for bird watchers, with two hides and several sheltered lookout points that offer the perfect blend of comfort and unobstructed views.

The Lowlands Hide

Take a short stroll from the parking area to the Lowlands Hide, where warblers nest in  spring, and birds like marsh tits and nuthatch visit the feeders.

If you're lucky you might spot the pink breasts of the bullfinch or the colourful plumage of a male mandarin duck from here too. 

Sit in comfort on the moveable benches and enjoy the birds, mammals and insects in close proximity. 

The KingFisher Hide at Barnwell

Have you ever tried to capture the perfect shot of a kingfisher in flight? It's a challenge even for the most seasoned photographers.

But what if you had a front-row seat to their habitat, with the perfect lighting to boot?

The Kingfisher Hide, accessed by crossing a footbridge beyond the children's play area, offers just that.

With its prime location facing Little Lake, a hotspot for these elusive birds, you'll be well on your way to snapping stunning photos – if you're patient enough to wait for the perfect shot.

Male Kingfisher

Barnwell's Breeding birds

What's the irresistible charm of baby birds? Is it their downy feathers, their oversized eyes, or their endearingly wobbly first steps?

For years, I've been captivated by the young birds around the lakes at Barnwell, and I've been lucky enough to capture their earliest moments on camera.

This country park is home to a remarkable variety of birdlife, including mute swans, mallard ducks, red kites, and great crested grebes – all of which have allowed me a glimpse into their intimate lives.

From the meticulous nest-building to the fiercely protective parents, every stage of their development is a fascinating spectacle.

And, as the local wildlife has grown accustomed to human presence, I've been able to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures – especially the photogenic mute swan cygnets, which have become a favourite subject in my photography and artwork.

Seeing off the Canada Geese

Mute Swan family