Adventure ride: a day out that takes in some less cycled paths.
45km, nearly all flat, but uneven in places.

Here is a ride that gives a sense of discovery. But don’t be put off everything here is ridable and enjoyable especially when you time it right.

Part 1, goes North, following the Grand Union Canal and then the Northampton arm. This is not normally very popular, and I think thats bit of shame because if you haven’t ridden this way to link MK and Northampton you are definitely missing out. Whilst you are on the canal side the whole time, it is varied, in places a tiny bit challenging and you get history plus isolation to enjoy.

The Route: To Cosgrove is one of my favourites which I often repeat, but this time it is off into the great unknown. The short section before the Navigation Inn can be narrow so take care not to fall in before crossing at the bridge and rejoining gravel.

If you didn’t feel it already, the ride is going to become quite rural. There is no need to ride at a hectic pace. Peace and quiet is what you are going to get. There might be some nettles in with the vegetation, so pick your line carefully, but safe in the knowledge that this section is the most difficult. We did this in high summer last year and it was still no problem.

Beyond scenic Stoke Bruerne (where you can often get an ice cream) a gradual climb on a gravel track leads to the short road section above the Blisworth tunnel. There is a single left turn at a junction and from there keep your eye’s peeled for the dive down on the left which meets the northern tunnel entrance.

The next bit of the path is very good, if you got this far then the route will go for sure. This is classic industrial heritage stuff, soaking up the old bridges and buildings.

At Blisworth junction there is a little jiggling to get on the RHS of the short canal tributary that goes to Northampton and the river Nene. Passing under the M1 is esoteric but not in anyway problematic. And then from here it’s a beautiful cruise on gravel and subsequently hard surfaced paths along this really stunning section. We saw Kingfishers down here. 

I’m ending part 1 where the canal meets the river Nene. From here you might like to head into town. If you wanted to do a shorter ride you could catch the train back to MK.

Pros: Escapism, lots to see and enjoy, different options for the return journey.

Cons: Parts of the tow path could be “seasonal” with mud or plants to contend with, but time it right and this is a lovely ride.

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Grand reUnion part 2