Discover Oundle

Oundle in Northamptonshire combines a historic market town with paths along the River Nene and a year-round events calendar. If you are considering Oundle as a destination for your stay, you will find ideas here for walks, local history and markets. The river surrounds Oundle on three sides, and the town also has a marina.

River Nene and walking routes

The Nene Way passes through Oundle, following the River Nene between Northampton and Peterborough. Another option is the 5-mile Oundle River Circular Walk, which starts in Oundle and follows the river and the surrounding meadows. This gives you a choice between a circular route starting in Oundle and a path that passes through the town between two cities.

The 43.5-mile Oundle Pilgrimage Route is centred on Oundle and runs mostly along footpaths, minor roads and country lanes. Its family route follows the River Nene to Cotterstock, continues to Ashton and then returns to Oundle along the riverbank.

If you want to explore Oundle on foot, you can also follow the Heritage Trail. This self-guided walk takes you through historic streets and introduces the town’s notable buildings. An interactive walking tour app uses GPS to trigger commentary based on your location. The options therefore differ in whether you follow a described route or use location-based explanations.

At Oundle Marina on Barnwell Road, Nene Extreme offers canoe, kayak and paddleboard hire. If you plan to hire equipment, check the current booking and operating conditions in advance.

Church, museum and local history

The Parish Church of St Peter retains a few remains of a Norman church; most of its fabric dates from the 13th century. It is open seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm. Opening hours may change, so check them before your visit.

Oundle Museum displays artefacts from the Roman, Saxon and medieval periods. It is housed in the former courthouse of the stone-built market town. Latham’s Hospital and School is also part of the town’s history: the institution was founded in 1611 as an almshouse for women and a school to educate the sons of poor men.

Another historical resource is the Oundle School archive. It includes the school register dating from 1626 and serves as an educational and historical resource for the public. Enquiries are accepted by email or in person by appointment; arrange an appointment if you wish to use the archive.

Markets and events

Oundle Farmers’ Market takes place on the second Saturday of each month from 8 am to 2 pm. Local produce is sold directly to the public. Oundle Food Festival is usually held on a Saturday in June and brings around 80 produce stalls to the town centre. The number of stalls is approximate; check specific event dates before your trip.

Oundle International Festival includes a festival week every July, as well as other events throughout the year. Queen Victoria Hall hosts theatre productions and shows. If a particular market, festival or performance is important to your trip, plan around its dates.

Discover more destinations: Braunston, Kilsby, Wollaston, Ecton, West Haddon, Potterspury, Byfield, Easton On The Hill

See the wider travel overview: Northamptonshire.