It's July already. Where did the first six months of 2020 go? What a different place the world seems today, to what it did back then. Whilst restrictions are now starting to be lifted, one thing has gratefully remained constant; our ability to exercise and enjoy our wonderful, local, Northamptonshire countryside.

This week’s 5.9 mile ‘easy’ walk is a fantastic example of what a beautiful county we live in. It starts in the quiet village of Yelvertoft, which has connections back to Saxon times.

From here we follow a straight line along an old cart track as it rises steadily to give magnificent view across rolling countryside. You’ll also cross the Grand Union Canal twice on the way to Crick.

If you fancy a short diversion, Crack’s Hill was created during the last ice age, when melted water deposited material underneath the ice. Once the ice sheet retreated it left a pile of silt and rock behind. The hill is properly called a moraine. Worked flints from the Neolithic period have been found on the hill and it is also believed that the Romans used it as a sentry point. Today there’s a beacon on top.

Finally, we arrive at Crick and there’s an opportunity for refreshments at The Wheatsheaf on the main street; recently reopened and offering table service, call 01788 823824 to book. Close by at the Wharf you can also stop for drinks at The Moorings, a lovely canalside pub around the corner from the entrance to Crick tunnel; but beware, as it’s said to be haunted by a shrieking female boggart called Kit Crewbucket.

Suitably refreshed your route back to Yelvertoft could not be more different as you simply follow the tranquillity of the canal as it twist & turns all the way to the village. Look out for water voles too, you’ll see the signs so keep nice and quiet and you might get lucky!

It’s a fabulous walk that’s suitable for the whole family so just click on the following link to get the full details: https://northamptonshirewalks.co.uk/about/walk-102- yelvertoft-crick-figure-of-8/

Northamptonshire Walks