Motorhome Stopovers in Northamptonshire

Updated April 2026

Northamptonshire is a gem for motorhome touring, offering a perfect blend of English heritage, outdoor adventure, and charming market towns. Known as the county of spires and squires, Northamptonshire boasts stunning ironstone villages, an extensive canal network, and the legendary Silverstone Circuit. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend on the waterways or exploring historic market towns like Oundle and Brackley, this Midlands county rewards thoughtful exploration. The county sits at a comfortable crossroads between the industrial heritage of the East Midlands and the rolling countryside of Central England, making it ideal for motorhomers wanting variety without endless driving.

Top Stopover Areas for Motorhomes

Northamptonshire offers diverse stopover options across the county. The canal towpaths provide some of the most peaceful overnight spots, particularly around Wellingborough and Northampton itself, where dedicated moorings and CL sites dot the Grand Union and Northampton Arm canals. Market town centres like Oundle and Kettering offer atmospheric stopovers with easy access to independent shops and restaurants. For those interested in motorsport, stopover sites near Silverstone provide convenient bases for race events. Rural CLs scattered throughout the ironstone villages—such as those near Rushton and Corby—offer working farm stays with authentic countryside charm. Many larger campsites are located on the county outskirts, offering full facilities including electric hookup and shower blocks.

Motorhome Touring Routes Through Northamptonshire

Route 1: The Canal & Market Towns Loop (2-3 days, 80 miles)
Start in Northampton (A43) and pick up the Grand Union Canal towpath—an excellent resource for planning mooring spots and rest days. Head north towards Wellingborough (15 miles, 35 mins), a vibrant market town with heritage charm and good motorhome parking near the town centre. From here, take the A510 north to Kettering (20 miles, 40 mins), famous for its Georgian architecture and thriving independent scene. Return via the scenic A427 through Corby (15 miles, 30 mins), where ironstone heritage buildings tell the story of Victorian industry. This route is largely A-roads with good width for larger vehicles, though care is needed in town centres.

Route 2: Historic Heartland & Rockingham Forest Trail (3 days, 100 miles)
Begin in the east at Oundle (A605), a picturesque Georgian market town perfect for a leisurely overnight stop. Head west on the A427 towards the Rockingham Forest area (25 miles, 50 mins), where woodland drives and forest walks are accessible from numerous parking areas. Stop overnight near Corby or Kettering. Continue south via Rushton (A14, then local roads—12 miles, 25 mins) to explore the ironstone villages and their heritage centres. The return journey via the A43 and A14 corridor passes near Silverstone, so adjust your route if event days coincide. These roads are suitable for motorhomes with some narrow village passes requiring care.

Route 3: Silverstone & Estate Heritage Circuit (2 days, 70 miles)
Based on motorsport interest or the annual calendar, explore the Silverstone vicinity from Towcester (A43, 8 miles south). Head east to Althorp House surroundings (A5 then local roads, 20 miles, 40 mins)—iconic for its historical significance and estate parkland walks. From Althorp, take the A508 north back through Northampton towards Wellingborough (25 miles, 45 mins), completing a loop through some of the county's most distinguished settings. This route suits smaller motorhomes better due to narrower country lanes near estates, but rewards careful navigation with quintessential English scenery.

Things to Do in Northamptonshire with Your Motorhome

Silverstone Circuit dominates the calendar for motorsport enthusiasts—many stopover sites fill during race weekends, so book early. Beyond the track, explore Althorp House's parkland and heritage trails, accessible on foot from nearby parking areas. The county's canal network is perfect for gentle towpath walks; the Grand Union offers 20+ miles of accessible routes. Market towns deserve a full day each: Oundle charms with its cobbled streets and independent bookshops; Kettering showcases Georgian architecture and cultural venues; Brackley blends medieval heritage with country walks. Rockingham Forest offers woodland exploration with designated parking for motorhomes at forest entrances. Visit the town of Rothwell for its historic market cross and working-class heritage. Historic churches pepper the county—Rushton's Triangular Lodge is a unique architectural oddity worth the detour. Many village halls host farmers' markets on weekends, perfect for stocking up with local produce.

Practical Information for Motorhome Touring

Service points are available in Northampton and Kettering; plan ahead for waste disposal and fresh water top-ups. Morrisons and Sainsbury's supermarkets in most town centres allow safe daytime parking for shopping stops. Fuel stations accepting large vehicles are plentiful on the A43, A427, and A14 corridors. Height barriers are uncommon in Northamptonshire, though always check town-centre car parks beforehand. Most villages have quiet overnight parking on their main streets; check local signage for restrictions. Canal moorings are free for the first 14 days; visit the Canal & River Trust website for mooring maps. Winter weather can affect canal access, so spring and autumn are ideal touring seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore More English Destinations

Explore England stopovers • Warwickshire motorhome guide • Leicestershire stopovers • Bedfordshire touring guide