Stay at home orders have been lifted for the first time since the announcement of the third national lockdown on January 4 and residents can now meet up with up to six friends or one other household outside.
This means we can start looking forward to warmer days out in the Spring sunshine!
'Northamptonshire Britain's Best Surprise' have compiled over 20 top outdoor attractions in Northamptonshire that can be visited now that stay at home restrictions have lifted.
Here are some of their best recommendations so you can start planning your Easter holidays:
13. The Old Rectory Gardens - Sudborough
Open on Fridays and Saturdays from April 14, this privately owned, quintessentially English country garden of 3 acres is set within a very pretty Northamptonshire village location and has a magical and welcoming feel. The gardens have been developed over 50 years and include deep colourful borders, ornamental and specimen trees, over 40 varieties of old roses and a Potager designed by Rosemary Verey. The present owners have carried on developing the gardens adding new features such as The Twisted Hazel and Slate gardens, whilst ensuring they maintain the timeless and tranquil feel The Old Rectory Gardens have always been known for. No need to book ahead, unless for the pop-up restaurant collaboration with Nest in July. Photo: The Old Rectory Gardens
14. Canoe2 Boat Hire - Rushden Lakes
“Paddle-out-n-back” canoe & kayak hire on the beautiful River Nene reopens at the Boathouse at Rushden Lakes April 16, and Pedalo and Katakanu hire on the lake (great fun!) on April 17. Longer full-day downstream canoe trips follow from end of April, as well as a great range of canoe, kayak and SUP courses for those keen to learn or improve skills. From mid-May serviced Canoeing B&B Short Breaks from two to four days are available... an opportunity to experience your favourite stretches of the Nene Valley in your canoe with a lovely selection of accommodation options, pubs and tea rooms along the way. Photo: Canoe2
15. Saxby's Cider
Saxby’s - apple and fruit ciders made on the family farm - are based in Farndish, a small village on the Northamptonshire/Bedfordshire border near Wollaston. Visit the farm for a Cidery Tour and tastings on April 17 and book tickets in advance for BlossomFest - a Cidery Festival in the yard with music from Lunaxis on April 24.
16. Stanwick Lakes
Stanwick Lakes is a hugely popular 750-acre attraction and nature reserve located in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley, with extensive and imaginative play areas, open spaces and paths that families, walkers, cyclists and nature lovers can explore at leisure. As soon as restaurants reopen, combine with a visit to The Bell Inn, Finedon. Photo: Stanwick Lakes