Hollowell & Ravensthorpe Reservoir New Year Walk

From the giddy heights of 28 degrees in the Canaries to a temperature of just above freezing! This walk is is something of a rude awakening. It is a late start so will be fairly short , but nevertheless an interesting one I'm sure.

Starting point is the village of Hollowell. Very close to Hollowell Reservoir, a 140-acre (0.57 km²) reservoir between Northampton and Market Harborough and just north of the village. The villages name means 'hollow spring/stream'. We take a nice footpath around some well maintained paddocks and get back on the road towards Guilsborough.  Saint Ethelreda's Church is a good landmark. The oldest part of the current church is the tower which was built during the first half of the 13th century. 

 

Hollowell Reservoir in the distance

Blue skies, green fields

From the Church we take the road downhill towards Ravensthorpe. Passing the garden, nursery and cafe of Coton Manor Garden. Closed now until February when it open for 3 weekends for you to see Snowdrops and Hellebores. It was originally laid out in the 1920’s by the grandparents of the present owner. The garden has been developed and extended by successive generations capitalising on its natural setting, attractive views and abundant water. The 17th century manor house acts as a central focus for the garden, its walls supporting many roses and shrubs.

The end of January usually heralds the start of the snowdrop season, coinciding with the flowering of hellebores and crocus. All these flowers stand up gallantly to snow and icy conditions which frequently occur at this time of year.
From my experience a good time to visit is mid Spring , when Bluebell Wood is usually in full flower from about the last week of April until the middle of May.  Elsewhere tulips are in full bloom, the Water Garden becomes increasingly colourful and species and tree Paeonies reveal their exotic and ephemeral flowers.We continue towards Ravensthorpe Reservoir. 

It's always an enjoyable 'lap' around Ravensthorpe Reservoir, whatever the season. Known locally as 'Northamptonsire's  Hidden Gem' is a two mile circular track and perfect for a 45 minute relaxing stroll. The well-established rich woodland, which surrounds the reservoir, provides a haven for birds and wildlife so the chances of spotting nature in its natural setting while out on a stroll are high!During the winter months, be on the lookout for wildfowl species and if you are visiting in spring or autumn you might catch sight of ospreys and dragonflies.We complete the circuit and double back up the hill towards Coton. This time taking the right hand side road back towards Hollowell. 

There are some nice views looking back down towards the reservoir. At the top of the road we pick up the footpath that will take us into Hollowell via the back of the church and our starting point.

It has been a lovely little walk coming in at a total distance of 5.5 miles.