Twywell Hills and Dales
Discover Twywell Hills and Dales, a sprawling natural reserve in Northamptonshire offering diverse walking trails, Highland Cows, and scenic beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, cows are active
Twywell Hills and Dales
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, cows are active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Twywell Hills and Dales, a sprawling natural reserve in Northamptonshire offering diverse walking trails, Highland Cows, and scenic beauty.
"A stunning area with amazing scenery, perfect for dog walks and spotting Highland Cows!"
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Terrain can be steep and muddy; waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended for comfort and safety.
☕ Check Coffee Van Schedule
The popular barista van offers treats, but its hours vary. Check ahead if you're planning a coffee stop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Highland Cows
Various enclosures
Spot these majestic, shaggy beasts roaming the fields – a truly unique and memorable sight for all ages.
Wildflower Meadows
Throughout the reserve
During warmer months, vibrant wildflowers carpet the meadows, creating a picturesque and fragrant natural spectacle.
Woodland Trails
Various sections
Wander through peaceful woodlands, offering shade and a different kind of natural beauty, especially stunning in autumn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hills and Dales
Cow Encounters & Coffee Breaks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Terrain can be steep and muddy; waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended for comfort and safety.
☕ Check Coffee Van Schedule
The popular barista van offers treats, but its hours vary. Check ahead if you're planning a coffee stop.
🐄 Respect the Cows
Observe the Highland Cows from a distance and never feed them. They are generally friendly but still wild animals.
🐶 Leash Up When Needed
Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead in certain areas to protect wildlife and other visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Terrain can be steep and muddy; waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended for comfort and safety.
☕ Check Coffee Van Schedule
The popular barista van offers treats, but its hours vary. Check ahead if you're planning a coffee stop.
🐄 Respect the Cows
Observe the Highland Cows from a distance and never feed them. They are generally friendly but still wild animals.
🐶 Leash Up When Needed
Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead in certain areas to protect wildlife and other visitors.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
While there's a coffee van, bringing your own food is a great option, especially for longer visits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vastness and stunning scenery of Twywell Hills and Dales, calling it a 'hidden gem' with 'amazing scenery'. The opportunity to see friendly Highland Cows and the welcoming atmosphere for dogs are major highlights. While parking is free and a coffee van is available, the lack of toilets and occasional muddiness are minor drawbacks.
"Only recently found out about this place, and what a stunning area huge doesnt even come close! So many walks amazing scenery. Dogs allowed some areas they have to remain on the leads but there some areas you are able to let your furry friend run around. Parking is small but we no problem (free parking). There is a picnic area, certain days a drink van comes. Also able to track the highland cows which are super friendly. Definitely bring your hiking boots as high/steap terrains."
Ruby Gifford
"Always a pleasure to visit with the dogs. Great little food van for a coffee and a snack as well as a pupchino for the furbabies. Nice walk. Free parking. Only downside no toilet."
Lorna Wellman
"Lovely place to explore and wander about. You may bump into some Highland Cows ( or not... grrr). It can be quite hilly depending on the path you take. You can easily kill a few hours here and go back again!"
Jemima Winters
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Twywell Hills and Dales is accessible by car, with free parking available on-site. For specific directions, using a GPS with the postcode or What3Words (waving.cover.rainwater) is recommended.
Public transport options are limited. It's best to check local bus routes, but driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the reserve.
There is a small, free car park available at the reserve. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is advisable.
Cycling is possible, and there are often routes that pass through or near the reserve. However, dedicated cycle paths within the reserve itself may be limited.
Yes, it can be a good day trip from London, especially if you have a car. The drive is manageable, offering a refreshing escape into the countryside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Twywell Hills and Dales is free. There are no admission fees to explore the walking trails and enjoy the scenery.
The reserve is generally open from dawn till dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty throughout daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to Twywell Hills and Dales. It's a public access area for everyone to enjoy.
While the reserve is accessible during daylight hours, it's not recommended to visit after dark due to safety and to respect the natural environment.
No booking is required for general visits. You can simply turn up and explore the hills and dales at your leisure.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks, spot Highland Cows, explore wildflower meadows and woodlands, and have picnics. It's ideal for dog walking and nature photography.
Yes, dogs are very welcome! However, they must be kept on a lead in certain areas to protect wildlife and other visitors.
Yes, you can often see Highland Cows roaming in designated areas. They are a popular attraction and a highlight for many visitors.
Yes, there is a play area, making it a great spot for families with younger children to enjoy.
The terrain varies, with rolling hills and some steep sections depending on the path you choose. Waterproof boots are recommended due to potential mud.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A popular coffee van often visits, serving hot drinks, snacks, and cakes. They also offer pup-uccinos for dogs. Check their schedule as they are not there all day.
Absolutely! There are picnic areas, and bringing your own food is a great option for a leisurely visit.
While there are no restaurants directly on-site, you can find dining options in nearby villages and towns like Thrapston or Oundle.
The van typically offers cakes, biscuits, coffee, and tea. Some visitors have mentioned delicious cakes and brownies. 
You can purchase water and other drinks from the coffee van. It's also advisable to bring your own, especially on longer walks.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling hills, wildflower meadows (in season), woodland paths, and of course, the Highland Cows offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Yes, the varied terrain and expansive views make it an excellent location for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The main wildlife attraction is the Highland Cows. You might also spot various bird species and insects, particularly in the meadows.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of private property and the welfare of the animals.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
The terrain can be quite varied, with some paths featuring steep inclines and descents, making sturdy hiking boots essential, especially after rainfall. Navigating the reserve is generally straightforward, with clear paths in many areas. For those seeking a more structured experience, groups like Blaze Trails have curated specific walks, such as a baby carrier walk, highlighting the reserve's versatility.
The landscape shifts throughout the seasons, from vibrant wildflowers in spring and summer to rich autumnal colours, offering a different visual appeal year-round. The Famous Highland Cows
They are typically found in specific enclosures within the reserve, and while they are generally docile, it's important to remember they are wild animals. Visitors are advised to observe them from a safe distance and refrain from feeding them to maintain their natural behaviour and ensure their well-being. Spotting the Highland Cows is often a highlight of a visit, and their presence adds a charming, rustic element to the landscape. Many visitors share their excitement about seeing these gentle giants, making it a memorable part of their countryside escape.
The cows are a testament to the reserve's commitment to maintaining a natural habitat and offering diverse experiences to its visitors.Visitor Amenities and Refreshments
+1 This van provides a welcome opportunity to grab a hot drink, a snack, or a sweet treat, with many visitors praising the quality of the cakes and brownies. It's worth noting that the coffee van's operating hours can vary, so it's advisable to check their schedule beforehand if a refreshment stop is a priority.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit