The Ultimate Guide: Top Places to See When Driving From Ampthill, England to Cottesmore, England
Nothing beats the thrill of a road trip, especially when there are fascinating and beautiful places to explore along the way. If you are planning a road trip from Ampthill to Cottesmore, you are in for a treat. This route boasts of incredible natural landscapes, fascinating history, and captivating landmarks. From stunning medieval castles, charming market towns to ancient ruins, there is something for everyone. In this post, we have rounded up the best places to stop and explore when driving from Ampthill, England to Cottesmore, England.
Bletchley Park
About 30 minutes from Ampthill is the fascinating Bletchley Park, a site that played a significant role in World War II. Bletchley Park is the home of the oldest working computer, Colossus, and was the site where codebreakers worked tirelessly to decipher German codes. Visitors can tour the exhibits, including where Alan Turing decyphered the Enigma code, watch interactive displays, and hear fascinating stories about the history of code-breaking.
The Woburn Abbey
Woburn Abbey, the ancestral home of the Dukes of Bedford, is ten minutes from Ampthill and is a must-visit for anyone interested in stately homes and gardens. The Abbey is set within a beautiful deer park that features a lake, restored China Pond, and picturesque bridges. Visitors to the Abbey can get lost in the beautiful state rooms and the priceless collection of art and treasures, including a Silver Swan, the first and only-known automaton from the 18th century.
Rushden Lakes Shopping Centre
About 25 minutes from Cottesmore, on the outskirts of Rushden Town Centre, the Rushden Lakes Shopping Centre offers a mix of stunning lakeside views, leisure activities, and retail therapy. The Shopping Centre is home to over 40 shops, including M&S, Primark, and H&M, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including canoeing, cycling, and bird-watching.
Rutland Water
A visit to Rutland Water is a perfect way to reconnect with nature after driving for long hours. The artificial lake, located between Oakham and Stamford, is unique for its clear waters, wide-open spaces, and stunning scenery. Visitors can participate in wildlife walks and cycling trails, bird-watching, and visiting the Rutland Water Nature Reserve that houses a wide range of bird species.
Belvoir Castle
About 20 minutes from Cottesmore is the enchanting Belvoir Castle, set in over 16,000 acres of beautiful grounds. Belvoir, which is French for 'beautiful view,' offers a magnificent view of the Vale of Belvoir. The stunning Gothic Revival-style castle is open to the public, and visitors can take a tour of the state rooms and historical collections, including priceless Dutch Old Masters paintings. Its beautiful gardens offer the perfect setting for a relaxing walk.
Burghley House
Another stately home to visit on your route is Burghley House, located in Stamford, about 30 minutes from Cottesmore. Burghley House is a Renaissance masterpiece with stunning architecture, tapestries, and art collections. Visitors to the house can admire the awe-inspiring ceiling murals and impressive paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Gainsborough.
Conclusion
Driving from Ampthill to Cottesmore can be an unforgettable experience, and by visiting some of these incredible locations, it can be even more memorable. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, this route offers something for everyone. So pack your car with snacks and your camera and set off on an unforgettable journey through some of England's most captivating landmarks!