Northampton, UK Guide
Northampton, a historic market town in the heart of England, offers a blend of rich heritage and modern attractions. From its medieval origins to its prominent role in the shoe industry, Northampton boasts a fascinating past evident in its architecture and museums. Visitors can explore the iconic Northampton Guildhall, wander through the bustling market square, or delve into the town's history at the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery. Beyond its historical charm, Northampton provides a vibrant cultural scene with theatres, art galleries, and a diverse range of shops and restaurants. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering opportunities for scenic walks and outdoor activities. With its central location and excellent transport links, Northampton serves as an ideal base for exploring the wider region.
Food & Cuisine
Northampton's culinary scene is diverse, offering everything from traditional pub fare to international cuisine. Look out for local specialties like Northamptonshire sausages and cheese. The town centre boasts a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. For a more unique experience, visit the Northampton Market, which offers a variety of food stalls and local produce. Several highly-rated restaurants include The Palmichael, offering modern British cuisine, and Murrays, known for its fine dining experience. For a more casual experience, try one of the many traditional pubs in the town centre.
Nightlife
Northampton's nightlife is centred around the town centre, particularly in areas like Bridge Street and St. Giles Street. You'll find a mix of traditional pubs, modern bars, and nightclubs catering to different tastes. The Roadmender is a popular live music venue, hosting a variety of bands and artists. For a more relaxed evening, there are numerous pubs offering a wide selection of beers and ales. Several bars offer cocktail menus and late-night entertainment.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Northampton is during the spring (April-May) or summer (June-August) months. The weather is generally warmer and drier, making it ideal for exploring the town and surrounding countryside. Summer also brings various outdoor events and festivals to the area.
Transportation
Northampton offers a comprehensive bus network operated primarily by Stagecoach, providing access to most areas within the town and surrounding villages. There is no tram or subway/metro system in Northampton. Northampton railway station provides frequent train services to London Euston, Birmingham New Street, and other major cities, making it easily accessible from across the UK. Taxis are readily available throughout the town.
Airport
The closest major airport to Northampton is London Luton Airport (LTN), located approximately 45 miles (72 km) southeast of the town. Transportation from Luton Airport to Northampton is available via train (requiring a change at Luton Airport Parkway station) or by taxi/private car hire. Birmingham Airport (BHX) is another option, located approximately 55 miles (88 km) northwest of Northampton.
Attractions
Sywell Aviation Museum
Sywell Aviation Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing aviation history. It features a collection of aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits related to aviation. Visitors can explore the museum's collection, learn about the history of aviation, and see historic aircraft up close.
Royal & Derngate Theatre
The Royal & Derngate is a theatre complex offering a diverse program of performances. It hosts plays, musicals, dance performances, and concerts. Visitors can enjoy a night out at the theatre and experience a variety of live performances.
78 Derngate
78 Derngate is a unique and fascinating destination. It is the only house in England designed by the world-renowned architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Visitors can explore the house, which has been meticulously restored to its 1916 appearance, and learn about Mackintosh's innovative designs and the history of the house.
Billing Aquadrome
Billing Aquadrome is a large leisure park offering a variety of activities. It features a water park, amusement park rides, a boating lake, and camping facilities. Visitors can enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends, try out the various activities, and relax by the water.
Abington Park
Abington Park is a large and popular park with a rich history. It features a museum housed in a former manor house, a lake, formal gardens, and open green spaces. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll, have a picnic, explore the park's historical features, and visit the museum.
Holdenby House Gardens
Holdenby House Gardens are beautiful gardens surrounding a historic house. They feature a variety of garden styles, including a walled garden, a rose garden, and a water garden. Visitors can explore the gardens, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the stunning views.
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery showcases the town's history and art. It features a world-renowned boot and shoe collection, local history exhibits, and fine and decorative arts. Visitors can explore the museum's diverse collections and learn about Northampton's cultural heritage.
Wicksteed Park
Wicksteed Park is a large park with a variety of attractions, including a playground, a miniature railway, and a lake. It also has a cafe and a restaurant. Visitors can enjoy a day out with family and friends, explore the park's attractions, and have a picnic.
Althorp House
Althorp House is a stately home with a rich history. It has been the ancestral home of the Spencer family since the 16th century and is the final resting place of Princess Diana. Visitors can explore the house's impressive collection of art and furniture, wander through the beautiful gardens, and learn about the Spencer family's history.
Castle Ashby Gardens
Castle Ashby Gardens are extensive and beautiful gardens surrounding a stately home. They feature a variety of garden styles, including Italian gardens, a rose garden, and an arboretum. Visitors can explore the gardens, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the stunning views.
Delapré Abbey
Delapré Abbey is a historic abbey with a fascinating past. It has been a religious site, a private residence, and a military hospital. Visitors can explore the abbey's historic buildings, wander through the beautiful gardens, and learn about the abbey's rich history.
Lamport Hall
Lamport Hall is a stately home with a rich history. It has been the home of the Isham family since the 16th century. Visitors can explore the house's impressive collection of art and furniture, wander through the beautiful gardens, and learn about the Isham family's history.
Coton Manor Gardens
Coton Manor Gardens are beautiful gardens surrounding a historic manor house. They feature a variety of garden styles, including a wild flower garden, a water garden, and a woodland garden. Visitors can explore the gardens, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the stunning views.
Irchester Country Park
Irchester Country Park is a large park with a variety of trails for walking, cycling, and horse riding. It also has a play area, a cafe, and a visitor centre. Visitors can enjoy a day out in nature, explore the park's trails, and learn about the local wildlife.
Becket's Park
Becket's Park is a green space in the heart of Northampton, offering a peaceful retreat from the town's hustle and bustle. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Day Trips
One of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, Rutland Water offers a range of outdoor activities. Enjoy cycling, walking, birdwatching, and watersports in this beautiful natural setting. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car from Northampton. A magnificent medieval castle with a rich history, Warwick Castle offers a thrilling day out for all ages. Explore the castle ramparts, witness live shows and demonstrations, and delve into the castle's fascinating past. It's a great place to experience medieval life.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car from Northampton. Home to the prestigious University of Oxford, this city is a treasure trove of stunning architecture, historic colleges, and world-class museums. Explore the Bodleian Library, climb Carfax Tower for panoramic views, and punt along the River Cherwell. Oxford offers a captivating glimpse into academic history and intellectual pursuits.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car or 1 hour by train from Northampton. A cathedral city with a rich history, Peterborough offers a mix of historical landmarks and modern attractions. Visit Peterborough Cathedral, explore Flag Fen Archaeology Park, and enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene. Peterborough provides a diverse and engaging day trip experience.
Approximately 1 hour by car or 1 hour by train from Northampton. The Cotswolds is a picturesque area of rolling hills and charming villages with honey-colored stone buildings. Explore Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bibury, enjoying the idyllic scenery and traditional English charm. It's perfect for a relaxing day of exploring quaint villages and enjoying the countryside.
Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 45 minutes by car to various villages from Northampton. A monumental country house, Blenheim Palace is the birthplace of Winston Churchill and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the opulent state rooms, wander through the extensive gardens, and learn about the palace's rich history. It's a stunning example of Baroque architecture and English heritage.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car from Northampton. The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming market town steeped in history and culture. Explore Shakespeare's family homes, catch a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and wander along the picturesque River Avon. The town offers a delightful blend of literary heritage and scenic beauty.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car or 1 hour 30 minutes by train from Northampton. Another renowned university city, Cambridge boasts beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and a vibrant cultural scene. Explore King's College Chapel, stroll along the Backs, and visit the Fitzwilliam Museum. Cambridge offers a blend of academic excellence and tranquil beauty.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car or 1 hour 45 minutes by train from Northampton. A vibrant city with a rich history, Leicester offers a mix of modern attractions and historical landmarks. Visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre, explore the National Space Centre, and discover the city's Roman heritage. Leicester provides a diverse and engaging day trip experience.
Approximately 1 hour by car or 45 minutes by train from Northampton. A modern city known for its innovative design and green spaces, Milton Keynes offers a variety of attractions. Visit Bletchley Park (the WWII codebreaking centre), explore the Xscape entertainment complex, and enjoy the city's extensive parkland. Milton Keynes provides a unique blend of history and contemporary attractions.
Approximately 30 minutes by car or 30 minutes by train from Northampton. Rutland Water
Travel Time
Activities
Warwick Castle
Travel Time
Activities
Oxford
Travel Time
Activities
Peterborough
Travel Time
Activities
Cotswolds
Travel Time
Activities
Blenheim Palace
Travel Time
Activities
Stratford-upon-Avon
Travel Time
Activities
Cambridge
Travel Time
Activities
Leicester
Travel Time
Activities
Milton Keynes
Travel Time
Activities