Northampton

Northampton is a large market town and the county town of Northamptonshire in the East Midlands of England. It’s situated approximately 67 miles (108 km) north-west of London and 50 miles (80 km) south-east of Birmingham, making it one of the largest towns in the UK.

Northampton’s history can be traced back to the Bronze Age, Roman, and Anglo-Saxon periods. Notably, the town was a major center for shoemaking and other leather industries during the 19th and 20th centuries, earning a reputation for producing high-quality footwear. This rich industrial history is still evident today, with several surviving factories and an active ‘Cordwainer’ sculpture in the town center, a tribute to this heritage.

In terms of landmarks, Northampton has a lot to offer. The Guildhall, with its intricate Gothic architecture, is one of the town’s most distinctive buildings. The All Saints’ Church, rebuilt in the late 17th century after the Great Fire of Northampton, and Delapré Abbey, a former nunnery dating back to the 12th century, both hold significant historical importance.

The town also boasts the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, home to the world’s largest collection of historic footwear. The museum tells the story of Northampton’s growth and prosperity, primarily through its shoemaking industry.

Northampton’s thriving cultural scene includes the Royal & Derngate, one of the main theatres in the UK which offers a varied program of touring productions, and the Deco, a beautiful 1930s cinema and theatre that hosts comedy, musical performances, and more.

From a sports perspective, Northampton is well represented, particularly in rugby through the Northampton Saints and in football with Northampton Town FC, nicknamed the Cobblers – another nod to the town’s shoe-making past. The Silverstone Circuit, the famous Formula 1 track, is also nearby.

The town is a hub for higher education, with the University of Northampton offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs to both domestic and international students. It is recognised for its commitment to social enterprise, and its new Waterside campus, which opened in 2018, is a state-of-the-art facility.

With green spaces like Abington Park and the Racecourse, Northampton also provides ample opportunity for outdoor recreation. The Grand Union Canal, running through the town, is a beautiful spot for walking and boating.

In short, Northampton is a town of contrasts, blending its rich history with modern developments, and offering a diverse range of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities.

Created: 14 February 2022 Edited: 28 October 2024

Ravensthorpe

Northampton School for Boys

Old Northamptonians Association

Great Brington

Abington Park

Delapre Abbey

The Guildhall

Northampton

Nene - conf Whilton Branch to conf Brampton Branch Details

Nene - conf Whilton Branch to conf Brampton Branch

Nene - conf Whilton Branch to conf Brampton Branch is a river in Northamptonshire

Nene - conf Whilton Branch to conf Brampton Branch takes in water from an area around 40.732 km2 in size and is part of the Nene Upper catchment area.

Nene - conf Whilton Branch to conf Brampton Branch is 16.234 km long and is not designated artificial or heavily modified.

Abington Park

Abington Park is Northampton's oldest park.

Brampton Valley Way at Northampton

The Brampton Valley Way, a cherished recreational route in the United Kingdom, follows the former Northampton to Market Harborough railway line.

Brixworth

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Coton Manor Garden

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Cottesbrooke Hall

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Delapre Abbey

The past and present combine to create a fascinating fusion at Delapré Abbey, Northampton's hidden gem.

Duston

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Great Brington

Great Brington is a village and civil parish in the Daventry district of Northamptonshire

Kingsthorpe

Kingsthorpe is a vibrant suburb located in the town of Northampton, England.

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National Lift Tower

Grade II listed Express Lift Tower in Northampton is a 172 metre tall, lift testing tower that was completed in 1982.

Northampton Marina

Northampton Marina is a picturesque marina located on the River Nene in the town of Northampton, England.

Overstone Hall (ruin)

The estate was originally built in 1857 for the Earl and Countess of Northampton.

Ravensthorpe

Ravensthorpe is a village in Northampton, England.

Salcey Forest

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