As the summer months approach, many of us begin to think about how we can make the most of our free time, whether that’s exploring new places, trying out exciting activities, or simply enjoying quality time with family and friends. For those living in or visiting South Northamptonshire, there’s no shortage of unmissable events and attractions to discover. From outdoor adventures in picturesque parks and green spaces to cultural attractions and world-class museums, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of England.

The Best Places to Live in Northamptonshire

I’m often asked what makes Northamptonshire such a great place to live, and I’m happy to share my insider knowledge.

• Northampton Town Centre: A vibrant hub of activity, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cultural events to enjoy.
• Daventry: A charming market town with a rich history, surrounded by picturesque countryside and scenic walks.
• Rushden: A thriving community with excellent schools, amenities, and transport links, making it a popular choice for families.
• Kettering: A bustling market town with a strong sense of community, offering a range of housing options and employment opportunities.
• A historic market town with a rich heritage, boasting a mix of old and new architecture, and a lively atmosphere.

When considering the best places to live in Northamptonshire, it’s essential to think about factors like lifestyle, commute, and access to amenities.

1. Lifestyle: From rural villages to bustling towns, Northamptonshire has something for everyone.
2. Commute: With excellent road and rail links, getting around the county is easy, whether you work locally or commute to nearby cities.
3. Amenities: From shopping centres to parks and green spaces, there’s always something to do or explore in Northamptonshire.

As someone who loves living in Northamptonshire, I can confidently say that there’s no shortage of amazing places to call home.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful village retreat or a bustling urban centre, Northamptonshire has something for every taste and preference.

So why not come and discover the best places to live in Northamptonshire for yourself?

Learn More About Living in Northamptonshire

Things to Do in Northampton Today

As a resident or tourist in Northampton, I’m excited to share with you the numerous activities and attractions available in our beautiful town.

• Nature Escapes

  Escape into nature at one of our many parks and green spaces, such as Abington Park or Delapre Park. Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or enjoy a game of tennis or bowls.

  • Visit the Abington Park Museum to learn about the history and culture of Northampton.
  • Explore the beautiful gardens and woodland walks at Delapre Park.

• Culture and Arts

  Discover the rich cultural heritage of Northampton at one of our many museums and galleries.

  • Visit the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery to see exhibits on local history, art, and archaeology.
  • Check out the latest exhibitions at the Guildhall Arts Centre.

• Shopping and Dining

  Treat yourself to a day of shopping and dining in Northampton’s bustling town centre.

  • Visit the Grosvenor Shopping Centre for a wide range of high-street brands and independent retailers.
  • Enjoy a meal at one of our many restaurants, cafes, or pubs, serving everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine.

• Sports and Adventure

  Get active and try something new in Northampton!

  • Take a bike ride along the Grand Union Canal or explore the countryside on horseback.
  • Play a round of golf at one of our many courses, including the prestigious Wootton Hall Golf Club.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or entertainment, Northampton has something for everyone. So why not come and discover what our wonderful town has to offer?

For more ideas and inspiration, check out our blog at South Northants Leisure.

What’s On in Northamptonshire for Kids?

We’re proud to share our knowledge of the best things to do in Northamptonshire for kids.

• Theatre and Performance

  • The Royal & Derngate theatre in Northampton hosts various productions suitable for children, including pantomimes and musicals.
  • The Corby Cube is another popular venue offering live performances and events for kids.

• Museums and Galleries

  • The Northampton Museum and Art Gallery features interactive exhibits and displays perfect for young minds.
  • The Kettering Museum and Art Gallery showcases local history and art, with hands-on activities for kids.

• Parks and Outdoor Spaces

  • Abington Park in Northampton boasts beautiful gardens, a lake, and plenty of space for picnics and playtime.
  • The Irthlingborough Lakes and Meadows nature reserve offers walking trails, birdwatching, and opportunities to spot wildlife.

• Indoor Play Centres

  • Playzone in Wellingborough provides a large indoor play area with ball pits, slides, and climbing frames.
  • The Soft Play Centre in Kettering features a dedicated area for younger children, with soft play equipment and sensory toys.

• Outdoor Adventures

  • Northamptonshire has numerous parks and green spaces ideal for cycling, scootering, and skateboarding.
  • The county also offers several outdoor adventure centres, such as the Northamptonshire Outdoor Learning Trust, which provide activities like archery, rock climbing, and zip lining.

• Events and Festivals

  • The Northampton Festival takes place annually, featuring live music, food stalls, and activities for kids.
  • The Kettering Arts Festival celebrates local talent, with workshops, performances, and exhibitions for all ages.

For more information on these and other attractions, visit our website at southnorthantsleisure.com.

Whats On In Northampton In August

I’m excited to share with you the exciting events happening in Northampton this August.

• Outdoor Events

  • The Northampton Summer Festival returns this year with live music performances, delicious food stalls, and fun activities for all ages.
  • The Abington Park Summer Concert Series features a lineup of talented musicians performing in the beautiful surroundings of Abington Park.
  • The Northampton Outdoor Cinema screens classic films under the stars in the picturesque setting of Delapre Abbey.

• Cultural Events

  • The Northampton Museum & Art Gallery hosts an exhibition showcasing the works of local artists, highlighting the town’s rich artistic heritage.
  • The Royal & Derngate theatre presents a production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, featuring a talented cast and stunning set design.
  • The Northampton Library hosts a series of author talks and book signings, offering a unique opportunity to meet and greet with local writers.

• Sporting Events

  • The Northampton Saints Rugby Club takes on their rivals in a thrilling match at Franklin’s Gardens.
  • The Northampton Town Football Club faces off against their opponents in a highly anticipated league match at Sixfields Stadium.
  • The Northampton Rowing Club hosts a regatta event, attracting rowers from across the country to compete in various categories.

• Festivals And Fairs

  • The Northampton Food Festival celebrates the town’s culinary delights, featuring local producers, artisanal foods, and cooking demonstrations.
  • The Northampton Craft Fair showcases handmade crafts, artwork, and unique gifts, perfect for finding special souvenirs.
  • The Northampton Vintage Car Show displays an impressive collection of vintage vehicles, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.

These are just a few of the many exciting events taking place in Northampton this August. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, sporting events, or festivals and fairs, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant town.

Who is the most famous person from Northampton?

We’re proud to say that Northampton has produced some incredibly talented individuals who have made a name for themselves in various fields.

• Rowan Atkinson – Best known for his iconic character Mr. Bean, Rowan Atkinson is a renowned English actor, comedian, and screenwriter.
• Tim Minchin – A multi-talented Australian-British comedian, actor, musician, writer, and composer, Tim Minchin is widely recognized for his unique blend of music and comedy.
• Matt Smith – As the Eleventh Doctor in the popular British sci-fi series “Doctor Who,” Matt Smith brought a fresh and youthful energy to the role, captivating audiences worldwide.
• Alan Carr – With his quick wit and sharp tongue, Alan Carr has become a household name in the UK, entertaining millions with his stand-up comedy routines and television appearances.
• Sophie Turner – Although born in South Africa, Sophie Turner has strong connections to Northampton, having attended school there before rising to fame as Sansa Stark in HBO’s hit series “Game of Thrones.”
• Alan Moore – A critically acclaimed comic book writer, novelist, and promoter of social justice, Alan Moore is widely regarded as one of the most influential creators in the history of comics.
• Michael Underwood – As a television presenter and journalist, Michael Underwood has worked on numerous high-profile shows, including the BBC’s “Top Gear” and “BBC Breakfast.”
• Graeme Swann – A former English cricketer, Graeme Swann played for the national team between 2008 and 2013, earning a reputation as a skilled bowler and witty commentator.
• Jo Whiley – A well-known British radio presenter, Jo Whiley has hosted several popular shows on BBC Radio 2, including her own weekday morning program.

These individuals showcase the incredible talent and diversity that Northampton has to offer, making it a truly special place to live and visit.

Whether you’re interested in comedy, acting, music, or sports, Northampton has something for everyone, and we’re proud to call these individuals our own.

So next time you’re in Northampton, take a moment to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and talented individuals that call this amazing town home.

What is Northampton Most Famous For?

Northampton is situated in the heart of England and has a rich history dating back centuries. The town is most famous for its long-standing shoe industry, which has been a significant contributor to the local economy for generations. In fact, during World War I, the shoemakers in Northamptonshire supplied over two-thirds of the 70 million pairs of footwear required, thanks to the thriving tanning industry in the area.

As a result, Northampton has earned the nickname “the shoe town” or “the capital of footwear.” The city is home to several renowned shoe manufacturers, including Clarks, Dr. Martens, and Karrimor, among others. These companies have played a crucial role in shaping the town’s identity and contributing to its economic growth.

In addition to its shoe industry, Northampton is also known for its cultural heritage, beautiful parks, and vibrant community events. Visitors can explore the town’s historic architecture, visit museums, and enjoy various festivals and fairs throughout the year.

• The town’s shoe industry has a long history, dating back to the 17th century.
• Northampton was once the largest producer of shoes in the world.
• The town is still home to many shoe manufacturers, including Clarks and Dr. Martens.
• Northampton hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Things to Do in Northampton

If you’re planning a visit to Northampton, there are plenty of things to see and do. Some popular attractions include:

• The Guildhall Museum, which showcases the town’s history and culture.
• The Abington Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s shoe industry and its significance.
• The Delapre Park, a beautiful green space perfect for walking and picnicking.
• The Northampton Castle, a historic landmark that dates back to the 12th century.

Getting Around Northampton

Northampton is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. The town has a well-connected public transportation system, making it easy to get around. Visitors can also walk or cycle through the town’s scenic routes and parks.