12 Top Fun Things to do in Northampton, Ma

Northampton is one of the cities that have faced a lot of issues in the past but it has bounced back all the time. Be it the 1675s Great Fire or any other disaster, this city has come forward strongly. This is one of the biggest reasons why it is the leather and shoemaking capital of England. But this is not the only reason for visiting Northampton. It has so many historical and manmade attractions to see. To make your trip a bit easier and full of fun, below we have listed a few things to do in Northampton.

So, continue reading to find out more.

What to do in Northampton, England this Weekend?

1. 78 Derngate

It is a Georgian House that was restyled by the famous architect cum designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh in 1916-17. Home of a popular businessman – Wenman Joseph Bassett-Lowke, it is the only house designed by Charles in England. After 18 months of a long restoration process,78 Derngate was opened as a public attraction in 2003.

The main reason for visiting this place is to explore the beauties closely that are designed by Mackintosh. Be it enamelwork, stained glass, or wooden paneling, a lot of things are here to see and learn, particularly for budding architects.

2. Guildhall

The continuous growth of Northampton leads to the need for a new hall. Hence, the great Edward William Godwin came forward and designed this town hall. He was only 28 years of age when he came up with this new-gothic-styled hall. Long rows with ornate tracery, pointed arches, friezes, and statues are the main attractions.

This hall also consists of a memorial of Princess Diana. To have a detailed understanding of this great hall, you should arrange a tour. In addition to this, do not be in a hurry when you are here. Spend sufficient time to see the gothic-styled murals and other beautiful points.

3. Northampton Museum and Art Gallery

Visiting this place is one of the fun things to do in Northampton. Since this city is known for its leather and shoemaking industries, you will find the world’s widest collection of footwear and other similar items here. In addition to this, numerous exhibitions used to take place that you can attend to see old-time instruments of shoemaking. Apart from this, you can also see other decorative items like pottery, glassware, porcelain, etc.

4. Abington Park

It is one of the oldest parks in Northampton. People adore for so many good reasons. It includes floral displays, beautiful gardens, ornamental lakes, archaeological remains, cafes, and museums. The most notable thing about this park is that it has a special ‘touch garden’ for those who cannot see from their eyes.

Another amazing thing about this place is that every Sunday in summer, the park organizes special jazz, brass bands, folk, and classical music events. All these make visiting this place a must thing to do in Northampton this weekend.

5. Abington Park Museum

A manor house in the 15 century, it was home to Elizabeth Bernard – the granddaughter of the world-famous William Shakespeare. This building has gone through numerous changes so far. If we talk about the main attractions, the Oak Room is the very first thing that you see after entering. In addition to this, the Abington Park Museum consists of the military history of Northampton.

6. The Holy Sepulchre

It is one of the oldest buildings in Northampton. Moreover, it is also one of the four “Norman Round Churches” in the country. Started by Simon I de Senlis at the beginning of the 12th century, he along with his team followed the concept of Jerusalem’s circular design.

In the last 900 years, this place has gone through numerous alterations. With time, a chancel, a nave, and aisles were created on the eastern side. However, the “Norman Circular Church” is still under the baptistery.

7. Castle Ashby Gardens

It is an Elizabethan Prodigy House. Built by Queen Elizabeth-I, Castle Ashby is the place that you should visit if you are in Northampton. But keep in mind that you will need to schedule your visit in advance by an appointment. But the garden area is open around the year. 

Visiting this place is one of the greatest things to do with kids in Northampton. It is because you can take them to explore the butterfly garden, secret garden, walled garden, theatrical Italian gardens, etc.

8. Hunsbury Hill

Built 2500 (around) years ago, it is a natural-looking and huge park with criss crossed style walking trails. Here, you can find evidence of the ironstone quarry from the 19th century. The historic road bisects this park – Banbury Lane. It is one of the things that can appeal to professional as well as amateur historians.

9. National Lift Tower

In the silhouette of Northampton, this National Lift Tower is mentioned as an abiding specification. It is around 127.5 meters tall, and opened by the great Queen, the National Lift Tower is one of the two “lift testing” towers in the entire Europe.

It is a hallowed tower with 6 lift shafts. The tallest shaft is around 100 meters high and has a speed of around 10 meters/second. This tower belongs to the Express Lift Factory but it shut down in 1997. However, it reopened in 2009 as a leading facility. Currently, you might not be able to visit this tower, but you can definitely appreciate this monument from a distance.

10. Sywell Country Park

If you are looking for a fun thing to do in Northampton today, then you can plan a trip to Sywell Country Park. It is just 15 minutes drive away from the main city. This beautiful place encompasses a water body that is a much-loved fishery. 

You can also see the arboretum that is created with various exotic trees. Along with this, there is an elegantly manufactured Edwardian Pump House. But It is a cafe now. The shores of this place contain a butterfly garden along with numerous picnic meadows and a 3-mile trail. It is a perfect spot to visit with your family to spend some quality time with each other.

11. Phipps Northampton Brewery Company

This is a popular “ale and stout” brand that has been brewing here for over 200 years. However, it is not working constantly. For instance, it was opened in 1817 but closed in 1974. After a few years, it opened again. 

Apart from this, the Phipps Northampton Brewery Company has a brick building that was opened in 1884. You can come here throughout the week (except for Mondays) to learn about the historical significance of this place. If you think that visiting this place and exploring it are the only fun things, then you are wrong. It is because there is also a bar – Albion Bar which was opened in 2015. Here, you can try gins and flavored drinks.

12. Cottesbrooke Hall and Gardens

Another amazing place to visit in Northampton for unlimited fun is Cottesbrooke Hall and Gardens. This is a Queen Anne Style house along with a garden that is from the 18th century. To explore this beautiful hall and garden, you will need a tour of at least 60-90 minutes. 

Housing interiors, family portraits, fine ceramics, 18th-century furniture, and uniquely designed walls are a few things that are worth capturing with the camera. The most notable attraction of this place is its gardens. This is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Northampton as people come here to understand and appreciate the historical magnificence.

Closing remarks

Along with the spots listed above, you can also visit the Coton Manor Garden, Althorp Estate, and Northampton Market. These are the places to gain unusual travel experiences and find amazing things to do in Northampton. And yes, you can also do your own online research to find more hidden gems for your exploration. Lastly, always check the climatic conditions, prices of the air tickets and accommodations, and local rules before visiting. All these will multiply your joy. So, what are you waiting for? Start your research, book your tickets, and have a happy trip!

Find out more interesting Things to do in England here:-

• Things To Do in Filey, England.
• Things To Do in Skegness, Lincolnshire (England).