Andrew Walker (walker44), Althorp House, CC BY-SA 3.0
We’re lucky to be based in the heart of the UK where we can travel to many beautiful towns and cities. The county of Northamptonshire is well known to us so we’ve compiled the top places you must visit if you’re ever nearby.
Northampton
The county town of Northampton is one of the largest UK towns and has a rich and varied history. The market square is one of Britain’s oldest and largest, dating back to 1235. You can walk around the ruins of the Norman Northampton Castle which was built in around 1084.
The Althorp Estate
This Grade I listed stately home has been the residence of the Spencer family for over 500 years. The extensive 13,000 acres contain 28 listed buildings and Diana, Princess of Wales is buried in the grounds. The house and grounds are available to visit from May to September.
Irchester Country Park
This country park has something for the whole family to enjoy. From the adventure course with zip wires for the brave to over 200 acres of woodland; enjoy being out and about in the great outdoors.
Stanwick Lakes
A local nature reserve in the heart of the Northamptonshire countryside, cycle, walk or picnic amongst the wildflowers, otters and kingfishers which are regularly spotted.
Wicksteed Park
This amusement park near Kettering is the second oldest in the UK having opened in 1921. Its waterchute is the oldest ride still in use in the UK. From the ever-popular carousel to roller-coasters; this is a great day out.
The Jurassic Way
If hiking is more your thing, you will enjoy the 88-mile footpath known as the Jurassic Way. Spanning from Banbury in Oxfordshire to Stamford in Lincolnshire, take in some beautiful scenery along this ancient ridgeway.
Bugtopia
If creepy-crawlies don’t make you run for the hills, Bugtopia in Kettering could be a great way to entertain the children. Get the chance to handle and feed everything from scorpions and giant African land snails to tarantulas.
Silverstone
If you’re looking for an adrenaline filled way to spend the day; Silverstone race track is the place to be. Home of the British Grand Prix, try your hand at taking an Aston Martin or Ferrari around the famous track. You could even try a stunt driving experience.
Kirby Hall
If you can’t get enough of the historic houses Northamptonshire has to offer, you must make a visit to Kirby Hall. This classic example of an Elizabethan home was once owned by the Lord Chancellor to Elizabeth I, Sir Christopher Hatton. Though partly ruined, the Great Hall and state rooms are still as they were hundreds of years ago.
West Lodge Rural Centre
This working farm in Desborough is a great place where children can learn about animals and looking after the countryside. With hands-on experiences including the cuddle corner and piglet racing, as well as pony riding; there’s plenty for all animal lovers to enjoy.
High quality home improvements across Northamptonshire
If your home could do with some brightening up, come and visit us in our Northampton showroom or get in touch today. From double glazing to composite doors and conservatories, we have everything you need.
