Northamptonshire Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Northamptonshire, alongside safety and transportation information.


Northamptonshire is a beautiful county located in the East Midlands region of England. This historic location is home to a number of cultural and natural attractions and offers visitors a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From scenic views to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in Northamptonshire. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Northamptonshire, alongside safety and transportation information.

Introduction to Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire is a county of contrast. It is located between the major cities of Birmingham and London and is a perfect stop for those travelers looking for a quick escape. From countryside to cities, Northamptonshire has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire has plenty of places worth visiting. Some of the must-see places include:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Althorp House and Park
  2. Rushton Triangular Lodge
  3. Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
  4. Cottesbrooke Hall and Gardens
  5. 78 Derngate

Natural Attractions of Northamptonshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Salcey Forest
  2. Brampton Valley Way
  3. Rockingham Forest
  4. Pitsford Water
  5. Daventry Country Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northamptonshire

For those who love getting out and exploring, Northamptonshire has a lot to offer. Some of the most famous hiking and biking routes in Northamptonshire include:

  1. The Brampton Valley Way
  2. The Jurassic Way
  3. The Northamptonshire Round
  4. The Nene Way

Best Things to Do in Northamptonshire: Activities and Tours

Northamptonshire offers many exciting things to do and see. Some of them are:

  1. Silverstone Circuit for thrilling car racing experiences.
  2. Canons Ashby for a historical and cultural experience.
  3. The Canal Museum for a unique insight into the life and history of the canals.
  4. Rockingham Castle, a magnificent building and venue for exciting events.
  5. The Nene Whitewater Centre, perfect for water-related adventures and activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire offers tourists plenty of activities and places to visit over an extended period. An itinerary for a week-long stay in Northamptonshire might look like this:

Day Place of Interest
Day 1 Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
Day 2 Salcey Forest and Pitsford Water
Day 3 Canons Ashby and Rushton Triangular Lodge
Day 4 Silverstone Circuit and Stowe House
Day 5 Wicksteed Park and Rockingham Castle
Day 6 Althorp House and Park and Daventry Country Park
Day 7 The Canal Museum and Cottesbrooke Hall and Gardens

Food and Drink Scene of Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire is known for its diverse cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Northamptonshire are:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pork Pies
  2. Stilton Cheese
  3. Gingerbread
  4. Marmite
  5. Bakewell Tarts

Local Beverages

  1. Phipps Gin
  2. Hart Family Brewers’ Craft Ales
  3. Warner Edwards Spirits

Where to Stay in Northamptonshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northamptonshire has a range of accommodations to fit your budget, including:

  1. Sedgebrook Hall
  2. Hilton Northampton
  3. Sunley Hotel
  4. The Red Lion
  5. Ibis Wellingborough

What to Buy in Northamptonshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Northamptonshire offers a range of souvenirs and products to bring back home, including:

  1. Northamptonshire-made shoes
  2. Pottery by The Potting Studio
  3. Organic bread from Hambleton Bakery
  4. Brackley Boats
  5. Cheese from Websters

Local Culture and Customs of Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire locals are known for their friendly demeanor and welcoming attitude. The county has a rich cultural heritage and has played a significant role in English history.

Best Time to Visit Northamptonshire

The best time to visit Northamptonshire is during the summer months (June to August) when temperatures are high, and the weather is pleasant. However, the offseason (October to March) can also be a good time to visit, with fewer crowds and milder temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northamptonshire

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine.
  2. Visit the historical sites.
  3. Explore the numerous hiking and biking routes.

Don’t:

  1. Forget to carry a jacket, as the weather can change suddenly.
  2. Smoke in public places as it’s illegal in England.
  3. Underestimate traffic during rush hour.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire is a safe place for tourists. Emergency services like police and ambulance are easily accessible. Visitors should be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and take care of their personal belongings.

Health in Northamptonshire

Medical facilities in Northamptonshire are of good quality. Visitors are advised to take necessary health precautions before traveling and inform their physician of any medication they may be taking.

Getting to Northamptonshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northamptonshire

The nearest airports to Northamptonshire are Birmingham International Airport and London Luton Airport.

Bus Stations Near Northamptonshire

The county has several bus stations, with National Express providing services from all major cities to Northamptonshire.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Northamptonshire via rail, with East Midlands and London Midland providing services to the area. It is also easily accessible by car as several major highways and motorways connect it to the rest of the country.

How to Get Around in Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. Taxis and rental cars are also available. Biking and hiking are other popular modes of transport in the area, best suited to explore some of the scenic routes of Northamptonshire.

Where to Go Next from Northamptonshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northamptonshire has several nearby destinations that are worth visiting. Some of them are:

  1. Warwick Castle
  2. Stratford-upon-Avon
  3. Oxford
  4. Cambridge

Conclusion

Northamptonshire is a well-rounded tourist destination for visitors who love outdoor adventures, rich culture, history, and vibrant cuisine. Plan a trip to Northamptonshire, where you can explore medieval heritage sites, enjoy beautiful scenery, and take part in exciting outdoor activities. Use this travel guide to plan your Northamptonshire itinerary and make the most of your visit.

Map of Northamptonshire Map of Northamptonshire


    Corby
    Rushden
    Towcester
    Wellingborough