Towcester Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Towcester with this comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, this guide has got you covered.


A Complete Travel Guide to Towcester

Towcester is a town located in Northamptonshire, East Midlands, England. It’s a historic market town that has deep roots in Roman history. Beyond that, Towcester is also an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts with multiple parks, walking, and cycling trails that lead to scenic areas. In this extensive guide, we’ll take cover everything you need to know to plan a perfect visit to Towcester.

List of Places to Visit in Towcester

Towcester might be a small town, but there are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Let’s explore a list of noteworthy places that tourists must visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Towcester Museum: The Towcester Museum is located in a Grade ll listed building in the heart of the town. It provides an insight into Towcester’s development through the ages. It is also home to a collection of artifacts that detail the town’s history, including the Stone Age, Roman occupation, and the Industrial Revolution.

  • St Lawrence’s Church: The St Lawrence church is one of the oldest structures in Towcester, with its construction dating back to before the Norman Conquest. It’s a Grade l listed building known for being the only cruciform church in Northamptonshire.

  • Roman ruins: Towcester was known as Lactodorum during the Roman occupation, and there are still visible ruins around the town. The Towcester Roman site is an impressive trail for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the well-preserved remains of the forts, streets, and public baths.

Natural Attractions of Towcester: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Towcester Mill Brewery: The Towcester Mill Brewery has a range of craft beers and cask ales that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Visitors can tour the brewery and learn about the beer-making process.

  • Towcester Racecourse: The Towcester Racecourse is nestled between the rolling hills just outside the town. It is one of the most scenic racecourses in the UK, surrounded by lush greenery and charming countryside. Its proximity to the town makes it an ideal day trip for visitors.

  • Bury Mount: The Bury Mount is a well-known landmark in Towcester. It’s a natural hill that provides an exceptional view of the surrounding area. The hill is home to an Iron Age fort and is a magnet for history enthusiasts and hikers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Towcester

Towcester is known for its vast open spaces, and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Here are some of the best trails:

  • Tove Valley Trail: The Tove Valley Trail is a 14-mile trail that takes walkers through picturesque countryside. The trail follows the river Tove from Towcester to Northampton.

  • Pury End Bridleway: The Pury End Bridleway starts in Towcester, weaving through the countryside for 19-miles. It is a favorite among serious cyclists due to its challenging terrain and stunning scenery.

  • Millennium Cycle Route: The Millennium Cycle Route is a 7-mile route that passes through ancient woodlands, quaint villages, and tranquil countryside. The trail is family-friendly and is perfect for a leisurely ride.

Best Things to Do in Towcester: Activities and Tours

From outdoor activities to cultural tours, Towcester has plenty of options to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the top things to do in Towcester:

  • TourS2Door: TourS2Door is a local company that offers guided tours throughout the town. The tour covers the historical significance of Towcester and provides information about the town’s heritage.

  • Towcester Rock School: The Towcester Rock School is a great place for aspiring musicians. The school provides guitar, bass, and drum lessons, and caters to all skill levels.

  • Wine Tasting at Vin Neuf: Vin Neuf is a wine shop located in Towcester that offers wine tastings. It’s an excellent place for wine lovers to sample some of the best wine the region has to offer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Towcester

For a comprehensive visit to Towcester, here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
Monday Visit St. Lawrence’s Church and Towcester Museum
Tuesday Hiking the Tove Valley Trail
Wednesday Visit the Roman Ruins and take a TourS2Door tour
Thursday Cycling the Millennium Cycle Route
Friday Visit Towcester Mill Brewery and try some local beer
Saturday Visit Bury Mount and explore the Iron Age fort
Sunday Experience the thrill of horse racing at Towcester Racecourse

Food and Drink Scene of Towcester

No visit to Towcester is complete without indulging in some delicious food and drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages that are unique to Towcester:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Saracen’s Head Lamb Shank: The Saracen’s Head Lamb Shank is a dish that is unique to Towcester. It’s a hearty meal made with locally sourced, tenderly cooked lamb shanks and served with seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes, and rich gravy.

  • Bosworth’s Cafe Scones: If you’re in the mood for a light snack, make sure to stop by Bosworth’s Cafe for their freshly baked scones. This cozy little cafe is a great spot to grab some tea and enjoy a British classic.

Local Beverages

  • Towcester Mill Brewery Beer: Local beer from the Towcester Mill Brewery is a must-try for beer enthusiasts. They have a variety of innovative brews that are sure to please your taste buds.

  • Towcester Tea: The Towcester Tea is made from locally grown, hand-picked tea leaves. This delightful beverage is an excellent alternative for those looking for a caffeine fix without the kick.

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

Towcester offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses.

  • The Saracen’s Head Hotel: The Saracen’s Head Hotel is a Grade II listed building that dates back to the 17th century. The hotel combines elegance with modern amenities and provides visitors with a unique and comfortable experience.

  • The Old Chapel: The Old Chapel is a renovated 19th-century chapel that now serves as a cozy bed and breakfast. It provides visitors with a peaceful and serene environment, just outside the bustling town.

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

Towcester offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products that make for perfect keepsakes and mementos:

  • Honeysuckle and Castle: Honeysuckle and Castle is a local company that produces hand-crafted confections, jams, and chutneys. These delicious products are a perfect way to bring some local flavor back home.

  • Towcester Tea Room’s Homemade Fudge: The Towcester Tea Room’s Homemade Fudge is a delightful assortment of creamy, sweet treats. These fudges are a perfect souvenir for those with a sweet tooth.

Local Culture and Customs of Towcester

The people of Towcester are friendly and hospitable. Visitors will find the locals welcoming and easy to get along with. As a small town, Towcester seems to have a sense of community. Visitors will often notice residents are engaging in friendly chatter or making a trip to the nearby market on the weekends.

Best Time to Visit Towcester

The best time to visit Towcester is from April to September. With milder temperatures, visitors will be able to enjoy the vast open spaces and gardens that make the town unique.

Do’s and Don’ts of Towcester

Every town has a unique set of customs, and Towcester is no different. Here are some tips on what to do and avoid when visiting Towcester:

Do:

  • Visit the local markets on Fridays and Saturdays.

  • Try some local food and drinks.

  • Explore the town and take in the unique architecture.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces. Towcester is a town that takes pride in its natural and historic beauty, so visitors should take care to keep it clean.

Safety and Health

Safety in Towcester

Towcester is a safe town, and crimes are few and far between. As with any place, visitors should still take care and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Towcester

Towcester has multiple medical facilities that provide excellent medical care. Visitors should ensure they carry all the necessary medication as not all medicine will be available over the counter.

Getting to Towcester: Transportation Options and Logistics

Towcester is accessible by various modes of transportation. Let’s take a look at some of the options available:

  • Air: The nearest airport to Towcester is the London Luton Airport.

  • Train: The nearest train station is Northampton train station, which is connected to the major cities across the UK.

  • Bus: There are regular bus services that connect Towcester to the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Towcester

Towcester is relatively small, and visitors can explore the town on foot or by cycling. Buses also run throughout the town, and taxis are available for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Towcester: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Towcester’s location in Northamptonshire provides access to many nearby destinations that are perfect for day trips. Here are some of the top places to visit:

  • Silverstone Circuit: The Silverstone Circuit is a motor racing circuit located just outside the town. Visitors can take a tour of the circuit and visit the race-day memorabilia.

  • Canons Ashby House: Canons Ashby House is a National Trust property located near Towcester. The house provides visitors a glimpse of the lifestyle of the Elizabethans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Towcester is a town that offers visitors a unique mix of history, nature, and culture. From the Roman ruins to the scenic countryside, Towcester is perfect for anyone looking for a refreshing break. The town’s warm hospitality, natural landscapes, and local delicacies make it a perfect must-visit destination. So whatever your interests, Towcester is a destination that should not be missed.