Things to Do in Northampton

A museum dedicated to the town's history, with a world-famous collection of historic shoes and rotating art exhibitions.

🕐 Mon-Sat: 10:00-17:00, Sun: 13:00-16:00

💡 The shoe collection includes items from Queen Victoria onwards. Check the gallery's events schedule for temporary exhibitions which are often free.

One of the four surviving medieval round churches in England, built in 1100 by the Earl of Northampton.

🕐 Mon-Sat: 09:00-16:00, Sun: 13:00-16:00

💡 Best visited on a weekday afternoon when it's quiet. The round nave is the oldest part – look for the Norman arches and corbels. Entry is free, but donations welcome.

A riverside park with a memorial to Thomas Becket, a riverside walk, children's play area, and open grass for picnics.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 There's a free public car park just off London Road (walkable to town). The park gets lively on sunny weekends – bring a blanket and watch the riverboats go past.

A large green space with formal gardens, a lake with ducks and swans, and the remains of a medieval manor house.

🕐 Open daily: 07:00-dusk

💡 The park cafe does a decent cheap cuppa, and the museum building (Abington Park Museum) is free to enter on certain days – check ahead for opening times.

A low-cost guided tour of a working brewery, including the history of brewing in Northampton and a tasting session.

🕐 Fri-Sat: tours at 11:00, 13:00 & 15:00; check website for seasonal changes

💡 The tour costs around £10-12 per person and includes a pint or two. Book online in advance to save a few quid and guarantee a spot – weekends fill fast.