An Introduction to Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire (shortened as Northants) is situated in central England and less than one hour from London and possibly England's most beautiful, undiscovered county, which surprises everyone who hasn't visited before.

With gently undulating agricultural country, devoted to pasture and forests with the Nene as the main river the county has had to survive a decline in its traditional industries of iron, steel, boot and shoe production. But being described as ‘England’s most beautiful county’ bodes well for tourism. The Roman roads Ermine Street and Watling Street crossed the county and in Anglo-Saxon times the area was part of the kingdom of Mercia and was probably organized as a shire in Danish times.

For the visitor to this undiscovered county you come to walk along leafy bridle paths or peaceful towpaths, or to discover the many historic houses and gardens that punctuate the landscape. There are tranquil surroundings with thatched roofs, mellow stone and gentle, rolling countryside.

The county has a high concentration of great houses in grand surroundings. Of these places, those especially suited for families include richly furnished Boughton House (with its adventure playground), Sulgrave Manor (splendid historically themed events), and the county’s Family Attraction of the Year, Holdenby House, replete with lovely gardens, falconry centre, and lively bank holiday period re-creations. Wicksteed Park on the edge of Kettering is a good treat for children, Manor House Museum in the town itself has free children's activities in school holidays, and boat trips are just part of the fun at the Stoke Bruerne canal museum. No visit to the county could be complete without a visit to Princess Diana’s final resting place at her family home of Althorpe.