Located in central England between London and Derby, historic Northampton boasts an artisan shoemaking heritage, links to Formula 1 car racing, and Iron Age history. Despite these claims to fame, the town isn’t a big tourist destination; however, those “in the know” will find an interesting selection of things to do in Northampton. Tour a bespoke shoe factory; visit historic homes such as Delapre Abbey and Althorp House; and embrace British motorsports at nearby Silverstone, where driving experiences and British Formula 1 Grand Prix races beckon.
The best time to visit Northampton is during the summer (June-September), when it’s warmer and relatively quiet without the university’s student population in town. Just expect family-friendly attractions such as Delapre Abbey to be busier with children during the summer school vacation from late July to early September. Accommodations may also be more expensive around the dates of the British Formula 1 Grand Prix at the start of July.
Northampton town center is walkable, though taxis, rideshares, and buses are widely available. If you want to explore further afield, there’s a direct train service to London Euston that only takes an hour, although other train routes to nearby destinations are often slow and involve changes. To take advantage of Northampton’s central location, hire a car that will give you the freedom to roam; there are different rental options in town.
There are few better places to shop for men’s bespoke shoes than Northampton, England’s historic shoemaking capital. Shop for classic handmade shoes at the Crockett & Jones factory shop on Perry Street, fine leather footwear at Tricker’s Factory Shop near Kettering Gardens, and custom-made contemporary shoes at Jeffrey West HQ on Cliftonville Road. Church’s Factory Shop on St. James is by appointment only.
