Top 10 Things to Do in Northampton: Explore the Best Attractions

Aschartered accountants deeply rooted in Northampton's community, we're excited to share our insider's guide to this vibrant city. While we spend our days managing finances, we also take great pride in our hometown's rich culture and history. If you're wondering what to do in Northampton, we've compiled our top 10 favourite attractions that showcase why this populous city in the heart of England continues to captivate both residents and visitors alike.


1. Explore the Historic Guildhall

Standing proudly in the city centre, the Guildhall is a prime example of Northampton's beautiful architecture. Built during the Industrial Revolution, this Victorian Gothic masterpiece never fails to surprise visitors with its intricate details. The building tells the story of our city's past, with stunning stained glass windows and ornate stonework that earned it the top spot among local landmarks.

Historic Guildhall

2. Discover Abington Park

When it comes to green space, Northampton offers its fair share of outdoor retreats, but Abington Park takes first place in our hearts. As the oldest park in the city, it provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Compared to parks in London and other major cities in the southeast, Abington Park offers exceptional value for money, as entry is free. Families of all ages benefit from:

- Victorian flower gardens

- A scenic lake

- Children's play areas

- Historic buildings, including the Manor House Museum

- Regular music events in the bandstand


3. Visit the 78 Derngate

Art enthusiasts won't fear disappointment at 78 Derngate, the only house in England designed by renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. This property achieves the perfect balance between history and modern design. The house has been expertly restored to showcase its unique interior, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in architectural history. The galleries inside offer further information about the building's fascinating past.


4. Experience Northampton Market Square

For a true sense of our community's heart, visit the Market Square, which has been a centre of trade since the 13th century. The vast majority of residents agree that the market, with its vibrant atmosphere and local traders, represents the best of Northampton's character. Here you can:

- Shop for fresh local produce

- Explore artisanal crafts

- Sample street food

- Enjoy seasonal events


5. Immerse Yourself in the Culture at Royal & Derngate

As the main arts venue in Northampton, Royal & Derngate has earned high ratings from residents for its quality entertainment. The theatre complex hosts everything from West End shows to experimental productions, placing it among the best places for cultural entertainment outside London. The venue's overall quality rivals that of theatres in the capital but at more manageable ticket prices.


6. Explore Delapré Abbey

This beautiful former monastery offers a fascinating glimpse into Northampton's past. Recently restored, the Abbey provides visitors with an immersive historical experience. The surrounding parkland offers excellent green space for picnics and walks, while the on-site café and shop provide welcome refreshments. Unlike similar attractions in the UK, Delapré Abbey manages to combine history with modern amenities without losing its authentic charm.


7. Visit the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery

Recently renovated, this museum houses the world's largest collection of historical footwear, reflecting our city's legacy in the shoe industry. Beyond shoes, you'll find:

- Local history exhibits

- Contemporary art galleries

- Interactive displays for kids

- A welcoming café

- Regular special exhibitions

The museum's central location and free entry make it an excellent example of how Northampton supports its cultural heritage while keeping costs accessible.


8. Enjoy Becket's Park

Named after Thomas Becket, this riverside park offers a peaceful retreat near the city centre. With its marina and walking paths, it's a prime example of how Northampton utilises its natural assets. The park's safety record and well-maintained facilities have contributed to its positive crime statistics, making it popular with families and fitness enthusiasts alike.


9. Discover The Racecourse

Don't let the name fool you - while horse racing no longer takes place here, The Racecourse has evolved into one of Northampton's most versatile outdoor spaces. This vast park hosts:

- Sports facilities

- Community events

- Music festivals

- Regular park runs

- Family activities

The air quality here is notably better than the national average, making it perfect for outdoor exercise.


10. Experience the Nene White Water Centre

For those seeking adventure, the Nene White Water Centre offers an exciting break from city life. While there's always an element of risk in water sports, the centre's excellent safety record and professional support make it accessible for various skill levels. It's a unique attraction that sets Northampton apart from other cities in the region.


Living in Northampton: A Local Perspective

As accountants who work closely with local businesses and residents, we have unique insights into Northampton's economic landscape. The housing market here presents interesting opportunities, with property prices generally lower than the national average. Housing costs and rent remain more affordable than in nearby London, making our city increasingly attractive to young professionals and families.


Commuting costs are also relatively reasonable, and the city's central location provides excellent transport links to the rest of England. While places like Northern Ireland might offer lower living expenses in some areas, Northampton's combination of amenities and affordability gives it a competitive edge.


Quality of Life in Northampton

Recent data shows that Northampton's overall quality of life metrics compare favourably with those of other UK cities. While we might not always achieve second place in national rankings, our city consistently performs well in key areas:

- Cost of living

- Employment opportunities

- Access to green spaces

- Cultural offerings

- Community spirit

The vast majority of residents rate Northampton positively for its blend of urban amenities and suburban comfort. Sadly, like any city, we face our challenges, but the strong sense of community helps address these effectively.


Night Life and Entertainment

Northampton's nightlife caters to diverse tastes, from traditional pubs to modern bars and clubs. The cultural scene extends beyond daylight hours, with evening performances at various venues. While we might not match London's endless entertainment options, our city offers quality experiences at more reasonable prices.


Conclusion

Whether you're considering a move to Northampton or just planning to visit, our city offers a wealth of attractions and experiences. As local professionals who live and work here, we're invited to support various community initiatives and have seen firsthand how Northampton continues to evolve while maintaining its historic charm.

For further information about any of these attractions or to learn more about life in Northampton, feel free to contact our team at 10 Chartered Accountants. We're always happy to share our local knowledge alongside our professional expertise.


Contact Us

Address:

10. Chartered Accountants
10 Cheyne Walk, Northampton, NN1 5PT


Contact details

T: 01604 620 810
F: 01604 627 954
E: info@10ca.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions About Northampton

  • Is Northampton a good place to live?

    Based on recent data and residents' ratings, Northampton offers an excellent quality of life. The city provides a good balance of urban amenities and green space, with housing costs generally below the national average. The vast majority of residents appreciate the strong sense of community, rich culture, and convenient location in the heart of England. Property prices remain competitive compared to nearby cities in the southeast, making it an attractive option for families and young professionals.

  • What is Northampton famous for?

    Northampton is historically renowned for its shoe-making industry, playing a crucial role in the industrial revolution. Today, the city is known for its beautiful architecture, including the stunning Guildhall and 78 Derngate, as well as its thriving arts scene centred around the Royal & Derngate theatre complex. The city also boasts the world's largest collection of historical footwear at the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery.

  • Is Northampton safe to visit?

    Yes, Northampton maintains good safety standards, with crime rates comparable to the national average. The city centre and main tourist attractions are well-monitored, and the vast majority of visitors experience no issues. Like any populous city, it's wise to take standard precautions, particularly at night, but overall, Northampton is considered a safe destination for both residents and tourists.

  • What are the best areas in Northampton for families?

    Families in Northampton benefit from several desirable neighbourhoods offering excellent value for money. Areas near Abington Park and The Racecourse are particularly popular due to their combination of green space, good schools, and community facilities. The housing market in these areas offers a range of properties to suit different income levels, with both rental and purchase options available.

  • How does the cost of living in Northampton compare to London?

    Northampton offers significantly lower living costs compared to London. Housing costs and rent are notably more affordable while commuting costs for those working locally are substantially lower than in the capital. While salaries might not match London rates, the overall quality of life and value for money often make Northampton an attractive alternative for those seeking a better work-life balance without the high costs associated with living in the capital.

Sequencing short-term finance effectively is vital for avoiding the interest trap

By Charlie Flockhart • September 9, 2026
For many businesses, short-term finance can provide an essential lifeline when cash flow becomes tight. Whether a business needs support covering a gap between paying suppliers and receiving customer payments, or managing seasonal demand, the right type of finance can keep a business moving during uncertain times. However, using short-term borrowing without a clear strategy can quickly become a slippery slope of missed payments and further injections of cash. Choosing the right type of finance for your business? Not all types of short-term finance are designed for the same purpose, so businesses need to choose the option that best matches their needs. An overdraft can provide a flexible cash buffer for day-to-day cash flow pressures, with interest usually charged only on the amount borrowed. Invoice finance can help unlock cash tied up in unpaid business invoices, while a short-term loan may be more suitable for funding a specific purchase or project. Problems can arise when businesses use one type of finance to solve an issue it was not intended to address. A short-term cash flow gap can turn into a long-term borrowing habit, causing interest costs and fees to build up over time and reduce profitability. How to avoid the interest trap? While short-term finance can be a valuable tool, it is important to understand the full cost of borrowing. Some forms of finance, such as certain credit cards, bridging loans and revolving credit facilities, can have higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms. Although these products can be useful in the right circumstances, they can place additional strain on businesses with unpredictable cash flow. Understanding the total cost of borrowing can help avoid unnecessary expense and ensure the finance remains affordable. Matching the right type of finance to the right business need can help businesses manage cash flow more effectively and avoid falling into an expensive cycle of debt. How can we help? Before you fall down the slippery slope of short-term finance, get in touch with an accountant. We understand that short-term finance can sometimes feel like the only option. Our team can help assess your cash flow needs, review your funding options and support you in choosing a solution that helps your business grow while keeping borrowing costs under control. For support with short-term finance options, get in touch with our team.

Inflation increases to a four-month high – How will businesses be impacted?

By Charlie Flockhart • September 9, 2026
The rate of inflation has hit 2.9 per cent in July 2026, up from 2.6 per cent in June, according to the latest data that has been published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This is the first rise in the national rate of inflation since March 2026, with the increase in the energy price cap being partly to blame. Businesses need to understand how this hike will affect them and what they must do to mitigate the issues. How is inflation affecting businesses? Higher inflation can increase the cost of running a business. Energy-intensive businesses and manufacturers are likely to feel the greatest impact, as rising energy prices can lead to higher production, transport and operating costs. Many businesses are already dealing with tight profit margins and may find it difficult to absorb these additional costs. Passing increased costs on to customers is not always straightforward, as consumers remain cautious about spending and may look for cheaper alternatives if prices rise too much. Inflation can also affect employment costs. Employees may expect higher pay to help maintain their spending power, creating additional pressure on business finances. With employment costs already rising, some organisations may take a more cautious approach to recruitment or delay planned investments. What should businesses do to mitigate the impact of inflation? With inflation remaining uncertain, businesses should review their budgets regularly and keep a close eye on cash flow. Understanding where costs are rising most quickly can help businesses identify areas where savings or efficiencies can be made. Businesses should also assess their pricing strategies to ensure they remain competitive while protecting profitability. Investing in technology, improving efficiency and carefully managing expenditure may help reduce the impact of rising costs. Strong financial planning and regular monitoring of business performance can help organisations remain resilient if inflation continues in the months ahead. How can we help? While the rate of inflation increasing to 2.9 per cent may not seem like a huge change, businesses must consider the impact that it will have on wider spending. Our team can help you manage your cash flow by completing financial forecasting to ensure that your business stays resilient should inflation rates increase further. For support with cash flow, get in touch with our team.

Gifting out of income – The overlooked way to reduce Inheritance Tax

By Charlie Flockhart • September 9, 2026
For many people, giving financial support to family members is an important part of their financial planning. Whether it is helping children with pension contributions or providing ongoing assistance, gifting can play an important role in Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning. The normal expenditure out of income exemption under Section 21 of the Inheritance Tax Act 1984 allows for gifts to be made without being chargeable for IHT purposes, if specific conditions are met. What are the requirements? Under Section 21, gifts can be exempt from IHT if they are part of a person's normal spending habits, are paid from their income and leave them with enough income to maintain their usual standard of living. This exemption only applies to gifts made from surplus net income, not from capital or savings. For example, withdrawals from an investment bond or the capital part of a purchased life annuity payment would not qualify. The donor must also be able to cover their normal living costs from their remaining income and cannot give away income and then use capital to make up any shortfall. Why is record-keeping important? As the exemption is usually claimed after death, it is important to keep clear records of any gifts made under the normal expenditure out of income rules. HMRC form IHT403 includes a schedule that can be used to record these gifts as they are made and can help support a future claim. To work out whether gifts need to be reported, the donor must add together any gifts made under this exemption and any chargeable lifetime transfers made during the previous seven years. If the total is more than the available nil rate band, all gifts must be reported to HMRC using form IHT100. HMRC will then review whether the exemption applies and confirm its decision in writing. If the total remains within the nil rate band, the exemption is usually reviewed only after the donor's death, when the executors can claim the exemption using forms IHT400 and IHT403. How can we help? Planning for IHT helps to safeguard your family's future, as utilising vital allowances enables you to minimise your IHT contributions. Our team of accountants can support you with gifting out of income so that you can provide for your family's future. Get in touch with our team for support with Inheritance Tax planning.