Discover Northampton, East Midlands, UK

Northampton, in the East Midlands district of England, is a great combination of vibrant urban life and attractive and peaceful countryside. In the bustling centre, the Grosvenor shopping arcade offers a great selection of shops and there are many restaurants and cafes to choose from dotted around the streets. The Derngate Centre is the place to head to for shows, music and pantomimes at Christmas. In terms of local attractions and days out, Northamptonshire has plenty to choose from. Visit the Spence family home at Althorp House and see around the house and gardens where Lady Diana Spencer spent her childhood. The house has rooms displaying some of Europes finest collections of paintings and furniture and the stately home has a fascinating history. Visit Pitsford Reservoir, which offers pretty woodland, meadows and grassland to wander around as well as a great spot for cycling and fishing or Billing Aquadrome with its marina, fishing lakes, swimming pools and play areas. Many of the villages surrounding Northampton are absolutely charming, set in the rolling fields of the countryside and a real treat to explore.