Set in the very centre of England, Northamptonshire is a rural county with a range of towns and villages set amidst gently rolling farmland. Its past is rich in the incident and history of England. The building of the canal and rail networks during the Industrial Revolution means that Northamptonshire is particularly well connected to the rest of the country.
Northampton was an important medieval market town and its wealth led to rapid expansion and local landowners built magnificent stately homes such as Althorp House, Boughton House and Rockingham Castle, which can still be enjoyed by visitors today. Visit the Explore Northamptonshire website (see Related Links below) and find out more.
Northampton, the main town and shopping centre grew from its market town origins with the boot and shoe industry and was later designated a New Town.
The other main towns of Corby, Brackley, Daventry, Kettering, Rushden, Towcester and Wellingborough each have a different character with their traditional townscapes complemented by more recent industrial and commercial developments.
The rapid expansion of development in Northamptonshire in the last two decades has brought with it a fully diversified industrial and commercial base.
Northamptonshire offers excellent facilities for golfing, swimming, sailing, cycling and fishing. There is a good choice of health and fitness clubs and thriving League Football, Premiership Rugby and County Cricket. The easily accessible countryside is perfect for keen ramblers and leisurely walkers. There is also world class motor racing action at the International Grand Prix circuit at Silverstone and at the Rockingham Speedway.