Weddings in Northampton

Northampton is a sensational place to marry in, centrally located in the East of England, surrounded by Northamptonshire countryside. There is plenty to see… some things new, others old and a whole host of attractions to keep you occupied while visiting.

The appealing cobbled market square dates back to 1235 and is completely surrounded by many architectural treasures with secret tunnels beneath! Although many of the old buildings in the centre have been converted into contemporary shops, they still hold onto much of their historical charm, combining some sightseeing with some serious shopping. There are an outstanding range of retail outlets from high street names to specialist shops and weekly markets selling fresh produce, antiques and bric-a-brac.

A trip to the breathtaking Guildhall, said to be the town’s most prestigious building, gives you the opportunity to see the Great Hall, Council Chambers, the Mayor’s Parlour and also the old prison cells. The All Saints’ Church, situated at the heart of Northampton, is another notable building. The entrance to the church is beautiful with a pillared portico, a towered cupola and a statue of King Charles II. Inside, the church looks more like a ballroom with the interior elegantly decorated with timber galleries, neoclassical pillars and a delicately sculptured ceiling.

If shoes are a fetish, you will not be disappointed at the Central Museum and Art Gallery, where you will come across the world’s largest collection of footwear. The interesting display consists of silk slippers, clogs, boots, and types of high heels through the ages, even celebrity footwear such as the pair Elton John wore in Tommy. Here you will also find an outstanding presentation charting Northampton’s rich and distinguished history from Roman times through to the present day, including the impact the town’s shoe-making industry had.

Along the lines of entertainment you are spoilt for choice with casinos, night clubs, cinemas, theatres…the list is endless. A vast pub culture means there are a number of great pubs within walking distance from each other where a lively atmosphere awaits you. Many of them have beer gardens which are perfect for those warm summer days, as well as live entertainment and music. However if you fancy a change of setting, Northampton is noted for its parks. Abington Park is a lovely spot, with ponds, a museum and an aviary. There is a tearoom onsite serving coffees and a selection of meals, making it just the right place to relax and unwind. Sports fans will be delighted with the number of sporting events in Northampton, everything from premier league rugby and county cricket to football league with Formula One Grand Prix at nearby Silverstone!

A thriving arts scene can be found in Northampton with many annual festivals taking place during the summer months including the Music and Arts festival, a month long celebration throughout June, with the St Crispin Street Fair every October. The famous Balloon Festival is a wonderful spectacle held in August where hot air balloons of all shapes, sizes and colours fill the sky. This is a fantastic day which is sure to be enjoyed by all ages with heaps of entertainment including stage shows, fun fairs, market stalls, evening concerts, balloon glows and firework displays!

While celebrating your special wedding day, be sure to extend your stay a little longer and make time to have a quick gambol around this vibrant town and its surrounding areas. Complete your visit here nicely by seeing the fascinating sights, joining in on the fun and discover Northampton’s heritage and tradition along the way.