Although there's not much to recommend the city of Northampton itself, the surrounding countryside has quite a few attractions to draw visitors. Principal among these is Althorp, the childhood home and burial site of Diana, Princess of Wales (advance tickets are required because the number of visitors is limited). The stables there were converted into a museum dedicated to the princess.
Other nearby sights include Earls Barton Church, a Saxon structure with fascinating details; Rushton Hall and Triangular Lodge, both replete with triangular symbols of the Trinity (builder Thomas Tresham was obsessed with Christian symbols); Castle Ashby (note the message on the roof); and Boughton House (don't be surprised if it reminds you of an opulent French mansion—it was built by a British ambassador to France).
Northampton is located 60 mi/100 km northeast of London.
To request access to the full version of this destination guide, please provide your email address below. Your email address will only be used for verification purposes and will not be used for marketing purposes.