Discover Northampton: A Simple Area Guide

Northampton is a well-connected market town in the East Midlands, offering access to green spaces, a range of property options, and good schools.

This guide aims to give you a clear overview of what Northampton has to offer, whether you are considering moving, investing in property, or simply want to know more about daily life in the area.

An Introduction to the Area

Northampton is the county town of Northamptonshire, located just over 60 miles north-west of London and about 50 miles south-east of Birmingham. With a population of around 245,000, it stands as one of the largest towns in the East Midlands. The town is well-known for its historic shoe and leather industry, which has influenced its development and architecture.

The River Nene runs through the southern part of the town, and the landscape is marked by both period buildings and more modern developments. Northampton sits at the heart of the UK’s road and rail network, making it suitable for commuters and businesses.

Why Move to Northampton?

Northampton draws people looking for a quieter pace of life while retaining easy links to larger cities. It appeals to families, students, and those seeking a step onto the property ladder. Here’s why people choose Northampton:

• Affordable Housing: Northampton offers property prices far below those of London or many South East towns, with an average property price over the last 12 months of £299,000.
• Employment and Business: Its location within the “logistics golden triangle” makes it popular with distribution and logistics firms.
• Education: A choice of well-rated primary and secondary schools, along with the University of Northampton.
• Green Spaces: Residents benefit from parks, golf courses, and canals.
• Transport: Good rail and road services to London, Birmingham, Leicester, and other cities.

Northampton Property Market and Average Prices

The Northampton property market offers a range of houses and flats, from Victorian terraces to modern developments. According to Zoopla, the average price paid for property in Northampton in recent months is around £299,000. Here is a breakdown of average sold prices by property type:

• Rental Market: The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom flat is approximately £900–£1,400, depending on location and condition, based on Rightmove rental listings.
• Property Trends: House prices in Northampton have shown steady growth, with the average house price in West Northamptonshire increasing from £207,000 in January 2016 to £295,000 in January 2026, according to the UK House Price Index.

Getting Around Northampton: Transport Links and Connectivity

Northampton is well-served by a range of transport options:

• Road: The town sits near the M1 motorway (junctions 15, 15A, and 16), giving straightforward access to London, Milton Keynes, and Birmingham.
• Rail: Northampton railway station is on the West Coast Main Line, with journey times to London Euston of just under an hour.
• Bus: Local bus services operate throughout the town and surrounding villages, with Stagecoach providing regular routes.
• Airport: The nearest major airports are Birmingham International and London Luton, both reachable within around an hour by car.

For cyclists, there are dedicated cycle paths, particularly along the river and in some suburban areas.

Schools and Education Options in Northampton

Northampton offers a good choice of schools, both state and independent:

• Primary Schools: Notable options include Abington Vale Primary School (rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted) and Weston Favell Primary School (rated ‘Outstanding’ across the key measures under the new Ofsted system.
• Secondary Schools: Northampton School for Boys (rated ‘Outstanding’ across the key measures under the new Ofsted system) and Northampton School for Girls (rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted) are popular.
• Further and Higher Education: The University of Northampton, based at its modern Waterside Campus, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees as well as research facilities.
• Specialist and SEND provision: There are schools such as Northgate Academy for students with special educational needs, which is rated ‘Good’ across key measures under the new Ofsted system.

Shopping and Local Amenities in Northampton

Northampton has a practical shopping centre, with a balance of high-street brands and independent shops:

• Grosvenor Shopping Centre: The main mall in the town, home to shops like Primark, River Island, Boots, H&M, and JD Sports.
• Market Square: One of the oldest and largest market squares in England, hosting regular markets and seasonal events.
• Supermarkets: Tesco, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Lidl, and Aldi all have branches.
• Retail Parks: Riverside Retail Park and Sixfields offer large stores and out-of-town shopping.

Banks, post offices, fitness centres, and gyms are available across the town.

Dining Out: Restaurants, Bars, and Nightlife in Northampton

Northampton’s dining options are wide-ranging, including:

• Restaurants: You will find Italian, Indian, Thai, Turkish, and classic British fare. Local favourites include The Mail Coach (traditional pub), and Nuovo (Italian), La Terraza Tapas Bar in Upton and Olive Tree (Turkish mediterranean).
• Cafés: Independent coffee shops and bakeries are widespread, especially in the town centre and along Wellingborough Road.
• Nightlife: Pubs and cocktail bars are located around Bridge Street, Wellingborough Road, and Derngate, with venues like Bridge 26 and The Old House being popular choices.
• Theatres and Arts: The Royal & Derngate Theatre is a focal point for live music, drama, and comedy.

Healthcare Facilities and Medical Centres in Northampton

Healthcare in Northampton is provided by a mix of NHS and private hospitals, GP surgeries, and clinics:

• Northampton General Hospital: The main NHS hospital, offering A&E, maternity, and most specialist services.
• GP Practices: Numerous surgeries are spread throughout the town, such as Maple Access Partnership and Leicester Terrace Health Care Centre.
• Dental Care: Both NHS and private dentists are available.
• Pharmacies: Boots, Lloyds, and independent chemists operate in the town centre and most neighbourhoods.

Private healthcare is also available, with the Three Shires Hospital providing a range of surgical and outpatient services.

A Brief History of Northampton

Northampton’s history stretches back to the 11th century, when it was granted a royal charter. It became an important centre for the shoe and leather trade during the 19th and 20th centuries, which shaped its local economy and architecture.

Notable landmarks include:

• Northampton Castle: Once an important royal residence, demolished in the 19th century to make way for the railway.
• All Saints’ Church: Built after the Great Fire of Northampton in 1675.
• Delapré Abbey: A restored historic house and parkland on the south side of the town.

Historic shoe factories, many of which are now residential or commercial buildings, still stand throughout the town.

Parks and Green Spaces in Northampton

Green space is one of Northampton’s strengths, with several public parks and gardens:

• Abington Park: The oldest and best-known park, featuring lakes, a museum, tennis courts, and playgrounds.
• The Racecourse: Open parkland north of the centre, popular for sports and festivals.
• Delapré Park: Large grounds surrounding Delapré Abbey, ideal for walking and jogging.
• Beckets Park: Close to the town centre and university campus, offering riverside pathways.

There are also local nature reserves and access to the Grand Union Canal, which runs through the outskirts and is used for walking, cycling, and boating.

Northampton Property FAQs

Find Your Ideal Northampton Property

Northampton offers a practical option for those seeking property in the East Midlands, with a selection of homes, good schools, transport links, and all daily amenities. If you want to know more about moving to Northampton, or need help finding a property to rent or buy, contact Progressive Lets for further help and advice regarding Northampton.