HOTSPOT
of the party for locals as well as residents of the county’s smaller towns. The vibrant town is home to well known chains of bars, including Revolution, but also has an eclectic mix of independent venues to suit all tastes. Beer drinkers should head to Phipps Albion Brewery Bar which brews its own beer and distills gin, just the other side of a glass partition, and boast the “smallest carbon footprint in the country but the biggest taste”. Cocktail lovers will enjoy the smart surroundings of the likes of Haycock & Tailbar or Sazerac Bar, with karaoke in the Back Room Club. Those looking for something livelier still, should pay a visit to Platform Club, or to the legendary Roadmender for live music.
LEISURE
suburban retail parks, and features a variety of independent shops from antiques to bridal wear. It is also only around a 45-minute drive to the popular Bicester Village Designer Outlet.
DRINKING AND EATING OUT Despite its best efforts, Northampton is not yet a city. However, its dining options are far more impressive than your average town, with every taste and budget catered for. Whatever the day, or occasion, Northampton has you covered, and where better to start than with a bottomless brunch. Bread and Pullet, on Wellingborough Road, is particularly popular. Another favourite quirky offering is The Church, on Bridge Street. This converted church, complete with stained glass windows, serves local produce in stunning surroundings and is perfect for a special occasion. Northampton has a plethora of pubs, bars and clubs, with Bridge Street the heart
Northampton’s vast green spaces are one of the town’s biggest appeals, not least Abington Park, the town’s oldest park which is home to a boating lake and its own museum. Salcey Forest, located just seven miles from the town centre, is also hugely popular with its tree-top walkway, cycling trails, play areas and picnic spots. The Northampton Museum and Art Gallery is currently undergoing a major expansion project and is due to re-open in spring 2020. It reflects the town’s proud standing as Britain’s boot and shoe capital and houses, among other things, over 12,000 pairs of shoes! History buffs will also enjoy exploring the many historic and listed buildings in the town including the Norman Northampton Castle and The Holy Sepulchre church. The town is rich in culture and, alongside the larger multiplex cinemas, the Northampton Filmhouse stands out as an excellent venue for film fans. In addition to mainstream blockbusters, it shows independent films, foreign releases and classic cult films. The town also has heaps to offer in the way of theatre. The Royal & Derngate Theatre hosts touring musicals, dance, comedy, music and family shows, while The Deco, a smaller family-run theatre, supports up-and-coming talent and local theatre groups. Northampton lends itself well to an active lifestyle, with countless sports clubs catering for all interests and levels of skill, in addition to the endless walking and cycling opportunities right on the doorstep. Those who would rather sit back and relax watching live sport won’t be disappointed either. The town is home to the Northampton Saints Rugby Union Club and the Northampton Town Football Club, affectionately known as “The Cobblers”. Thrill seekers will also find a trip to Silverstone, the home of British Motor Racing, an exhilarating day out, be it watching Formula 1 or running the famous Silverstone Half Marathon!
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