Northampton - town in the centre of England

Northampton's position in the centre of England has given it national importance ever since the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is the county town of Northamptonshire, also know as the county of 'squires and spires'.

The attractive old town has a fine market square, one of the largest and most impressive in England. Although the town was seriously damaged by the Great Fire of 1675, many interesting historic buildings have survived.

The well-preserved Norman church of the Holy Sepulchre is one only four remaining round churches in England. Founded in 1100 AD by Simon de Senlis, first Earl of Northampton, the church is Northampton's oldest standing building. All Saints Church in George Row is a magnificent Grade I listed building, rebuilt in 1680 after the Great Fire.

The Welsh House and Hazelrigg House in Northampton are also handsome buildings and a social history museum in Abington Park is housed in a 15th century manor house, once the home of Shakespeare's granddaugher.

Northampton's splendid Guildhall, a gem of Victorian architecture, was designed by the celebrated architect, Edward Godwin.

Northampton also boasts many modern facilities including the pedestrianised shopping area of Abington Street and several indoor shopping precincts.

Don't miss 78 Derngate, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

The town has many attractive parks, gardens and riverside walks.

Members of the royal family have visited the town on many occasions, from the time of Henry I right up to the the late Princess of Wales, whose family home was at nearby Athorp.