Northamptonshire, Ceremonial county in East Midlands, England
Description
Northamptonshire is a ceremonial county in the East Midlands of England, stretching between several neighboring regions. The area includes gentle hills in the west, flatter plains in the east, and is crossed by several waterways that flow northeast.
History
Early Celtic settlements and fortified hilltops indicate the original occupation before Danish influences reached the area in the ninth century. Later the region developed into a center for shoe production, which shaped the economy for several centuries.
Culture
The stone churches with their slender spires shape the appearance of many settlements and reflect centuries of wool processing. In rural areas, hedgerows and stone walls define the countryside, while smaller town centers often arrange themselves around old market squares.
Practical
The M1 motorway connects the area north and south, while several railway lines pass through different towns. Visitors may find a personal vehicle helpful, as rural parts are often less well served by public transport.
Did you know?
Much of the historical shoe industry focused on specialist manufacturers of army boots during several wars. Today some museums and workshops recall this craft that brought the region particular economic growth.
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Bletchley Park
34 km
Silverstone Circuit
29.1 km
Althorp
13.9 km
Fotheringhay Castle
35.1 km
Burghley House
44.8 km
Kimbolton Castle
28.1 km
Stowe House
33.4 km
Woburn Abbey
37.9 km
Masquerade
35.7 km
Stadium MK
32.7 km
Barnwell Manor
29 km
Hut 8
33.9 km
Rockingham Motor Speedway
25.8 km
Boughton House
16.2 km
Leicester Cathedral
43.7 km
Wrest Park
41.9 km
National Bowl
31.4 km
Stowe Park and Garden
32.6 km
Woburn Safari Park
35.9 km
Apethorpe Hall
34.6 km
Kirby Hall
27.3 kmGreyfriars, Leicester
43.6 km
Easton Neston
21.7 km
Foxton Locks
25.6 km
Welland Viaduct
31.8 km
Aynhoe Park
46.1 km
Kimbolton School
28.1 km
Rockingham Castle
24.3 km
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