Have you ever thought of living in a place where history meets modernity, where urban charm coexists with rural tranquillity, and where opportunity abounds? Welcome to Northampton, a vibrant town in the heart of the East Midlands region of England. But what’s it like living here? Let’s find out in our “Moving to Northampton: A Complete Guide”! Moving services are available to assist with your relocation to Northampton.
Key Takeaways
Northampton is a historic and vibrant town with excellent transport connections, ideal business opportunities, diverse housing options & low crime rate.
Enjoy the unique blend of city life & rural charm with luxurious housing, shops, restaurants & parks to explore.
Moving to Northampton can be easy and stress-free. Get strategic advice for a smooth transition!
Understanding Northampton: Location and Rich History
Nestled in the heart of the East Midlands region of England, Northampton is a town that pulses with life and history. Its roots stretch back to the Bronze Age, with its prominence rising in the Middle Ages, largely due to Northampton Castle, a beacon of the town’s rich heritage. Northampton’s rich cultural heritage includes numerous historical sites and landmarks that reflect its storied past.
Northampton is not just a town living in the past. Over recent years, Northampton has undergone a significant transformation, with a whopping £20 million spent on the train station alone, improving connections to London Euston, Milton Keynes, and other destinations.
Northampton is also renowned for:
Its outstanding travel connections to London and Birmingham, being one of the UK’s largest towns
Being recognized by Experian as an ideal place to launch a business
Fantastic historical sites such as the ruins of Northampton Castle and the magnificent Grade I listed Norman church, the Holy Sepulchre
Discovering Northampton Town
Northampton town is a vibrant and historic area that offers a unique blend of old and new. Steeped in rich history, the town boasts landmarks like the Northampton Castle and the Holy Sepulchre, which stand as testaments to its storied past. Yet, Northampton town is not just about history; it’s a bustling hub with modern amenities that cater to contemporary lifestyles.
The town centre is a hive of activity, featuring a diverse range of high street stores, independent boutiques, and a variety of dining options. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets or enjoying the modern conveniences, Northampton town offers a dynamic living experience. Its rich history combined with modern amenities makes it a great place to live, work, and visit.
Housing Options in Northampton
When it comes to housing, Northampton truly shines with its diversity. Whether you’re a fan of urban living or desire the serenity of rural life, Northampton offers a home for every taste and preference, including modern apartments and the only house that meets your unique needs. The diverse housing market in Northampton caters to various preferences and budgets.
Let’s examine these options more thoroughly.
Urban Living
Imagine living in a place where a town’s vibrant pulse and historic architecture blend seamlessly with urban amenities. Welcome to urban living in Northampton! Areas like Abington and Kingsthorpe Village are fantastic options for those who desire the convenience and excitement of urban life. Abington is renowned for its luxurious housing options, unique restaurants and shops, and the magnificent Abington Park. Housing in Abington ranges from the beautiful Victorian and Edwardian eras to modern developments, offering a wonderful selection for every taste.
Kingsthorpe Village is renowned for:
Its beautiful historic buildings
Delicious restaurants
Cozy pubs
Diverse shops, including those at St James Retail Park
Lush green spaces
The village boasts delightful period terraces and charming stone-built cottages, some of which are Grade II listed.
For those seeking an area with a lower average house price than the Northampton average, East and West Hunsbury in the eastern district are prime choices, offering plenty of local amenities and stunning parks like Hunsbury Hill Country Park, Ladybridge Park, and Wootton Brook Park.
Rural Living
If you’re attracted to the rural charm of peaceful surroundings and quaint village life, Northampton presents various options in villages like Wootton and Weston Favell. Imagine living in a charming rural area like Boughton, with its cozy cottages, quaint village shops, and beautiful churches. The village of Wootton boasts a charming old character, with delightful old sandstone cottages and 1950s semis available off Green Lane.
Weston Favell Village, on the other hand, offers:
a short drive to Northampton town centre
a range of housing options from post-war estates and modern new builds to charming Victorian terraces
great amenities
a fantastic shopping experience at Weston Favell Shopping Centre
plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy
Needless to say, rural living in Northampton is a delightful experience that blends the serenity of the countryside with the convenience of town amenities.
Housing Options in Northampton Town Centre
Northampton town centre offers a diverse range of housing options, from sleek modern apartments to charming historic homes. This area is particularly popular among young professionals and families due to its proximity to numerous amenities and services, all within walking distance.
Property prices in the town centre vary, but you can expect to pay around £200,000 for a one-bedroom apartment or £400,000 for a three-bedroom house. Some popular areas to live in Northampton town centre include:
The Grange: A historic area with many beautiful old homes and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Kingsthorpe Village: A charming area known for its shops, restaurants, and local amenities, offering a blend of historic and modern living.
West Hunsbury: A modern area featuring new homes and a range of local amenities, perfect for those seeking contemporary living spaces.
These areas provide a diverse range of housing options, ensuring that there is something to suit every taste and budget. The convenience of local amenities and the vibrant community life make Northampton town centre an ideal place to call home.
Cost of Living, Property Prices, and Affordability
Residing in Northampton offers many benefits, including:
Rich history
Variety of housing options
Top-tier schools
Affordable living and cost-effectiveness compared to London
The cost of living in Northampton is slightly above the UK average, but rent and utility bills are more affordable than in London, making it a great option for many.
Education and Schools
Northampton isn’t only an ideal place to live and work; it’s also a superior place for learning, with a variety of educational institutions. The town proudly offers excellent schools, with several primary and secondary schools rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. Northampton provides an array of options for your child’s education, including the well-regarded Northampton School.
Moreover, these schools boast an impressive student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring every child gets the attention they need for their educational journey. The University of Northampton also offers a wide array of courses, including:
design
economics
law
criminology
healthcare
This provides a solid foundation for higher education.
Employment Opportunities and Major Industries
Apart from its rich history, diverse housing choices, and high-quality schools, Northampton also has a flourishing employment market. Home to diverse industries like:
shoe manufacturing
brewing
IT
engineering
Northampton offers a wealth of employment opportunities. Top employers like Nationwide and Barclaycard provide over 5,000 jobs within credit, insurance, and banking, contributing significantly to the local economy. The robust job market in Northampton is supported by diverse industries and top employers.
The growth trends in Northampton’s major industries are also quite impressive. According to a report, Northampton was the fifth-fastest growing economy in the UK, indicating a positive trajectory for future employment and business opportunities. The brewing industry, in particular, has spurred the growth of microbreweries and the demand for artisan-produced goods, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Transport and Connectivity
Transportation in Northampton is straightforward and efficient due to its superior public transport connectivity. The town’s convenient location in the East Midlands means that other major cities like Birmingham and Nottingham are just a short drive away. Regular train services from Northampton’s train station offer fast connections to London and Birmingham, making it easy to commute or embark on a day trip.
Regarding air travel, London Luton is the closest airport to Northampton, making it an excellent gateway for domestic and international travel. Whether commuting to work, visiting nearby cities, or traveling abroad, Northampton’s excellent transport links make every journey effortless and enjoyable.
Leisure, Culture, Entertainment, and Local Amenities
Northampton’s lively leisure, cultural, and entertainment offerings ensure that life in the town is always exciting. With over 150 parks and open spaces, Northampton offers plenty of outdoor fun and relaxation options. Whether you fancy a tranquil retreat in Salcey Forest or a brisk walk in one of the town’s numerous parks, Northampton has you covered.
Throughout the year, Northampton hosts various cultural events and festivals that celebrate its rich heritage and vibrant community.
When it comes to shopping and dining, Northampton offers a wealth of options. Here are some popular choices:
The Grosvenor Centre and Market Walk: Home to a great selection of high-street brands
The Church Restaurant: A popular restaurant offering a variety of cuisines
Haycock & Tailbar: Another great dining option in Northampton
La Terraza Tapas Bar: A restaurant specializing in delicious tapas
For sports fans and families, Northampton offers a host of attractions, including:
Northampton Town FC
Northampton Saints Rugby Club
Rock Up
West Lodge Farm Park
Billing Aquadrome
Woburn Safari Park
Safety and Crime Rates
Community safety is a key consideration when relocating, and Northampton meets this requirement effectively. The town’s crime rates are well below the national average, making it a highly safe place to live. The most common crimes are violence and sexual offenses, which fortunately make up a significant portion of the overall crime rate.
Over the past decade, the crime rate in Northampton has improved overall, with a decrease in violent crime. The overall crime rate is lower than the national average, and areas like the Town Centre and Semilong neighborhood have lower crime rates than neighboring cities or towns.
Therefore, whether settling down with your family or moving for work or study, you can rest assured that Northampton is a safe and welcoming place to call home.
Making Your Move to Northampton with Stokes Removals
Moving to Northampton can be a daunting task, but with the help of a professional removal company like Stokes Removals, you can make the process much easier. Here are some essential tips to consider when making your move:
Plan ahead: Make sure you have a clear plan in place for your move, including a moving date, a removal company, and a place to stay.
Declutter: Get rid of any items you no longer need or want to make the moving process easier and less expensive.
Pack wisely: Make sure you pack your belongings carefully and label them clearly to avoid any damage or loss during the move.
Choose a reputable removal company: Stokes Removals is a professional and reliable removal company that can help make your move to Northampton stress-free.
Northampton is a great place to live, with excellent transport links to London, Milton Keynes, and other major cities. The town has a thriving local economy, with many job opportunities and a range of local amenities. With its rich history, diverse range of housing options, and excellent transport links, Northampton is a great place to call home.
Some popular attractions in Northampton include:
The Guildhall: A historic building that dates back to the 14th century and offers a range of events and exhibitions.
The Museum and Art Gallery: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Northampton, with a range of exhibits and displays.
Abington Park: A beautiful park that offers a range of walking trails, a lake, and a variety of wildlife.
Northampton is also home to a range of high street stores, including Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, and Next. The town has a lively nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and clubs to choose from.
Overall, Northampton is a great place to live, work, and visit, with its rich history, diverse range of housing options, and excellent transport links. With the help of a professional removal company like Stokes Removals, you can make the process of moving to Northampton much easier and less stressful.
Essential Tips for Moving to Northampton
Relocating can be a complicated endeavor, but with some strategic advice, your move to Northampton can be easy and devoid of stress. Having a moving checklist is crucial to ensure a smooth transition to Northampton. The first step is to declutter your current home, making room for all the new possibilities Northampton offers. It’s also a good idea to confirm your moving date and inform your boss about your plans.
Another important tip is to consider self-storage options, which can provide a secure and reliable place to store items during the transition. Self-storage is an incredibly useful service that provides units of various sizes to store belongings, ensuring your move to Northampton is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
Summary
From its rich history and diverse housing options to its excellent schools, abundant employment opportunities, outstanding transport links, and high quality of life, Northampton is a town that truly has it all. Its vibrant leisure, cultural, and entertainment scene, low crime rates, and helpful moving tips make Northampton an ideal place to call home. So, why wait? Pack your bags and prepare to start your new chapter in Northampton!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why move to Northampton?
Northampton offers significant relocation benefits as it combines the best of urban and rural life; it is close to London, Birmingham, Oxford, and Cambridge, yet surrounded by beautiful countryside, historic churches, and magnificent country houses. It’s a great place to live with plenty of green spaces and stunning landscapes nearby.
What is special about Northampton?
Northampton offers an amazing shopping experience with its diverse range of independent shops, high street stores, boutiques, cafes, and bars. Enjoy the safe and pleasant atmosphere of this special place!
Is Northampton rural or urban?
Northamptonshire is a mix of urban and rural areas, with Northampton being the largest town in England, recorded at 245,899 people in the 2021 census. It is surrounded by nine other counties, creating a unique location.
What are the major industries in Northampton?
Northampton is a thriving hub for industries such as shoe manufacturing, brewing, IT, and engineering, providing diverse opportunities.
