Your Essential Guide to Moving to Northampton

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”!

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 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 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

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.

Let’s examine these options more thoroughly.

Urban Living

Imagine living in a place where a town’s vibrant pulse blends with the charm of historic architecture. 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 peaceful charm of rural surroundings, 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.

Cost of Living and Affordability

Residing in Northampton offers many benefits, including:

• Rich history
• Variety of housing options
• Top-tier schools
• 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. 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 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 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, and Entertainment