Behind the Scenes at the Old Hall Bookshop

The Old Hall Book Shop, 32 Market Place, Brackley, Northamptonshire, NN13 7DP

You will get the chance to see all over this Queen Anne town house that currently houses The Old Hall Bookshop on the ground floor. We can start…

You will get the chance to see all over this Queen Anne town house that currently houses The Old Hall Bookshop on the ground floor. We can start in the cellar and work our way up and out onto the roof and enjoy the wonderful views if the weather is fine.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: 0930-1730; Tour 1100, 1400 & 1600
• Friday 7 September: 0930-1730; Tour 1100, 1400 & 1600
• Saturday 8 September: 0930-1730; Tour 1100, 1400 & 1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

We will be going up and down a LOT of stairs, there may also be loose floorboards, dust and dim lighting conditions. It's a very old building with worn steps. Parking is available nearby on the street and in the market square. It's free but time restrictions apply.

Additional information

Max 6 people per tour/session.

Directions

We are right in the centre of town next door to Lloyds Bank.

Opening times & full details  ►

Brackley Town Hall Restoration Project

The Old Fire Station, Brackley, Northamptonshire, NN13 7DW

Although the Town Hall is not accessible this year, it doesn't mean we won't be having a Heritage Open Day! Get the chance to dig for some of…

Although the Town Hall is not accessible this year, it doesn't mean we won't be having a Heritage Open Day!

Get the chance to dig for some of the archaeological finds that have been discovered in the Town Hall including a Georgian coin and clay pipes.

In celebration of the 50 years of conservation areas, there will be walking tours of both of Brackley's conservation areas - High Street & Old Town.

TOURS-
High Street - 10. 12. 2
Old Town - 11. 1, 3
All tours last about 45 minutes and start and end at the Old Fire Station - no need to book!

We will have the mayor's chair on display and lots of information about the Town Hall Project.
Don't forget the wonderful cafe is next door!

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: 10.00-16.00
• Saturday 8 September: 10.00-16.00

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

There is no parking specifically for the Fire Station although there is parking available in the town car park or on the High Street. The building is accessible throughout and has accessible toilet facilities.

Additional information

Max 10 people per tour/session.

Directions

The Old Fire Station is on the High Street in the corner of Brackley Park. You can park on the road or in the Town Car Park which is only a 2 minute walk away from the building. .

Opening times & full details  ►

Cosgrove Village Heritage

Cosgrove Church, Stratford Road, Cosgrove, Northamptonshire, MK19 7JA

Come and visit our ancient Grade I listed Church and stroll around our lovely canalside village. At the Church hear stories of times gone by,…

Come and visit our ancient Grade I listed Church and stroll around our lovely canalside village. At the Church hear stories of times gone by, listen to churchyard tales and take in our famous cream teas! There will be small displays and things for families to see and hear. Although our village is tiny, it has seen history in the making and its residents of the past have fascinating lives.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1630
• Sunday 9 September: Church service from 1100-1200, then event from 1200-1630

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Limited parking outside the Church which we try to keep for disabled visitors. Park in the village and walk back to us if you can. Paths and internal floors are reasonable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, but the Church is an ancient building! Pathways around the village are quite narrow.

Additional information

This is a drop in and drop out event - take your time to look, listen and ask about the history of an English village.

Directions

Take the A508 from the A5 roundabout at Old Stratford and turn at one of the next two roads on the right to find Cosgrove. We only have one church - park in the village and walk back to us.

Opening times & full details  ►

Meet the Diggers!

Lock Lane, Cosgrove, Northamptonshire, MK19 7JR

A walk in Cosgrove looking at the canal area and a chance to see and hear what the “diggers” from Buckingham Canal Society are doing. There…

A walk in Cosgrove looking at the canal area and a chance to see and hear what the “diggers” from Buckingham Canal Society are doing. There will also be an opportunity at the end of the walk to learn more about the village.

Opening Times

• Sunday 9 September: 1100

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Sorry but some of the route is not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or those with mobility issues as uneven surfaces, may be muddy, lock can only be crossed on foot. Please park considerately around Cosgrove village. No toilets on the walk.

Directions

Cosgrove village – off the A508 north of Old Stratford. Use MK19 7JR for Satnav but please park considerately around Cosgrove village. Meet beside the canal outside the Lock Keeper’s cottage at the end of Lock Lane – NO PARKING in LOCK LANE

Opening times & full details  ►

Daventry Masonic Centre

Daventry Masonic Club, 14 High Street, Daventry, Northamptonshire, NN11 4HT

Discover the 'Secrets of Freemasonry' An exhibition will give you information on what Freemasonry is, why some deride it as a 'Secret Society',…

Discover the 'Secrets of Freemasonry'

An exhibition will give you information on what Freemasonry is, why some deride it as a 'Secret Society', what its aims are, its history, why 2017 is a year of celebration, and what Freemasonry achieves.

You will have a chance to see the various forms of Regalia that Mason's wear to their meetings and have a guided tour of the lodge room, with explanations of what part the unusual furniture and objects on display, play in our 'Ceremonies'.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: 1100-1600
• Saturday 8 September: 1100-1600
• Sunday 9 September: 1100-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair access to downstairs exhibition (ramp available on request for step at front door) Stairlift available to access upstairs lodge room.

Additional information

Max 10 people per tour/session.

Directions

In Daventry High Street, between Lloyds Bank and Fridays pub - enter through Black front door, next door to the Bookmakers and Podietrists

Opening times & full details  ►

Daventry Museum

3 New Street, Daventry, Northamptonshire, NN11 4BT

Daventry Museum is an accredited museum in the centre of Daventry, providing a friendly and welcoming space for people to share stories and learn…

Daventry Museum is an accredited museum in the centre of Daventry, providing a friendly and welcoming space for people to share stories and learn about Daventry's rich past. Permanent displays feature the town's ancient charters, weights and measures, and mayoral regalia.

Alongside permanent displays, visitors will be able to view the temporary exhibition Daventry Through the Ages.

Children can interact with museum objects in the Explorer Corner and take part in fun activities including object hunts and a fun, family quiz designed to increase awareness of Daventry’s Heritage.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: 0930-1330
• Friday 7 September: 0930-1330
• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair and disabled access is via the back entrance located on Church Walk through a squared archway between 2 buildings. From here the museum and Town Council is signposted. Please ring the doorbell for entry.

Directions

Daventry Museum is located on the ground floor of the Town Council offices at 3 New Street, between Tesco and the Moot Hall/Plume of Feathers Pub.

Opening times & full details  ►

Guided Town Walk - Daventry

Daventry Town Council, 3 New Street, Daventry, Northamptonshire, NN11 4BT

A guided walk providing a fascinating insight into various Daventry town centre buildings by local historian and museum volunteer Mike Arnold. The…

A guided walk providing a fascinating insight into various Daventry town centre buildings by local historian and museum volunteer Mike Arnold. The tour will inform visitors about the history and previous usage of the town's oldest buildings.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: 1800

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

The tour will take approximately 1.5 hours. The tour is a guided walking tour around Daventry Town Centre and will involve crossing several roads. The walk and talk will take place outside of various town centre locations, so please dress accordingly for weather conditions. Although this event is not suitable for children under the age of 16, we do welcome families who wish to attend with young children in pushchairs/prams.

Additional information

Max 12 people per tour/session. How well do you know your town? A fun family quiz about the town will be available at Daventry Museum, 3 New Street, Daventry, NN11 4BT and can be downloaded from http://daventrymuseum.org.uk/

Directions

Although the tour is organised by Daventry Town Council. The meeting point for the tour will be Holy Cross Church, Church Walk, Daventry, NN11 4BL.

Opening times & full details  ►

Guided Walk & Talk on the History of Borough Hill

Borough Hill, Daventry, Northamptonshire, NN11 4NA

Mike Arnold will be leading this walk and sharing his knowledge of the geology, nature and history of this beautiful location.

Mike Arnold will be leading this walk and sharing his knowledge of the geology, nature and history of this beautiful location.

Opening Times

• Sunday 9 September: 1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

The ground on Borough Hill is very uneven so access for wheelchairs is, unfortunately, very limited. Please be aware this is a 2 mile cross country walk on track ways rather than pathways. If the weather is wet then some parts of the walk may become difficult for wheelchair users, buggies or those with difficulties walking.

Additional information

Max 12 people per tour/session.

Directions

Meet in the car park at the top of Borough Hill off Admirals Way

Opening times & full details  ►

Holy Cross Church Tower Open Day and Ride & Stride

Holy Cross Church, Market Square, Daventry, Northamptonshire, NN11 4BL

On Saturday 9th September our bellringers will hold an open-tower from 10.30am – 15.30pm. Interested people can see what they do and 'have a go'…

On Saturday 9th September our bellringers will hold an open-tower from 10.30am – 15.30pm. Interested people can see what they do and 'have a go' under supervision on our bell simulator and perhaps a real bell. There will be a guided tour to the intermediate chamber where you can see along the nave roof between the top of the ceiling and the inside of the outer roof, then up to the bell chamber. Here you can stand below and well clear of the bells, watch one silenced bell being rung and see the remains of the historic chiming machine. Come and meet the bell ringers and see what is involved. Please do come along.

Holy Cross Church is the only completely new church built in the county during the 18th century. Its tower contains a magnificent nationally-renowned ring of ten bells that were cast at various times between 1738 and 1965 and hung in a new steel frame in 1965.

Children need to be 10 + to partake of the simulator.

Ride and Stride

Support Northamptonshire’s beautiful churches by taking part in a sponsored bike ride/walk, organised by Northamptonshire Historic Churches Trust. To find out more information and plan your own route, choose from a list of open churches here: http://www.nhct.org.uk/index.php/bicycle_ride

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1030-1530

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Bell tower is not wheelchair accessible. There are 24 steps in very good condition up the spiral staircase to the ringing room, another 24 to the intermediate room and eleven straight steps to the bell chamber. The church is accessible. There is a toilet at ground floor level in the church. It is not wheelchair accessible. Assistance dogs will have difficulty in negotiating the spiral staircase whilst assisting. Non-assistance dogs do from time to time visit the ringing room without difficulty.

Directions

In Daventry town centre at the east end of High Street you will find the Market Square and the church of Holy Cross looks down onto the square. Or, park in the Tesco car park and walk out into Church Walk at the far left hand corner. Enter through the main outer door of the church and the entrance to the spiral staircase to the ringing room and upwards will be sign-posted is on your left side.

Opening times & full details  ►

Northamptonshire Guild of Spinners Weavers and Dyers

Denton Village Hall, Orchard Lane, Denton, Northamptonshire, NN7 1HT

Textiles have played a major role in Northamptonshire's history and our Guild exists to keep the crafts of spinning, weaving and dyeing alive and…

Textiles have played a major role in Northamptonshire's history and our Guild exists to keep the crafts of spinning, weaving and dyeing alive and share these most enjoyable and rewarding of skills with anyone who wishes to join in.

We look forward to welcoming you to our event, and hope that you will not leave without having had a go at spinning on either a spindle or a wheel. Suitable for all ages.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1030-1530

Booking Details

No booking required

Opening times & full details  ►

Saint Peters Church, Irthlingborough

Saint Peters Church, Church Street, Irthlingborough, Northamptonshire, NN95SE

St Peters Church was founded as a collegiate church in 1388 and became a parish church after the dissolution of the monasteries. The church is…

St Peters Church was founded as a collegiate church in 1388 and became a parish church after the dissolution of the monasteries. The church is largely a medieval building with a fine octagonal lantern tower which was rebuilt in the 1890s. The medieval undercroft of the collegiate buildings still remain and there will be tours throughout the morning. The church also has medieval misericords, medieval monuments and windows by Kempe and Morris and Co. Described in Pevsner as " a quite remarkable sight ." Teas and coffees and cake available.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1200

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

The main body of the church is accessible by wheelchair - the undercroft and ringing chamber are unfortunately not.

Additional information

Max 10 people per tour/session.

Directions

The church tower is visible form the Market Cross on the roundabout in the centre of Irthlingborough.

Opening times & full details  ►

History of Wicksteed Park Talk and Walk

Wicksteed Park Ltd, Barton Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN15 6NJ

Join us for an animated talk and guided walk exploring the special heritage of Wicksteed Park. The talk uncovers the extraordinary legacy of…

Join us for an animated talk and guided walk exploring the special heritage of Wicksteed Park.
The talk uncovers the extraordinary legacy of Charles Wicksteed and extends beyond the Recreation Park. As an entrepreneur and innovator Charles was also an inventor and respected successful engineer. He created one of the UK’s first leisure parks Wicksteed and has played a significant role in the development of children's play. The talk lasts for 45minutes followed by a 45 minute guided walk to the recently listed Water chute installed in 1926, hear about Jerry the dog and his statue and gather under the recently restored roundhouse near the lake.

The event is suitable for families.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: 1000-1600, Talk and Tour 1100
• Saturday 8 September: 1000- 1600 Talk and Tour 1100 & 1400
• Sunday 9 September: 1000 - 1400 Talk and Tour 1100

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Please note the walk takes place outdoors, parking charges apply, up to 2 hours £3 (maximum daily charge £6)

Additional information

Max 24 people per tour/session.

Opening times & full details  ►

Montagu Monuments at St Edmund’s Church Warkton

St Edmund's Church, Warkton, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN16 9XH

St Edmund’s Church reflects the evolution of an English church over time with nods to its existence from Anglo Saxon times, a clerestory window,…

St Edmund’s Church reflects the evolution of an English church over time with nods to its existence from Anglo Saxon times, a clerestory window, traces of medieval paintings, Roman tiles, Norman nave and aisles, 14th century piscine (a basin for washing communion vessels) and a fine stain glass window by Jean-Baptiste Capronnier. In addition to this, The chancel was built between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries and remodelled in the 18th Century to make room for 4 stunning Georgian funeral monuments made by internationally renowned artists of the day. Visitors on Heritage Open Days will receive a guided tour from our volunteer tour guides who will guide your through the design of the monuments, the importance of the artists and the notable local people commemorated by them.

On Saturday 9 September 2017 as well as being a 'Ride and Stride' location for Northamptonshire Historic Churches Foundation annual sponsored church tour we also have a very special activity.

The Pilgrim Walk is being organised in conjunction with Green Patch Allotments in the Grange Estate. You are invited to visit the Green Patch to take part in an arts workshop and then take a short river bank walk to St Edmund's Church where your art work will be joined with a 'mega' art work. There will also be an opportunity to find out more about local groups working in the area they you can help or can help you. The event takes place Saturday 9 September 2017 10:00 - 16:00.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: 1000-1200 & 1400-1600
• Friday 7 September: 1000-1200 & 1400-1600
• Saturday 8 September: 1000 - 1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

There are 3 steps up to the chancel.

Directions

The church is located behind Warkton Village Hall which is on Pipe Lane. Visitors are advised to park in the Village Hall car park.

Opening times & full details  ►

78 Derngate: The Charles Rennie Mackintosh House

82 Derngate, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1UH

Guided tour of this small Victorian terraced house re-modelled in 1916 by noted Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh in his highly…

Guided tour of this small Victorian terraced house re-modelled in 1916 by noted Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh in his highly individual style. Approx.time11/4 hours per tour.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: Tours 1330, 1400, 1500 & 1530

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

There is partial mobility access in and around the visitor centre. Visitors are to note that if they are viewing the whole of the building it requires them to be able to climb several flights of stairs.

Additional information

Max 12 people per tour/session.

Directions

Located South East of the town centre. Travel towards Bedford Road / Becket's Park

Opening times & full details  ►

Abington Museum

Abington Park, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 5LW

A 15th century manor house where Shakespeare's granddaughter once lived, now a museum. Tudor oak panelled room. Museum open Thursday -Sunday…

A 15th century manor house where Shakespeare's granddaughter once lived, now a museum. Tudor oak panelled room.

Museum open Thursday -Sunday Guided tours available on Saturday & Sunday, 13.30-14.30. Discover the stories behind the people of Abington and explore areas of the house usually hidden from public view.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: 13.00-17.00
• Friday 7 September: 13.00-17.00
• Saturday 8 September: 13.00-17.00 Tours at 13.30-14.30
• Sunday 9 September: 13.00-17.00 Tours at 13.30-14.30

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair access to ground floor

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All Saints’ Church

All Saints' Square, George Row, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DF

Visitors are invited to look around this lovely church with its Baroque interior. The church was mentioned in the Domesday Book and rebuilt after…

Visitors are invited to look around this lovely church with its Baroque interior. The church was mentioned in the Domesday Book and rebuilt after the Great Fire of Northampton. A statue of Charles II stands above the portico as thanks for his help in restoring the town after the fire.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: 10.00-16.30
• Friday 7 September: 10.00-16.30
• Saturday 8 September: 10.00-16.30
• Sunday 9 September: 12.00-16.30

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair access is from north end of patio.

Additional information

Services at 0800 & 1030.

Directions

Situated in the town centre, situated opposite the County Hall

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Castle Hill United Reformed Church

Doddridge Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2RN

Historical Church opened in 1695 - Philip Doddridge ministered from 1729 - 1751.

Historical Church opened in 1695 - Philip Doddridge ministered from 1729 - 1751.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000 - 1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

Located on the corner of Doddridge Street and Chalk Lane, approx. 500m from the town centre

Opening times & full details  ►

Christ Church

1 Christchurch Road, Wellingborough Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 5LL

Explore this grade II listed church which was designed by Matthew Holding 1906, in 14th century style. The West end was unfinished until completed…

Explore this grade II listed church which was designed by Matthew Holding 1906, in 14th century style. The West end was unfinished until completed 80 years later by local architect Maurice Walton. The model inside shows the original scheme with bell tower. Superb organ from the Barratt family home.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

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Church of St Edmund King & Martyr

High Street, Hardingstone, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN4 6BZ

13th century Grade I listed parish church, restored in 1868 and 1992. Memorials to the Harvey and Bouverie families and monument by Rysbrack to…

13th century Grade I listed parish church, restored in 1868 and 1992. Memorials to the Harvey and Bouverie families and monument by Rysbrack to Bartholomew Clarke.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: 1000-1500
• Friday 7 September: 1000-1500
• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

There are unmarked steps and steps to some areas which will be restrictive for wheelchairs.

Opening times & full details  ►

Church of St John the Baptist, Kingsthorpe

The Green, Kingsthorpe, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN2 6QD

Visitors can explore the history and architecture of this beautiful medieval church, which dates back in parts to the 11th century. Refreshments …

Visitors can explore the history and architecture of this beautiful medieval church, which dates back in parts to the 11th century. Refreshments available in the chapter House.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: 1400-1600
• Sunday 9 September: 1400-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair ramps available on request.

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Church of St Mary Blessed Virgin, Great Houghton

High Street, Great Houghton, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN4 7AF

A handsome Georgian Church built in 1754 with a notable landmark steeple and fine modern stained glass windows of 1976.

A handsome Georgian Church built in 1754 with a notable landmark steeple and fine modern stained glass windows of 1976.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000 - 1700

Booking Details

No booking required

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Church of St Peter and St Paul, Abington

Abington Park, Park Avenue South, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN3 3AB

An ancient village church in the centre of Abington Park. Parts date back to 12th century but extensive rebuilding took place after 1823.…

An ancient village church in the centre of Abington Park. Parts date back to 12th century but extensive rebuilding took place after 1823. Shakespeare's granddaughter rests in a burial vault beneath the Lady Chapel. The church boasts a fine interior with beautiful carving and stained glass.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: 1100-1600
• Friday 7 September: 1000-1600
• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1200 & 14.00-17:00
• Sunday 9 September: 1200-1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

Adjacent to Abington Museum.

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Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Sheep Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 3NL

One of only four round churches remaining in the UK and founded around 1100 AD. It is also the oldest standing building in Northampton. Learn of…

One of only four round churches remaining in the UK and founded around 1100 AD. It is also the oldest standing building in Northampton. Learn of the history & military connections and see the refurbished soldiers chapel. View the repaired Jaffa stained glass window. View the newly installed Caroline Chisholm window.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000 - 1600
• Sunday 9 September: 1230 - 1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

North of the town centre, follow fingerposts.

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Classic Bus Services

Leave from George Row, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DF

A selection of old buses with some vehicles on display and offering free rides on routes linking Heritage Open Days sites. Hop on and off at your…

A selection of old buses with some vehicles on display and offering free rides on routes linking Heritage Open Days sites. Hop on and off at your leisure to visit various events. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult. A timetable will be situated at the special Heritage Open Days bus stop in George Row during the weekend.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: As timetable
• Sunday 9 September: As timetable

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Old vehicles that are not able to carry wheelchairs/pushchairs and usually involve entrance steps.

Directions

Heritage Buses will leave from outside the Tourist Information centre in George Row.

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Crusader Community Boating

Leaving from Towpath opposite Blisworth Mill, Gayton Road, Blisworth, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN7 3RZ

A lovely boat trip with commentary to cover the history of the Grand Union Canal around Blisworth village, including the tunnel, River Nene…

A lovely boat trip with commentary to cover the history of the Grand Union Canal around Blisworth village, including the tunnel, River Nene connection branch and surroundings..

Trips will last approx. 2 hours and classic buses will be operating to and from the location.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: Trips 1000 & 1400
• Sunday 9 September: Trips 1000 & 1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Additional information

Max 22 people per tour/session.

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Delapre Abbey

Delapre Park, London Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN4 8AJ

Free talks on the restoration of the grade II* listed building plus garden and outside tours..

Free talks on the restoration of the grade II* listed building plus garden and outside tours..

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: Tours available 1100-1600
• Sunday 9 September: Tours available 1100-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Additional information

Max 30 people per tour/session. Free restoration talks and tours of the garden and exterior;access to the house will not be part of the HOD offer, but it may be open to the public with usual entrance fee applicable.

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Discover St Peter’s Church at Northampton

St Peter's Church, Marefair, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1SR

Discover the delights of St Peter's Church - a hidden gem in the centre of Northampton. St Peter's has been described as one of the most…

Discover the delights of St Peter's Church - a hidden gem in the centre of Northampton.

St Peter's has been described as one of the most outstanding Norman churches in the country. You'll see why when you step inside and discover the fascinating Romanesque carvings of mythical creatures and fantastical beasts!

We'll have volunteers on hand to give informal tours and answer questions.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 10:00 - 15:00

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Church is located in town centre. Access from street to church is via a paved path. There is one very small step into the porch.

Additional information

Due to the historic nature of our buildings, only a very small number of them have heating, running water and toilet facilities.The lighting is usually operated via a 'push button' timer or a motion sensor.

Directions

Northampton city centre location, south side of Marefair adjoining St. Peter's Way/Marefair junction. One way system.

Opening times & full details  ►

Friends of Kingsthorpe Pocket Park

Kingsthorpe New Churchyard, Vicarage Lane, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN2 6QD

The Friends of Kingsthorpe Pocket Park have established a natural yet not overgrown green space in this old graveyard known as Kingsthorpe New…

The Friends of Kingsthorpe Pocket Park have established a natural yet not overgrown green space in this old graveyard known as Kingsthorpe New Churchyard. It is an area of peace and tranquility - a secret garden. We wish to show what a pocket park is and what we have achieved. We hope to provide a small plant stall and activities for children. We are always keen to recruit new volunteers.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Additional information

The Pocket Park is open daily. Friends/volunteers available on Saturday 9th September, 10.00-14.00

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Greek Orthodox Church of St Neophytos

Kent Road off St Crispin's Drive, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN5 4UN

The church was built in 1876 as St Crispin Chapel. In 1954 two Northamptonshire born artists, Henry Bird and GHB Holland, were commissioned to…

The church was built in 1876 as St Crispin Chapel. In 1954 two Northamptonshire born artists, Henry Bird and GHB Holland, were commissioned to paint the beautiful murals in the Chapel.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

There are two steps and a wheelchair will easily be pushed in.

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Guided Walk of the site of Northampton Castle

Meet at the gates of St Peter's Church, Marefair, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1SR

Guided walking tour of Castle Mound and associated sites. Northampton once had one of the largest Norman castles in Britain - a favourite of…

Guided walking tour of Castle Mound and associated sites. Northampton once had one of the largest Norman castles in Britain - a favourite of kings, site of medieval parliaments, a siege and battle in 1264 and the trial of Thomas Becket.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: Tour 1300
• Friday 7 September: Tour 1300
• Saturday 8 September: Tours 1100 & 1400
• Sunday 9 September: Tour 1300

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Visitors are to please wear sensible footwear.

Additional information

There will be some walking on uneven ground.

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Hazelrigg House

33 Marefair, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1SR

Substantial 16th century house, enlarged and altered in 17th century, then reduced in size in the 19th century. fine staircase. One of few…

Substantial 16th century house, enlarged and altered in 17th century, then reduced in size in the 19th century. fine staircase. One of few buildings to survive the Great Fire of Northampton (1675). Tour of the house and video "History of Hazelrigg" .

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: Tours at 16.00
• Sunday 9 September: Tours at 13.00

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Disabled access with assistance to ground floor only, from rear of building.

Additional information

Max 15 people per tour/session.

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Hunsbury Hill Fort

Hunsbury Hill Country Park, Hunsbury Hill Road, West Hunsbury, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN4 9QX

Members of the Friends of West Hunsbury Country Park will be available to show visitors the site of the Hill Fort which is an Iron Age Hill Fort…

Members of the Friends of West Hunsbury Country Park will be available to show visitors the site of the Hill Fort which is an Iron Age Hill Fort and a Historic England Scheduled Monument currently on the 'At Risk Register'. There will be a presentation & information available regarding the history of the Hill Fort and how important it is to have community involvement in its future management and its surroundings.

The Friends of West Hunsbury Parks together will have submitted a Heritage Lottery bid to preserve the Hill Fort. Information will be available as to how to volunteer for activities associated with the bid.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000 - 1600
• Sunday 9 September: 1000 - 1600

Booking Details

No booking required

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Jesus Centre (former ABC Cinema)

Abington Square, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 4AE

Guided tours only of a Grade II listed building. Former Cinema Theatre in Streamline Moderne style designed W. R. Glen and opened in 1936.…

Guided tours only of a Grade II listed building. Former Cinema Theatre in Streamline Moderne style designed W. R. Glen and opened in 1936. Reopened in 2004 as Theatre and Jesus Centre.

Tour Guides will show you round this beautiful Art Deco building, watch film clips from the era in the 900 seat auditorium and relive your memories.

The Circle Cafe will be open throughout the day.

Opening Times

• Thursday 6 September: Tours every 15 minutes 1000-1600
• Friday 7 September: Tours every 15 minutes 1000-1600
• Saturday 8 September: Tours every 15 minutes 1000-1600
• Sunday 9 September: Tours every 15 minutes 1400-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair access is via 'The Deco' to the side of the main entrance.

Additional information

Disabled access via 'The Deco' to the side of the main entrance

Directions

At the top of Abington Street opposite the BBC Radio building.

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National Leather Collection

2nd floor, , Grosvenor Shopping Centre, Market Square, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2EW

Engage with the UK's largest collection of leathercraft and experience our unique offering of artefacts from prehistoric archaeology to 20th …

Engage with the UK's largest collection of leathercraft and experience our unique offering of artefacts from prehistoric archaeology to 20th century warfare. Go on a private tour of our stores, led by curator Philip Warner, offering the public the chance to see some of the most important and unique objects. There will be a chance to get hands-on with leather in leather stamping workshops, run by industry professionals and create your own piece of leathercraft. Attend free talks given by leather craftsmen on different aspects of the industry and learn about the processes involved.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 10.00-16.00

Booking Details

No booking required

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New Testament Church of God

College Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2QP

Visitors are welcome to look around this Grade II Listed building of 1863 by William Hull, which has kept its original features including the Pipe…

Visitors are welcome to look around this Grade II Listed building of 1863 by William Hull, which has kept its original features including the Pipe Organ

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 12.00-14.00

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

Located behind Debenhams in the town centre.

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Northampton & County Club

George Row, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DF

Guided tour of this Grade II* listed building with medieval vaulted cellars, 17th century staircase, 18th century rooms and fine Victorian…

Guided tour of this Grade II* listed building with medieval vaulted cellars, 17th century staircase, 18th century rooms and fine Victorian billiard room. Site of former Northampton Infirmary, now a private members' club. Light refreshments and hot meals available.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: Tours 1100 & 1400
• Saturday 8 September: Tours 1100 & 1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

We regret the old building is not suitable for wheelchair users or pushchairs as there are two flights of stairs.

Additional information

Max 15 people per tour/session. Tours begin at the front door of the club. Bar and restaurant will be open to visitors. Pre-booking for lunch is helpful.

Directions

Follow fingerposts for County Hall which is nearby.

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Northampton Heritage Fair

Castle Hill United Reformed Church, Doddridge Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2RN

See many and varied local history groups in an unusual and interesting building.

See many and varied local history groups in an unusual and interesting building.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1030-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

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Northamptonshire Natural History Society

The Humfrey Rooms, 10 Castilian Terrace, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1LD

Visitors can look around our amazing rooms and collections. Bring a leaf or insect and look at it through our microscopes. Visitors can also use…

Visitors can look around our amazing rooms and collections. Bring a leaf or insect and look at it through our microscopes. Visitors can also use special telescopes to view the sun safely.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000 - 1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

One step to door, Wheelchair access via ramp..

Directions

Located off Castilian Street, between Derngate and St Giles' Street.

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Northants Ironstone Railway

Ironstone Railway Museum, Hunsbury Hill Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN4 9UW

Ironstone Railway, museum and gardens. Railway stock to see. Information on ironstone mining and quarrying. Play area for children.Train service…

Ironstone Railway, museum and gardens.
Railway stock to see. Information on ironstone mining and quarrying. Play area for children.Train service available subject to its availability

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1600
• Sunday 9 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Disabled assistance given on request.

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Phipps NBC

The Albion Brewery, 54 Kingswell Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1PR

Tour the 1884 Albion Brewery and see the modern Phipps Brewery plant and Kingswell Gin Distillery room; visit the cellars and barrel store as…

Tour the 1884 Albion Brewery and see the modern Phipps Brewery plant and Kingswell Gin Distillery room; visit the cellars and barrel store as well as the dark damp conditioning tunnel under the brewery and look down the mediaeval well. The brewery tap bar is open all weekend for food and drink.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: Tours 1200, 15.00 & 17.00
• Sunday 9 September: Tours 1200 & 14.00

Booking Details

No booking required

Additional information

Max 25 people per tour/session. Children are welcome on the tour and well behaved dogs are also welcome in the bar,.

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Sessions House

George Row, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DF

Enjoy a guided tour of Court No.1 and Court No.2 and the Council Chamber and cells. This building was originally the Court House 1678 and the…

Enjoy a guided tour of Court No.1 and Court No.2 and the Council Chamber and cells. This building was originally the Court House 1678 and the centre of Northampton's Law & Order for over 300 years.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000 - 1530
• Sunday 9 September: 1000 - 1530

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Access (with assistance) from car park off Angel Street - phone 07540 672577.

Additional information

Tours will take place every 45 mins from 1000 with the last tour at 1530.

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Sikh Gurdwara: Siri Guru Singh Sabha

17-19 St Georges Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2TN

A rare chance to see inside a Sikh Gurdwara, a place of worship and a focal point for Sikhs in Northampton. The day will include a brief overview…

A rare chance to see inside a Sikh Gurdwara, a place of worship and a focal point for Sikhs in Northampton. The day will include a brief overview of the Sikh faith. Meet members of the community and sample the free vegetarian food on offer.

Opening Times

• Sunday 9 September: Tours 1330, 1400 & 1430

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair access to ground floor only.

Additional information

Visitors are asked to bring a head covering and will be required to remove their shoes when going into the prayer hall.

Directions

St George's Street leads from Regent's Square, north of the town centre.

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St Giles’s Church

St Giles' Terrace, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2BN

12th Century Grade I listed Parish Church with Saxon origins and medieval structure, altered by the Victorians. Refurbished interior.

12th Century Grade I listed Parish Church with Saxon origins and medieval structure, altered by the Victorians. Refurbished interior.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

Corner of Spencer Parade & St Giles' Terrace.

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St Luke’s Church

Main Road, Duston, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN5 6JB

St Luke's is an early monastic church built about 1113. The earliest fabric and font date from 12th century, with 13th century additions,…

St Luke's is an early monastic church built about 1113. The earliest fabric and font date from 12th century, with 13th century additions, substantially enlarged in the 14th century.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1600
• Sunday 9 September: 1400-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

Located 2 miles West of the town centre and 4 miles East of Junction 16 on M1. Off Main Road in Duston village.

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St Matthew’s Church

Kettering Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN2 7HF

Explore a Gothic inspired church consecrated in 1893 with Matthew Holding as the architect. Inside is the "Madonna" statue by Henry Moore opposite…

Explore a Gothic inspired church consecrated in 1893 with Matthew Holding as the architect. Inside is the "Madonna" statue by Henry Moore opposite Graham Sutherland's "Crucifixion" painting with a statue of St Matthew by Ian Rank Broadley.

St Matthews also houses a fair manual organ built by Walker & Sons in 1895.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: Tours at 1330, 1415 and 1500; church open 1200-1600
• Saturday 8 September: Tours every 45 minutes from 1200; open 10.00-16.00
• Sunday 9 September: Tours every 45 minutes from 12.00; open 12.00-16.00

Booking Details

No booking required

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St Michael’s & All Angels Parish Church

Cnr Perry Street & St Michael's Mount, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 4HL

A beautiful Victorian Gothic Church built by George Vialls and completed 1882 with Romanians Orthodox Icons.

A beautiful Victorian Gothic Church built by George Vialls and completed 1882 with Romanians Orthodox Icons.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1600
• Sunday 9 September: 09-00-15.00

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair and Pushchair entrance is through the south porch.

Additional information

Worship 0930-1030

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The Cross and the Kingmaker

London Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire

Queen Eleanor's Cross is one of Northamptonshire's last and most important medieval landmarks. First you will hear the story of the Cross then,…

Queen Eleanor's Cross is one of Northamptonshire's last and most important medieval landmarks. First you will hear the story of the Cross then, after a short walk through the woods, will hear the story of the 1460 Battle of Northampton.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 10.00-16.00
• Sunday 9 September: 10.00-16.00

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Limited parking around the Cross (but is served by Heritage bus service running from George Row, Northampton). Access to the battlefield stand is through woods and disabled access is very limited. Suitable footwear and clothing should be worn.

Additional information

Max 25 people per tour/session.

Directions

Meet at the Eleanor Cross on London Road.

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The Guildhall, Northampton

St Giles's Square, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DE

A guided tour will give visitors a chance to see this gem of Victorian architecture built 1861-64 to designs of EW Godwin, extended 1889-92 in a…

A guided tour will give visitors a chance to see this gem of Victorian architecture built 1861-64 to designs of EW Godwin, extended 1889-92 in a similar style by AW Jeffrey and Matthew Holding.

Opening Times

• Sunday 9 September: Tours at 12.00-15.00

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Please note the basement part of the tour is not accessible for wheelchair users, pushchairs or people with walking difficulties.

Directions

In the town centre near to the Tourist Information centre.

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The Playhouse Theatre

115 Clare Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 3JA

Enjoy a tour of the Playhouse Community Theatre situated in a converted Victorian factory, rumoured to have been used as a coffin warehouse. The…

Enjoy a tour of the Playhouse Community Theatre situated in a converted Victorian factory, rumoured to have been used as a coffin warehouse. The gents' toilet is original ornate Victorian.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: Tours every hour 1000 - 1500
• Sunday 9 September: Tours every hour 10.00-15.00

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

No disabled access - theatre access is up a steep flight of stairs.

Directions

1m North East of town centre, off Kettering Road (A5123). Over Brockhall's Coachworks, opposite the end of Spencer Road.

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Southwick Hall

Southwick Hall, Main Street, Southwick, Peterborough, Northamptonshire, PE8 5BL

Southwick Hall with its towers and finials, lies in a valley below Rockingham forest and dates from medieval times. The main hall is Elizabethan…

Southwick Hall with its towers and finials, lies in a valley below Rockingham forest and dates from medieval times. The main hall is Elizabethan and there are later building periods from Georgian and Victorian times. The house is open for people to wander around at their own pace and includes exhibitions from the archives and of family heirlooms; there are further exhibitions of village life in the stable yard.

Opening Times

• Sunday 9 September: 1400-1700 (last admission 1630)

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Wheelchair access to ground floor only

Additional information

There are refreshments and grounds to walk in. Dogs welcome in the grounds on leads.

Directions

Southwick village is 3 miles north of Oundle Southwick Hall lies to the east of Southwick Church

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St Mary the Blessed Virgin, Warmington

St Mary the Blessed Virgin, Warmington, Peterborough, Northamptonshire, PE8 6TE

The church of St Mary the Blessed Virgin in Warmington has scarcely been altered since its completion in about 1290. Mary Queen of Scots would…

The church of St Mary the Blessed Virgin in Warmington has scarcely been altered since its completion in about 1290. Mary Queen of Scots would have been able to look across the fields from Fotheringhay to see the lovely 13th century broached spire. The interior of this large church is 13th century at its best. Come and see the 13th century roof made of wood in imitation of stone vaulting, 14th century pews carved with poppy heads, irises and lilies, the 15th century pulpit, the collection of 'green men' which is one of the finest in England. As you visit, there will also be a Gospel Reading Marathon taking place. The Gospel according to Matthew, Mark, Luke and John will be read continuously from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm. The church will also be open to those taking part in the Northamptonshire Historic Churches Trust Ride+Stride.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1800

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Parking available in the Village Hall car park across the road from the church. There is a step into the Lady Chapel and the chancel.

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St. Mary’s Church Rushden

High Street, Rushden, Northamptonshire, NN10 0QE

The 12th Century church will be open from 9am to 4pm with access to the church records. Light refreshments will be available. Church Bell Tower…

The 12th Century church will be open from 9am to 4pm with access to the church records. Light refreshments will be available. Church Bell Tower tours will take place in the morning.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

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St Mary Easton Neston

St Mary Easton Neston, Easton Neston, Towcester, Northamptonshire, NN12 7HS

Come and experience the magic of St Mary, Easton Neston. A small parish church dating from the 13th Century set within the historic parkland of…

Come and experience the magic of St Mary, Easton Neston. A small parish church dating from the 13th Century set within the historic parkland of Easton Neston House, with strong associations with the Fermor-Hesketh family. A tiny gem in this glorious setting.

Enjoy a quiet cup of tea and a snack, explore the church with its many family monuments, stained glass and box pews.

Children's Treasure Hunt at 3pm on Sunday. Choral Workshop 4pm - 5.15pm on Sunday. No previous experience necessary though a familiarity with sight reading will help. The aim is to prepared music for a Choral Evensong at 18.00 on Sunday to which all are welcome.

Opening Times

• Saturday 8 September: 10.00 - 16.00
• Sunday 9 September: 11.00 - 17.30; 15.00 Children's Treasure Hunt, 16.00 - 17.15 Choral Workshop; 18.00 Choral Evensong

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

There are steps to the chancel and the flooring is uneven. If necessary a car is able to drive up the path to the church porch.

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Weston Hall

High Street, Weston, Towcester, Northamptonshire, NN12 8PU

A small manor house with an interesting collection, much of which is associated with the literary Sitwell family.

A small manor house with an interesting collection, much of which is associated with the literary Sitwell family.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: Tours 1100 & 1400
• Saturday 8 September: Tours 1100 & 1400
• Sunday 9 September: Tours 1100 & 1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Additional information

Max 20 people per tour/session.

Directions

Entrance with a car is via the lodge with pen gates on the Plumpton Road. Those on foot should enter by the gates with the house sign opposite the village green

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Royal Ordnance Depot Open Day

The Royal Ordnance Depot, Weedon Bec, Northamptonshire

The Royal Ordnance Depot in Weedon Bec opens it's doors to allow visitors in completely free of charge to celebrate the history of the site. The…

The Royal Ordnance Depot in Weedon Bec opens it's doors to allow visitors in completely free of charge to celebrate the history of the site. The site dates back to the Napoleonic war and was active right up into the 1960s. Originally it housed the central small-arms depot for the British Army and was served by a working canal, which still runs through the centre of the site today. It was active throughout the Napoleonic war, the Boer war and World War’s 1 and 2. Now the depot is home to independent traders, artists and light industry.

The organisation was recently successful in a Heritage Lottery Fund bid and will be using the funds to run an oral history project and open a visitor centre. This is your first opportunity to come on in to see how the refurbishment is taking hold as the project gets underway!

If you have any memories or stories of the Depot, or are from the local area, we would love to hear them and use them to help shape the upcoming exhibition space.

Opening Times

• Friday 7 September: 1000-1800
• Saturday 8 September: 1000-1800
• Sunday 9 September: 1200-1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

The Royal Ordnance Depot is a working site with road activity and frequent use. Please be aware that there may be vehicles moving around the site and stick to the pathways made available.

Directions

The Royal Ordnance Depot is located in Weedon Bec, easily accessible from the A5 or junction 16 off of the M1.

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