A busy County town devoted in the past to shoe-making, Northampton was a town of some importance within the ancient kingdom of Mercia; and 100 years later an administrative centre for the Danes. In the 11th century was a residence of the King. In more recent times, in 1968 the Northampton was designated as a New Town and was substantially redeveloped.

There are two churches of outstanding interest; St. Peter's is one of the finest examples of the Mid-Norman period and St. Sepulchre's is one of the only four remaining round Templar churches. To south is Eleanor's Cross.

There is a wide range of museums including Central Museum with collection of shoes and a museum of leathercraft. Nearby is Waterways Museum at Stoke Bruerne and to north the battlefield of Naseby (1645).