Moving to Northamptonshire: Rolling hills, picturesque villages and market towns
Moving to Northamptonshire is swiftly gaining favour among Londoners in search of a tranquil countryside escape and is fast becoming dubbed ‘the Cotswolds of the Midlands’.
With its blend of historic estates, thriving cultural scene, and increasingly vibrant social life, this often-overlooked county is drawing those who seek a refined lifestyle away from the hustle.
Recently, a steady influx of fashionable, well-connected residents has seen Northamptonshire transform into a discreet social haven where sophisticated gatherings blend effortlessly with a relaxed, bohemian spirit, and the aristocracy embraces a more laid-back elegance.
Why Northamptonshire?
Often likened to the Cotswolds, Northamptonshire offers equally picturesque villages, undulating landscapes, and grand country houses – all without the usual throngs.
Conveniently situated within easy reach of London, it is becoming the location of choice for those preferring understated yet refined rural living.
The county seamlessly combines grandeur with a strong sense of community.
It presents everything from art-filled manor houses to lively social events that appeal to a discerning audience.
Homes in Northamptonshire
The county presents a varied selection of properties, appealing to both those with traditional tastes and those with a more modern outlook.
Characteristic English stone cottages, frequently adorned with thatched roofs and surrounded by lush gardens, are a common sight.
Villages are often dotted with Georgian and Tudor homes, reflecting Northamptonshire’s rich architectural history.
For those seeking larger residences, there are elegant Victorian manors, contemporary barn conversions, and farmhouses that blend rustic appeal with modern comforts.
Additionally, recent developments have introduced chic, architect-designed homes that balance contemporary flair with the county’s traditional aesthetic.
Stately Homes in Northamptonshire
Northamptonshire is home to some of the UK’s most stunning stately homes and historic estates, many of which remain in private hands. Key examples include:
- Althorp House: The ancestral home of the Spencer family, famous as the childhood home of Diana, Princess of Wales.
- Boughton House: Known as the ‘English Versailles,’ this estate combines Tudor elegance with the grandeur of a French palace.
- Castle Ashby: The seat of the Marquess of Northampton, this vast estate is a hallmark of the area’s aristocratic heritage.
- Cottesbrooke Hall: Believed to have inspired Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park, this 18th-century house is surrounded by classical gardens.
- Deene Park: A Tudor and Georgian mansion with over 500 years of family history, offering a window into the county’s aristocratic past.
These properties contribute significantly to Northamptonshire’s reputation as a hidden gem, combining architectural splendour with a thriving social scene.
Where to look for a home in Northamptonshire?
There are several locations to consider when moving to Northamptonshire, whether you’re seeking a town setting or a truly rural home.
Oundle
Oundle is considered the jewel of Northamptonshire’s crown and is a great place to move to.
The town has a blend of family-owned shops, local businesses, and dining options. These are all centred around its historic Market Place, where a lively weekly farmers’ market draws both residents and visitors.
There are also three supermarkets, as well as excellent leisure and sports facilities. Educationally, Oundle stands out, hosting an impressive selection of schools. Most notable is the renowned Oundle School, whose distinguished buildings contribute to the town’s character.
Peterborough lies 14 miles away, providing direct rail services to London King’s Cross, with journey times from approximately 48 minutes.
Brackley
Brackley, in South Northamptonshire, sits conveniently between Banbury and Buckingham. The town is steeped in history from its days as a bustling stop along the Oxford-Northampton coaching route in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Remnants of its coaching heritage remain, with several inns still visible in the town centre.
Today, Brackley centres around the Market Place and High Street, with the iconic 1706 Town Hall, commissioned by the first Duke of Bridgewater, as its focal point.
The town offers supermarkets, medical facilities, schools, and a leisure centre, while further amenities can be accessed in Banbury.
Excellent road links connect Brackley to the M1 and M40, with nearby rail services in Banbury and Bicester (London Marylebone).
Long Buckby
For those moving to Northamptonshire preferring a village location, Long Buckby is an ideal choice. Located near Daventry – Midway between Northampton and Rugby – Long Buckby is well-connected.
It is complemented by the nearby hamlets of Murcott and Buckby Wharf along the Grand Union Canal.
Just two miles from the M1’s J18, it also benefits from a railway station with direct links to London Euston and Birmingham New Street.
Long Buckby offers a range of village schools and access to quality secondary options, including grammar and independent schools nearby.
The village boasts diverse shops—such as an artisan bakery, supermarkets, and boutique stores—as well as dining, fitness facilities, medical practices, and active community groups, including rugby and football clubs.
Fotheringhay
Fotheringhay is one of the prettiest villages near Oundle. Rich in royal history, it is famed for Fotheringhay Castle, where King Richard III was born and Mary, Queen of Scots spent her final days.
Today, the village is characterised by exquisite stone properties, from charming cottages to larger family homes, showcasing a timeless architectural charm.
The Church of St. Mary and All Saints, with its distinctive lantern tower, stands as a focal point in the village, while the Falcon Inn serves as a popular spot for locals.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside and scenic walking paths, Fotheringhay offers a tranquil setting with convenient access to the A1 and A14.
Yardley Hastings
Yardley Hastings, located about 8 miles southeast of Northampton, enjoys proximity to Wellingborough, Milton Keynes, and Bedford.
The M1 is only 9 miles away, and direct train services from Northampton reach London Euston in under an hour. Wellingborough and Bedford stations offer access to London St Pancras in around 45 minutes.
The village boasts a popular primary school, the well-loved Rose and Crown pub, and an active memorial hall hosting community events.
Yardley Hastings has a convenience store, farm shop, and takeaways. Nearby Castle Ashby offers scenic walks, boutique shopping, and The Falcon Hotel’s wellness and fine dining options.
Twywell
Twywell, in East Northamptonshire, is known for its beautiful period stone and brick homes, complemented by the Old Friar pub.
The village is surrounded by scenic countryside.
The area offers numerous footpaths, bridleways, and the celebrated Twywell Hills and Dales Country Park.
Just three miles away, Thrapston provides essential shops and medical services. Kettering and Oundle offer a broader range of amenities, including theatres, cinemas, and restaurants.
With convenient access to London St Pancras via Kettering and Wellingborough trains, Twywell is ideal for commuters. The area also has various schooling options, including respected private institutions popular with families moving to Northamptonshire.
Stoke Bruerne
Stoke Bruerne is a delightful canal-side village in South Northamptonshire, renowned for its historical charm and scenic waterways.
Nestled along the Grand Union Canal, the village is home to a mix of period properties and traditional stone cottages.
At its heart lies the Canal Museum, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich boating heritage. Additionally, the nearby Blisworth Tunnel – a remarkable engineering feat – is popular with visitors.
The village has a lively community with two welcoming pubs, a tearoom, and scenic towpaths ideal for walking and cycling. Stoke Bruerne has easy access to the M1. Mainline trains from Milton Keynes and Northampton offer convenient routes to London.
Hargrave
Hargrave is a picturesque rural village near the Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire borders.
The village showcases a variety of attractive homes, with larger neighbouring villages Raunds (3 miles) and Kimbolton (5 miles) providing essential shops, amenities, and leisure options.
For commuters, mainline rail services are accessible from Wellingborough, Bedford, and St. Neots, with the upgraded A14, M1/M6, and A45 nearby. Residents also enjoy the excellent shopping and leisure facilities at Rushden Lakes, just 8 miles away.
Lamport
Lamport is another charming village ideal for those considering moving to Northamptonshire.
With striking architecture and historical appeal, the village is perhaps best known for Lamport Hall, a grand 17th-century estate with beautifully kept gardens.
The hall often hosts events and open days, adding to the village’s unique character.
Surrounding the hall are elegant stone-built homes and traditional cottages, lending Lamport a distinctive, timeless quality.
The nearby villages of Brixworth and Maidwell provide essential amenities. Market Harborough and Northampton offer broader retail, dining, and leisure options.
For commuters, Lamport is well-situated, with easy access to the A14, M1, and train links from nearby stations connecting to London and Birmingham.
Moving to Northamptonshire
If you are thinking of moving to Northamptonshire, the services of a local property finder could be advantageous.
With expert local knowledge and often access to properties not listed on public platforms, they can be instrumental in finding and securing your ideal property.
If you would like to find out more about our services and discuss your plans for moving to Northamptonshire, please do get in touch.
