Living And Working In Northampton

Northampton, in the county of Northamptonshire is a historic market town which is situated in the East Midlands and is one of the largest towns in England, approximately seventy miles from London. The nearest airport is London Luton airport which is around 40 miles to the south east. The county is often described as the Rose of the Shires or County of Squires and Spires - a nickname that highlights the town's rich history of nobility and of the stunning architectural heritage.

The River Nene flows through some of Northampton and is popular with boating enthusiasts. The river is a hundred miles long and is the eighth longest river in the UK.

The 18th and 19th centuries saw Northampton evolve into an industrial town particularly known for its leather and shoe industry and the town soon became a prominent centre for these industries. Several of the finest shoemakers are still enjoying a good trade with skills having been passed through the generations. Northampton is renowned globally for its tradition of high quality shoe making and has earned it the esteemed title of being the ‘shoe capital of the world’.

Northampton continues to maintain a diverse and evolving economy. Over time, it has diversified into various sectors. Northampton’s strategic location in the Midlands close to major motorways like the M1, makes it a hub for logistics companies and distribution centres, serving as a critical link in supply chains across the UK. Manufacturing remains to be an essential part of the town’s economy and hosts various manufacturing firms including those specialising in high tech and precision engineering.

There is a growing presence of financial and professional service firms here which contribute significantly to the town's economic diversity.

The healthcare and public services sectors provide numerous employment opportunities within a wide range of services. There are ongoing investments in healthcare infrastructure, including the expansion and modernisation of existing facilities, to meet the growing demand for healthcare facilities.

The modern University of Northampton is crucial to the local economy, attracting both students and staff. It is known for its focus on employability, social impact and innovative teaching methods.

Continued investments in infrastructure such as road improvements and public transport enhancements support economic growth by improving connectivity and attracting businesses. Ongoing urban regeneration projects aim to revitalise key areas of the town, enhancing its appeal to residents and investors and the development of business parks and innovation hubs fosters entrepreneurship and supports startups, particularly in tech and creative industries.

There are many things to see and do here and Northampton's award winning Cultural Quarter offers a compelling variety of art galleries, theatres, cinemas and all manner of exciting attractions. Northampton Museum and Art Gallery has recently undergone a multi million pound redevelopment making it an unmissable experience. Delapre Abbey is a beautiful historic house and gardens and offers tours of its historic rooms. 78 Derngate was designed and remodelled by the famous architect Charles by Mackintosh in 1916.  In addition to these, there are several parks and green spaces.

Northampton is a market town and its fascinating market square, hosting a variety of stalls, is one of the oldest and largest in Britain, dating from medieval times. The town has a vibrant retail sector with the Grosvenor Centre being a key shopping destination.  Northampton’s shopping scene offers a mix of the traditional and contemporary, appealing to a wide range of shoppers and the economy benefits from the presence of major retailers and the unique charm of independent businesses, creating a dynamic shopping environment. Additionally, there is a diverse culinary scene here with a wide range of dining options with dishes influenced from all around the world.

Northampton’s unique blend of historical charm, cultural vibrancy and economic dynamism makes it a town of great appeal. Its rich history is evident in the medieval architecture and cultural landmarks while the diverse economy paves the way for innovation and opportunity.

The next event being hosted by the UK Careers Fair is on September 6th between 10am - 2pm. The venue is The Guildhall, St Giles’ Square, NN1 1DE. This truly magnificent Grade 2 listed building is steeped in history, having been built in the mid nineteenth century.