Located just an hour from London and Birmingham in the ‘Rose of the Shires’, Northampton offers the perfect mix of market town and countryside.
It's not too big, but big enough to have lots of opportunities to go outdoors and enjoy nature, or [for] shopping in the big shopping centre in town, that is surrounded by lots of cafes and restaurants. University halls, as well as private rental student houses, are very affordable. Buses to and from town are good, but it's easy to get around by foot as well. Both trains and coaches leave to other cities multiple times every hour. (Second year student, University of Northampton)
Northampton nightlife, according to students
There are plenty of family-friendly pubs, and pubs that feature live music on certain days, outside of the centre. Since all of the clubs are situated in one location, you can move between [them] if you want. There is a local taxi rank nearby, which is great if your phone has died and you need to get home. Town is busy on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, but quiet on most other nights. (Third year student, University of Northampton)
Witch trials
The 1612 hangings of five accused locals are among the country's most infamous. 93 years later, England's last known such executions allegedly took place here.
Northampton nightlife, according to students
There are many clubs and pubs scattered throughout Northampton, but the primary area for nightlife is Bridge Street. The student union’s own club, Platform, is a one-minute walk away – it also doubles as a cafe during the day. Wetherspoons is a short walk away, and there are various other pubs like The Optimist, all in a similar location. There are also plenty of fast food places nearby, including a 24-hour McDonalds.(Second year student, University of Northampton)
Student life in Northampton
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Low on cash
HumPit hummus & pitta bar is both cheap and delicious – you can get an entire (big) meal for £6! There are some nice places to explore, like the Racecourse which hosts a free firework display on Guy Fawkes Day, or the nearby lakes. (Second year student, University of Northampton)
Treat yourself
Cafe Marseille in town does an amazing breakfast and cocktails, or high tea. Great for birthdays. (University of Northampton student)
Friday night out
Bridge Street is the place to go on a Friday night [with] six to seven different nightclubs to choose from. Students start at 'Cordies' (The Cordwainer), followed by the short walk to Bridge Street. (Second year student, University of Northampton)
Sunday chilling
Beckett's Park on the outskirts of Waterside Campus has a really nice walk alongside the river. (University of Northampton student)
When family visit
If you have a sporty family, I would highly recommend a rugby match at Franklin’s Gardens. Nothing beats a Saturday afternoon in a 15,000-seat stadium, full of passionate supporters. (Second year student, University of Northampton)
Feeling cultural
Northampton is very lucky to have two or three influential theatres: The Deco, The Royal & Derngate, as well as the Errol Flynn Filmhouse [Northampton Filmhouse]. Abington Park also has an excellent free museum. (Second year student, University of Northampton)
Catch up with mates
Good pubs include The Black Prince, The Lab, The Pomfret Arms, [and] The Mailcoach. All are relatively close to campus. (University of Northampton student)
Grab a bite
7Bone Burger Co. on St Giles' Street do a large variety of burgers and hot dogs – also, many veggie/vegan options. My go-to is the Giant Haystacks burger. (Third year student, University of Northampton)
Living in Northampton, according to students
Abington – I like living in this area. It's not too expensive, and not too far from Wellingborough Road, so [there are] many local food and drink places. A lot of student accommodation (and friends) nearby. Plenty of local mini-supermarkets and larger ones not too far away – about 25-minutes walk, with good bus links nearby. Campus is an easy walk away – roughly around 30 to 40 minutes. Only negative is that the town and other popular areas of Northampton (e.g. Sixfields) are quite a walk away. I have walked to town a few times – it took about 35 to 40-minutes. However, there are bus links to Sixfields too, so it is still accessible. (Third year student, University of Northampton)
Where you'll find students
- Abington
- Semilong
- Kingsthorpe
Local transport
- Weekly ticket: £15
- Stagecoach Northampton 7 Day Megarider (Adult) ticket
- Bus
Living in Northampton, according to students
Wellingborough Road – it is an affordable and really nice area to live in, and is close by to pretty much everything you need. It is within a ten-minute walk from a university bus stop, an 18-minute walk from the town centre, a 21-minute walk from Avenue Campus, and a 25-minute walk from Waterside Campus. I am a two-minute walk from a Sainsbury's Local and a six-minute walk from a Tesco Metro. I am near plenty of fast food shops, corner shops, and fresh fruit, veg and meat shops. I honestly don't think I could be situated in a more perfect area to live in. (Third year student, University of Northampton)
Student money tips
The local market outside the Grosvenor Centre is amazing for fresh fruit and vegetable. Really cheap, fresh, and lasts a long time. (University of Northampton student)
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