Local Area
Explore Bradlaugh Fields – A Hidden Gem Nearby
Just a short walk (only 200 metres!) from King’s Park Conference Centre, Bradlaugh Fields is a true hidden gem. This beautiful community wildlife park offers a peaceful escape making it a surprising and refreshing green space for a quiet stroll or some outdoor reflection.
Covering a large area that stretches from Moulton Park to Kingsthorpe, with access to Spinney Hill, Bradlaugh Fields is rich in natural beauty and local history. The park was saved from development in the 1990s thanks to passionate campaigning by the local community group LASH, and today it remains a treasured open space for both wildlife and residents.
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to stretch your legs, enjoy a bit of nature, or simply take a break from your busy schedule, Bradlaugh Fields, along with a café at The Barn, is well worth exploring.
Bradlaugh Fields and Barn has been awarded the Green Flag 2022/23
Even More Green Spaces Nearby!
As well as Bradlaugh Fields just on our doorstep, we’re blessed to have two beautiful water reservoirs within a short 10–15 minute drive from King’s Park Conference Centre – perfect for a peaceful break, an active afternoon, or a family day out.
Pitsford Water & Brixworth Country Park
Nestled in rolling rural Northamptonshire, Pitsford Water offers something for everyone. A lovely blend of woodland, meadow and grassland surrounds this scenic reservoir, with stunning views over the water – ideal for walking, cycling, fishing, sailing, watersports, and birdwatching. With a well-marked, hard-surfaced seven-mile waterside trail, it’s a great day out whatever your ability. You can park at nearby Brixworth Country Park, which has facilities including picnic spots, play areas, and access to the reservoir. Whether you’re after a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or just somewhere peaceful to unwind, this spot is a must-visit.
Sywell Country Park
Just a few minutes’ drive from King’s Park, Sywell Country Park is another local favourite. Set around a former Edwardian reservoir, it offers scenic waterside walks, a nature trail, bird hides, and a lovely play area inspired by the area’s heritage. The full reservoir walk is just over 3-miles long. Although no longer supplying drinking water, Sywell is now recognised as one of the leading tench fisheries in the country.
The park also has a café and plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic, making it a great option for all ages.
Abington Park
The museum is based in one of Northampton’s most popular parks with an aviary, rose garden, children’s play area, beautiful trees, a lake and plenty of green space to explore. There is no better place to tell the story of Abington than in the building that was once the manor house for the extensive Abington estate. The galleries chart the history and development of Abington as it has grown from a medieval manor to an attractive leafy suburb of Northampton. It is designed to allow people of all ages to explore the places, the people who have made Abington their home, and their experiences past and present.
Abington Park Museum is free to enter. Donations are welcome. There may be charges for some activities during event days.
Northampton Museum & Art Gallery
The museum is a key cultural venue in Northampton providing engaging experiences for local people and visitors of all ages. The galleries showcase our collections including history, shoes, and art. Our shoe galleries feature the Arts Council England Designated collection. Temporary changing exhibitions ensure that there is always something new to see. Facilities include a café, shop, and selling gallery.
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery is free to enter. Donations are welcome. There may be charges for some activities during event days.
Lamport Hall & Gardens
A Tudor founder, blind book collector, wayward 17th century grand tourist, eccentric Victorian, Hollywood actor, commanding wives and dedicated daughters – Lamport is full of characters! As home to the Isham family for over four centuries, the fortunes, interests and trials of each generation have left their mark.
The Hall is set in approximately 10 acres of tranquil gardens, the result of over 450 years of love and dedication, enclosed by a spacious park. Although their size and location are the same as when they were first laid out, their design has been strongly influenced by the interests and tastes of successive owners.
Admission tickets can be booked both on-line and at the door. For large groups, pre-booking may be required.
Castle Ashby Gardens
Castle Ashby is the ancestral home of the 7th Marquess of Northampton. Set in the heart of a 10,000-acre estate, the 35 acres of extensive gardens are a combination of several styles including the romantic Italian Gardens, the unique Orangery and impressive Arboretum.
The gardens are open everyday between 10:00 to 16:00 (last admittance 15:00, one hour before closing). Free parking is available on site.
