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Northampton's superb location and the heart of England has given the town national prominence ever since the Norman Conquest in 1066. From the time of Henry I to Richard II and, indeed, through to the late Princess of Wales, the town has been the scene of frequent royal visits and major events. Today, its royal connections and many other treasures attract more and more visitors each year.

Northampton is a successful blend of a charming old market town with a host of modern facilities. Sightseeing and shopping are a pleasure in the compact central area. The historic Market Square is one of the largest and most impressive in England; the open air market sells all manner of merchandise, all at attractive prices. Leading from the Square are splendid indoor precincts and the busy pedestrianised shopping are of Abington Street.

Boots and shoes have been made in Northampton for centuries and the internationally renowned museum in the town centre celebrates the fact. Brewing has also been a major industry; today Carlsberg have their UK base here. Barclaycard, Express Lifts (whose tower is known nationally as Northampton's Lighthouse) and Avon Cosmetics all have their headquarters here, adding significantly to the town's business reputation, bustle and quality of life.

Despite damage caused by the Great Fire in 1675, Northampton still has a rich variety of historic buildings and churches for the visitor to enjoy. From a Norman round church, the best preserved of only four in the country, to Victorian gems such as the Guildhall and the Royal Theatre, architectural history is part of the town's fabric.

The town plays host to a number of summer events which appeal to all ages and all tastes such as the Hot Air Balloon Festival and the Northampton Country Fayre and Sheep Dog Trials. All year round entertainment of top quality is on offer at the Derngate and next door at the Royal Theatre. Just out of the town centre can be found a world of fairground fun and nostalgia at the popular Turner's Musical Merry-Go-Round and Billing Aquadrome, a 270 acre holiday home, camping and leisure park, which offers a wealth of family fun. Cinemas, nightclubs, discos, pubs and restaurants all enhance the town's reputation. For a more peaceful break, Northampton has several beautiful parks, gardens and riverside walks, many of which are easily reached from the town centre.

Northampton is also perfectly placed as a touring base. Its position as a communications hub at the crossroads of England makes it accessible from all parts of the country and within easy reach of London, Cambridge, Oxford, Stratford, Warwick, Coventry, and the Cotswolds.

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