Why Northamptonshire is the County of ‘Squires and Spires’
Northamptonshire is a county in the East Midlands, completely landlocked. Tucked away in the heart of England, it’s known as ‘the county of squires and spires’, due to its rich mix of stately homes and ancient churches. Alongside picturesque villages and beautiful countryside.
If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe.
River Nene: A Historic Northamptonshire Waterway
The River Nene meanders through Northamptonshire, threading through nature reserves, villages and wetlands, giving lovely views of open countryside and water meadows.
Call of the Kingfisher is an enchanting book by a composer, who celebrates all wild things that live on River Nene, which at 100 miles is one of the longest in England, flowing out to The Wash on the east coast.
The Grand Union Canal also passes through this county, with picturesque towpaths ideal for walking and cycling. Read our post on how to protect historic canals.
Rushton Triangular Lodge: Mathematical Marvel
Rushton Triangular Lodge (completed in 1597) is a triumph of geometry. Built by a Catholic landowner during a period of religious turmoil, Sir Thomas Tresham had a tragic life. One of his 11 children died in a building collapse. And a son died of natural causes (but was beheaded afterwards, due to stand trial for the Gunpowder Plot).
Designed to echo the Holy Trinity of his faith, all sides are the same length. And there are three floors, three triangular windows on each face, and decorations grouped in threes.
The Legacy of Princess Diana
Lady Diana Spencer was born on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, but grew up at her family’s stately home of Althorp in Northamptonshire. She married Prince Charles to become Princess Diana, and after her death, is buried on an island on a lake here.
Diana became one of the world’s most popular people, due to her compassion (kissing AIDs patients and banning landmines). She did not agree with shooting animals either, a shame that her brother now runs shooting parties at the place where she is laid to rest.
Her chef fondly remembers Diana. ‘The princes was a terrible cook, she really was. I would leave food for her in the fridge, like stuffed peppers’. She once even called the fire brigade, while cooking pasta!
