Love Northampton

This 500 acre tranquil parkland includes woods, small lakes and a network of footpaths. At its centre lies the historic Depare Abbey, which is surrounded by the remains of its formal gardens; a large walled garden, a small arboretum and the unearthed gullies and ponds of a once splendid water garden. A south lawn stretches out to a ha-ha which separates the formal gardens from the wider parkland. Visitors can also enjoy a drink or snack in the lovely Orangery Cafe, which has a terrace area overlooking the lawn. The gardens and parkland are open seven days a week, all year round, free of charge. The walled garden is open every day, with some seasonal variations in opening times. The park is also a registered battlefield, where The Battle of Northampton was fought in 1460 as part of the War of the Roses. the park is also a registered battlefield, where The Battle of Northampton was fought in 1460 as part of the War of the Roses. The Historic England website listing states that the battle was one of the key engagements of the Wars of the Roses, which saw the defeat of the Lancastrian army and the capture of King Henry VI. Northampton was one of the first battles where artillery was deployed, even if it proved ineffective.