There’s a nostalgic feel to Northamptonshire that makes a stay in the county feel like winding back the clock to a simpler time. Right in the heart of the country, you’ll be within easy reach of stately home after stately home, villages worthy of postcards and no end of footpaths to coax you back into your walking boots.

The perfect county for those of you who want to experience the quaint side of country life, Northamptonshire’s ideal for those escapes for two that are all about long walks and hearty pub meals, as well as family breaks packed with long days out on new adventures.

Now we’ve all found a new excitement about our country’s imposing stately homes since Downton captured our imaginations, and there’s good news for those of you who love a spiral staircase and a glinting chandelier, Northamptonshire is simply full of them. Every inch the English country estate, Althorp House is home to the ninth Earl Spencer, and with 500 years of history and a 13,000 acre estate, it’s one of the county’s most picturesque attractions.

For those days when you want to gather the kids and take them on a long walk with plenty to see along the way, head to Daventry Country Park. The park centres around a reservoir, and as its 140 acres include a nature reserve too you should see plenty of wildlife as you make your way along the footpaths.

A Northamptonshire holiday isn’t all about pretty views and historic houses though…the county’s home to Silverstone, the world-class home of Britain’s motorsport. The circuit hosts the British Grand Prix, and if there’s no event on during your visit (and you’re feeling daring) you can book an experience package to see just how it feels to drive on one of the world’s most legendary tracks.

Book a stay in one of our Northamptonshire holiday cottages, pull on your walking boots, and put your best foot forward.