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Wellingborough

 
Sywell Reservoir Nr Wellingborough

The community was established in the eastern region of Northamptonshire and lies along the north shore beside the River Nene. A Saxon leader by the name of Waendel originally founded the settlement sometime in the sixth century and by 1086, the village was known as Wendelburie. The name later became Wendelingburgh and eventually evolved into Wellingborough.

The manor house became the property of the Croyland Abbey, which was designed and constructed by an order of monks. The All Hallows Church was built in 1160. Wellingborough has held weekly markets since receiving a charter in 1201.

Wellingborough also has historical ties to Sir Francis Drake. During the Elizabethan age, the lord of the manor, Sir Christopher Hatton sponsored some of the sea captain's expeditions. In response, Drake named one of his ships the Golden Hind, taken from the Hatton family crest.

The Civil War incited skirmishes within the community and ended with the parish priest and 40 citizens taken prisoner by the Parliamentarians. For a brief time, a group of Diggers made Wellingborough their home. Local economics were based on agriculture, iron smelting and the leather and shoe industries. Canals and the railway improved trade and brought commuter residents to Wellingborough.

Activities and Attractions

The surrounding hills and scenic river valley encourages many to experience the fresh clean country air. Wellingborough contains numerous cycling and hiking paths through country parks, woodlands and along the river. The community lies along the Brampton Valley Way, and many paths that traverse across England for all to enjoy.

Visitors might also journey through town and explore the many medieval buildings. The city grew around the ancient All Hallows Church. The main entrance dates to 1150. The impressive spire was constructed during the thirteenth century and the tower houses eight bells. The east chancel window was installed in 1290, but the majority of the building was created in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. The house of worship contains exquisite ornamentation, stained glass windows and a World War I memorial.

The Wellingborough Museum encompasses 929 sq.m. (10,000 sq.ft.) of exhibits, from the prehistoric era to the present. Collections include archaeological, industrial and social displays. Other collections commemorate hobbies through the ages, medicine and military history.

Built in the 1600s by Lord Hatton, the timber framed Golden Hind Hotel is not only a local treasure, but also provides the opportunity for an interesting night out. The facility regularly welcomes visitors to participate in an intriguing murder mystery evening. Individuals enjoy a delightful three-course meal while mingling with other guests. Suddenly, the evening is interrupted by a horrific murder. Witness the events unfold or be the super sleuth who solves the crime.

Places to Stay and Dining

Many local medieval coaching inns carry on the tradition of providing lodging to travelling guests. Though filled with 21st century conveniences, the facilities also contain memories from the past.

The Ock and Dough restaurant not only serves traditional pub food, but also has menus displaying allergy and nutritional information concerning the meals prepared. Try a beef, chicken or mushroom ale pie, or indulge in a prime choice steak.

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