Tash and Hugh’s day really was one to remember. From the first moment I arrived, the prep room, with Tash and her many bridesmaids, was full – busy and vibrant and laughter filled – and that set the scene for the rest of the day.
This is one wedding that was so easy to shoot, and never once felt like work. Everyone and everything about the day was relaxed and easy going and Tash & Hugh themselves didn’t stop smiling or laughing (or pouring Jägerbombs) at all. From the church service and Hugh seeing his beautiful bride walking up the aisle with the father of the bride. To the wonderful reception at Sywell Grange where drinks flowed and the dance floor was one massive party.
This is the kind of wedding I love to shoot so if anyone’s thinking of doing something similar, do it! And, of course, book me!
Explore Northamptonshire: England’s Historic Heartland
Tucked away in the East Midlands, Northamptonshire is a county rich in history, architectural elegance, and rural beauty. Often referred to as the Rose of the Shires, this underrated region of England boasts centuries-old landmarks, royal connections, and a unique role in shaping the nation’s past. From medieval castles and battlefield sites to thriving market towns and motorsport legends. Northamptonshire blends heritage and modern charm to create a destination perfect for weekend escapes.
Northampton
The county town, Northampton, is steeped in history that dates back to Saxon times and rose to prominence during the Middle Ages as a major political and economic centre. Once home to a formidable Norman castle, Northampton was where Parliaments were held during the reigns of Henry II and Edward I. Although much of the castle was lost during the 19th century to make way for the expanding railway, traces of its walls still remain near the train station.
In 1675, the town suffered a devastating fire that destroyed most of its buildings, but it rose from the ashes with Georgian elegance. This is best exemplified in the classical façade of All Saints Church. Today, Northampton is also known for its historical ties to shoemaking, once the epicentre of British boot and shoe production. The town celebrates this legacy through the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, which houses the largest collection of footwear in the world.
To the northwest of Northampton lies Althorp House. The grand estate of the Spencer family is famously associated with Diana, Princess of Wales. Set amidst 13,000 acres of parkland, Althorp has been the Spencer ancestral home since 1508. Visitors can tour its opulent interiors, view the extensive collection of portraits and furnishings, and pay their respects at Princess Diana’s island memorial on the Round Oval lake.
Moving east, the small village of Fotheringhay holds significant royal connections. It was here in 1452 that King Richard III was born. He is the last English monarch to die in battle at Bosworth Field in 1485. Fotheringhay Castle, now in ruins, was also the site of Mary, Queen of Scots’ execution in 1587. This came after 19 years of imprisonment by Elizabeth I. The nearby church, St Mary and All Saints, with its striking octagonal tower, serves as a reminder of the village’s once-illustrious status as a royal stronghold.
Northamptonshire was also a key player during the English Civil War. The decisive Battle of Naseby in 1645, one of the most important clashes of the war, happened in the county. Oliver Cromwell’s Parliamentarian forces defeated King Charles I’s army. This marked a turning point that led to the eventual downfall of the monarchy and the rise of the Commonwealth. The site of the battle, near the village of Naseby, is marked with information boards and memorials. The surrounding landscape remains much as it was in the 17th century too.
Scattered throughout the county are stately homes that reflect its aristocratic heritage. Rockingham Castle, originally built for William the Conqueror, has been continuously occupied for nearly 1,000 years. It also offers great views over the Welland Valley. The estate also provides a glimpse into Tudor and Victorian life, having once served as a royal hunting lodge. Not far away lies Kirby Hall, a grand Elizabethan mansion that once entertained King James I. Though partially in ruins, the restored state apartments and formal gardens reveal the opulence of 16th-century England.
Northampton Today
Today, Northamptonshire isn’t just about history. The county is home to Silverstone Circuit, the iconic venue for the British Grand Prix. Motorsport fans flock to Silverstone not only for the annual Formula 1 race but also for the Silverstone Museum, which offers an immersive journey through British racing history with vintage cars, interactive exhibits, and pit-lane experiences.
Modern visitors will also find plenty of outdoor recreation. The rolling countryside is perfect for walking and cycling with scenic routes along the Grand Union Canal, the Nene Valley, and a network of former railway lines now turned into nature trails. Stanwick Lakes, Irchester Country Park, and Daventry Country Park are popular for families, offering woodlands, wildlife, and adventure playgrounds. In the Nene Valley, heritage trains run between Wansford and Peterborough on the Nene Valley Railway, allowing passengers to enjoy the picturesque views from the comfort of a restored steam or diesel carriage.
Northamptonshire’s market towns retain their traditional charm and local character. Oundle, with its honey-colored stone buildings and narrow lanes, is known for its prestigious public school and independent shops. Towcester, once a Roman settlement called Lactodurum, still shows traces of its past in its street layout and archaeological remains. Brackley, another historic coaching town, is closely tied to Silverstone and nearby Stowe Gardens. While Kettering and Corby showcase the county’s 19th- and 20th-century industrial heritage. In Kettering, Wicksteed Park – opened 1921 and one of the UK’s oldest amusement parks – remains a favourite for a family visit.
The county has also been home to many notable figures. Beyond Princess Diana and King Richard III, Northamptonshire produced Francis Crick, co-discoverer of the DNA structure, born in Weston Favell. The town of Northampton is the birthplace of Alan Moore, the influential graphic novelist behind Watchmen and V for Vendetta. Religion wise, Robert Browne was a key figure in the ideological groundwork for the Pilgrim Fathers who settled in America.
Visitors looking to enjoy local cuisine will find plenty to savor. Northamptonshire is known for its traditional sausages, locally brewed ales, and Stilton cheese produced just outside the county borders. Historic pubs and stylish restaurants are abundant. With options ranging from country inns like The Saracen’s Head at Little Brington to elegant dining at country house hotels such as Rushton Hall.
Whether you’re uncovering royal intrigues at Fotheringhay, watching world-class racing at Silverstone, or simply enjoying the peaceful charm of a village tearoom, Northamptonshire offers something for every traveler. A land of contrasts and continuity, it promises a rich experience in every season.
