Northampton BID

BIG Summer Booksale
2025-08-06 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-07 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-08 09:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Northampton Central Library, Abington Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2BA, United Kingdom
There is no better way to enjoy your favourite books than outdoors, whether youâ€™re gardening, boating or exploring faraway places! Come and have your best pick from the BIG Summer Booksale, where youâ€™ll find a wide selection of books at great prices, starting from just 50p.

Gladiators of Britain
2025-08-06 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-08 10:00 - 17:00 | Northampton Museum And Art Gallery, 4-6 Guildhall Rd,, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
Explore the history of gladiatorial fights in Britain.

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The events of the amphitheatre – its wild beasts and enslaved fighters – are one of the most enduring aspects of Roman culture that still capture the public imagination today.
This touring exhibition brings together some of the countryâ€™s most important objects to tell the story of Britainâ€™s entertainment venues and the people who died to the roar of the crowd. It will reveal the violence of the arena, and the importance of spectacle within Roman culture.
Highlights include the Colchester Vase loaned by Colchester Museums, which records an actual battle between two real gladiators, and the Hawkedon Helmet, the only confirmed piece of gladiatorial armour from Roman Britain. These iconic loans will be supported by a selection of other items that reveal the popularity of gladiators throughout Roman society.
This tour is in partnership with Colchester and Ipswich Museums and is inspired by the recent exhibition at Colchester Castle, Gladiators: A Day at the Roman Games which featured British Museum loans. It will explore Roman spectacle in the local region, following in the footsteps of the gladiators who fought in the amphitheatres of Britain.

From the Collection: Landscapes
2025-08-06 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-08 10:00 - 17:00 | Northampton Museum And Art Gallery, 4-6 Guildhall Rd,, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
For centuries, landscape was considered an unworthy subject for serious artistic exploration.
Northampton Museum & Art Gallery
Until Sunday 4 October
When landscape did appear in paintings, it was often relegated to the background—merely a setting for religious or historical scenes.
This perception began to shift in the 17th century with the work of Nicolas Poussin and Claude Lorrain. These pioneering artists crafted idealised rural vistas to illustrate the myths of Ancient Greece and Rome, imbuing natural elements with metaphorical meaning. Through their romantic and structured visions of the countryside, landscape painting began to gain recognition as a meaningful art form.
It was not until the 19th century, however, that landscape truly came into its own. Artists such as J.M.W. Turner and John Constable redefined the genre, capturing the drama, emotion, and grandeur of the natural world. Their work affirmed landscape as a powerful subject in its own right—one that continues to inspire artists to this day.
Drawing from the museum collections, this exhibition explores the evolution of landscape painting, where nature takes centre stage.
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IN EXTREMIS: Landscape Reimagined
2025-08-06 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-08 10:00 - 17:00 | 78 Derngate, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1UH
We are very pleased to be hosting this exhibition across all our galleries here at 78 Derngate. Simon James is a multi-disciplinary artist who explores themes of nature and the urban environment in mostly abstract or semi-abstract forms and takes inspiration from his surroundings in the cities of Asia and Europe or, more recently, the English countryside. James trained in Fine Art and Printmaking at London’s Royal Academy and Royal College of Art and he now works across the spectrum from painting and drawing to video and photographic works, having adopted the expressive potential of digital media while working as a designer and independent artist in Asia. Having held solo shows in London, Berlin, Singapore, Shanghai and Tokyo, whilst also designing for TV, publishing and the music industry, Simon was also a university lecturer in multimedia and photography.

www.simonjames.com

Endangered and Extinct by creative recycling artist Val Hunt
2025-08-06 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-08 10:00 - 17:00 | Northampton Museum And Art Gallery, 4-6 Guildhall Rd,, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
With inspiration, ingenuity, humour and skill, creative recycling artist Val Hunt has created a fascinating selection of large and small sculptural pieces which are both appealing and informative
Saturday 28 June â€“ Sunday 10 August 2025
Animals, exotic birds, fish, dinosaurs and species of flora, all on the edge or now extinct, have been made from a selection of throwaway material especially Val’s favourite medium, drinks can metal.
This exhibition presents a subtle message about recycling and preservation, raising awareness of why the creatures on show are endangered or extinct. Find out why species are disappearing from this planet at an alarming rate.

Bounce and Rhyme at Northamptonshire Central Library
2025-08-06 10:30 - 11:00 | Northampton Central Library, Abington Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2BA, United Kingdom
Sessions to introduce rhymes and songs to your child to encourage interaction and develop communication skills.
Please note that the Bounce and Rhyme sessions will be run on a first-come, first-serve basis on the day and it will not be possible to book in advance. Parents and carers will be able to pick up a free ticket at the reception desk on Wednesday morning at 10 am.
This event is for under 1s and non-walkers only.

Cupcake Decorating Afternoon Tea
2025-08-06 12:00 - 14:00 | The Eccentric Englishman, 21 St Giles' Street, northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1JA, United Kingdom
Kids and grown ups are all included in this one.You can enjoy a two course afternoon tea, whilst decorating your own cupcake, we will provide everything for you.Extra cupcakes will be available to purchase should you wish to decorate more.Fun music and a quirky atmosphere awaits you.Kids are £20.95Adults £24.95Deposits of £10 00 are required at time of booking and are non refundable.Please call us today to book

Pop in Wednesdays
2025-08-06 12:00 - 16:00 | Northampton Museum And Art Gallery, 4-6 Guildhall Rd,, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
Wednesdays on 30 July, 6, 13, 20, 27 August
12-4pm
Northampton Museum & Art Gallery
Looking for the perfect way to keep the kids entertained this school holiday? Pop in for Wednesday afternoons packed with fun activities, puzzles, and games!
Let them explore exciting themed trails, challenge themselves with brain-teasing games, and dive into interactive experiences designed to spark their curiosity. Whether they’re solving mysteries, getting hands-on with crafts, or discovering something new, there’s plenty to keep young minds engaged.
No need to book—just drop by and join the adventure this Wednesday afternoon!
Free of charge – donations welcome!

We Will Rock You: Young@Part
2025-08-06 14:00 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
This is VCL’s first Summer Youth Project in Northamptonshire the cast comprises of young performers from around the county who are “breaking free” to showcase their talents in the dynamic musical “We Will Rock You: Young@Part.”
Is a special adaptation of the iconic Queen musical is tailored for a younger cast and offers a vibrant platform for our aspiring actors, singers, and dancers to bring the legendary music and story to life.
Set in a dystopian future where musical instruments and rock music are banned, “We Will Rock You” follows a group of rebels led by Galileo and Scaramouche as they fight to restore freedom and individuality through the power of rock ‘n’ roll.

OPEN MIC
2025-08-06 20:00 | The Wig And Pen, 19 St Giles' St, northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1JA, United Kingdom
Join us from 8pm

PHOTOGRAPHY
2025-08-06 20:00 - 22:00 | Northamptonshire Natural History Society, The Humfrey Rooms, 10 Castilian Terrace, Northampton, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1LD, United Kingdom
IMPROMPTU PHOTOGRAPHIC NIGHTS. Come along with your camera gear. Subject to be agreed on the night and may be Post Processing (Photoshop), Still Life, Studio Flash, AV, or anything else you would like to cover. Guests are very welcome to join us where we will gladly assist with photographic queries.

The Giant, Immersive Murder Mystery Game
2025-08-07 00:00, 2025-08-08 00:00 | Northampton Museum And Art Gallery, 4-6 Guildhall Rd,, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
June – 7 September 2025
Northampton Museum & Art Gallery
£25 per team
Step into the role of a detective and solve a series of curious and whimsical mysteries in your local museum. Using our companion app, youâ€™ll explore the museum to uncover hidden clues and encounter life-sized cardboard characters—each one a possible suspect, witness, or victim.
Work together to connect the dots, follow the twists in each story, and put your problem-solving skills to the test. It’s the perfect activity for families, friends, or anyone with a curious mind looking for a fun and unique experience.
What to Expect
A Unique Blend of Games
Enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines elements of a murder mystery, escape room, scavenger hunt, and even a touch of Where’s Wally. Team up and see if you can crack the case.

An Immersive Museum Adventure
Watch the museum transform into a crime-solving playground. Track down cardboard clues, solve puzzles, and interact with quirky characters—surprises await around every corner.

Three Curious Cases to Solve
Your adventure lasts between 1 to 2 hours and includes three entertaining cases, from a vandalized moustache to a victim flattened by an ancient sarcophagus.
Ready to solve the mystery? Gather your team and start your investigation.
Perfect for friends, families, and curious minds – this is not your typical museum visit. It’s an adventure where YOU become the detective!
Just £25 per team
Timed slots
Only one phone needed to play

Holiday Club: Dragon Masters
2025-08-07 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-08 09:00 - 17:00 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
How do you teach a Dragon…?
Come and join a magical adventure this summer in this dragon-themed camp for little people (aged between 4 and 8) with big imaginations!
Using storytelling, theatre, crafts and more, young Dragon Masters will explore and hone their creative skills over the week to create their own original fiery stories.
For more information, please email getinvolved@royalandderngate.co.uk
Bursaries and Lunch Clubs are available.
(For older adventurers aged 9-13 we have Holiday Club: Myths, Legends & Monsters from Mon 11 – Fri 15 Aug)

LUCY SPRAGGAN
2025-08-07 19:30 - 22:30 | Roadmender, 1 Lady's Ln, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 3AH, United Kingdom
Singer songwriter Lucy Spraggan brings to Northampton her unique blend of folk, indie pop and acoustic sounds paired with powerful and emotive lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide.
Lucy Spraggan, the incredibly talented British singer-songwriter, has taken the music scene by storm with her unique blend of folk, indie-pop, and acoustic sounds. Hailing from Buxton, Derbyshire, Lucy’s powerful and emotive lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide.

KARAOKE NIGHT PARTY
2025-08-07 20:00 - 23:00 | The Optimist, 23-25 St. Giles Street, Northampton,, NN1 1JA
Come and sing your favourite songs with your friends or family, Students come and enjoy your Student deal drinks, cheaper then anywhere in town! Make a night of it Live At The Optimist!

Fairy House Door Decorating Afternoon Tea
2025-08-08 12:00 - 14:00 | The Eccentric Englishman, 21 St Giles' Street, northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1JA, United Kingdom
Who says you canâ€™t craft while you munch?

Join us for a whimsical two-course afternoon tea, where each guest gets to decorate their very own miniature fairy house door. This perfect for sparking young imaginations and for keeping little (and big) hands busy. Weâ€™ll provide all the materials, just bring your inner fairy!
We will supply all the sweet treats and giggles you can imagine. Step inside our little wonderland for inspiration.
• Kids – £20.95
• Adults – £24.95
A non-refundable deposit of £10 per person is required to confirm your booking. Booking is essential, so please call us to save your seat at the table.

CRAFT & CHATTER
2025-08-08 12:30 - 14:00 | Northampton Museum And Art Gallery, 4-6 Guildhall Rd,, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
Every Friday 12.30 â€“ 2.00 Free If youâ€™re looking for a way to unwind after a busy week or just want to make some new crafting friends, come along with your chosen craft to these friendly informal sessions. They take place every Friday lunchtime in the Northampton Museum & Art Gallery lower cafe area. Drop in no booking required but please purchase a drink or something to eat from the cafe.

BINGO LOCO
2025-08-08 18:00 | Roadmender, 1 Lady's Ln, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 3AH, United Kingdom
BINGO LOCO NORTHAMPTON
BINGO LOCO IS COMING TO YOU AFTER SOLD OUT SHOWS IN DUBLIN / NEW YORK / SYDNEY / VANCOUVER + 200 OTHER DESTINATIONS AROUND THE WORLD.
GEAR UP FOR A NIGHT OF BINGO MADNESS FEATURING HILARIOUS HOSTS, DJS PLAYING THE BEST OF 90S/00 MUSIC, CONFETTI SHOWERS, DANCE OFFS, LIP SYNC BATTLES AND INCREDIBLE PRIZES RANGING FROM INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAYS TO LAWNMOWERS.”
LOCATION – ROADMENDER
SHOW TIME: 6PM-10PM
GET YOUR TICKETS BELOW! â�

BINGO LOCO NORTHAMPTON- Friday 08th August 25
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