Northampton BID

The Mystery Tours - 'The Great Fire of Northampton'
2025-08-31 17:30 (Europe/London)
The Mystery Tours â€“ â€˜The Great Fire of Northamptonâ€™

Sunday 29th June at 5pm, Sunday 31st August at 5.30pm and Saturday 20th September at 5.30pm.
Step Into the Flames of History!

Join us for an immersive journey back to September 20th, 1675, when a single spark ignited a catastrophic fire that reduced much of Northampton to ashes. Guided by our enigmatic Time Traveller, you’ll witness the unfolding disaster, hear the tales of survival, and see how the town rose from the ashes.
Tour Highlights
St. Mary’s Street
Stand at the very spot where the fire began and discover how a single flame in a thatched house led to devastation.
Market Square
Hear the dramatic accounts of desperate townsfolk, the crumbling of historic buildings, and the narrow escapes from the inferno.
All Saints’ Church
See how this iconic landmark rose from the ashes, thanks to King Charles II’s donation of timber.
Sessions House
Marvel at one of the first buildings to be rebuilt, symbolizing the town’s determination to recover.
Meeting Point: St. Peter’s Church, Northampton (Outside main gate)
End Point: Top of Abington Street
Duration: 90 minutes (approximately)
Suitable for: Adults & children over 10
Tickets: £15 (including booking fee)
Important Information
This is a walking tour—please wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
Book Your Spot Now!
Suitability: Adults and children over the age of ten. Lasts approx 1hr. Tickets: £15 inc booking fee
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mystery.tours/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themysterytours
To book, click the link.

We Will Rock You: Young@Part
2025-08-16 18:00 | 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.

Dinosaur World Live
2025-07-24 11:00, 2025-07-23 11:00 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Roarsome fun for all the family!
Looking for fun days out with the kids? Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family!
Discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus!
A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Don’t miss this entertaining and mind-expanding jurassic adventure, live on stage.
Olivier Award winner for Best Family Show 2024!

Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell
2025-07-19 14:30, 2025-07-17 14:30 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Matthew Bourne’s award-winning The Midnight Bell comes to Northampton for the first time in 2025.
In 1930s London ordinary people emerge from cheap boarding houses nightly to pour out their passions, hopes and dreams in the pubs and fog-bound streets of Soho and Fitzrovia. Step inside The Midnight Bell, a tavern where one particular lonely-hearts club gather to play out their lovelorn affairs of the heart; bitter comedies of longing, frustration, betrayal and redemption.
Inspired by the great English novelist Patrick Hamilton (Twenty Thousand Streets Under The Sky, Hangover Square) who created some of the most authentic fiction of his era; stories borne out of years of social interactions with the working man and woman at his favourite location – the London Pub.
Hailed by The Observer as ‘the undisputed king of dance theatre’, master storyteller Bourne has produced some of the most successful dance theatre productions of the last 30 years including Swan Lake, Cinderella, The Red Shoes and Edward Scissorhands.

In Conversation with Matthew Bourne
Join us after the performance on Tue 15 July 7:30pm for a fully BSL interpreted chat with Matthew Bourne himself for a unique opportunity to discover the insights of creating this show. This event is free with a ticket to the performance that evening.

Young Company: Boudica
2025-07-19 14:00 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
“I’d rather walk in blood than walk a slave”
On the furthest outreaches of the Roman Empire, the edge of the known world, rebellion is brewing…
The King of the Iceni has died. His widow, Boudica, comes to claim her rightful throne and territories in defiance of the occupying force, Rome. For daring to try and take what is hers the native queen is flogged, her daughters raped, and they are banished from their homeland. But now Queen Boudica has returned. And this time, she has an army.
She will take back her land, her freedom, and more, much more: she will have revenge. She will have blood.
Join us for Boudica (written by Tristan Bernays, directed by Anna Simpson with fight choreography by Kiel O’Shea) and watch the Royal & Derngate Young Company bring this play based on ancient history hurtling into the 21st century, exploring urgent and provocative questions about occupation and oppression, the legacy of colonial violence, and how people try to hold on to their humanity amidst war’s brutality.
Performed in arrangement with Nick Hern Books.
From our Community.

Content Warning: Contains strong language, depictions of violence and death, and references to sexual assault.

SOUL D BAND LIVE
2025-07-11 21:00 | The King Billy Music Bar, 2 Commercial Street, Northampton, NN1 1PJ, United Kingdom
A party night of Soul, Funk and Disco.

ODDESSEY
2025-07-11 21:00 | The Wig And Pen, 19 St Giles' St, northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1JA, United Kingdom
LIVE MUSIC

Apéro DJ: Ritchie K
2025-07-11 18:00 - 22:00 | V and B, 10 St Giles' Square,, Northampton, NN1 1DA, United Kingdom
Apéro DJ: @ritchie__k__theravelist8894 . •balearic•acid•jazz•soul•6-10.

Piano, Prosecco, Charcuterie!
2025-07-11 18:00 - 21:00 | Grandbies, 26 St Giles' St, northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1JA, United Kingdom
Piano and Prosecco
Piano & Prosecco Night at Grandbies
? Jazz, Bubbles & Pre-Date Night Bliss ?
Unwind in style at Grandbiesâ€™ Piano & Prosecco Night—the perfect pre-dinner date setting. Whether youâ€™re heading out afterwards or simply want to start your evening right, join us for smooth live jazz piano, a chilled glass of prosecco, and delicious charcuterie boards to share.
? What to Expect:

A complimentary glass of sparkling prosecco on arrival
Live jazz piano creating the ultimate relaxed vibe
Elegant charcuterie boards available for couples and friends
Warm, ambient atmosphere—perfect for romantic evenings or catching up in style

? Let the music set the tone.? Drop in before dinner or linger with another glass.

CRAFT & CHATTER
2025-07-11 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.

Endangered and Extinct by creative recycling artist Val Hunt
2025-07-11 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-10 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.

IN EXTREMIS: Landscape Reimagined
2025-07-11 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-10 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

From the Collection: Landscapes
2025-07-11 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-10 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.
Â

Gladiators of Britain
2025-07-11 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-10 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.

Â

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.

The Giant, Immersive Murder Mystery Game
2025-07-11 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

KARAOKE NIGHT PARTY
2025-07-10 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!
Â
With not only multiple screens, but a HUGE TV wall next to the bar for you to enjoy a great selection of beers on tap and some Champions League winning food. With Happy Hour, cocktail and shot deals too, what more could you want?

LEVELLERS
2025-07-10 19:30 | Roadmender, 1 Lady's Ln, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 3AH, United Kingdom
Revered Brighton group the Levellers are famed for their high-tempo live performances. Approaching their 40th anniversary in a few years, the Levellers are still a must-see live band and a force to be reckoned with.
Â
Their seminal platinum-selling album Levelling The Land redefined the UK’s musical landscape during the summer of 1991 featuring hit singles including One Way, 15 Years and Far From Home. Their most successful album was the number #1 Zeitgeist which celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2025. Most recently they released new studio album ‘Peace’ in 2020 which entered the UK Official Album Charts at #8 – the band’s highest charting entry since 1997’s Mouth to Mouth reached #5.
Â
Having thrilled fans and critics with two highly acclaimed ‘Levellers Collective’ acoustic tours and albums in recent years, the Collective will embark on a new 17-date tour of theatres and venues around the country in March 2025 to coincide with the release of a live album & DVD from a show recorded at London’s iconic Hackney Empire in 2023.
Â
Levellers will turn back to all electric shows for the rest of 2025 at festivals and venues including their own Beautiful Days festival in Devon.

Open Mic
2025-07-10 19:00 - 21:00 | V and B, 10 St Giles' Square,, Northampton, NN1 1DA, United Kingdom
Open Mic. Hosted by @tukayandryan . 7-9pm. Free entry.

Masterclass: Summery Reds.
2025-07-10 19:00 - 21:00 | V and B, 10 St Giles' Square,, Northampton, NN1 1DA, United Kingdom
Ages 18+

Because reds are for life, not just for winter.
Yes we get it â€“ in the summer there’s nothing better than a crisp, refreshing rosé, or an ice cold lager. But what about the reds? For this class, we’ll be introducing you to your new summer besties â€“ they’re fresh, they’re light and â€“ would you believe- they’re red.

Pride Vibez Afterparty
2025-07-10 18:00 - 20:30 | Replay Northampton, 34 - 38 Bridge Street, Northampton, NN1 1PA
Pride vibez AFTERPARTYHosted and performances by @thee.missalexis with special guest performances from guests tba with audience interaction games in-between performances.Ticket prices;Standard entry â€“ £10Bottomless pizza â€“ £25Pizza will be available from 7pm when we will have a half hour break for people to eat and our queens to have a rest to entertain you for the rest of the event.Performances start at 18.15 so we advise to arrive when doors open at 17.45.we do request that you remain seated whilst the performers are performing for both audience safety and performers safety

GENERAL
2025-07-10 14:30 - 16:30 | Northamptonshire Natural History Society, The Humfrey Rooms, 10 Castilian Terrace, Northampton, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1LD, United Kingdom
THE NNHS GLASS SLIDES. We will continue our fascinating tour through the glass slides taken by society members on trips and walks etc in the first quarter of the last century.

Mostly Matt - The Bear, Northampton
2025-07-10 14:00 - 16:00 | The Bear, 11 Sheep Street, Northampton, NN1 2LT
Formerly Known As Matt Should Cover It!
Live Covers Vocalist/Guitarist

Afternoon Tea in Support of Dementia
2025-07-10 12:00 - 14:00 | The Eccentric Englishman, 21 St Giles' Street, northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1JA, United Kingdom
Supporting the â€œDementia Sings Outâ€� Charity
Inspired by my beloved Granny, who lived with dementia and sparked my passion for baking and creating our beautiful café, we’re delighted to host a special Afternoon Tea designed with love and care.
This three-course Afternoon Tea will be full of homemade treats, served with unlimited hot or soft drinks, and we’re happy to cater for any dietary requirements – just let us know when booking.
Tickets are £25.00 per person, with a £10.00 deposit required to secure your place (please note, this deposit is non-refundable). 10% of profits from the event will be donated to â€œDementia Sings Outâ€�, a charity close to our hearts.
If the afternoon proves popular, we’d love to make it a regular event.
To book or find out more, just give us a call – we’d love to hear from you

CQC Training Course - New Assessment Framework and How To Be 'Outstanding'
2025-07-10 10:00 - 16:30 | Mercure Northampton, Silver Street, Northampton, NN1 2TA
â€œUnmissable course Excellent insight into CQC. The course was one of the most informative and interesting that I have attended in 10 years”
This course runs 10:00am-4:00pm and includes the training day, a bank of training resources and materials to take home, plus lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
Receive a free Audit guide aligned to the new Assessment Framework when attending the course.
Join our informative CQC training session to understand the New CQC Single Assessment Framework, you will learn how to prepare for CQC inspection under these new changes, and understand how the Quality Statements will impact your service.
Who Should Attend?
This CQC training is tailored for health and Socialcare professionals from across the sector.
Course Agenda:
A History of CQC who are they and what do they do

The Care Quality Commission (CQC)
The CQC’s Powers
Regulated Activities
Who are the Care Quality Commission?

The New CQC Single Assessment Framework

The what and the why of the Single Assessment Framework
“I” and “We” Statements
The 5 key questions, regulations & fundamental standards
New Framework in focus; evidencing “We” statements

Pre-Inspection

Understanding the inspection model
What are the 11 Fundamental standards?
The 5 Questions being asked as part of the Inspection.
Mapping the standards to the 5 Questions
Its Not just CQC â€“ Looking at the other Legislation
Evidence Matrix
Evidence that now demonstrates compliance for the 5 Questions

Understanding the Quality Statements

The 34 Quality Statements
The Inspection Methodology
The Inspection Process
The New Strategy explained

On the day of inspection

First Impressions Matter
Time to Showcase your good work
Introductions (Who are the Inspection team?)
General house-keeping for everyone

After the inspection

Immediate Team brief
48 Hour Rule
Ratings
How often you will be Inspected
Draft Report

Hints and Tips for achieving Outstanding

What constitutes outstanding?
Sharing Best Practice
Getting the most from the CQC Website
