Delapré Abbey

It started life as a Cluniac nunnery, became a family home after the dissolution of the monasteries and struggled to find a purpose in the 20th century. The Abbey witnessed key historic events including the Battle of Northampton during the War of the Roses and was a resting place for Queen Eleanor's funeral cortege.

As a family home, the Abbey was remodelled and updated whilst enduring family trials and tribulations. When the county record office left the site in the early 1990s, the Abbey began a decline into disrepair and a hidden gem of the county was slowly forgotten. But now, the Abbey is preparing for 2019 when it will further develop the next chapter of it's life. The Abbey has lots to offer including a fine suite of rooms, rustic Medieval areas, extensive parkland and a beautiful walled garden. The shop is stocked with unique gifts, local produce and work by the finest crafters in the area. You are sure to find something to remind you of your visit. The café provides delicious food and offers a sleek café or Victorian Billiard Room if you prefer to dine with a little more elegance.

Group visits are all created bespoke and can include a guided tour by one of the knowledgeable volunteers or if you prefer, you can explore the Abbey at your own pace with a "freeflow" admission.

Garden tours and sit-down talks are also available for those groups with more of a niche interest. Catering can be provided ranging from tea and biscuits to a full afternoon tea with prosecco.

Group visits are offered seven days a week including evenings and weekends, so your group can be flexible with their arrangements. Group visits can be provided for groups of 12 or more with no maximum. Let the Abbey take the stress out of your day by building a tailor-made visit to your exact requirements. The Abbey is uniquely situated in the heart of Northampton with easy transport links by bus and rail as well as the A45 and M1. There is plenty of parking for cars as well as coach parties. Delapré will suit the group who have visited everywhere already or a local group who have always been curious about what secrets this historic Abbey holds.

For the history enthusiasts, there are a rich tapestry of eras and events for the guides to tell you about.

To begin building your day at Delapré, contact them by telephoning on 01604 866 712 or via email at bookings@delapreabbey.org.