Showing Things to Do in all locations
22nd Jan 2025
If anyone asks, tell ’em I’m out to Lunch
The ‘High Priestess of New York Punk’, Lydia Lunch will play at The Lab as part of the IVW shenanigans. The musician, writer, photographer and performance artist will be with Etant Donnés' founder Marc Hurtado, who also releases his vision as a poet, painter, producer and film-maker. Their collective cup of creativity doesn’t just runneth over, it positively floods! The duo will dig deep into the songs of the ridiculously influential Suicide, aka frontman Alan Vega and instrumentalist Martin Rev, also feasting on some of Vega’s solo work. Lunch first met their acquaintance when she was a teen runaway who had just touched down in New York in the mid-70s, going on to form a creative partnership, and an enduring friendship with the pair. Get set for ‘a kind of sonic “Blitzkrieg” and a visual shamanic ceremony, where both artists will burn their souls in the volcanic heart of the..
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22nd Jan 2025
Will you get left in the dust...
Continuing Independent Venue Week (IVW) in Northampton, SBD Promotions presents Pavilion (Feb 1). The ShoeTown/North London indie-rock players haven’t been on the Black Prince stage for quite some time, so this will be a keenly observed return, and one that will also feature live sets from Century City and The Moonstones. SBD Promoter Phil Moore will have delivered nine dates under the IVW banner in 2025. It’s a lot of work, but more than that, he told Pulse it is, “...about having a week-long celebration of what we do, with a few surprises thrown in. “Some touring acts and some local stunners with as much diversity on display as we can conjure,” he said, and he definitely delivered on that score. “We get a lot of publicity off the back of the initiative and I know folk often want to be a part of it, so choose their favourite artist..
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21st Jan 2025
Take a February walk through the snowdrops at Lamport Hall
Make time this month to visit Lamport Hall gardens to see the beautiful snowdrops in flower. The gardens will be open on the weekends of the 8th & 9th and 15th & 16th February, 10am-3pm. Seeing a swathe of snowdrops is one way to brighten the winter months. These little white beauties create quite a display in the gardens. Enjoy a stroll around the gardens and venture into the woodland, admiring the spring bulb display. There will also be the opportunity to purchase rare snowdrops and irises at the event. Over both weekends, Northants and Rutland Open Studios are holding a Spring Open Exhibition which will be on display in the Carriage House and artists creating art live in the gardens. NROS bring together a range of high quality contemporary art from emerging and established artists in the region. The exhibition will show the diversity of current artistic practice in..
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21st Jan 2025
What’s on at the theatre this February
New shows, funny shows, and cheeky shows - whatever takes your fancy, Northampton stage will probably be hosting it this month, says Pulse’s Sammy Jones... If you are in the mood to sample a new comedy drama you are in luck, with the arrival of Dial M For Mayhem which will take over The Royal (Feb 3-8). New work it may be, but the pen from which it came is well worn – the author and director behind courtroom phenomenon The Verdict is responsible for this, too. ‘Set in 1991, it follows a group of travelling actors from south of the Scottish border as they conquer the beautiful unforgiving landscape of the Highlands and Islands village hall circuit to perform Frederick Knott’s classic 1950’s thriller Dial M For Murder. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of mountains and lochs, complete with unpredictable Scottish weather and internal company squabbling, Act 1’s gentle..
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15th Jan 2025
Learn about Northampton’s Transport Heritage at new archive collection
An archive recording the history of Northampton’s public transport is now open following a 15-month fundraising campaign, boosted by a £4,000 grant from Northampton Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme. The Northampton Transport Heritage charity operates the archive, which is located at the Doddridge Centre in St James’ and open to the public every Thursday between 10am and midday. The charity has gathered many boxes of records kept by the Northampton Corporation (Tramways) Transport Company between 1904 and the early 1990s, including tramways operation, conversion to motor buses, waybills, running cards, bus routes, transport committee minutes and pay books. Many of the records were stored at the Old Bus Depot and Tram Shed on St James’ Road, which was acquired by Church’s Shoes and latterly by West Northamptonshire Council. Neil Farmer, Archivist for Northampton Transport Heritage, said: “Some of these documents and records were given to us by the First Bus..
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14th Jan 2025
2025 starts with a bang at The Black Prince
After a couple of weeks off to enjoy a few seasonal liquors and some peace and quiet (possibly), SBD promotions honcho Phil Moore gets back in the saddle towards the end of January, and he’s running at the new year hard – with nine dates in as many days, writes Sammy Jones. Things start with Sex Pistols Ltd (Jan 25 ) bringing all of the bad language, rude gestures and attitude that the originals favoured. We hope. Songs? There are a few of those too; God Save The Queen, Pretty Vacant, Anarchy in the UK, Holidays in the Sun, Bodies... you know the drill. This is the first date on Northampton soil for these Cambs/Beds based imitators, with support coming from locals, Marabar Caves. The last week of January is Independent Venue Week (IVW) and SBD aren’t messing around; delivering eight shows as part of the offering, starting with multi-instrumentalist,..
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14th Jan 2025
Enlightening times from Freya
Northampton’s scene is burning bright just now, and Freya Rose is the one running with the indie-pop flame. Rushden-based, but making our town her working base, Freya released her current single, Enlighten Me, in November, which was another step closer to bringing her musical dreams to fruition. It’s a really good catchy player, too. She was attuned to sound from a young age: “I grew up surrounded by an amalgamation of artists that really influenced my music throughout time, my parents pumped a lot of 80s music into my ears,” Freya, who cites influences as Dodie, Phoebe Bridgers and The 1975 (“but I also take a lot of influence from artists like Fleetwood Mac, The Fugees and Radiohead”), told Pulse. She had a ready-made audience at home too: “I’ve always been a musical person, often putting on performances in my living room for my family, although they didn’t enjoy them..
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14th Jan 2025
Exclusive Bridal Beauty: Meet the Founders of Exclusively Brides
When it comes to your wedding day, looking and feeling your best is just as important as saying “I do.” Enter Exclusively Brides, a luxury bridal beauty service founded by two local professionals, Jody and Faye, who bring over 20 years of experience in bridal makeup and hairstyling. More than just a hair and makeup service, Exclusively Brides offers a complete beauty journey, ensuring brides feel confident, radiant, and stress-free from their engagement to the big day. We sat down with Jody and Faye to find out how their collaboration began, what makes their service unique, and their exciting plans for the future—including a must-attend beauty event this March! Hi both! Tell us who you are and what you do… Jody: I’m a freelance bridal and occasion makeup artist with 20 years of experience. Faye: I’m a freelance bridal hair stylist, also with over 20 years in the industry. How..
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10th Jan 2025
Skate into the New Year at Northampton’s Market Square
If you’re looking for a fun way to shake off those post-Christmas blues, Northampton’s Market Square has just the thing! On Saturday, 18th January, the newly refurbished square will be transformed into a winter wonderland of free activities, perfect for a family day out. From 11am to 6pm, you can lace up your skates and hit the rink for a day of free winter skating (yes, free!) or try your hand at curling in a dedicated lane just for kids. Never tried curling before? This is your moment. But it’s not just about gliding on ice—there’s plenty more to keep everyone entertained. The Silent Disco Project will be hosting New Year Party sessions in their pop-up tent (if you haven’t tried a silent disco, trust us, it’s a blast). Meanwhile, Lemonpop Workshops will be running creative ‘Make and Take’ sessions, and budding Picassos can join in by colouring a section..
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09th Jan 2025
John Lydon’s Public Image Ltd is coming back to the Roadmender
Feeling musically empty? There’s a PiL for that! It’s taken a while, but John Lydon’s Public Image Ltd (PiL) will be back on the Roadmender stage this summer. Nine years since the band last played the venue to a sell-out crowd and they will be doing it all over again on July 31, as part of their This Is Not The Last Tour, tour. Lydon formed the post-punk originators after fronting the Sex Pistols, guiding the band from their debut album in ‘78, through to ‘92 when they began what would be a long hiatus. Breaking the silence in 2009, they have since issued a trio of prime releases, This is PiL in 2012, the essential What The World Needs Now..., in 2015, and 2023s End of World. Speaking with me before that last ‘fampton show, John said: I really love playing these small venues, I really do, and I..
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09th Jan 2025
What’s on at the Roadmender this January
This month at the Roadmender, From The Jam will play, celebrating the 45th anniversary of their fourth studio album, Setting Sons. This is no tribute event, mind you – From The Jam, as the name suggests, features Bruce Foxton, one-time bassist and songwriter with the stellar music makers. Taking the spot once occupied by Weller is Russell Hastings, who has been a part of From The Jam since inception and has also worked with Weller and other aces including the much-missed Wilko Johnson and Steve Cropper. Setting Sons was the first of the band’s releases to enter the charts stateside and hit the Top 5 over here.This is one night when the public will definitely get what it wants, and then some. “Even the obscure album tracks like Little Boy Soldiers and Thick As Thieves are as popular when we play them live as the hit singles,” Russell said. Ruts..
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09th Jan 2025
What’s on at the theatre this January
Dazzling Diamonds, funny folks and a West End phenomenon... Fed up with pine needles in the carpet and the post Crimbo comedown? You need a night at the theatre! Escape the new year drear with some sun-drenched reggae cheer at the Derngate with Legend – the Music of Bob Marley (Jan 11). When it comes to a set list of solid sounds, Marley delivered, and so this celebration will do the same: Could You Be Loved, Is This Love, One Love, No Woman No Cry, Three Little Birds, Jammin’, Buffalo Soldier, Stir It Up, Get Up Stand Up, Exodus, Waiting in Vain, Satisfy, My Soul, Iron Lion Zion... Over at The Royal on the same night, The Opera Boys return with four-part harmony driven musical medleys delivering music from modern day musicals including Wicked, Mamma Mia and Frozen, while also revisiting classics from Porter, Gershwin and Rodgers & Hammerstein. You..
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09th Jan 2025
Discover Your Dream Wedding at Fawsley Hall Hotel & Spa
Fawsley Hall invites you to their Wedding Showcase at Fawsley Hall Hotel & Spa on Sunday, 26th January 2025, from 11am to 2pm. Set in the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside, Fawsley Hall provides a stunning and memorable setting for your special day. This showcase is the perfect opportunity to see everything the historic venue has to offer. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Fawsley Hall’s elegant spaces are designed to make your wedding day truly unforgettable. What You Can Expect Guided Venue Tours: Explore the ceremony and reception spaces, luxurious guest rooms, and picturesque gardens. Imagine how your special day could look in this extraordinary setting. Meet Their Wedding Team: Speak with experienced wedding coordinators, who will be on hand to answer your questions and help plan every detail of your celebration. Trusted Suppliers: Meet a selection of recommended suppliers, including florists, photographers, and entertainers, to bring..
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09th Jan 2025
Celebrations planned to mark 350-year anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton
A packed programme of cultural events and celebrations is being lined up to commemorate the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton. 2025 marks 350 years since flames ripped through the streets of Northampton, destroying 700 of the 850 buildings in the town centre and claiming 11 lives. To observe the anniversary, cultural and historical groups are teaming up with partners including Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), Northampton Town Council and West Northamptonshire Council to put together a series of events to showcase the story of the fire and the rebuild that followed. The celebrations will be launched on Thursday, May 29 with an Oak Apple Day parade and service at All Saints Church – including the annual hanging of a wreath in honour of King Charles II who donated 1,000 tonnes of timber to help rebuild much of the town. Art historian James Miller, who is..
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17th Dec 2024
Where to meet Santa in Northampton this December
Christmas is just around the corner, and Northampton is brimming with festive cheer and magical places to meet Santa. Here’s a guide to the best spots in and around Northampton where families can visit Father Christmas this holiday season. 1. Chester House Estate Step into a winter wonderland at Chester House Estate. Santa will be waiting in his enchanting grotto, ready to hear children’s Christmas wishes. Families can enjoy festive crafts, seasonal treats, and stunning decorations across the estate. Book online at https://chesterhouseestate.org/ 2. Delapré Abbey Delapré Abbey’s historical charm adds a touch of magic to meeting Santa. Children can visit Santa’s grotto, participate in storytelling sessions, and explore the beautifully decorated grounds. Don’t miss the Christmas market for festive shopping and refreshments. 3. Stanwick House Stanwick House transforms into a Christmas haven during the festive season. Santa’s grotto here offers a cosy and personalised experience. Families can also enjoy..
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