Northampton’s Fiery Past Ignites a Season of Celebration – 350 Years After the Blaze That Changed Everything

It started with a single spark on a quiet street. And by nightfall, the heart of Northampton was ablaze.

Fast forward 350 years, and the town is turning tragedy into tribute – with a jam-packed season of celebrations marking the anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton.

You might have already spotted some of the action: from immersive art trails and fiery flowerbeds to pop-up exhibitions and candlelit services. It’s been five months of history coming alive – and it all builds to a grand finale this September.

The Big Day (and Night)
Mark your diary: Saturday 20 September is the day to head to Market Square. From 11am to 7.30pm, it’ll be buzzing with live performances, artisan stalls, films, and food. Think makers’ markets curated by The Creative Place, a bar by V&B, a live animation screening from Northampton Film Festival, performances from the Bach Choir, and interactive displays from the county’s police and fire services. Then, at 7.30pm, the community will gather for a commemorative service at All Saints Church – a place rebuilt from the ashes after the inferno in 1675.

As West Northamptonshire Council unveils its latest vision for regenerating the town centre, the echoes of the past will be unmistakable. Rebuilding, resilience, and a fierce local pride – some things don’t change.

A Fire That Shaped a Future
The Great Fire began on St Mary’s Street, near the old castle, sparked by an open hearth. Within hours, 700 of Northampton’s 850 buildings were gone. All Hallows Church was reduced to rubble. Eleven people died. But from the wreckage rose a plan for rebirth – one powered by townsfolk who raised £25,000 (no small feat back then!) to rebuild around the Market Square.

Local historian James Miller, who’s been the driving force behind the anniversary events, puts it best: “It’s been the summer of the Great Fire – from carnival parades to fire-themed flower beds. This September is our chance to celebrate the spirit that carried Northampton through its darkest hour – and continues to shine today.”

Step Into the Story
Want to know how we even know what happened in 1675, before Instagram and rolling news? A free exhibition at Northamptonshire Archives (Tuesday to Thursday, 9am–5pm) dives into the documents and drawings that told the tale – including rare sketches from the 1760s that capture the town before modern photography.

Meanwhile, at Delapré Abbey, another exhibition – Regeneration: Recreating Northampton – paints a picture of the town’s rebirth, all summer long in the Walled Garden.

Light, Music, and Memory
And for those who love a little drama with their history: All Saints Church will host a light show on Monday 15 September, and a special concert of Handel’s music by Fiore Musicale on Thursday 18 September at 7pm.

Father Oliver Coss, Rector at All Saints, says the commemorations are more than just nostalgia: “The fire destroyed All Hallows, but it didn’t destroy Northampton’s spirit. These events are about remembering – and honouring – that resilience.”

Want In?
It’s not every day your town turns 350 (in fire years, at least). So grab your family, your neighbours, maybe even that friend who “doesn’t do history” – and get stuck in.

Check the full programme at www.discovernorthampton.co.uk/GFON350. There’s plenty still to come.