Museums

Shield Boss excavated from the Iron Age Hill Fort at Hunsbury.

Northampton Suburbs

As Northampton expanded, residential areas were established on the outskirts of the town centre. These often engulfed villages that were located close to Northampton. With the creation of the ‘new town’ in the 1970s, new suburbs were developed on what was farmland.

Today each suburb has its own unique features and character. Residents are proud of where they live and perhaps have a different perspective to other people living in other suburbs.

Hunsbury

‘New Town’ residential development surrounding an Iron Age hill fort

Image of the Hunsbury Hill Country Park Sign, courtesy of The Friends of West Hunsbury Parks

There has been a settlement at Hunsbury for over 2500 years, long before the town of Northampton came into existence. Archaeological excavations show that it was an important Iron Age hill fort, probably home to a Celtic chieftain.

Today the site sits within a country park, surrounded by the recently developed residential areas of East and West Hunsbury. Building commenced in the 1970s as part of Northampton’s designated ‘New Town’ expansion. People were encouraged to move here from London which was cramped and overcrowded.

It is now a popular area for families and young working professionals with local amenities and easy access to the M1.