Lamport Hall: A Timeless Northamptonshire Country House with a Storied Legacy
Discover centuries of history, classical architecture, and Britain’s oldest garden gnome at the enchanting Lamport Hall in Northamptonshire.
Lamport Hall, nestled in Northamptonshire, England, is a Grade I listed historic country house originally built in 1568 by wool merchant John Isham. Over 400 years, it evolved through Tudor origins to a classical masterpiece designed by John Webb, featuring exquisite interiors, rare collections, and Britain’s oldest garden gnome. Now preserved by the Lamport Hall Preservation Trust, it offers visitors a rich experience of architectural beauty, gardens, and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Lamport Hall
- Northampton, Lamport, NN6 9HD, GB
- +441604686272
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays or Thursdays from April to September when the Hall is open for guided and free-flow tours.
- Don’t miss the High Room’s ornate ceiling by William Smith and the historic library with rare 16th-century books.
- Explore the gardens and look for 'Lampy,' the world’s oldest garden gnome, a unique highlight of the estate.
- Check for seasonal exhibitions and garden history tours included in the admission price on the first Wednesdays and Thursdays monthly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Northampton town center to Lamport Hall takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes via A508 and local roads. Free parking is available on site. Note that some rural roads may be narrow, so cautious driving is advised.
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Bus
Bus services from Northampton to Lamport village run several times daily, with a journey time of about 50 to 70 minutes. From the village center, a 15-minute walk on rural paths leads to the Hall. Check local timetables for seasonal variations.
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Taxi
Taxis from Northampton to Lamport Hall typically take 25 to 35 minutes, costing around £30 to £40. This is a convenient option if public transport schedules are limited.
Lamport Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Lamport Hall
Origins and Architectural Evolution
Lamport Hall began as a Tudor manor house constructed in 1568 by John Isham, a prosperous wool merchant. The estate passed through generations of the Isham family, who expanded and transformed the house over centuries. The most significant architectural phase came in 1655 when Sir Justinian Isham commissioned John Webb, a pupil of Inigo Jones, to rebuild the house in the classical style. Subsequent enhancements in the 18th and 19th centuries, including work by architects Smith of Warwick and William Burn, added the distinctive classical frontage and other features, culminating in major rebuilding completed in 1862. The hall’s design reflects layers of history, blending Tudor origins with classical grandeur.Remarkable Interiors and Collections
Inside, Lamport Hall boasts richly decorated rooms filled with outstanding furniture, paintings, and rare books. The High Room, dating from 1655, features a magnificent ceiling by William Smith. The library houses 16th-century volumes, including first editions of John Milton’s works and a 1638 Bible gifted by Charles I. The early 19th-century cabinet room displays Neapolitan cabinets with mythological glass paintings. These collections, amassed mainly during the 3rd Baronet’s Grand Tour of Europe in the 1670s, offer a window into aristocratic life and culture across centuries.A Legacy of Eccentricity and Garden Innovation
Sir Charles Isham, 10th Baronet, inherited Lamport Hall in 1846 and left an indelible mark with his eccentric personality and horticultural passion. A teetotal, non-smoking advocate and opponent of blood sports, he constructed a crescent-shaped rockery with a 24-foot ironstone wall beside the house. In the 1850s, he introduced Britain’s first garden gnomes, importing porcelain figures from Germany and placing them in the rockery as if mining. Although his daughters removed most gnomes after his death, one survives—the world’s oldest known garden gnome, nicknamed “Lampy,” now insured for £1 million.20th Century Challenges and Revival
The 20th century brought varied uses for Lamport Hall, including a family home, flats, a country club, an army base, and even a prisoner of war camp. Neglect led to dry rot and deterioration, but Sir Gyles Isham, 12th Baronet, undertook major restoration from the 1950s and opened the house to the public in 1974. Upon his death in 1976, he bequeathed the Hall and its contents to the Lamport Hall Preservation Trust, which continues to conserve the estate and promote its cultural and educational value.Gardens, Events, and Visitor Experience
Lamport Hall’s gardens, designed originally by Gilbert Clarke, complement the house’s grandeur with historic landscaping and the famous rockery. The estate hosts seasonal exhibitions, garden tours, and events that bring its history alive. Visitors can explore the fine rooms, admire the extensive collections, and enjoy the tranquil parkland setting. The Hall is wheelchair accessible on the ground floor and offers amenities including a café, shop, and accessible parking.Enduring Cultural Significance
Lamport Hall stands as a testament to the layered history of English country houses, embodying architectural evolution, aristocratic heritage, and unique stories like the garden gnome tradition. It remains a vibrant cultural landmark in Northamptonshire, preserved for public enjoyment and education by the dedicated Lamport Hall Preservation Trust.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rushton Triangular Lodge
11.2 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Northampton Castle Postern Gate
14.1 km
Discover the solitary Postern Gate, the last surviving gateway of Northampton Castle, echoing centuries of royal history and medieval intrigue.
East Midlands Steam and Country Show
23.1 km
Experience the rich heritage and vibrant culture at the East Midlands Steam and Country Show, where steam engines meet delicious local food and crafts.
King Lear
32.5 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
English Heritage - Apethorpe Palace
33.7 km
Explore the enchanting Apethorpe Palace, a historical landmark showcasing England's rich heritage and stunning Tudor architecture.
Welford Place
34.2 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
34.6 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
34.7 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
The Warren House
35.2 km
A rare 17th-century timber-framed warrener’s cottage offering historic charm and scenic views over Kimbolton Castle in tranquil rural surroundings.
Earl Shilton Castle
37.2 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Burrough Hill - Iron Age Hillfort
37.4 km
Discover the wonders of Burrough Hill, an ancient Iron Age hillfort, where history meets breathtaking views in the heart of Leicestershire's countryside.
Elton Hall and Gardens
37.7 km
Explore the historical beauty of Elton Hall and Gardens, a captivating destination blending rich heritage with stunning gardens in the heart of the countryside.
Gothic Temple
37.9 km
An enchanting 18th-century Gothic folly nestled in the historic Stowe Landscape Gardens, offering stunning views and timeless architectural beauty.
Temple of British Worthies
38.1 km
An iconic neoclassical monument in Stowe Gardens honoring Britain's greatest thinkers and leaders with sixteen distinguished busts.
Kirby Muxloe Castle
38.1 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Kirby Muxloe Castle, a serene heritage site perfect for a day of exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cottesbrooke Hall & Gardens
4.8 km
A jewel of Queen Anne architecture set in award-winning gardens, blending history, art, and nature in tranquil Northamptonshire parkland.
Coton Manor Garden
8.9 km
A vibrant 10-acre hillside garden in Northamptonshire blending historic charm, seasonal blooms, and tranquil woodland escapes.
Icarus Falconry
9.3 km
Experience the thrill of falconry and meet majestic birds of prey in the historic grounds of Holdenby House near Northampton.
Holdenby House
9.4 km
Explore the grandeur of Tudor history, stunning gardens, and rare musical treasures at the majestic Holdenby House estate.
Lings Wood Nature Reserve
11.5 km
A tranquil 20-hectare nature reserve in Northampton offering diverse habitats, wildlife, and peaceful walking trails year-round.
Newlands Shopping Centre
11.6 km
A welcoming indoor shopping centre at the heart of Kettering, blending traditional high street shops with community charm and convenience.
Sywell Country Park
11.9 km
A tranquil country park with woodland trails, a historic reservoir, and family-friendly play areas near Northampton.
Althorp Estate
12.1 km
Explore Althorp Estate, the historic Spencer family home and childhood of Princess Diana, blending grand heritage with serene parklands.
Click Antiques and Vintage
12.2 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage gems with friendly service in Northampton’s welcoming Click Antiques and Vintage shop.
Weston Favell Shopping Centre
12.3 km
A bustling Northampton shopping centre offering diverse stores, essential services, and a welcoming community atmosphere with free parking.
Vintage Retreat
13.6 km
Discover Northampton’s vast vintage emporium and charming Art Deco café, blending antiques, nostalgia, and community spirit.
Grosvenor Shopping Northampton
13.8 km
A vibrant retail and social hub at Northampton’s heart, blending contemporary shopping with community spirit and dynamic regeneration.
0 Market Sq
13.9 km
Northampton Market Square: A vibrant historic market and community hub at the heart of Northampton since 1235.
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
14.1 km
Discover Northampton’s cultural heart with world-class shoe collections, dynamic exhibitions, and engaging events for all ages.
78 Derngate
14.2 km
Explore 78 Derngate, the only English home designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, blending historic charm with modern art and design in Northampton.
Essential places to dine
The Kings Head
6.0 km
A charming gastropub in Spratton blending rustic elegance with fine dining and warm local hospitality.
Miller & Carter Northampton
10.1 km
Experience expertly cooked premium steaks and warm hospitality at Miller & Carter Northampton, a top steakhouse destination in the heart of the city.
Arizi Italian Restaurant
11.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, family-run setting with homemade pasta, classic dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere in Kingsthorpe.
Fox & Hounds Lower Harleston
11.3 km
A charming gastropub in Lower Harlestone blending classic British fare with modern style and cozy country warmth.
Terrace Restaurant at Westone Manor Hotel
12.4 km
Experience classic Italian and British dining in a historic manor setting with tranquil gardens near Northampton town centre.
The Hopping Hare
12.7 km
A chic and welcoming boutique hotel in Northampton, renowned for exceptional dining and attentive service in a tranquil leafy setting.
La Pazienza
13.5 km
Experience authentic Sicilian and Italian flavors in a warm, family-friendly setting with handmade pasta and traditional recipes in Northampton.
Marseille Restaurant
13.5 km
Cozy French bistro in Northampton serving authentic classics, superb coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere on Sheep Street.
Tamarind Restaurant
13.6 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with exceptional service and a warm atmosphere at Tamarind Restaurant in Northampton.
The Stuffed Olive
13.6 km
Stylish Mediterranean dining with creative martinis and fresh, locally sourced flavors in the heart of Northampton.
Bread And Pullet Takeaway
13.6 km
Discover modern British tapas with fresh, vibrant flavors in a casual, welcoming setting on Northampton’s Wellingborough Road.
Harvester Nene Valley - Northampton
13.7 km
Family-friendly British bar & grill with famous rotisserie chicken and a vibrant salad bar in Northampton’s Riverside Retail Park.
Nuovo Restaurant
13.8 km
Experience inventive Venetian cicchetti and contemporary Italian cuisine in a stylish, welcoming setting at Nuovo Restaurant in Northampton.
The Smoke Pit
14.0 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Northampton.
Pamukkale Turkish restaurant
14.0 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Northampton’s vibrant dining scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
It's A Gift
11.0 km
A friendly local gift shop in Kingsthorpe offering household essentials and unique presents with welcoming service.
The Yards Kettering
11.5 km
Discover The Yards Kettering, a vibrant independent shopping centre blending vintage charm with modern boutiques in the heart of town.
Its a Gift
12.4 km
Explore Its a Gift in Northampton for a unique selection of presents and cards that capture the spirit of thoughtful gifting.
Bias Gift Shop
13.8 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish accessories, and charming homewares at Bias Gift Shop in Northampton’s Grosvenor Centre.
Next Home
13.8 km
A stylish and practical department store in Northampton offering fashion, footwear, and homewares under one roof with moderate prices.
The Works
13.9 km
Discover affordable creativity at The Works Northampton, your go-to spot for books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of the city.
Vintage Guru Ltd
14.0 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handmade gifts in the heart of Northampton’s St Giles at Vintage Guru Ltd.
MOOCH on St Giles Street
14.0 km
Discover unique gifts and charming home accessories with friendly service at MOOCH on St Giles Street, Northampton’s beloved independent boutique.
Voni Blu
14.1 km
Explore unique fashion at Voni Blu, Northampton's top boutique for ladies' clothing and stylish accessories.
Circus
14.1 km
Contemporary men’s and women’s clothing store in Northampton’s lively Drapery shopping street.
Singh & Smile
14.1 km
Discover personalized gifts, aromatherapy, and wellness treasures at Singh & Smile, Northampton’s charming boutique for joyful living.
32 The Guild
14.2 km
Discover unique contemporary ladieswear and artisanal fashion in Northampton’s vibrant cultural quarter at 32 The Guild.
St James Retail Park
14.5 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of stores in Northampton’s St James Retail Park.
Next Outlet Northampton
14.5 km
Affordable fashion and homeware at Next Outlet Northampton, nestled in the vibrant St James Retail Park.
margo&evie
18.1 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handcrafted curiosities at margo&evie, a charming independent shop in Northamptonshire’s Heart of the Shires.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windhover
9.5 km
A cozy and charming pub in Chapel Brampton offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a relaxed village atmosphere.
The Lumbertubs
10.4 km
A historic Northamptonshire pub offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming farmhouse setting.
Fox & Hounds
10.6 km
A charming British pub in Northampton offering hearty meals, stylish ambiance, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
White Elephant
12.5 km
Historic Northampton pub with a lively community vibe, great ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all, including your four-legged friends.
The Elwes Arms
12.7 km
A charming historic pub in Great Billing offering hearty food, local beers, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Picturedrome
13.0 km
Lively Northampton bar and live music venue blending great food, friendly service, and vibrant entertainment in a spacious, accessible setting.
Corkers Champagne & Cocktail Bar
13.3 km
Sophisticated champagne and cocktail bar in Northampton with vibrant atmosphere, tapas dining, and versatile event spaces.
The Lamplighter
13.5 km
A welcoming Northampton pub renowned for its real ales, hearty British fare, and vibrant community spirit.
Edge of Town
13.5 km
Lively and affordable bar with friendly service, known for the best bar maid in town, open late in the heart of Northampton.
Old House
13.5 km
Quintessential English pub with hearty roasts, cozy vintage charm, and welcoming service on Northampton’s bustling Wellingborough Road.
The Charles Bradlaugh
13.6 km
A stylish, welcoming pub in Northampton offering homemade food, lively events, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a historic setting.
The Black Prince
13.7 km
A lively Northampton pub blending historic charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming beer garden for all to enjoy.
The Princess Alexandra Craft Beer Bar
13.8 km
A vibrant craft beer haven in Northampton blending modern style with an extensive selection of unique ales and cozy charm.
The Sevens
13.8 km
A vibrant Northampton pub blending sports enthusiasm with quality food and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Bear
13.9 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Bear, a beloved pub in Northampton, offering delicious food and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Bar X
13.5 km
Lively basement nightclub on Wellingborough Road, Northampton, offering late-night music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene Thursday to Saturday.
Club 145
13.5 km
Energetic nightclub on Wellingborough Road offering lively music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of Northampton.
The Boston
13.9 km
Northampton’s welcoming LGBTQ+ nightclub and pub, The Boston offers lively music, themed nights, and a vibrant inclusive atmosphere.
The Platform
14.1 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
Club43
14.1 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
Elysium
14.2 km
Northampton’s premier late-night nightclub for house, bass, and tech house music, famed as the city’s official after-party hotspot.
NB's
14.2 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
Stereo Bar and Club
14.2 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
The Basement
34.1 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
TRUTH Leicester
34.2 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Waikiki Nightclub
34.4 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Helsinki
34.4 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
The 2Funky Lounge
34.6 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Mosh
34.7 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Motto Nightclub
34.8 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
