The only body that can speak for heritage as a whole in the county
We represent heritage organisations, providers and supporters, including local authority heritage services, independently-run heritage services, volunteer-run museums, stately homes, local history societies, local representation from national heritage bodies and individuals.
The Forum’s principles and beliefs
Northamptonshire’s heritage is a shared asset that needs to be looked after effectively in the best interests of all its communities, whether of place, interest, or digital communities.
Heritage contributes to the health and wellbeing of residents and communities, and is key to a shared ‘sense of place’.
Heritage offers residents opportunities for formal and informal learning, and skills development through volunteering, participation and engagement.
Heritage contributes to the county’s economy by making it an attractive place for inward investment, driving economic regeneration in town centres, and through the visitor economy.
Heritage is much more than a ‘nice to have’. It is the cornerstone of Northamptonshire’s offer to its residents, visitors and the wider world.
The economic impact of heritage in Northamptonshire
Heritage plays a vital role in Northamptonshire's visitor economy. From country houses, museums and historic churches to archaeological sites, canals, country parks and market towns, the county offers a diverse range of attractions that support local businesses, create jobs and encourage investment.
The Northamptonshire Visitor Economy Strategy (2023–2030) recognises tourism as an important driver of economic growth, helping to increase visitor spending, support employment, strengthen local communities and enhance pride in place. Heritage is identified as one of the county's key assets, with plans to develop more collaborative marketing, improve the visitor experience and encourage longer stays across Northamptonshire.
The visitor economy in numbers
Source: Discover Northamptonshire
4,478
Visitor economy assets including attractions, hospitality venues, events, sports and retail.
14,800,000
Day visits across the county.
15,900,000
Annual visitors to Northamptonshire.
31,000
Local jobs supported by the visitor economy.
576,000,000
£ spent in the local economy by visitors.
1,100,000
Staying visitors across the county.