Two much-loved Northampton heritage attractions - Delapré Abbey with its 900 years of history and 78 Derngate, the only house in England designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh - have announced a new partnership offering a day out for group visitors with lunch and a tour.
Groups of 12 or more are invited to explore the twists and turns of these fascinating places and uncover the captivating stories of the people that have helped shape their histories.
Richard Clinton, Chief Executive, Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust said: “Northampton has an incredibly rich history and we’re excited to share the stories of both the Abbey and 78 Derngate with new and current visitors. 78 Derngate is a fantastic jewel in Northampton, and we are delighted to be partnering with them. Collaborating with colleagues across Northamptonshire is a key priority to us here at Delapré as we strive to broaden access to heritage and culture for all.”
Liz Jansson, House Manager, 78 Derngate said: “Delapré Abbey stands just across the river Nene from us here at 78 Derngate and makes for the perfect partner in this exciting collaboration. So, it is with immense pleasure and satisfaction that we are able to offer visitors the chance to see both heritage sites on one lovely day out in Northampton, embracing two very different cultural highlights.”
For £40 per person, groups can include a guided tour of Delapré Abbey and 78 Derngate with a 3 course lunch in Delapré Abbey’s historic Dining Room. For £25 per person, groups can swap the 3 course lunch for cream tea. Tour organisers and carers are half price.
Located just one mile south of Northampton Town Centre, Delapré Abbey has an intriguing past for visitors to discover – from its origins as a Clunnaic nunnery, heyday as a country house following Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries, and its time as the county Record Office before the recent restoration. It has witnessed key historic events including the 1460 Battle of Northampton, and as a resting place for Queen Eleanor's funeral cortege.
With interiors designed and remodelled by Charles Rennie Mackintosh in 1916, 78Derngate has been meticulously restored and opened to the public. Commissioned by visionary patron, Northampton model maker and engineer W.J Bassett-Lowke, it is the only place in England where Mackintosh’s mature architectural and interior style can be seen in their original setting. Visitors can discover this unique work from one of the world’s most influential and celebrated architects/designers up close.
Groups can book this new ticket offer now. To begin building your combined day at Delapré Abbey and 78 Derngate contact 01604 760817 or email bookings@delapreabbey.org.
Press enquiries For more information contact Aimee Holmes on aimee.holmes@delapreabbey.org.