Delapre Park

Delapre has seen many changes in its long history but still remains one of the most beautiful public gardens in Northampton. 

The many fine examples of trees and shrubs add their beauty to the pleasant walks around the grounds and the gardens have something to see at all times of the year. The enclosed garden contains, within its 18th century walls, many fine horticultural features including herb and herbaceous borders.

In 1977 two sculptures by Waltre Ritchiewere introduced to the wall garden.
They were gifted to Northampton after being displayed at an exhibition of brickwork sculptures at the Building Centre, London. The large brick panels depict episodes in the adventurous life of the mythical lady Sarah Wellington-Gore, and are entitled "The Lady with Kittens" and "The Lovers".

Another statue the "Woman and the Fish", by Frande Dobson, one of the country's most respected sculptors, was introduced in 1978.
This was given to Northampton after The Festival of Britain in 1951 and stood in the Memorial Gardens in the town centre. It was totally vandalised but repaired, and transferred to its present position as a fountain in the small formal pond, after a successful appeal for funds to meet the costs of restoration.

This most elegant estate is not only soaked in local history, in which it has played an important part, but it also boasts a legendary ghost.
Delapre's permanent resident seems to be that of a nun, known as the Grey Lady because of the colour of her habit.
She is said to walk the Abbey and Grounds in the vicinity of the old convent. Through the ages, however, more than one apparition has been sighted -  phenomena not uncommon to large houses and estates.

Last reviewed 20/03/2009