Things to Do in Northampton During the Summer Holidays

The Northampton summer holidays are long. Six weeks is a lot of days to fill, and the "I'm bored" tends to start around week two. Here are the best things to do in Northampton with the kids this summer, from active days that burn real energy to calmer afternoons and a few weatherproof backups for when it rains.

1. Book a kids' summer holiday club at The Pinnacle Climbing Centre

Fun-filled climbing adventures await at The Pinnacle Climbing Centre, Far Cotton. Climbing, abseiling, cave exploration and games, all led by qualified instructors with every bit of equipment provided. There are two session lengths to choose from, open to all abilities with no experience required. Book a 4 Hour Holiday Club or a 1.5 Hour Holiday Club.

2. Try bouldering at The Pinnacle Bouldering Centre

For a more relaxed, drop-in session, The Pinnacle Bouldering Centre at Weston Favell has over 150 problems, two themed kids' rooms and air conditioning for the hot days. Children climb from age four. If your child has never climbed before, they start with a quick induction (a family induction is available too), and after that they can climb whenever you visit.

3. Let younger children loose at Clip 'n Climb

For little ones, Clip 'n Climb Northampton at Weston Favell turns climbing into a game across themed challenge walls. It is a great holiday treat and a popular spot for summer birthdays.

4. Cool down at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery

Free to enter and home to a world-famous shoe collection, Northampton Museum and Art Gallery on Guildhall Road is a comfortable, air-conditioned hour when everyone needs a slower pace.

5. Take on an escape room at Trapp'd

Trapp'd on Connaught Street is great for older kids and teens. Sixty minutes of puzzles, indoors and out of the weather, with different themed rooms to choose from.

6. Go bowling at Tenpin Sixfields

Tenpin at Sixfields Leisure brings bowling, arcades, pool and laser tag together under one roof. A reliable crowd-pleaser for mixed-age groups and a good rainy-day backup.

7. Get outdoors at Abington Park and Delapré Abbey

For the sunny days, Abington Park has wide open space, a playground and a small free museum, while the grounds at Delapré Abbey make an easy, pretty afternoon close to town. Pack a picnic and let everyone run.

Make the holidays easier

Two things make the six weeks run more smoothly. Mix active days with calm ones so nobody melts down, and book the popular activities ahead. Holiday clubs, climbing inductions and Clip 'n Climb sessions get busy in the holidays, so it pays to plan a week or two out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do in Northampton during the summer holidays?

Plenty. Holiday clubs, climbing, bouldering and Clip 'n Climb, museums, escape rooms, bowling and the town's parks all make good days out for families over the summer.

Is there anything for teenagers?

Yes. Bouldering, the big climbing walls, teen climbing sessions, escape rooms and bowling all go down well with teenagers who want something active and social.

Can my child climb if they have never done it before?

Yes. The holiday clubs are fully instructed with all equipment provided, so no experience is needed. For drop-in bouldering, first-timers start with a quick induction (a family induction is available too), then they can climb independently.

Do I need to book in advance?

In the holidays, yes. Holiday clubs, inductions, family sessions and Clip 'n Climb get busy, so book ahead. For bouldering, climbers who have been before can usually turn up and pay on entry. See the pricing page for options.

What is good for a rainy day in the holidays?

Indoor climbing and bouldering, the air-conditioned bouldering centre, museums, bowling and escape rooms all keep the day going whatever the weather.

Make this summer one to remember

Give the kids a summer of real adventure. The Pinnacle runs instructed holiday clubs at the Climbing Centre and welcomes beginners and experienced climbers across both centres and Clip 'n Climb. Book a holiday club or session and get the holidays off to a flying start.