Why move to Kettering?
Situated approximately 85 miles north of London, 55 miles east of Birmingham, and 15 miles north east of Northampton, Kettering and the surrounding market towns and villages were originally heavily dependent on farming. Ore extraction increased significantly with the introduction of the railways, and a link to London St. Pancras was opened in 1868. As with most of the county, the Boot and Shoe industry became the lynchpin of the local economy. Northamptonshire became a world leader in production and style. Although most brands still exist today, many have moved into new ownership, and therefore the region has had to re-invent itself and change its identity. At the heart of this rejuvenation has been the advantage of the central location and the superb transport links and infrastructure. This has injected new life into the economy and transformed the area, significantly improving its diversity and vibrancy.
The local market
The demand for property in Kettering and the surrounding area remains high, as it is now well established as a commuter belt hub. This is magnified and boosted by what many consider to be excellent value for money across a range of homes when compared to those in neighbouring counties. Upgraded schools, new retail parks, and the availability of Kettering General Hospital add to the appeal.
Location
Whether using planes, trains, or automobiles, the Kettering area has a lot to offer. International airports at Luton, Heathrow, Stansted, Birmingham, and East Midlands are all within a two-hour drive. Kettering, Corby, Wellingborough, and Northampton all have mainline railway stations. The traditional main arterial routes of the A6, A43, and A45 are constantly being improved and are complimented by the dual carriageway A14, which links the M1, M6, and the A1.
History and sport
Kettering is home to the country's second oldest theme park, Wicksteed, which opened in Kettering in 1921 and remains popular and easily accessible today. The abundance of open space has allowed local sports and recreational clubs to thrive. Football, rugby, and cricket remain extremely popular, competitive, and well supported in the community. Golf courses in Kettering, Corby, Wellingborough, Rushden, and Oundle cater for novices and accomplished low handicappers. The Leisure Village Sports Centre provides an abundance of indoor and outdoor space and is home to Volleyball England.
Countryside
Not only is the open countryside accessible and beautiful, but it is steeped in historical architecture, well mapped walks, and well-managed parks. These have been exploited and enjoyed by many, especially following the events of 2020.
Development
Major expansions of housing stock have been recorded in Kettering, Corby, and Wellingborough during recent years, which in turn has stimulated development and the upgrading of local infrastructure. Style and type of property cover most options, ranging from large family homes to shared ownership accommodation suitable for first time buyers.
Properties
With the exception of Corby, most of the towns and villages have a vast array of period properties. These tend to be centrally located and start from workers cottages on the local country estates and shoe trade to the much grander homes of the owners, which tend to flank the main roads. Many of the housing developments are now well established and have been well maintained. Barton Seagrave and Burton Latimer remain closely aligned with Kettering, as do Rothwell and Desborough to the west.
Restaurants and shopping
Kettering has a very popular cultural quarter centred around the original market square with an array of restaurants. Many small but easily accessible retail parks offer access to mainstream brands such as Curry's, B&Q, Wickes, Sports Direct, DFS, Halfords, Argos, and Dunhelm. The major supermarket brands of Tesco's, Asda, Lidl, Aldi, Morrisons, and Sainsbury's are all represented in the town. For the DIY enthusiast, the Telford Way industrial estate is home to Travis Perkins, Jewsons, Toolstation, Screwfix, Topps Tiles, and Gibbs and Dandy.
Neighbouring Corby Town Centre has undergone major refurbishment and boasts many additional popular shopping outlets, cinema and dining facilities, and even an Olympic-sized swimming pool. The most significant addition to the retail sector in the area is based at Rushden Lakes, approximately eleven miles to the south of Kettering. A very large retail park that is home to Marks and Spencer, Boots, Frasers, JD Sports, River Island, Next, Primark, H&M, Moss Bros, Decathlon, Clarks, Barbour, Accessorize, Joules, Pandora, Mountain Warehouse, and White Stuff, to name a few. A superb venue with many al fresco areas supported by Costa, Wagamama, Pizza Express, Nando's, Starbucks, Zizzi's, Bills, and many others.
