Is Northamptonshire a good place to live? Your 2026 relocation guide

In 2026, the ‘dream move’ is being redefined. Many people no longer want to choose between their hard-earned career and their ideal lifestyle. As hybrid working settles into a more permanent status, the ‘Rose of the Shires’ has emerged as the perfect sweet spot.

Homebuyers looking for expansive green spaces and historic charm, but that don’t want to sacrifice the 60-minute commute to the capital, should look to Northamptonshire; a county that provides space to breathe with the links to stay connected.

Travel from Wellingborough or Kettering to London St Pancras in less than 50 minutes via train, makes Northamptonshire a truly connected county. The recent completion of the Midland Main Line electrification has also transformed the commute; the journey is now quieter and more sustainable than ever. It’s the perfect time to catch up on emails or enjoy the view of the rolling Nene Valley before you hit the city.

For balance, the luscious network of parkland has earned Northamptonshire the nickname of ‘Rose of the Shires’. As well as referencing its historical links with the War of the Roses, it has also become the name of a 54-mile (87 km) trail, which will be used for an ultra-marathon taking place in spring 2026.

As well as already boasting a unique and vibrant culture, Northamptonshire is at the centre of several exciting investment plans to continue its growth.

It’s not just about the big industry; it’s about the artisan spirit. From the award-winning Mee Blue Berries to the local favourite Braybrook Beer Co, the Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards (now in its 17th year) proves that you don't need to be in London to find world-class produce.

Then there is Stanton Cross – a £1 billion flagship project bringing homes, new schools, 3,000+ jobs, and 143 acres of parkland to Wellingborough.

The county also plays a role in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor – dubbed ‘UK’s Silicon Valley’. With the Chelveston Renewable Energy and Innovation Park nearby (the UK’s largest), the area is a leader in green hydrogen and tech.

Hanwood Park, Barton Seagrave

A community within a community.

Situated on the eastern edge of Kettering, Hanwood Park goes beyond a traditional housing development to meticulously integrate sustainability. It is a vibrant hub of activity, boasting its own primary schools, healthcare facilities and more than 240 acres of interconnected green space.

With the David Lloyd Kettering club opening in winter 2026, residents will have premium fitness, swimming, and spa facilities right on their doorstep. For families, the proximity to the 'Outstanding' Bishop Stopford School makes this one of the most sought-after postcodes in the region.

Choose a Grace Homes property at Hanwood Park comes with the benefit of energy-efficient living, a charming village feel, and our attention to detail. 

Explore our homes.

Grange Farm, Wellingborough

Heritage-inspired living. 

Grange Farm represents a unique opportunity to live within the flagship Stanton Cross masterplan while maintaining a connection the area’s rural roots. This development is centered around the beautifully restored Irthlingborough Grane, ensuring that the character of the original Northamptonshire landscape is preserved.

This scheme offers a curated collection of houses and bungalows that stand out for their architectural merit and superior finish as well as future-proofed comfort with enhanced thermal efficiency. Other benefits include the unrivalled commuter connectivity with direct links to London, as well as abundant nature on the doorstep with the new 143-acre Town Park and River Nene wetlands. 

Discover Grange Farm here.

Moving to a new area can feel overwhelming, but with Grace Homes, you can be safe in the knowledge that you will receive award-winning quality to help ease the transition.

Purchasing an EPC A-rated home in Northamptonshire ensures an investment in a futureproof asset. As energy standards tighten and the Oxford-Cambridge tech hub expands, these homes are positioned for long term value retention.

Be part of the one of the UK’s most exciting regional growth stories – and make it part of your own story. See more Grace Homes developments here.