Wellingborough Leasing

Did You Know?

Wellingborough is an Anglo-Saxon origin settlement but some archaeological findings and historical records shed light upon it being prehistoric populated with Roman Civilization. During the Domesday Book survey of 1086-87, a small area in Northamptonshire was mentioned as 'Wendleburie' with around 250 residents.

Archaeological excavation has found a boar-mounted-crown at Wollaston near Wellingborough which dates back to Anglo-Saxon time. It is the only helmet found that relates us to proof of such tribes in the Wellingborough.

Wellingborough, a parish-town and prominent ancient market town in Northamptonshire. A little do people know that the Romans and preceding tribes were heavily involved in trade and therefore, Wellingborough market existed for a long prehistoric time. During 14th and 15th centuries, these markets were turned out big and attracted the nearby towns and villages for trade.

During 17th – 20th Century, most of the buildings including Wellingborough manor were refurbished and renovated followed by population hike (in thousands). Sundial and open roofs were added in 1621 on houses and church. In 1682, the building was donated to form a free school for education. The Hind Hotel was opened in Wellingborough in the 1600s and it is one of the oldest hotels in the town.

All Hallows Church is the oldest existing building in Wellingborough and dates from c. 1160. The manor of Wellingborough belonged to Crowland Abbey Lincolnshire, from Saxon times and the monks probably built the original church. The earliest part of the building is the Norman doorway opening in from the later south porch.

Wellingborough was given a Market Charter dated 3 April 1201 when King John granted it to the "Abbot of Croyland and the monks serving God there" continuing, "they shall have a market at Wendligburg (Wellingborough) for one day each week that is Wednesday".

In the Elizabethan era the Lord of the Manor, Sir Christopher Hatton was a sponsor of Sir Francis Drake's expeditions; Drake renamed one of his ships the Golden Hind after the heraldic symbol of the Hatton family. A hotel in a Grade II listed building built in the 17th century, was known variously as the Hind Hotel and later as the Golden Hind Hotel.

Sir David Frost OBE - whose famous interview with US President Richard Nixon led to a 2008 film - is a former resident of the town. The town used to have its own zoo in Croyland Gardens, but this closed in 1970. The town's museum is in a public baths - Dulley's Baths - although it was previously rebuilt as a shoe factory. Possibly the most amazing thing about Wellingborough, a town of considerable charm, is that all parking is free.

Wellingborough was bombed once during World War II. The bomb fell where the town centre McDonald's restaurant used to be located. The town was also used for evacuated children from London.