Northamptonshire is one of the largest counties in England but a new survey has slammed it as one of the worst – ranking it 43rd out of 48 contenders.
At 913 square miles, the county is the fifth largest in the home nation but in a new survey it has underperformed due to a lack of attractions.
According to the Telegraph, the centrally-location area lacks World Heritage Sites, National Parks, Michelin-starred restaurants, cathedrals and royal gardens.
Geography also plays a part, as the newspaper points out a lack of coastline for the landlocked county also has seen it marked down in the table.
On the plus side Northamptonshire does have a Premiership Rugby team, a good cricket team and it is also home to some impressive country estates, including the family home of Princess Diana, Althorp House.
Northamptonshire’s location might also play a part in why it’s overlooked as a destination for Brits seeking a staycation. To the south are the ever-popular Cotswolds, and to the northeast lies the natural beauty of The Fens on the coast.
Oxford and London are also close for a city break, as are Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick for a more sedate historic town visit.
Perhaps an advantage of Northampton is that it’s served well by the M1 motorway, which runs north to south through the county giving easy access.
According to Visit Northampton, those that do decide to see for themselves could be pleasantly surprised by the county’s “charming villages with thatch and stone cottages and welcoming inns”
The tourism agency adds: “Wander around stately homes, discovering art treasures and glorious gardens and explore historic market towns in search of fine footwear, antiques and curiosities.
“Whether you want the peace and tranquility of staying in a country farmhouse or a cottage bed and breakfast, the history and atmosphere of a country inn or all the amenities of a modern hotel, there is a plentiful array of accommodation available.”
In the Telegraph Travel survey, the county which came out on top this year was Devon, which was praised for having two national parks, 14 blue-flagged beaches, nine RSPB reserves, a Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) garden and an abundance of nature.
It was also scored highly for hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as for 34 National Trust, and 13 English Heritage, listings throughout the county.
