Wellingborough is located on the River Nene, in the county of Northamptonshire, approximately 64 miles north of London and 10 miles north-east of Northampton.
The town has a population of around 44,300. Administratively it is within the Borough of Wellingborough which covers an area of approximately 163 sq kms and which has a population of around 73,000.
It is an historic market town which retains some notable historic buildings, especially on Sheep Street and High Street, including an inn (now the Hind Hotel) where Oliver Cromwell stayed on his way to the Battle of Naseby in 1645, and the 14th century All Hallows Church which houses some fine examples of medieval craftsmanship. There are numerous visitor attractions within the vicinity and it is a good base from which to explore the surrounding area.
The town's history dates from the 6th century in the early Saxon period. It is mentioned in the Domesday Book under the name of Wendelburie, and was granted a market charter in 1201. Malting and brewing, begun in medieval times, continued in the town until the last 30 years. The town has always been famous for its large number of wells, or springs, which were especially popular in the 17th century.
Historically the town's economy was based upon footwear manufacturing, and iron and steel smelting. Today there is light manufacturing, and considerable distribution centres for national organisations.
