QR codes unveil the history of Northampton’s Market Square

17 February 2025

Visitors to Northampton's Market Square can now delve into the rich history of the site with the help of newly installed QR codes. These codes provide access to detailed information about the fascinating archaeological finds uncovered beneath the Market Square surfaces, dating back to the medieval period. 

Archaeologists from MOLA (Museum of London Archaeology), which has an office in Northampton, have unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts from between 1200 and 1350. Among the remarkable discoveries are: 

• A decorated medieval leather flask 
• A medieval wrist guard for an archer 
• The upper part of a medieval boot 
• Part of a medieval decorative leather strap 
• Medieval leather offcuts of udders 

In addition to these items, the excavation revealed animal bones, wood, and remnants of several structures. Noteworthy finds include: 

• A fine stone building in the centre of Market Square, potentially a previously unknown market hall, dated later than the medieval layers 
• A stone building dated 1100 to 1150, which could predate the first market area established in 1236 
• The Great Conduit of Northampton at the south end of Market Square, believed to have been built by Edward IV and documented as being repaired in 1509 
• Buildings depicted on John Speed’s map of 1610, discovered on the west side of the market, which stood before the Great Fire of Northampton in 1675 

An archaeological finds map is available, allowing visitors to view the locations of various discoveries within the Market Square. This map can be accessed through the QR codes which are displayed on white ceramic tiles and have been set into the ground amongst the porphyry stone paving or the website here. 

“We have quite a collection of fascinating artifacts which are still being studied by MOLA’s historical experts in a bid to shed even more light on the heritage of our Market Square. We are intrigued to see if they manage to uncover anything else during the excavations, which are being carried out to bring a new and energised public space to Northampton town centre.” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure

The installation of QR codes is part of a broader initiative to regenerate Market Square and transform Northampton town. This project aims to enhance the area's historical significance while promoting tourism and community engagement.