Conservation Area: Kingsthorpe (High Street/ Manor Road) conservation area (DNN12325)

This conservation area envelops Manor Road, High Street and their return frontages onto the Welford Road and Knights Lane. Architecturally and historically the area exhibits a wide divergence of style and character. Many buildings date from the late 19th century, though very recently there has been considerable impetus on new development. High Street is the more historic part of the conservation area and although the Baptist church is its only listed building, there are several other interesting and historic buildings evident. The terraced houses and cottage that bound the top of High Street on entry from the Welford Road provide a sense of enclosure and lend considerable charm. The builder’s yard at number 66 detracts from this scene and also contributes to the traffic problems encountered throughout the conservation area. The Stables is an example of a successful mix of conservation and infill development. The conversion of the old stone barn to a dwellinghouse enhances the High Street’s character whilst the infill housing to the rear of the stone house has not been allowed to dominate, and a successful balance achieved. Kingsthorpe Baptist church occupies a relatively central position along High Street. Built in 1835, in neo-classical style, its significant streetscape value is reduced by its being set back and enclosed within private grounds. The strong Baptist movement within Northampton saw the notable Dr. Philip Doddridge preach in the village on a number of occasions during the 1730s. During the early 19th century the Baptist church became an independent diocese. The adjoining Sunday school building was added in 1881. At the southern end of High Street, modern infill development is very evident. Its full impact on the streetscape is minimised by the fact that it is mostly backland development and much of the old village atmosphere has survived. Between ‘The Rise’ and ‘Old Yew Court’ is a delightful row of four stone cottages. Opposite lie two Victorian terraces and a small group of old stone cottages. The individual and distinctive architectural treatment of No. 20 contributes to the delight of the streetscape. Addlecroft footpath leading from High Street to Harborough Road dates back to at least the 15th century, when it was known as “le hodell croftys”. The Youth Centre and the Queen Adelaide Inn that front onto Knights Lane are two important historical buildings. The Youth Centre, once the National School, was built in 1840 “to the Glory of God” and is a good example of Victorian Gothic Architecture. Pupils paid one penny per week as school fees. The Queen Adelaide dates from the 18th century, originally constructed in sandstone but now featuring a white painted façade. Opposite the Queen Adelaide lies the ‘School House’, a splendid Victorian dwelling. The row of attractive stone cottages directly abutting the ‘School House’ have recently undergone comprehensive renovation. Although resulting in some loss of character, these, together with the adjoining Victorian terrace, have retained a very pleasant streetscape. Similarly, Rose Cottage and the adjoining Victorian terraces enhance the mid section of Manor Road. St. Aidan’s church, dating from 1964, is an important and prominent building in Manor Road. Its large, impressive, red brick architecture provides a foil to it smaller domestic neighbours. Manor House, built in Northamptonshire Stone, is a grade II listed building and a particularly fine example of vernacular architecture. This attractive stone house is complemented by the adjoining stone terrace of stone cottages. At the top of the hill, the buildings crowd together again giving a sense of constriction before emergence onto the busy Welford Road.

Record last edited

Jul 4 2022 12:25PM