Daventry Comes Alive with Flavour, Heritage, and Community Spirit
A Feast for the Senses
On Saturday 13 September, Daventry was buzzing with energy as two beloved events came together to create a vibrant celebration of local culture, food, and history. The return of the Daventry Foodies’ Market and the town’s participation in National Heritage Open Days 2025 drew thousands of visitors, transforming the town centre into a lively hub of activity.
Organised and funded by Daventry Town Council, the Foodies’ Market welcomed over 70 stallholders to the streets of Daventry High Street, Bowen Square, Foundry Walk, and Sheaf Street. Visitors were treated to a mouthwatering selection of artisan food and drink, including allergy-friendly options for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free diets.
From sizzling street food and sweet treats to handcrafted kitchenware and gifts, the market offered something for everyone. Families enjoyed a full day of free entertainment, including children’s crafts, face painting, balloon modelling, and a Town Trail. A towering stilt-walking Big Bird made special appearances, delighting younger visitors with its playful antics.
Live performances from local groups such as the Danetre Ukulele Orchestra, GBRT Carnival Drums, Sounds of Steel Steelband, and the Rose & Castle Morris Dancers added to the festive atmosphere, filling the town with music and movement.
As part of Heritage Open Days 2025, Daventry also welcomed a nostalgic fleet of classic buses courtesy of Northampton Transport Heritage (NTH). Now in its fourth year, this popular partnership with Daventry Town Council offered free heritage bus tours, recreating original United Counties and Midland Red routes.
Departing from Market Square, the beautifully restored buses took over 3,000 passengers on scenic journeys through Badby, Staverton, Braunston, Welton, Ashby St Ledgers, Weedon, and more. Visitors could hop on and off at village stops or enjoy the full round-trip, all at no cost. Optional souvenir programmes helped support the ongoing restoration of the historic fleet.
The tours were a hit with transport enthusiasts and families alike, adding a nostalgic charm to the day’s festivities.
Daventry Museum joined the celebrations with exhibitions aligned to this year’s Heritage Open Days theme of “Architecture”, offering visitors a deeper look into the town’s historical fabric.
Next up is the Daventry Christmas Market, set to take place on Saturday, 22 November 2025 – promising another joyful celebration of local talent, festive cheer, and community spirit.
