About Oundle
Oundle is a historic market town in Northamptonshire known for its rich literary heritage and vibrant cultural scene, Oundle stands as a beacon for literature enthusiasts and authors alike, with its picturesque setting of Georgian buildings and historic charm.
Authors in Oundle events take place in a variety of differently sized venues in Oundle and in the surrounding villages. We aim to make our events accessible to as many people as possible, whilst providing good facilities for our speakers to showcase their books. If you have any queries about a particular event, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@authorsinoundle.co.uk.
Oundle Town History
The town of Oundle, situated in Northamptonshire near the border with Cambridgeshire, boasts a rich and storied history that dates back over a thousand years.
Oundle’s origins can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period, with evidence suggesting settlements as early as the 7th Century. In the medieval period the town began to flourish, serving as an important market town and hub of trade along the River Nene. The town’s expansion was no doubt helped by the fact that it did not suffer during the Black Death; something that was highly unusual for towns in England at that time.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Oundle experienced further development and cultural significance with the establishment of Oundle School by Sir William Laxton. Throughout the centuries Oundle School has educated notable figures contributing to the town’s educational and intellectual heritage.
The heart of Oundle is a beautiful stone-built market town with buildings made from the local Jurassic limestone and roof tiles made from Collyweston slate. The town centre is divided by narrow alleys and courtyards, above which the graceful spire of the parish church of St Peter’s rises, its 210-foot spire being the tallest in Northamptonshire.
Among the town’s oldest buildings is the Talbot Hotel. This was initially constructed of timber; it was rebuilt with stone in 1626 from the ruins of nearby Fotheringhay Castle. The hotel is notable for the claim of being haunted by the ghost of Mary, Queen of Scots, who was executed in Fotheringhay in 1587. Its the oak staircase which was reportedly taken from the ruins of Fotheringhay Castle, is said to be the same one that Mary walked down while being escorted to her execution.
Further details about the rich history of the town can be discovered in the Oundle Museum which is located in the former Courthouse.
In more recent times, Oundle has evolved into a thriving community that balances its rich heritage with modern amenities and cultural offerings. Its vibrant arts scene, annual and all year-round events, and bustling markets continue to attract visitors from far and wide.
Oundle is twelve miles from the city of Peterborough, forty miles from Cambridge and eighty miles from London. It is easily accessible with good road and rail links. The nearest railway stations are Peterborough and Kettering.
Oundle is a town which preserves its past while embracing the opportunities of the future, and Authors in Oundle looks forward to being a part of that heritage.