Parish in North Northamptonshire, England
| Coordinates: | 52.397, -0.711 |
|---|---|
| OS grid ref: | SP 87 78 |
| Population: | 63,675 |
| Dialling code: | 01536 (Kettering) |
The civil parish of Kettering Town sits on the banks of the River Ise at the heart of the unitary authority of North Northamptonshire in England. Traditionally a market town, it still has a busy market square and a mix of Georgian and Victorian streets, with surrounding agricultural countryside giving it a semi-rural feel despite being a local service centre.
Industrial growth in the 19th and 20th centuries – especially the boot and shoe trade and light engineering – shaped the town, and while those industries have largely declined it now combines local manufacturing, retail and services with growing commuter links via the Midland Main Line to London. Local highlights such as Wicksteed Park, the regional Kettering General Hospital and an active community arts and sports scene underline a town balancing industrial heritage with ongoing regeneration.