ABOUT THE PARISH
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Northamptonshire countryside, Long Buckby and Long Buckby Wharf collectively offer a rich tapestry of rural charm, historical intrigue, and natural beauty.
A SHORT HISTORY
Long Buckby’s history spans over a thousand years, with its name reflecting Scandinavian roots; "by" means farmstead, while "Bucca" likely refers to a personal name. By 1086, when the Domesday Book was compiled, the manor of "Buchebi" had been granted to Norman nobles. In the mid-12th century, Sahir de Quincy built a castle, remnants of which still exist. In 1281, Henry de Lacy, the Lord of the Manor, secured a charter to hold a weekly market and annual fairs, prompting villagers to move from their original settlements to the new market square.
During the Middle Ages, Long Buckby was held by noble families who owned extensive lands but did not reside locally. This lack of a resident lord allowed the village to become an "open" settlement, welcoming new families. By the Tudor period, the road to the hamlet of Coten became settled, leading to the name changes from Buckby to Long Buckby and from Coten to Coten End.
MODERN CONNECTIONS
The 17th and 18th centuries saw Long Buckby thrive as a centre for the woolcombing and weaving industries. This economic boom faded by the early 1800s, giving way to the boot and shoe trade, which became the village’s main industry for over 150 years. During this time, the village also benefited from the opening of the Grand Junction Canal, making Long Buckby an important canal wharf.
The arrival of the railway in 1881 was a significant milestone for Long Buckby, linking the village to major cities like London and Birmingham via the West Coast Main Line. The station still operates today, making Long Buckby a convenient location for commuters. This, combined with the construction of the M1 and M6 motorways, transformed the village during the 20th century. Between 1971 and 2001, the population grew from around 2,500 to over 4,000, marking a shift from an industrial centre to a residential community.
A CHANGING VILLAGE
As the 20th century progressed, the decline of the footwear industry and the reduced importance of canal traffic left Long Buckby in a period of economic stagnation. However, the village maintained a reputation for high-quality handsewn footwear well into the 20th century, with some craftsmen continuing the tradition from their homes even after the factories closed by 2000.
The latter half of the century saw a major shift as Long Buckby became more integrated with the wider region. The rise of car ownership, improved transport links, and the appeal of village life close to urban centers attracted new residents. Today, Long Buckby is a vibrant commuter village with a mix of old and new, balancing its historic roots with modern growth. Its railway station remains a key asset, and the village is now home to a growing population that enjoys its historic charm alongside modern amenities.