Eleanor Cross Hardingstone
One of only three surviving original Eleanor Crosses, this 13th-century monument commemorates Queen Eleanor of Castile's funeral journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Eleanor Cross Hardingstone
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
One of only three surviving original Eleanor Crosses, this 13th-century monument commemorates Queen Eleanor of Castile's funeral journey.
"An incredible piece of English history, amazing it's still standing after 700 years."
🚗 Parking Advice
Parking can be challenging. Try residential streets nearby or consider public transport.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Located on a main road, it's accessible by bus, making it a convenient stop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Original Eleanor Cross
Hardingstone, Northampton
Marvel at this imposing 13th-century monument, a testament to King Edward I's love for his queen. It's one of the last three original Eleanor Crosses.
A Glimpse into Medieval England
Hardingstone, Northampton
Imagine the solemn procession of Queen Eleanor's coffin passing this spot over 700 years ago. A powerful historical connection.
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Planning Your Visit
A Royal Journey's Enduring Mark
Navigating Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Advice
Parking can be challenging. Try residential streets nearby or consider public transport.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Located on a main road, it's accessible by bus, making it a convenient stop.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture this ancient monument against the backdrop of the modern road.
📜 Historical Significance
Understand its story as one of the original Eleanor Crosses commemorating Queen Eleanor's funeral procession.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Advice
Parking can be challenging. Try residential streets nearby or consider public transport.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Located on a main road, it's accessible by bus, making it a convenient stop.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture this ancient monument against the backdrop of the modern road.
📜 Historical Significance
Understand its story as one of the original Eleanor Crosses commemorating Queen Eleanor's funeral procession.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Eleanor Cross Hardingstone as a magnificent and historically significant monument, marveling at its survival for over 700 years. Its status as one of the last original Eleanor Crosses is a major draw. However, many note the unfortunate placement on a busy ring road, which complicates parking and detracts from the overall ambiance.
"Fantastic monument, but sadly, it's on a Ring Road just south of Northampton town centre.
We had to park in a housing estate.
But an incredible piece of English history. It's amazing that it is still standing there after 700 years."
Janice Lane
"One of the 3 remaining original crosses erected in the 1290's to commemorate King Edward I love for his deceased wife Queen Eleanor - and built at each place her coffin rested overnight on her final journey from Lincoln to London. Ive seen a few of the locations and replica crosses but this is the first original one. And its huge - would have made quite the impact in the Medieval countryside. Being on the London road (of course!) its unfortunate it is such a busy main road now, and it's a shame there isnt a layby or packing area here for people to stop. I parked in the residential side street opposite."
Rebecca stewart
"A magnificent monument from 1290 ce. It's a great shame that only three of the original Eleanor crosses still survive."
Donald Howard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Eleanor Cross Hardingstone is located on a ring road south of Northampton town centre. It's accessible by car, though parking can be difficult, with visitors often using nearby residential streets. Public buses also serve the area, making it reachable without a car.
Dedicated parking is limited due to its roadside location. It's recommended to look for parking in the adjacent residential areas.
Yes, public transport is a viable option. Buses frequently travel along the main road where the cross is situated, offering convenient access.
The cross is noted as being near Delapre Abbey, which may offer facilities like toilets and further historical insights.
While on a busy road, careful positioning can allow for good photos. Consider visiting during quieter times to safely capture the monument.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Eleanor Cross Hardingstone is an outdoor monument and is freely accessible to view. There are no admission fees.
As an outdoor historical monument, it is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and safety.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Eleanor Cross Hardingstone. It is a public monument.
While it's a historical monument, it's best to admire it without touching to help preserve it for future generations.
Yes, it's a great spot for a brief stop to appreciate a piece of history, especially if you're passing through Northampton.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Built in the 1290s, it's one of three surviving original Eleanor Crosses erected by King Edward I to mark the nightly resting places of his wife, Queen Eleanor of Castile's, coffin on her funeral journey from Lincoln to Westminster. +1
These crosses were elaborate monuments built in memory of Queen Eleanor, symbolizing King Edward I's grief and devotion. They also served as waymarkers on a significant royal route. +1
You'll see a large, intricately carved stone cross, a remarkable survival from the medieval period, standing as a testament to royal history.
There are no specific facilities directly at the cross itself. Visitors may find amenities at nearby Delapre Abbey.
A visit typically takes about 15-30 minutes, allowing time to view the monument and take photos.
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Queen Eleanor's Funeral Procession
Today, only three of these original crosses remain: Geddington, Waltham, and Hardingstone. The Eleanor Cross Hardingstone, situated just south of Northampton, stands as a testament to the enduring impact of this royal journey. Its survival for over 700 years is remarkable, offering a tangible connection to England's rich medieval past.
Navigating the Modern Landscape
Despite these modern-day inconveniences, the cross remains an important historical marker. Its accessibility via public transport offers an alternative for those who prefer not to navigate the parking situation.
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