Delapré Abbey has been awarded the title of Venue of the Year at the 2024 Northamptonshire Business Excellence Awards, a recognition reserved for venues that set themselves apart through innovation and visitor impact. Delapré Abbey’s dedication to crafting unique visitor experiences – from heritage and wellbeing events to local partnerships and creative food offerings – set it apart as a truly remarkable venue.
Amanda Nicols, Head of Commercial Projects and Operations, shared: “Winning this award is a testament to our incredible team and the partners we’ve had the privilege of working with. Together, we’ve brought a host of events to life, from our Winter Light Trail to Summertime Live with WePop, and collaborated with Crispin Slee and the creators of Towcester Food Festival and Bite Street NN, on our first-ever food festival.
“Most importantly, we’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our visitors for their continued support. Your loyalty and support play a vital role in the Abbey’s success, and we look forward to welcoming you soon.”
With a commitment to supporting local producers like GemJar Bakes, Warner’s Distillery, and Yellow Bourbon Coffee Roasters, Delapré Abbey’s catering reflects its strong local connections, further enriched by fresh produce from the Abbey’s own kitchen gardens and greenhouses. Delapré is also proud of its partnerships with Northampton College and Moulton College, where students gain hands-on experience while supporting upkeep of the historic site and the restoration of the 19th century stables, further showcasing Delapré’s dedication to community-building and wellbeing.
Since opening its doors in 2018, Delapré Abbey has gone from strength to strength, welcoming guests for heritage tours, weddings, venue hire, wellbeing activities, and an array of dining experiences. Hibiscus, Delapré’s renowned fine dining restaurant, recently achieved Restaurant of the Year at the 2024 Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards, cementing the Abbey’s reputation for excellence in food and hospitality. Guests also enjoy popular offerings like afternoon tea, Sunday lunch, and seasonal culinary events that elevate Delapré’s appeal as a destination for all occasions.
As the festive season approaches, Delapré Abbey looks forward to hosting a variety of events, including the return of the popular Winter Light Trail from 22nd November to 31st December, a Christmas Fair on the weekend of 22nd and 23rd November, Santa’s Grotto, Candlelit Tours, festive afternoon teas, and more seasonal celebrations across its historic grounds. Earlier this year, Delapré was also honoured with the Best Day Out in Northamptonshire title at the Northants Life Awards, highlighting its growing appeal as a top destination for locals and tourists alike.
Looking ahead, Delapré Abbey is thrilled to announce the return of the Delapré Food Festival on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th June 2025, promising a fab day out for foodies and families alike. Amanda added “A heartfelt thank you goes to everyone who has supported the Abbey, especially the brilliant local businesses and community members who help make our programmes so memorable and special appreciation to the sponsor of the Venue of the Year category, J Sweeney Accountants and to All Things Business, the organisers of the awards.”
Delapré Abbey is also grateful for the support of its funders – the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Architectural Heritage Fund – and West Northamptonshire Council, whose backing has been instrumental in preserving and enhancing this historic venue.
For information on future events, including the 2025 Delapré Food Fest, visit delapreabbey.org.
