Tourists on a day out in the county can see "fine buildings" and an "excellent museum" in Northampton, according to the new Rough Guide to England.

It tells readers: "Northampton's compact centre is at its most appealing on and around its main plaza, Market Square, which is where you'll find the town's finest buildings, notably All Saints' Church and the Guildhall."

Half a day, it says, is enough for a "quick gambol" around the town's sights, including an "excellent museum" with a display on shoes.

Tourists are told Northamptonshire is "one of the region's most diverse counties... its super abundance of stately homes and historic churches has given it a tag as the 'County of Spires and Squires' and there's also a good scattering of charming unspoilt villages, the most picturesque of which are built of local limestone."

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But the guide's authors say Wellingborough, Corby and Kettering "are primarily industrial and whatever charms they offer to their inhabitants, there's not much to attract the regular tourist". Northampton, they add, "does something to bridge the gap".

But Councillor Tony Woods (Lib Dem, St Davids), leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: "The piece is complimentary but misses a lot. The half-day they suggest for a 'quick gambol' would be tourism at the sprint.

"All Saints is described well but it is disappointing that no mention was made of Holy Sepulchre and St Peter's, both exceptionally fine churches very much worth a visit. No mention either of our superb parks, theatres or lively nightlife. It seems the reviewer had not left himself enough time for a proper look round but liked what he saw."

Brian Binley, who is the Conservative MP for Northampton South, said: "I'm delighted they have included Northampton because it's always been my county town and I'm proud of it.

"I think it's good to have people recognise the value of places like All Saints' Church. We have got a lot going for us and I just hope the town doesn't get swamped with development."

A spokeswoman for Northamptonshire County Council said: "We are very proud of Northamptonshire. The county, which is often described as the 'rose of the shires' has a rich heritage and offers something for everyone, from charming rural villages with thatched cottages and country pubs to busy town centres with a thriving nightlife and entertainment."

David Wright, chief executive of Northamptonshire Enterprise Ltd, said: "Our county is brimming with character and offers the combination of the perfect rural idyll and contemporary urban living."