Free arts and heritage day announced at Northampton’s Old Black Lion and St Peter’s Church

The Old Black Lion and neighbouring St Peter’s Church will host Creating History Day on Wednesday, August 26, following the success of a similar event last week.

More than 200 people visited the two historic sites during Hands on History Day, and the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) is now inviting people back for another programme of free activities.

Creating History Day will give visitors another opportunity to explore the Old Black Lion following extensive conservation and repair works.

Vacant since 2018, the former pub has undergone a regeneration programme supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, aimed at bringing the building back into sustainable use while preserving its heritage.

The neighbouring St Peter’s Church has also inspired generations of artists and craftspeople, including renowned Northampton painter and muralist Henry Bird, who was inspired to pursue an artistic career after admiring the church’s medieval stone carvings.

Activities on August 26 will include historical make-up and portrait photography sessions from Lumina Arts Alliance and live creative demonstrations from the Hitchhiking Historian.

There will also be drop-in arts and crafts workshops for all ages.

Visitors will have the chance to meet local artists including Fridge Street, Jack Savage, Louise Troy, Lemonpop, Carol Jacobs and David Underwood, as well as contribute to an exhibition themselves.

Matthew Storey, head of initiatives and partnerships at CCT, said: “Following the success of ‘Hands on History Day’, we’re delighted to welcome the public back for ‘Creating History Day’.

“These free community events are an opportunity to celebrate Northampton’s heritage and creative spirit as work continues to prepare the sites for the next chapter.”

CCT’s headquarters have been based at St Peter’s since 2025 as work continues on the wider transformation of the two historic landmarks.