New mural celebrates Northampton Castle’s legacy and community spirit
14 October 2025
A new mural in the heart of Northampton has been unveiled, celebrating the town’s rich heritage and community spirit. Located on St Andrews Road, beside the evolving Castle Park green space, the artwork offers residents a vibrant and lasting tribute to the legacy of Northampton Castle.
West Northamptonshire Council and Fermynwoods Contemporary Art have led the project, with the mural designed by Studio Studio artists Bridie Cheeseman and Jake Williams. It brings history to life through bold imagery and local stories, transforming a familiar route into a source of pride and inspiration for all who pass by.
Situated on a key commuter route beside the new Castle Park heritage redevelopment and green space, the mural commemorates the remarkable history of the former Northampton Castle and key events that have shaped the town’s identity. Featuring historic figures and narratives – from the trial of Thomas Becket to King John’s Parliament, to the brickwork that continues to define Northampton’s architecture – the artwork transforms a prominent commuter route into a striking celebration of the town’s rich past and vibrant future.
Studio Studio worked closely with local communities, historians, and young people from Spring Lane Primary School, The CE Academy, and The Creative Place, Northampton, developing ideas, figures, and compositional elements that directly reflect the town’s history and the perspectives of its residents.
The ambitious scale project was supported by BA Fine Art students from the University of Northampton, as well as Northampton-based illustrator Charlotte Lilly George, who assisted for ten days on site and has been immortalised within the mural. Charlotte contributed her own panel design, now permanently part of the composition.
The project was made possible thanks to funding from Arts Council England and West Northamptonshire Council, with further support from local family-run business Abington Decorating Supplies and national paint supplier Caparol UK.
This mural is a powerful tribute to Northampton’s extraordinary past and a testament to the creativity and collaboration within our community. It not only enhances the visual landscape of Castle Park but also connects residents and visitors alike to the stories that shaped our town. We’re proud to support projects like this that bring history to life and inspire civic pride.Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council
We are delighted to see Studio Studio’s vision brought to life with such thought and care. The collaboration with schools, historians, local illustrators and university students has ensured that this mural truly belongs to the people of Northampton.James Steventon, Director of Fermynwoods Contemporary Art
Post-installation, GB Facilities Services applied professional anti-graffiti protection to safeguard the artwork.
We’re proud to have been awarded the contract to apply professional anti-graffiti protection to the stunning new mural on St Andrew’s Road, celebrating the history of Northampton Castle. To ensure it remains protected from graffiti and environmental damage, we’re applying SLX100 breathable surface protection. This specialist treatment ensures the mural remains vibrant and resilient for years to come, safeguarding a new cultural landmark for Northampton.GB Facilities Services