Who are we?
The Northamptonshire Natural History Society – Nature, science and discovery since 1876
Founded in 1876, the Northamptonshire Natural History Society brings together people with a shared curiosity about nature, science and the world around us. From astronomy, geology and fossils to wildlife, wildflowers and botany, microscopy, photography, weather and meteorology and local history, there’s always something to discover.
Based at the Humfrey Rooms in Northampton, we run talks, meetings and practical, hands-on sessions throughout the year. You don’t need to be an expert – beginners, experienced enthusiasts and simply curious visitors are all very welcome.
Today we welcome anyone who is interested in the wonders of science and nature in and around the Northamptonshire area. We cater for all levels of interest, from those who are just starting to realise how amazing nature is, to those who have a life-long passion for the natural world.
The First 150 years
The Northamptonshire Natural History Society & Field Club
Our story began in Northampton in 1876, when a small group of natural history enthusiasts met at the Mechanic’s Institute in Gold Street. What started as a local gathering soon developed into a Society dedicated to observing, recording and understanding the natural world – particularly the wildlife, plants, geology and changing landscape of Northamptonshire.
Those early members were remarkably active. Their discoveries, observations and meetings appeared in local newspapers, and in 1880 the Society published the first volume of its own Journal. Today, those historic records provide a fascinating account not only of the Society, but of Northamptonshire itself – documenting species, habitats, geology, weather and local scientific discoveries stretching back 150 years.
As interests and scientific knowledge developed, so did NNHS. New areas of study were embraced, collections were built, generations of members shared their knowledge, and the Society became a lasting part of Northamptonshire’s scientific and natural history.
Much has changed since that first meeting in Gold Street, but the idea behind NNHS has endured: people coming together to observe, question, learn and share what they discover. 150 years later, we’re still doing exactly that – looking closely at Northamptonshire and the wider world around us, while adding new observations, knowledge and stories to an extraordinary history that is still being written.
Our home – The Humfrey Rooms
NNHS has its own home at the Humfrey Rooms in Castilian Terrace, in the centre of Northampton and just a short walk from the Royal & Derngate theatres. The building includes our meeting rooms, laboratory and collections, and has been at the heart of Society life for generations.
Throughout the year, our different interest areas offer a varied programme of more than 150 talks, meetings, practical sessions, activities and visits covering natural history, science and the world around us. You can explore what’s coming up on our What’s On page and simply choose something that interests you.
There’s no need to become a member before coming along. Visitors are welcome to attend up to three meetings, giving you the chance to meet us, explore different subjects and see what you enjoy before deciding whether you’d like to join.
NNHS has ten different Sections covering a remarkably wide range of interests. Your membership isn’t limited to just one – you’re free to explore them all, learn something new and get involved as much or as little as you choose.
Click on the following links to see a history of the Society and the various Interest Areas.
In addition, our rules and Constitution can be found via these links: NNHS rules.pdf and Constitution.pdf
The NNHS publishes a Journal annually
Journal
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