Who We Are?
The Northamptonshire Natural History Society.
The Northamptonshire Natural History Society was established in 1876 by various Victorian Naturalists.
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 100 years
The Northamptonshire Natural History Society & Field Club 1876-1976
Founded in 1876, the Northamptonshire Natural History Society began as a small gathering of enthusiasts at the Mechanic’s Institute in Gold Street, Northampton. United by a shared curiosity about the natural world, they set out to create a space for learning, discussion, and discovery.
In its early years, the Society’s activities were reported in local newspapers, before the launch of its own Journal in 1880. These records capture a growing passion for studying Northamptonshire’s plants, wildlife, and geology, and remain a valuable window into the county’s past.
Over the decades, the Society expanded its programme of meetings, lectures, and research, bringing together people eager to share knowledge and explore the natural environment. It built lasting connections with like-minded organisations and adapted to new ideas, including the rising importance of conservation.
Through change and challenge, the Society’s purpose remained the same: to inspire interest in the natural world and deepen understanding of Northamptonshire’s rich heritage. Its first 100 years laid strong foundations for a thriving community that continues to this day.
The NNHS Society has it own room laboratory
The Society has its own rooms and laboratory located near the Derngate & Royal Theatres in the centre of Northampton (Castilian Terrace). We hold over over 150 meetings, walks and visits every year, arranged by the different interests – and details of these events can be found on our What’s On page.
There are ten Sections which make up the NNHS and you can browse each of these areas of interest to determine which appeal to you and attend up to three meetings before becoming a Member.
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
