Located within the historic Eastern Gatehouse, Building 90, The Depot Visitor Centre brings the fascinating military history of Weedon Bec to life.
The Visitor Centre was established with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and is open to the public, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the remarkable story of this nationally important heritage site.
Admission to the Visitor Centre is FREE, and FREE parking is available on site.
Explore The Depot
There is much more to discover beyond the Visitor Centre. The Depot is now home to a diverse community of businesses and attractions, including:
· Bookshop
· Antique centres
· Ladies’ fashion
· Gyms
· Yoga and Pilates studios
· Aerial dance studio
· Coffee shop
· Interactive golf experience
· Automotive-themed event space
· Climbing centre
· And many more independent businesses
The historic buildings now provide a unique working environment for a wide range of businesses, combining modern enterprise with the character and heritage of the original site.
A Site of National Heritage
The Depot, once known as the Royal Ordnance Depot, was constructed as a secure military facility for the storage of equipment, ammunition and weapons for the British Army.
Its history stretches from the Napoleonic Wars through to the end of National Service, with the Depot supporting every major conflict in between.
The site was highly secure, with access strictly controlled and much of the work carried out within its walls kept secret.
The striking Georgian complex, with its perimeter wall, bastions, storehouses, powder magazines and gatehouses, was completed by 1810. An arm of the Ordnance Canal connected the Depot to Weedon Wharf on the Grand Junction Canal, allowing materials and supplies to be transported directly to the site.
The original complex also included Artillery Barracks, a Parade Ground, Officers’ accommodation, stabling for regimental horses, a hospital and a police station. For a short period, the site even had its own military prison.
The wider 120-acre complex included soldiers’ allotments, married quarters, accommodation for the Depot Fire Brigade and senior staff, a canteen, walnut plantations used for gun stocks, horse jumps, workshops, a gas works, water tower, offices, railway spur and, during the Second World War, numerous Nissen huts.
From Military Depot to Modern Business Community
The Army began decommissioning the wider site in the late 1960s, and in 1984 the Government sold the main site at auction.
Today, the original 1810 footprint and the Firemen’s Quarters remain, together with a number of surviving features that provide clues to the site’s fascinating past, including boundary marker stones, horse tethering posts and a short section of the original canal.
The Depot is now privately owned and is being carefully restored to develop and provide workshops, offices, leisure spaces and accommodation for businesses, while retaining the unique character and heritage of the historic buildings.
Michael Chittenden, owner of The Depot, said:
“The site is of national interest and forms an important part of Britain’s cultural heritage, so we are delighted to have received the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund to help revive and share some of the amazing history the site has to tell.”
“The rejuvenation of historic buildings is crucial to the development of local economies. Our aim with this project is to breathe new life into the site, enhance the neighbourhood and create new jobs and opportunities for local people.”
“By putting Weedon Bec firmly on the tourism map for anyone interested in Britain’s military heritage, we also aim to help boost the local economy.”
Discover the Story
The Visitor Centre focuses on the rich military history of The Depot and features an exhibition of historic wartime artefacts, audio interviews and recordings from local people, together with a programme of regular talks and events.
Whether you have a personal connection to The Depot, an interest in military history or simply want to discover somewhere new, the Visitor Centre offers a fascinating insight into one of Northamptonshire’s most unusual historic sites.
Come and discover the story of The Depot for yourself.
Plan Your Visit
Admission: FREE Parking: FREE Location: The Depot, Weedon Bec, Northampton, NN7 4PS
Typical Opening Times
Wednesday – Saturday: 10.00am – 4.00pm Sunday: 12.00pm – 4.00pm
Opening times can vary, so please check the Visitor Centre’s Facebook page before travelling.
Facebook: facebook.com/thedepotvisitorcentre
Telephone: 01327 226912
Accessibility – The ground floor of the Visitor Centre is fully accessible, and accessible parking is available close to the entrance.
Volunteer With Us
The Visitor Centre is supported by a dedicated team, and we are always pleased to hear from people who would like to volunteer and help us share the history of The Depot.
If you are interested in volunteering, please speak to a member of the team when you visit or contact us using the details below.
The Depot Visitor Centre The Depot Weedon Bec Northampton NN7 4PS
Tel: 01327 226 812
Email: visitorscentre@the-depot.uk
Website: weedonvc.uk
