Things to Do in Corby: A Helpful Guide for Contractors Working in the Area

When you’re working away from home, evenings and weekends can feel long if you don’t know the local area. The good news is that Corby has plenty to offer, whether you enjoy walking, food, history, pubs, or simple ways to switch off after a long shift. This guide covers the best things to do in Corby and around Northamptonshire, all written with contractors, engineers, tradespeople and work teams in mind.

If you’re staying in Corby for a project, here’s what you can explore during your downtime.

Explore Corby Town Centre

Corby Town Centre is compact and easy to navigate, making it ideal for after-work strolls and quick shopping trips. You’ll find the Willow Place Shopping Centre, cafés, supermarkets, barbers, gyms and everything you’d need for day-to-day living.

Highlights:

• Willow Place Shopping Centre

• Corby Cube

• Bars, cafés and takeaways

• Local markets

If you're based in contractor accommodation nearby, this area is usually the most convenient place to grab essentials or enjoy a chilled evening out.

Visit Rockingham Castle

Rockingham Castle is one of Corby’s standout attractions, sitting on a hill with views across five counties. It’s a great way to spend a free afternoon, especially if you enjoy history, open spaces and peaceful gardens.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Beautiful landscaped gardens

• Historic rooms and guided tours

• Seasonal events and markets

• Quiet grounds ideal for unwinding

More information:https://www.rockinghamcastle.com/

Enjoy Nature at Fermyn Woods Country Park

If you enjoy fresh air after a long day on-site, Fermyn Woods Country Park is perfect. It’s a short drive from Corby and offers woodland trails, picnic spots, fishing lakes and wildlife.

Good for:

• Evening walks

• Cycling

• Nature photography

• Family visits if your team brings families at weekends

It’s one of the most popular places to visit near Corby, especially in spring and summer.

Explore Kirby Hall

Kirby Hall is one of the finest Elizabethan houses in England. Even in its partially-ruined state, it’s impressive and peaceful, with beautiful architecture and well-kept gardens.

Why contractors like it:

• Quiet place to walk and unwind

• Interesting history

• Large open grounds

More information:https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kirby-hall/

Walk Around East Carlton Country Park

East Carlton Park is another great option if you want a relaxing walk, dog-friendly route, or somewhere calm to sit outdoors. There’s a café, lake, playground, and walking paths.

Best for:

• Weekend walks

• Coffee breaks

• Social time with colleagues

It’s one of the most popular things to do in Corby for both locals and contractors.

Enjoy Rutland Water – One of the Region’s Best Outdoors Spots

A short drive from Corby, Rutland Water is a must-visit. It’s huge, and one of the best outdoor locations in the East Midlands.

Activities include:

• Cycling

• Walking trails

• Fishing

• Bird watching

• Water sports

• Picnics

Great if you want something different to do at the weekend.

More information:https://www.rutlandwater.org.uk/

Visit the Corby Boating Lake

Corby Boating Lake is one of the town’s most peaceful spots. It’s ideal for relaxing evening walks close to town.

Why it’s ideal for contractors:

• Easy access

• Free to visit

• Peaceful atmosphere

• Wildlife, ducks, swans

Evening Entertainment: The Savoy Cinema

If you want a chilled night, the Savoy Cinema in Corby offers all the latest films. It’s affordable, modern and located next to several restaurants.

Good choice for:

• Team nights out

• Rainy days

• Quiet solo evenings

Local Pubs and Restaurants in Corby

Corby has a range of pubs and restaurants where contractors often go to relax after work. Here are a few favourites:

Top pubs in Corby:

• The White Hart

• The Samuel Lloyd (Wetherspoons)

• The Raven Hotel Bar

• The Cardigan Arms

Good restaurants and places to eat:

• Olive

• Palazzo

• Prezzo

• Royal Tandoori

• The Chequered Flag (for car and motor fans)

These places are generally friendly, relaxed and offer a good mix for different tastes.

Corby Heritage Centre

This small museum gives you a glimpse into Corby’s industrial and steelmaking history. It’s a simple but interesting stop if you enjoy local culture.

Ideal for:

• Short visits

• Understanding the town’s heritage

• History lovers

Wicksteed Park (Kettering)

Just 10–15 minutes from Corby, Wicksteed Park is a great day out if you want somewhere lively. It has rides, open space, cafés and activities suitable for adults and families.

Helpful for weekends when you want something a bit more fun.

Day Trips Near Corby

If you’re staying in Corby for weeks or months, you might want to explore the surrounding areas. Here are great day trips within 30 minutes:

• Kettering (restaurants, Wicksteed Park, shopping)

• Market Harborough (nice pubs, cafés and markets)

• Oundle (beautiful historic market town)

• Stamford (stunning stone buildings and riverside walks)

• Uppingham (small but charming, good restaurants)

These locations are perfect for a relaxing weekend.

Gyms and Fitness Options in Corby

If your team likes staying active, Corby has good gym options:

• PureGym Corby

• Corby East Midlands International Pool

• The Gym Group (nearby towns)

These are helpful for longer stays when routine matters.

Shopping Essentials for Contractors

Contractors staying in Corby often need easy access to essentials. Here are the best places:

• Asda Corby

• Tesco Extra

• Lidl & Aldi

• B&Q (for supplies)

• Matalan

• Boots & Superdrug

• Wickes

Everything your team needs is within a short drive or walk, which makes Corby practical for long-term stays.

Why Contractors Find Corby a Good Base

Corby is becoming more popular with contractors for several reasons:

• Affordable accommodation

• Easy access to Kettering, Leicester and Northampton

• Plenty of outdoor spaces

• Good gyms, pubs and entertainment

• Simple transport links

• Relaxed atmosphere

It’s a comfortable place to unwind after long shifts.

Final Thoughts

Corby has more to offer than people expect. Whether you prefer relaxing walks, lively pubs, quiet spaces or day trips, there’s always something to do around the town and wider Northamptonshire. It’s a great base for contractors working on short or long projects.

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