This September, rugby fans and history enthusiasts alike are invited to step back in time and explore the remarkable origins and heritage of Northampton Saints Rugby Football Club and the Lions.
As part of Heritage Open Days, a series of special events will shine a light on the club’s early beginnings, its legendary players, and its enduring legacy in the sport.
Walking the Origins – From cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens to St James Church
Join Club Historian Graham McKechnie for a guided walking tour through the heart of St James, tracing the roots of Northampton Saints. Starting at the club’s present-day home, cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens, the tour takes visitors on a short walk to St James Church, the birthplace of the Saints.
Along the way, participants will wander through the surrounding terraced streets, uncovering the stories of the young men who first donned the black, green, and gold. These were the pioneers who laid the foundations for what is now one of the top clubs in Premiership Rugby, England’s highest division.
Friday 19th September
Start: 10.30am-12.00pm
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Remembering the Saints at Dallington Cemetery
Another moving chapter of the club’s history will be told on a guided tour of Dallington Cemetery, again led by McKechnie. In 2021, he rediscovered the grave of the club’s first captain, Jim Barker, who was buried in 1929. The grave had fallen into disrepair, but thanks to the combined efforts of the club and its foundation, it has now been restored.
This walk pays tribute not only to Barker but also to other Saints players buried there, including Teddy and Harry Dunkley, Arthur Williams, Charles Stanley, Charles “Cock” Leigh, Joe Beasley, and Charles Davis. While some of the graves are no longer visible, meticulous research and cemetery records help tell their stories and honour their memory.
Saturday 20th September
Start: 10.30am-12.00pm
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Northampton Saints Lions Exhibition
Back at cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens, visitors can explore Northampton Saints Lions Exhibition, celebrating the 30 Saintsmen who have represented the British and Irish Lions. Spanning from Blair Swannell’s tours in 1899 and 1904 to the most recent squad members, Fin Smith, Henry Pollock, Alex Mitchell, and Tommy Freeman, returning from the 2025 tour, the exhibition showcases the club’s proud contribution to one of rugby’s most iconic teams.
Together, these events offer an intimate and inspiring look at the Northampton Saints’ history, from its humble parish beginnings to its place at the pinnacle of English rugby. Whether walking the streets where it all began, remembering the lives of former players, or reliving Lions glory, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation of the club’s enduring spirit and rich heritage.
Tuesday 16 September: 10:00am - 15:00
Thursday 18 September: 10:00am - 15:00
Friday 19 September: 10:00am - 15:00
Saturday 20 September:10:00am - 15:00
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