Giant Nene Valley Boot has landed at Rushden Lakes

Garden Square is the new home of the iconic Nene Valley Boot, which was originally included in Northampton Borough Council’s 2019 sculpture trail. To celebrate Northamptonshire’s boot and shoe history, the trail sprawled across the town centre and featured a collection of giant brogues, boots and stiletto sculptures.

Nene Rivers Trust and Destination Nene Valley collaboratively sponsored and inherited one of 12 limited footwear sculptures. Local artist, Leanne Conroy, decorated the giant Dr Marten with a design that highlighted the River Valley’s natural landscape and many local species.

Donna French, Rushden Lakes Centre Manager said, “We’re delighted to welcome the Nene Valley Boot to Rushden Lakes. The sculpture has already proven to be a popular attraction for visitors, and we’re excited for this to continue.”

Unfortunately, the sky-blue boot was removed from the town centre alongside many of the other sculptures due to vandalism or needing a refresh. After a few years in storage, Rushden Lakes was selected as the ideal new location for the sculpture.

The boot provides not only a photo opportunity for Rushden Lakes visitors but an educational experience too, by featuring several ‘Artcode’ images in the form of wildlife creatures. Visitors need to simply download the Artcode app, select ‘Boot-iful Nene Valley’ and scan the sculpture to learn more about the Nene Valley.

For more information about Rushden Lakes, please visit www.rushdenlakes.com. Don’t forget to share pictures of your memorable visit alongside the hashtag #MyRushdenLakes for the chance to be featured on Rushden Lakes’ social channels!

Rushden Lakes is open Monday — Saturday from 08:00 — 18:00 and Sunday from 10:00 — 17:00. Individual restaurants and store opening times may vary.