Lactodurum

In Roman times, the Watling Street road (now the A5) was built through the area and Lactodorum, probably a garrison fort, was established on the site of the present day town.

Lactodorum was encompassed by a wall that was strengthened at several points by stone and brick towers.

The wall was also surrounded by a ditch part of which became the Mill Leat on the east side of the town.

The modern day St Lawrence's Church in Towcester is thought to occupy the site of a large Roman civic building, possibly a temple; although there was also a bath house in this area.

However, there was also evidence of much industry: smithing, pottery, lead, pewter and bronze working.