5307
Hebden Bridge, UK
Hebden Bridge developed into an industrial town in the nineteenth century – as did many of Manchester’s surrounding towns. At one point, it was known as ‘Trouser Town’. But its distinctive landscape, with hills and streams, made it ideal for water-powered weaving mills. Built in 1897, the Town Hall is a Grade II Listed Building. It has acted […]
5290
Stockport, Stockport, UK
Stockport has been a centre for the hatting industry from the 17th century, and it later became a centre for silk production. Stockport was a prototype textile town. Stockport’s first mill opened in 1732 – the first water-powered textile mill in England’s North West. Working conditions were often difficult, because of the boom and bust […]
5265
Worsley, Manchester, UK
Worsley expanded significantly from 1761, as a result of the completion of the Bridgewater Canal. Francis Egerton (3rd Duke of Bridgewater) commissioned its construction, and this was to simplify the transportation of coal from his Worsley mines to Manchester. Coal was an important resource, because it fuelled steam engines. Over-reliance on pack horse transport was extant prior to […]
5253
Salford, UK
Salford thrived with its silk spinning and weaving industry in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Much of the town’s development was as a result of these industries. However, textile manufactories broadly declined into the twentieth century, and this resulted in economic hardship in parts of the town. Salford Regeneration However, Salford has enjoyed extensive redevelopment in […]
5248
Gorton, Manchester, UK
Gorton is a town in Manchester, and it is rich in cultural heritage. For example, the world-famous Belle Vue Zoological Gardens opened in 1836. In its lifetime it served as a zoo, amusement park, exhibition hall complex and speedway stadium. It developed from containing a small amusements park in the 1870s to the ‘show ground […]
5241
Burnley, UK
Burnley is a historic market town, and is surrounded by breathtaking Penine countryside. It developed into one of the most prosperous mill towns in Lancashire during the Industrial Revolution. Burnley was one of the world’s largest cloth producers at its peak. Located in the town centre is Weavers’ Triangle. Consisting of 19th-century industrial buildings, Weavers’ Triangle has historic interest […]
5204
Macclesfield, UK
Macclesfield’s Silk History Macclesfield became known as ‘the silk town’ by the 1850s. This came about by silk button making, which was a principal industry of the town by 1749. However, button making declined as horn buttons became dominant. But silk throwing mills could operate, thanks to an extant pool of skilled silk producers. The […]
5194
Tenbury Wells, UK
In 1839, a Dr Granville was traveling to Tenbury Wells, as he was conducting a survey to find seventy spa spots on the English landscape. Royal Leamington and Cheltenham were already ‘foremost towns’ for ‘taking the waters’. But Tenbury’s waters were found to be high in minerals, and deemed to be of medicinal value. Due […]
5191
Worcestershire, Malvern, UK
According to local legend, the health-giving properties of Malvern water were known in medieval times, and there is a distinctive record of notable names extolling its virtues. The occulist Richard Banister wrote about the Eye Well (close to Holy Well) in a short poem in 1622. Further praise came from the botanist Benjamin Stillingfleet, the […]
5188
Ilkley, UK
In the seventeenth century White Wells Bath House was constructed close to a hillside spring. The water there gained a reputation for purity and softness. Early bathing processes involved ten minutes immersion into a plunge-bath (4 degrees Celsius) and a brisk rubdown by the health attendant. Like many spa towns, Ilkley became a fashionable place […]
5178
Droitwich Spa, Droitwich, UK
Matlock Bath’s warm springs were discovered in 1698. The waters were applied for medicinal purposes at first, and the first bath house was built in the same year – to attract visitors. However, access to the village was difficult and it wasn’t until a bridge was built (over the Derwent in Matlock), and the opening […]
5175
Droitwich Spa, Droitwich, UK
Droitwich Spa was referred to as ‘Saltwich’, according to Anglo-Saxon charters. It was changed to ‘Droitwich’ (‘droit’ means ‘right’ in French) in 1215, when the town was given its charter. ‘Spa’ was added in the 19th century, when the town’s spa facilities underwent development. Droitwich Spa is located on huge deposits of salt, and salt has been […]
5171
Bakewell, UK
Bakewell is named after Badeca’s well – an Anglo-Saxon chieftain (Badecanwylia) and the town’s springs. A chalybeate spring was discovered, and a bath house was built by the Duke of Rutland in 1697. The original 16x33ft bath is still in the cellar! In the 18thcentury there was a bid to develop Bakewell as a spa […]
5167
Llandrindod Wells, UK
The wells of Llandrindod had been resorted to as early as 1696. Rock Water (the chalybeate spring) was rediscovered by a Mrs Jenkins in 1732, tenant of the lower Bach-y Graig Farm. She began selling the waters to travellers, and news of their ‘healing qualities’ spread. In 1749, William Grosvenor converted a deserted farmhouse into […]
5163
Tunbridge Wells, UK
The Chalybeate Spring gives Tunbridge Wells its name. Dudley Lord North, who noticed the reddish-brown waters foaming from the ground, discovered it was drinkable in 1606. North was returning to London after a stay at the Abergavenny Estate, and hoped to quench his hangover-thirst with the Spring water. North declared it to be health-giving, and […]
5160
Battle, UK
This market town of Battle is on the site of the Battle of Hastings on 14 October 1066 between William Duke of Normandy and the Saxon King Harold. The Battle of Hastings was so significant it completely changed the course of English history. Later, King William, The Conqueror, built Battle Abbey as penance for the slaughter in […]
5157
Lewes, UK
At the heart of Sussex lies the beautiful county town of Lewes. The town holds a annual bonfire and is also home to Anne of Cleves house. Set in the surroundings of the white chalk cliffs the town has beautiful views from the top of Lewes Castle. Visitors can explore the medieval cobbled streets lined […]
5058
Matlock Bath, Matlock, UK
Matlock Bath’s warm springs were discovered in 1698. The waters were applied for medicinal purposes at first, and the first bath house was built in the same year – to attract visitors. However, access to the village was difficult and it wasn’t until a bridge was built (over the Derwent in Matlock), and the opening […]
5033
Welshpool, UK
Welshpool is the fourth largest town in Powys (a Welsh principality that emerged after Roman rule). Originally named ‘Pool’, it became ‘Welshpool’ in 1835, to distinguish it from the English town of Poole. A major attraction is Powys Castle, which was the ancestral home of the Earl of Powys, and it is known for holding […]
4992
Cheltenham, UK
The Regency town of Cheltenham has rebranded as The Festival Town, building on its reputation for hosting some of the UK’s largest and best-known festivals and events. The new brand, which has been developed by the town’s Destination Marketing Organisation, Marketing Cheltenham, forms part of a major new investment in the marketing of the Regency […]
4984
Thornhill, UK
Thornhill was designed to be a staging post on the road between Dumfries and Glasgow – which was planned in 1714. As a result, several of the town’s 18th-century coaching inns are still active. Drumlanrig Castle was home to the Douglas Family, who have a dramatic history. James Douglas was one of the Lords responsible […]
4934
Weymouth, UK
It is 200 years since the birth of Queen Victoria, and there’s a range of celebrations after 118 years after her 64-year reign. Distinctive Victorian architecture is now a major genre, and included all manner of imposing palace buildings – and a collection of impressive clock towers, quite a few of which survive as town […]
4870
South Norwood, London, UK
South Norwood is located within the London Borough of Croydon. South Norwood Country Park is one of the most popular bird watching sites in south London. More open space comes in the form of South Norwood Lake and Grounds. The Lake was originally created as a reservoir for the Croydon canal – which ran between […]
4863
Woolwich, London, UK
Woolwich is perhaps best known for The Royal Arsenal, which has been at the centre of Woolwich life since 1696, when fireworks began to be manufactured there. The Napoleonic and Crimean Wars necessitated expansion, and production peak was reached during World War One, when it employed almost 80,000 people. Now, the historic buildings are being […]
4861
Ilford, UK
Ilford in east London was historically a small rural settlement. It expanded significantly with the arrival of the railway in 1839 and became a municipal borough in 1926. Since 1965 it has been part of Greater London. In its centre is an impressive Victorian Town Hall. The main hall was originally the Council Chamber – […]
4858
Twickenham, UK
Twickenham sits in the borough of Richmond. It is, of course, famous for being home to the world’s largest rugby stadium. But it also has a rich history – for example, the historic riverside area is replete with 18th-century buildings and pleasure grounds. It is home to Strawberry Hill House, which was erected as a […]
4854
Tooting, London, UK
Tooting developed during the late Victorian period. It remains a vibrant community, but with exciting things to do and see! Tooting Bec Lido is the largest pool in the UK by surface area. It sits on Tooting Bec Common, between Tooting and Streatham. At 91.5 metres, it is almost twice the length of an Olympic-size […]
4849
Leyton, London, UK
Leyton was recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086 as having a population of 43. Today, it is over 14,000. It is the home to Leyton Orient FC, who play in the National League, and the Brisbane Road stadium. It also holds Leyton Cricket Ground, and the wooden pavilion building stands as a Grade II […]
4840
Kingston upon Thames, UK
Kingston was first recorded in a Royal Charter in 838. Relics from its history remain – it is home to Clattern Bridge (London’s oldest bridge). It has held a weekly market since the 13thcentury, which is still active today, and seven Saxon Kings are thought to have been crowned here. Eadweard Muybridge, the pioneering photographer, […]
4776
Penkridge, UK
Penkridge in Staffordshire is an old market town which had a collegiate church. The Domesday Book 1086 notes the town’s economy as agricultural and it had a watermill. The town has a wealth of Listed buildings and several timber-framed buildings. Parish Church Penkridge There has been a church on the site of St Michael and […]
4762
Teignmouth, UK
Teignmouth in Devon sits on the mouth of the Teign estuary about 14 miles from Exeter. Some of the town is a conservation area and has a wealth of Georgian buildings. The Grade II Listed Church of St Michael dates from the 1821, but retains its Norman entrance. The five-stage west tower, in Early English […]
4716
Sturminster Newton, UK
The town’s name reflects two features of the town: the River Stour, and the Minster. The town, which dates from before the Domesday Book, grew as a market for local agricultural products, especially dairy products. Henry III granted the town a charter for a market in 1219. The market, which closed in 1998 was once […]
4628
Lichfield, UK
Lichfield Cathedral In 669 the missionary, Chad, established Lichfield as the centre of Christianity in Mercia, the greatest kingdom in the land. King Offa, king of Mercia, had the bishop raised to an archbishop. Although, the high status was lost when Offa died. Chad founded the Cathedral in the same year when he became the […]
4584
Chester, UK
The Romans founded Chester in the C1st AD. The city was the fortress of the 20th Legion. There are extensive Roman walls of local red sandstone. Outside the walls are the remains of the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain. Storyhouse Today’s theatre lovers can also enjoy an indoor experience at Chester’s Storyhouse. The recently opened […]
4557
St Albans, UK
St Albans has fascinating history from the Iron Age onward. In Roman times, the town was one of the largest towns in Roman Britain until Budicca destroyed it. Notable former residents of the town include Samuel Ryder (1858-1936). They named the Ryder Cup after him. He ran his gardening business from St Albans, selling his […]
4510
Lytham, Lytham Saint Annes, UK
Lytham, was a fishing village and appeared in the Domesday Book 1086. But, in the C17th coastal retreats became popular as people the looked for the healthy properties of sea water. The town began to grow and popularity was bound to increase with the coming of the railways. Today the town has architectural features which […]
4479
Lerwick, Shetland, UK
Lerwick is the Capital of the Shetland Islands and its main port. It is about 100 miles north of the coast of mainland Great Britain. The name comes from the Old Norse Leirvick meaning muddy bay. The Shetlands are rich in archaeology and people have settled here for about 5,000 years. On the coast the […]
1671
Taunton Station, Taunton, UK
Taunton, the county town of Somerset, is a treasure which is waiting to be discovered. The menus in the cafes, bars and restaurants reflects the rich soils in the Vale of Taunton. The weekly farmers’ market offers the chance to explore the best of the local produce. The town has the benefit of many independent charming […]
1620
Nantwich, UK
Nantwich is a lively medieval market town on the banks of the River Weaver in Cheshire. The town is famous for its medieval timbered buildings. It is also proud of its markets, its International Cheese Show and Food Festival, and its Civil War history. Music festivals, such as the Blues and Jazz Festival and Acoustics […]
3651
Clacton-on-Sea, UK
The resort at Clacton-on-Sea was primarily the vision of Peter Bruff. He was engineer and manager of the Eastern Union Railway and working nearby on the line connecting Colchester to Walton-on-the-Naze. He realised that Clacton Beach was the ideal spot for a boat trip from London. Before the mid C19th a few fishermen sailed from […]
1673
Ely, UK
Ely in Cambridgeshire, takes its name from its history of trading in eels. Set in marshes, the Fens, eels were for many years the mainstay of the local economy. If you are interested in the life cycle of the eel then follow the Eel Trail. This self-guided circular tour connects 5 pieces of art which […]
3942
Beer, UK
The picture-postcard village of Beer is nestled on the South West coast of England facing Lyme Bay. Located on the 95-mile Jurassic Coast, the village sits on England’s first Natural World Heritage Site.
4040
Hertford, UK
King Edgar established Hertfordshire with Hertford as its County town. The town is now a blend of old and new and set in delightful countryside. The War Memorial, dating from November 1921, has a bronze stag standing on a Portland stone plinth. Some of Henry II’s walls of 1173 have survived, James I demolished the […]
3978
Worthing, UK
Worthing began to develop as coastal resort in the late C18th. The town had the benefit of the sea air without the hustle and bustle of Brighton. By the end of the century the town had just two shops. The first theatre opened in 1796, and in 1797 the hot and cold saltwater baths opened. […]
2715
Aberystwyth University - Penglais Campus, Penglais, United Kingdom
Aberystwyth is unique because it retains its Welsh character, with half the population speaking Welsh, but is at the same time cosmopolitan. We have welcomed Syrian refugees here and they love it because of the warm welcome they have received. The mile and a half long promenade is the place to be at sunset and […]
3946
Hereford, UK
The modern city of Hereford, on the boarder between England and Wales, is a treasure trove of historic buildings and artefacts. While the Old Market is an up-to-the-minute, and buzzing, shopping destination. Hereford Cathedral The see of Hereford dates from AD 676, and the present Cathedral from C11th-C12th. The columns and arches in the nave […]
3900
Woking, UK
Modern Woking has grown up close to the medieval village known today as Old Woking. Here Henry VIII had a Palace and its ruins are a Scheduled Ancient Monument. By the C17th the village was a prosperous market place and some buildings and street layout remain to this day. Buildings In Woking In the heart […]
3868
Arundel, UK
Roger Montgomery built Arundel Castle in the C11th, and it is now one of the oldest and most complete castles in England. It stands in superb grounds which look over the River Arun in West Sussex. And this year it celebrates the 950th anniversary, and today is the family home of the 18th Duke of […]
3798
Wroxham, Norwich, UK
Wroxham, the capital of the Norfolk Broads, is really two villages by the beautiful River Bure. There is much for visitors to see and do here. Miniature Worlds is the newest attraction with model railways, Scalextric, and Lego, miniature villages from around the world, and a good deal more. For a fun activity with children […]
2035
Grantham, United Kingdom
Grantham is a market town in Lincolnshire dating from Saxon times or earlier. In the heart of England, it was the birth place of our first female Prime Minister. History of Grantham The town has always been in the thick of things! The Royal Manor belonged at one time to Queen Edith, wife of Edward […]
3725
St Austell, Saint Austell, UK
Referred to as the Cornish Riviera, St Austell is an old market town not far from the beautiful South Cornish coast line. It is the largest town in Cornwall and overlooked by the white peaks of the China Clay industry. Holy Trinity (above) is an ancient Grade I Listed church and is unusual as parts date back to […]
3738
Southwold, UK
Southwold near Aldeburgh in Suffolk has always had a strong connection with seafaring and shipbuilding. As long ago as 1512 the town sent six shipwrights to help build Henri Grace a Dieu for Henry VIII. The town saw action during the C17th Anglo Dutch wars. In the third Dutch War the town was the headquarters […]
3611
Southwick, UK
Until the mid C19th Southwick was a farming and fishing village. There were a few cottages and a tithe barn on the west of The Green. A notable Roman Villa sat to the east of Southwick Street (a Scheduled Ancient Monument), and finds are on show in the Manor Cottage Heritage Centre. Manor Cottage dates […]
3535
Burton-on-Trent, UK
Brewing is an art in Burton-Upon-Trent which at one time produced one in four pints of beer sold in Britain. Now less so but still known as the capital of brewing today. Despite this Burton is home to the National Brewery Museum, which reopened in 2010. The town sits above the National Forest and on the River […]
3522
Warwick, UK
Recent excavations at Warwick have found evidence of Neolithic people living in the area. Since then, it was a Saxon settlement, afforded protection to William the Conqueror and his army, and survived The Great Fire of 1694. The town boasts buildings from every period of the last thousand years, even though the Great Fire of […]
3473
Oswestry, UK
An ancient market town, Oswestry stands by an Iron Age Hill Fort named Caer Ogyrfan. According to legend, this was the name of King Arthur’s father in law. Gwinevere may have been born here. Of the 25 hill forts on the Welsh borders, this is the largest and is very impressive. The fort shows that […]
3444
Portsmouth, UK
At the entrance to the Harbour, The Point and the Camber, visitor to Portsmouth will find some of the oldest, and many listed, buildings. In 1180 a wealthy merchant founded a chapel. In time it became the Parish church for the settlement which grew around the Point and Camber, Portmouth. Richard I granted the town […]
3430
Greenwich, London, UK
The early town grew around the Royal Palace which Henry, Duke of Gloucester, and brother of Henry V, built in 1427. A grand palace, it had battlements and a moat, and became a favourite of the Tudors. Greenwich Park was the ‘garden’ of the Royal Palace. It was the playground and hunting ground for the […]
3422
Lavenham, Sudbury, UK
The history of Lavenham is one of gains and losses. In 1524 the village, a successful wool settlement, paid more in taxes than either Lincoln or York. Yet, 500 years later in 1824 the village was struggling with poverty. Today, it has recovered and is one of the best preserved medieval English villages. Lavenham in […]
3392
Brighton, UK
The Royal connections in Brighton go back before the Prince Regent. Sussex Yatch Club organises the Royal Escape Race from Brighton to Fecamp in Normandy. The race celebrates the escape to France of King Charles 11 in 1651. Today a bunch of hardy volunteers organises the race and raises funds for sailing charities such as […]
3212
Amesbury, Salisbury, UK
Amesbury has a rich history dating back beyond the Iron Age. Settlers built a large Iron Age hill fort here defending the River Avon. And, in 2002, archaeologists found the grave of the famous Amesbury Archer. Notably, it held the most Bronze Age artefacts ever found in Britain. The building of the first abbey began […]
2266
Bristol, UK
Bristol has always been linked to the sea. It has been a large and important city for over eight centuries. Near the rivers Frome and Avon, it has been inhabited since the Stone Age. And, there is evidence of a number of Roman settlements here. The town really started to flourish during the Middle Ages […]
3202
Evesham, UK
The C13th Century Battle of Evesham is re-enacted on the 4 & 5 August 2018. This free to attend event, takes place in the Heart of Evesham. It features a mediaeval festival and camp with demos of cookery, weapons and medicine, and the main battle re-enactment. We expect thousands to attend, to witness a battle […]
3184
Camden Town, London, UK
Camden Town is a special part of London, to the north of Totenham Court Road and including Regent’s Canal. Blossoming out of post war London, Camden became a bustling, thriving neighbourhood. There’s everything you need here and more, including London Zoo. To start off your visit, there are plenty of hostelries to welcome you with […]
3159
Aylsham, Norwich, UK
At the northern terminus of the Bure Valley Railway, Aylsham sits beside the river Bure, one of the busiest rivers in the Norfolk broads. Nestling in the Bure meadows is the National Trusts’ Bickling Estate, the birth place of Anne Boleyn. The Gallery Library in the Jacobean mansion contains the National Trusts’ most precious collection […]
3143
Warminster, UK
Situated beneath the chalk downland, with its abundant flora and fauna, Warminster lies on the edge of the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The area around Warminster shows evidence of early settlers with Iron Age forts. In the middle ages the town thrived on the wool and cloth industries, […]
3133
Bath, UK
The golden city of Bath has been welcoming visitors for over 2,000 years. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is home to some of the most impressive buildings in the world. These include the Royal Crescent, the Circus and Pulteney Bridge. The Royal Crescent is C18th; designed by John Wood the younger, it is […]
3113
Leeds, UK
Leeds has more listed buildings than any other city outside London. The built heritage here is one to marvel at and enjoy. For a slice of British history the city has plenty to offer. It has a number of nearby historic houses, including Harewood House and Temple Newsam. While Kirkstall Abbey, is one of the […]
3100
Wooler, Northumberland, UK
Wooler in Northumberland, a market town, became a health resort and a base from which to visit the Cheviot Hills. The town is a popular base for walkers, and is on the edge of the Northumberland National Park. Its visitors include Sir Walter Scott and Daniel Defoe. The town lies on St Cuthbert’s Way between […]
3090
Reigate, UK
For anyone with an interest in church buildings Reigate has plenty to offer. St Mary’s is another large parish church. It possibly dates from the C12th but the exterior appears Perpendicular, it also had some restoration in the C19th. An interesting point is that the Nave has no clerestory. There is a tower with embattled […]
3078
Stratford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, UK
Here at Discover Towns we’ve noticed a trend toward people and dogs travelling together. So we’re looking round for pet friendly places visit and stay with your best friend. People tell us that taking their dog with them on a visit is a happier option than telling it that you will be back in a […]
3048
Cricklade, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
VisitWiltshire is kicking off the new year with a great new series of new guides for visitors to put the county on the map. There are three new guides which reach out to visitors at home and abroad. Time for Wiltshire Visitor Guide, Time for Wiltshire Visitor Map and Travel Trade Guide. Part of a […]
3028
Guildford, United Kingdom
The early town grew in importance because of its situation on the River Wey. It was a resting place for pilgrims on the medieval Pilgrims Way. Later the town was a coaching stop on the route from London to Portsmouth. The Angel Inn, a medieval timber-framed building on the High Street, remains a hotel to […]
3021
Derby, United Kingdom
The centre of the City of Derby is an eclectic blend of old and new. The mix includes the Cathedral, Georgian buildings in Friargate and cobbled streets, next to C20th urban townscape. The once splendid Friar Gate Bridge dates from 1878. Local iron foundry Andrew Handyman & Co. designed the bridge for the Great Northern […]
3011
Windsor Castle, Windsor, United Kingdom
Windsor Castle has the distinction to be the residence of the Royal Family. And is the oldest and the largest occupied castle anywhere in the world. It has been home to 39 monarchs. The first Norman castle was the typical motte and bailey, which was part of the Conqueror’s ring of castles surrounding London. It […]
2994
Trowbridge, United Kingdom
In the heart of west Wiltshire, Trowbridge is a vibrant town with truly ancient roots. Here you can wander through streets where Romans, Saxons and Normans have all left their mark. In the C13th the town was the headquarters of a Magna Carta Baron. With 24 others, he forced King John to sign the ‘great […]
2974
East Grinstead, United Kingdom
The beautiful medieval market town of East Grinstead is in reach of Gatwick Airport, London, Ashdown Forest and the South Coast. It is therefore an ideal base from which to explore the South East. The Bluebell Railway runs steam trains from East Grinstead to Sheffield Park Station. And, the return journey covers 20 miles of […]
2960
Harpenden, United Kingdom
Harpenden has 30,000 residents and a growing number of businesses, but still has a village feel. It has an unspoiled tree-lined High Street, town greens, and period cottages. The Common with 96.39 hectares of open space that supports cricket, football and Golf clubs is a County Wildlife Site. Harpenden Shopping Centre The Town Centre offers […]
2903
Chepstow, United Kingdom
William FitzOsbern, cousin of William the Conqueror, founded the Castle, Priory, and Town at Chepstow. He was joint 2nd in command of the Normans in the Norman conquest of 1066. So afterward, William I made him Earl of Hereford. Chepstow Castle The priority for both the Conqueror and FitzOsbern was to secure the English-Welsh border. […]
2933
Penrith Castle, Penrith, United Kingdom
In the heart of Cumbria, Penrith is the social and commercial centre of the Eden District. It is the perfect base from which visitors can explore the Eden Valley and the Lake District National Park. The cobbled lanes in the town centre have independent shops and a range of eateries which range from cafes to […]
2916
Eastbourne, United Kingdom
Eastbourne was a large coastal community that lived on fishing and farming. In 1232 it was granted a market charter, but it remained a village. The town became more popular in the C18th as a health resort and the King’s family stayed here. However, transport was difficult on poor roads and travel was expensive. Once […]
2891
Rochester, Kent, United Kingdom
Rochester is a very old city, within the walls of a Roman town where Watling Street crosses the river Medway. Later Anglo Saxons built Rochester Bridge which has ten timber spans across the Medway; a great achievement. Named landowners were responsible for the upkeep of piers or spans. Rochester Castle The first castle dates from […]
2888
Chichester, United Kingdom
Bishop Edward Storey gave the Market Cross to Chichester in 1501 to shelter the itinerant merchants. As he market grew, the town added more market buildings. The Buttermarket of 1807, built by John Nash, still survives with its six Doric columns and Coat of Arms. It leads now to an indoor market. West from the […]
2877
Inverness, United Kingdom
Inverness is full of surprises; I think it has the heart of a city with a town’s character. There are always events to participate in, shows and live music to go to. There are plenty of activities such as trampoline, ice skating, wall climbing, water flumes, golf, and cinema in the city. And, there’s an […]
2754
Stevenage, United Kingdom
Stevenage in Hertfordshire was once a quiet country town, but in 1946 it became Britain’s first New Town. These provided quality housing and community facilities in response to the post-war housing shortage. The new town of Stevenage was six self-contained residential areas arranged around the original town. Now called Stevenage Old Town, this original part […]
2843
Milford on Sea, United Kingdom
Milford-on-Sea in Hampshire sits on the New Forest Coast and offers something for all ages whatever the weather. It’s one of the few remaining coastal villages in Hampshire, and being on top of the cliff offers wonderful views. Download a map of the village here. All Saints Church Milford-on-Sea All Saints is an C11th church; […]
2833
Whitby, United Kingdom
Whitby is an ancient sea port on the Yorkshire Coast. It is rich in history, which includes fishing, and the jet industry. Today it’s still the best place in the world to find the gleaming black stone. In addition, Captain Cook was born nearby, and his famous ship the Endeavour was Whitby-built. The town was […]
2798
Colchester, United Kingdom
Thaxted church, described as the cathedral of Essex, is very grand. It is a ‘cathedral style’ church with a narrow crossing between the nave and the chancel. The medieval stone spire, unique and tallest in the county, is now 181 feet high, and so dominates the countryside. For more information visit The church has 3 […]
2780
Scarborough, United Kingdom
The history of Scarborough in Yorkshire goes back at least as far as the iron age, with the remains of a hill fort to show it. In Roman times the vantage point up on the cliffs was a signal post. A tower in a courtyard, it was the look-out post against raiding Angles, Saxons and […]
2759
Harlech, United Kingdom
Edward I built Harlech Castle over 6 years from 1282 to 1289; like a giant clenched fist it symbolised power and domination. It was a response to an uprising led by Llewellyn in 1282 in which the English had big losses. But Edward I drove Llewellyn back to Snowdon and he died in a skirmish. […]
2702
Seaford, United Kingdom
Just three of the reasons that this East Sussex coastal town is unique and attractive to visitors are: The world-famous view of the Seven Sisters and the Coastguard Cottages can only be seen from Seaford Head Nature Reserve. The seafront is unspoilt with free parking. A wide promenade runs the length of the sweeping bay […]
2689
Saffron Walden, UK
The town has an ancient heritage, and since medieval times has been prosperous. The name Saffron comes from the valuable Crocus sativus crop, which was cultivated here between the 15th and 18th centuries and was used as a dye, flavouring and medicine. The Woolcombers Hall survives from this period. The area is a good place […]
2675
Witney, United Kingdom
Witney is situated 12 miles west of Oxford and was once an important river crossing on the River Windrush. The place-name Witney is first attested in a Saxon charter of 969 as Wyttannige; it appears as Witenie in the Domesday Book of 1086. The name means Witta’s island. A charming and bustling market town, there’s […]
2656
Godalming, United Kingdom
Godalming a market town in South West Surrey has a long history. The presence of Mesolithic and Neolithic flints points to human activity here in prehistoric times. Also, remains of Roman pottery suggest Roman occupation nearby. The pretty town was already a large busy village in Anglo Saxon times. Then, King Alfred left the village […]
2651
Hailsham, United Kingdom
Hailsham is a small town in the Wealden District of East Sussex, at the gateway to the South Downs National Park. It is convenient for travel having easy access to the coast and coastal towns, airports, and London. The town has a mix of old and new and there are interesting medieval buildings. It was […]
2642
Great Yarmouth Seafront, Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, United Kingdom
Great Yarmouth is one of the UK’s top seaside resorts with stunning beaches and a newly revived seafront. It has a fascinating maritime past with a wide range of period architecture. As the beautiful countryside around includes the famous Norfolk Broads, Great Yarmouth is hard to beat as a holiday base. Its coastal location, almost […]
2624
Bampton, United Kingdom
The ancient market town of Bampton lies in the south of the area, not far from the River Thames. Until about 1850 it stood in the centre of a large area of common land, hence its name ‘Bampton in the Bush’. The name, meaning Beam-tun (the settlement by the tree or cross), was a major […]
1639
Waltham Abbey, United Kingdom
Waltham Abbey, in Essex, grew into a Saxon settlement on well-drained gravel close to the River Lee. The first church on the site dated from about 700. It rose to fame because of the Abbey. According to legend, Tovi the Proud, standard bearer to King Cnut, accompanied a cross that travelled under its own direction […]
2560
Ross-on-Wye, United Kingdom
Ross-on-Wye is a market town in Herefordshire overlooking the Wye and inside the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Midway between Hereford and Gloucester; it is the Gateway to the Wye Valley. At the centre is the historic Market House; a listed Ancient Monument. It houses an art and craft gallery and one of […]
2532
Fowey Harbour Marine, Fowey, United Kingdom
Fowey is pronounced Foy; it rhymes with ahoy and buoy. This area is part of the country’s early naval history. St Catherine’s Point is a rocky headland at the entrance to the River Fowey estuary. It’s also a popular heritage site on the South West Coastal Path. Due to its strategic position, the site has […]
2516
Kent, United Kingdom
Discover Towns has enjoyed trying some real ales and fine food from the East Kent Triangle. Kent is famous for its hops including East Kent Goldings. Sold under that name since 1838, it is now a Protected Food Name. Grown only in East Kent by a few growers, it is one of the local varieties […]
2503
Castleford, United Kingdom
Castleford in West Yorkshire, a C20th coal-mining town, rests above earlier settlements on land which is rich with archaeology. Late C20th building work in the town centre opened the way for digs which reveal the details of earlier times. Today, Wakefield Council has an interesting guide to the archaelogy and some finds are on display […]
2428
Bradford-on-Avon, United Kingdom
History of Bradford on Avon On the edge of the Cotswolds and a stones throw from Bath, Bradford on Avon in Wiltshire makes the perfect base for visitors to the area. It’s an architectural treasure chest with buildings from centuries past. Many buildings are made from local Bath stone. Visitors can discover dwellings from tiny […]
2405
Bexhill, United Kingdom
Bexhill-on-Sea grew up around the railway, which first came to the area in 1846. In medieval times Bexhill was a manor owned by the church. After the reformation, Elizabeth I owned it and granted it to Thomas Sackville, Earl of Dorset in the C17th. Bexhill in Napoleonic times During the Napoleonic Wars, Martello towers were […]
2381
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Dean Bridge View ©This is Edinburgh In 2004 Edinburgh became the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature. This is a permanent title which celebrates Edinburgh’s status as a literary capital. The city has become a pioneer in the UNESCO creative cities network, which now has over forty member cities. Edinburgh has always had strong links […]
2369
Liverpool, United Kingdom
Liverpool and its delightful mix of galleries, museums, city-centre shopping and waterfront vistas is a popular destination for visitors. In the past, millions both left and arrived here; beginning of a new life either in the New World or here in England. Museums and Galleries in Liverpool In 1873, the businessman Andrew Walker presented the […]
2344
Pontefract, United Kingdom
Pontefract in West Yorkshire is an ancient settlement, but little is known of the area before the Norman occupation. Known as Kirby in Saxon times, the town eventually became Pontefract, the home of liquorice. The origin of the name is a mystery as there appears not to have ever been a bridge, let alone a […]
2333
Ambleside, United Kingdom
Ambleside has rich history and heritage. Every year, visitors flood into Ambleside to photograph, paint, sketch and just to enjoy seeing Bridge House for themselves. A C17thbuilding, the house has had many uses over its long lifetime and is one of the smallest in Britain. The house was built by the Braithwaite family who needed […]
2311
Alnwick, Northumberland, UK
Alnwick ©www.visitnorthumberland.com Alnwick in Northumberland is a bustling market town. A medieval town, it has a wealth of twisting cobbled streets full of local shops and well known brands. A market is held on Thursdays and Saturdays 9 – 4 at Alnwick Market Place, NE66 1TN. On the Great North Road, the town was an […]
2291
Haltwhistle, United Kingdom
Stone houses in Haltwhistle © visitnorthumberland.com Three miles from Hadrian’s wall, Haltwhistle, with its stone built houses, is a great base to stay while visiting Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site and the Northumberland National Park. The National Park contains some fine sections of Hadrian’s Wall. In the past local farmers used it as a handy […]
2256
Faversham, United Kingdom
Faversham Market Place © Visit Kent The history of Faversham dates back to pre-Roman times. Its quaint charm and setting, between the beautiful Kentish Downs and the coast, makes it a popular choice for visitors. Markets in Faversham There is a market here three times a week; it’s the oldest in the county. It takes […]
2270
Amble, United Kingdom
Amble town centre ©www.visitnorthumberland.com and Richard Moran Amble is a waterfront town on the river Coquet estuary, and gateway to the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and an SSSI. It is now a popular place for holidays; with a pleasant harbour, a marina, a nearby castle and nearby beautiful beaches. A mile off […]
2234
Grimsby, United Kingdom
Grimsby Town Hall © Visit Lincolnshire The Town of Grimsby, built upon a rich maritime heritage, has a reputation as the UK’s seafood centre. Grimsby Smoked Fish even has Protected Geographical Indication Status! Traditional Grimsby Smoked Fish is fillets of cold-smoked cod or haddock, smoked according to the traditional method. The tradition, reputation, smoking process […]
2221
Mere, United Kingdom
Mere in the south-west corner of Wiltshire nestles beneath the South West Wiltshire Downs large parts of which are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Ridgeway in use since prehistory, with several Iron Age hill forts providing a wealth of archaeological interest for visitors, is a real hidden gem. The name, Mere, is from […]
2188
York, UK
The Romans founded York by the River Ouse in AD71, and of the three Roman Legions in Britain one was in York. Stretching for three miles, the town walls are one of the country’s most complete ancient city defences. The four medieval gateways – known as Bars – also remain in tact, and two of […]
2177
Malmesbury, United Kingdom
Malmesbury in Wiltshire…a town buzzing with vibrancy and charm, there is so much to discover! History of Malmesbury Malmesbury is full of history stretching back centuries. It’s a town with a story to tell. In 2012 a metal detectorist found The Malmesbury Coin Hoard in a field in Milbourne, Malmesbury. This is a rare collection […]
2162
Dunster, United Kingdom
Dunster, in Somerset, is a quaint old medieval English village in a country setting. As the best-preserved medieval village in England it punches well above its weight for interesting heritage features. There’s an ancient castle, a watermill, the stunning Old Yarn Market built in 1609, and a C16th tithe barn. The ancient eight-gabled Yarn Market […]
2151
Poole Harbour
Poole is a large coastal town with a historic harbour in the county of Dorset, on the south coast of England. Today, it is a tourist resort, attracting visitors to the natural harbour, its long history, and the Lighthouse arts centre home of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. It is also home to some beautiful Blue Flag […]
2129
Wareham, Dorset, United Kingdom
Wareham Town Hall dressed for Britain in Bloom © H Randall Until the C14th, Wareham was a major port but the increasing size of ships and the silting of the river changed its role. It is now a riverside town lying between the rivers Piddle and Frome surrounded by walls dating from the Saxon period. […]
1607
Wimborne Minster, United Kingdom
The Kings Head in the Square, Wimborne © H Randall 2017 The town of Wimborne Minster in Dorset owes its name to the C8th Monastery paid for by the King’s sisters. It was a Saxon settlement on the river Stour, but today the town boasts the largest indoor market in the South of England and […]
2089
Wetherby, United Kingdom
Wetherby in West Yorkshire stands half way between Edinburgh and London and was on the Great North Road. In the past it was an important staging post. In 1837 the Angel Inn, now on the High Street, served two coaches daily. There was, briefly, a castle here. In 1140 the Percy family built a castle […]
2072
Wakefield, United Kingdom
Wakefield is a settlement in West Yorkshire on the banks of the Calder. The first record of the town is in the Domesday Book, but archaeological finds pre-date that. There is evidence of coal mining in the area in Roman times. The river and then canals were always central to Wakefield’s thriving industrial growth by […]
2056
Blackpool Tower, Blackpool, United Kingdom
Looking to create some unforgettable summer memories? Then why not head to Blackpool and you can see for yourself why this is the UK’s favourite beach resort. Not only does it have sand and sea, more shows, attractions and entertainment than you can shake a stick at, but also a collection of unique experiences that […]
2038
Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom
Stratford in Warwickshire is a market town with more than 800 years of history. Many of the buildings we see today would have been familiar to Shakespeare, the world’s most loved bard. The town is also a thriving community offering a wide variety of leisure, places to stay and shopping. Visitors to Stratford can make […]
1998
Lake District National Park, Keswick, United Kingdom
Keswick was a settlement in prehistoric times. In the C13th Edward I granted a licence for a Market here which continues today. In the Tudor era Keswick was a mining area, but since the C18th it has been a popular destination for visitors Buildings in Keswick The town has a Moot Hall (or court house) […]
1969
Morpeth, United Kingdom
Morpeth lies on the river Wansbeck. A market town, which has a rich history to explore, it is the historic county town of Northumberland. It is a good base from which to explore the county of Northumbria. Markets Morpeth’s Farmers’ Market takes place on the first Friday of every month 9 – 2pm in the […]
1961
Caldbeck, Cumbria, United Kingdom
An interesting stop in Cumbria, perhaps for a pub lunch, is Caldbeck which means cold stream. Its best known inhabitant was John Peel (1776-1854) the hunter not the BBC’s much-loved DJ. The C18th Peel is the subject of the famous song, D’ye Ken John Peel, sung by every C20th school child. John Woodcock Graves, a […]
1954
Wilton Chiropractic, South Street, Wilton, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
History of Wilton Wilton was once the ancient capital of Wessex, founded by Anglo-Saxons who settled here. An English market town, it is timeless; it nestles where the rivers Nadder and Wylye meet and has a history spanning more than 2000 years. After the building of the new Cathedral and planned city of Salisbury, much […]
1667
Southport Beach, Southport, United Kingdom
Churchtown Southport. © Visit Southport Southport is one of the UK’s favourite seaside destinations. It has 22 miles of sandy beaches, wonderful parks, and a shopping and cultural centre. Throughout the year there are events and festivals adding to the vibrant cultural scene. Southport Market The market is in the centre, on King Street, close […]
1859
Castle Hill, Lincoln LN1 3AA, United Kingdom
Lincoln sits on the site of a Roman fortress. The Romans grouped the local people together in great cities such as Lincoln (and York for example). Enclosed by great walls, the local people in the cities governed themselves but paid taxes to the Romans. Great roads linked the cities. The Roman road known as Ermine […]
1896
Kendal, United Kingdom
Kendal was already a settlement when the Romans arrived. The local people, the Brigantes, provided goods and services for the newcomers. The Romans built a fort at Watercrook which is just south of the present settlement in a bend of the River Kent. They remained for about 400 years. At the time of the Norman […]
1863
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts, Berwick-upon-Tweed, United Kingdom
Berwick-upon-Tweed, now an English town, changed from Scots to English and back thirteen times in the last 300 years. Three miles from the border with Scotland, Berwick had a violent past. The Border region once thrived on raids, and disorder was just a way of life. There were raids, pirates, sea battles and occasional truces. […]
1853
Stamford, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom
Sir Walter Scott once said that Stamford in Lincolnshire was ‘the finest sight on the road between Edinburgh and London’. Stamford has a lot to be proud of. It has 600 listed buildings, some unspoilt Georgian streets and lots of mellow limestone. In 2017 the town will mark the 50th year of its status as Britain’s first urban Conservation Area. This helps to […]
1834
Haworth, United Kingdom
Steam train arriving at Haworth © John Huxley With its cobbled Main Street, Haworth in West Yorkshire is famous the world over for the Bronte family who lived at the Parsonage. The Bronte sisters, Anne (1820 – 49), Charlotte (1816 -55) and Emily (1818 – 48), lived here, as the daughters of the curate. Their […]
1809
Chipping Campden, United Kingdom
Chipping Campden © www.cotswolds.com The C7th town of Chipping Campden derives its name from the Saxon “Campa-denu” or “Campadene”, meaning a valley with fields or enclosures of cultivated land. Chipping means market. In medieval times Chipping Campden was one of the most important wool towns and was famous throughout Europe. Today, it is a small […]
1803
Helmsley, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Helmsley is on the North York Moor equi-distant between Thirsk and Pickering. There is evidence of settlement here since 3000BC, including Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman and Viking. The town is one of the 17 with a mention in Magna Carta. The medieval Canon Garth, the vicarage, is the oldest surviving house in Helmsley. Helmsley […]
1617
Stow-on-the-Wold, United Kingdom
Stow-on-the-Wold © www.cotswolds.com Stow-on-the-Wold, is a market town in Gloucestershire. It is the highest town in the Cotswolds with views over the lovely rolling hills (the wolds). It has been a market town since 1107 when Henry I granted the right to hold a weekly market. In 1330 Edward III granted a charter allowing an […]
1773
Devizes, United Kingdom
Devizes is a vibrant market town with a medieval past, wealth of history and architectural heritage. National Express recently quizzed the nation to uncover the top 15 UK streets you need to see. The people they questioned rated Devizes Market Place one of the prettiest streets in Britain. A Roman settlement existed here and several […]
1743
Cricklade Museum, Calcutt Street, Swindon SN6 6BD, United Kingdom
History of the town Situated in the north of Wiltshire, Cricklade has been called the most intact example of a late Saxon new town in Britain. It is also the first town on the River Thames and southern gateway to the Cotswolds. The name Cricklade means the place by the river crossing. It is one […]
1688
Sherborne Castle, New Road, Sherborne, United Kingdom
Sherborne Castle Capability Brown Orangery and Ginkgo Lawn ©Sherborne Castle An ancient Dorset town, Sherborne is close to the north west boarder with Somerset. Once noted for its woollen trade, silk, lace and button making, it is now a magnet for creative talent. The town was formerly the capital of Wessex. The architecture of Sherborne […]
1675
Van Gogh Walk, London, United Kingdom
Van Gogh Walk opened in 2013. It is an oasis of calm in the middle of busy, urban noisy South London. Local people came together in 2005 to set up a neighbourhood group; and they formed Streets Ahead. They wanted to make their streets safer and greener. Their focus was around two schools in their […]
1663
Marlborough, United Kingdom
The market town of Marlborough in Wiltshire nestles in the Kennet Valley. Enclosed in the stunning scenery of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is countryside within 10 minutes’ walk of the High Street in almost any direction. Avebury stone circles and the ancient Savernake Forest are on the doorstep. The River […]
1660
Boscastle, United Kingdom
Boscastle in Cornwall, is a quaint little fishing village and harbour which is full of pretty, odd-shaped and odd-fitting cottages. The National Trust owns and cares for the harbour, which is one of the unspoilt treasures on the Cornish coast. The harbour and surrounding area is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The white-washed, thatched […]
1589
Shrewsbury, United Kingdom
Shrewsbury is practically an island in the County of Shropshire. Set within a loop of the River Severn it is tucked away from the world, protected and little changed. Indeed Shrewsbury’s most famous son, Charles Darwin, would still recognise the town he grew up in today. Shrewsbury has had many golden ages. Its famous black […]
1496
Otley, UK
This week we feature an article on Otley by new contributer Lyndsey Thomas, AKA Girl About Yorkshire. Lyndsey has made it her mission after moving back North from London to Yorkshire to rediscover the area and what makes it so special. All words and images (@AllAboutTheStory.)below are credited to her. For more of Lyndsey’s work […]
1483
Chippenham, Wiltshire, UK
Chippenham is a large town with over 45,000 residents. It is close to the Wilts & Berks Canal, the London to Bristol stage coach route, and the Great Western Railway. There is a wealth of historic buildings, beautiful parks and modern shopping centres. The River Avon and Wilts & Berks canal form a peaceful backdrop […]
1385
Harrogate, United Kingdom
This week we are absolutely delighted to feature Victoria Turner aka The Harrogate Girl as our guest writer. Victoria is a lifestyle blogger and expert on all the happenings in Harrogate as well providing readers with health and beauty tricks and travel tips. For Discover Britain’s Towns, Victoria gives us some insider’s information on the […]
1352
Baildon Moor, Baildon, United Kingdom
This week, Photographer Geoff Tynan focuses his lens on Balidon and Balidon Moor in West Yorkshire, giving you a lovingly crafted snapshot of why this area of the UK is well worth visiting. “The town is a mix of traditional stone and more modern 1960’s architecture. Back in the days of the industrial revolution the […]
1210
Pateley Bridge, United Kingdom
Pateley Bridge can be found within the heart of Nidderdale, which is an official area of outstanding natural beauty, and the town is the starting and finishing point of the 53 mile circular route of the Nidder Way. Well worth a visit, there are many impressive outdoor landmarks to see in and around Pateley Bridge. […]
1066
Boston, United Kingdom
Boston is a small port town set on the edge of the Wash where Norfolk meets Lincolnshire. The town is steeped in fascinating history, and was once one of England’s “Staple Towns” authorised to carry on the import and export trade, as well as being a place of religious dissent in the 16th century. This […]
1083
Ramsbottom, United Kingdom
Ramsbottom in Lancashire is not only set in a beautiful part of the countryside and is a gateway to 90 miles of moorland but is full of character and the town love a good excuse to have a party. A 15 minute bus or car ride beyond Manchester’s Metrolink, it is well worth a visit, […]
1067
Melksham, United Kingdom
There are many timeless towns and villages in Wiltshire and the town of Melksham is one. It evolved at a ford across the River Avon and was once part of a vast royal forest that stretched as far as Chippenham. It was a favourite hunting ground of Tudor kings. Melksham appeared in the Domesday Book; […]
983
Newark NG24, United Kingdom
“Newark-on-Trent boasts one of the finest Georgian market squares in the UK and has many wonderful places to stay. Whether you prefer a boutique Hotel, elegant Guest House or a chic Bed and Breakfast, there is a wide choice of hotels in Newark on Trent. It is a market town steeped in history with a […]
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Filey YO14 9RF, United Kingdom
Filey is a wholly unique, quiet; and quite beautiful, small seaside town on the picturesque North Yorkshire coast. Betwixt it’s more famous cousins, Bridlington and Scarborough, it is often – and to it’s benefit – overlooked. In circa 1830, the now Grade II listed Langford Villa was built and later became the summer residence of […]
968
Leek ST13, United Kingdom
Leek, a traditional market town on the edge of the Peak District National Park. Perfectly placed for a relaxed break away, mooching around the markets, independent shops and wealth of cafes, tea rooms and pubs or for the more adventurous and active types taking on the challenging terrain of the Peak District National Park and […]
964
Richmond DL10, United Kingdom
Richmond, North Yorkshire is a town of unique character and beauty which has changed little through the centuries. With the variety of shopping and its many pubs, hotels and restaurants, the proximity to the most stunning scenery anywhere to be seen, Richmond remains one of the most beautiful and rewarding places to visit in the […]
961
Barrow-in-Furness LA13, United Kingdom
Barrow is situated at the tip of the Furness peninsula on the north-western edge of Morecambe Bay, south of the Duddon Estuary and east of the Irish Sea. Walney Island, to the west of Barrow, surrounds the peninsula’s Irish Sea coast and is separated from Barrow by the narrow Walney Channel. Both Morecambe Bay and […]
953
Alston CA9, United Kingdom
Alston in the North Pennines is surrounded by a unique landscape of moorland, hills, rivers and waterfalls and is one of England’s highest market towns (being about 1,000 feet above sea level). Designated Britain’s first UNESCO European Geopark, the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a haven for special wildlife and plants. […]
946
Cross Street, Stanhope DL13 2ND, United Kingdom
Stanhope – the green and tranquil market town at the heart of the Durham Dales and hub for outdoor activities. Pronounced ‘Stan-up’, Stanhope is a small market town in County Durham in northern England, situated on the river Wear between Eastgate amd Frosterley on the north side of Weardale, where the A689 Trans-Pennine road meets the B6278 from […]
929
Hull, UK
Hull was once one of the great North Eastern trading centres. With a proud maritime history, the city retains its unique identity and offers visitors a distinctive experience. Yorkshire’s Maritime City, this year the City Council is aiming to improve the its visitor attractions at the Maritme Museum, the Dock Office Chambers and the North […]
913
Corbridge NE45 5AY, United Kingdom
The village of Corbridge in Northumberland is surrounded by hills and steeped in history as it grew from the Roman town of Corsoptium, which was a garrison town for the troops on Hadrian’s Wall. Roman stones were used to construct many of the town’s buildings, including the Church, and today you can still walk through […]
896
Kirkby Lonsdale LA6 2EH, United Kingdom
Kirkby Lonsdale is a small Historic Market Town on the edge of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales in Cumbria. Sara Young reports on why it is so special and worth discovering. Every year, usually in the summer holidays, my sisters and me, with our parents would make the pilgrimage from where we live along […]
868
Stranraer DG9, United Kingdom
Discover Stranraer Stranraer, the largest settlement in South West Scotland, laying at the head of Loch Ryan just above the border. This town is situated on the north side of the neck of land that prevents the Rhins of Galloway becoming a separate island. The town’s origins date back nearly 500 years. Stranraer Castle, also […]
862
Withernsea HU19, United Kingdom
Discover Withernsea A Yorkshire seaside resort town, with a newly built promenade and European Blue Flag beach. Come to the delightful seaside resort of Withernsea, for exceptionally clean waters! Above the terraced houses on the seafront is the famous whitewashed lighthouse, also, home of the Lighthouse Museum. Sandy Beaches The area is a delight for […]
859
Bude EX23, United Kingdom
Discover Bude Firstly, Bude has a lovely laidback allure all of its own. From romantic whiskaways to fun-fuelled family holidays, most of all, it’s an amazing Cornwall destination a little drive from Newquay. Bude is the Best UK Coastal Resort according to the 2015 British Travel Awards, so, a must for you to explore when […]
831
Ashford TN25, United Kingdom
Discover Wye, The Perfect Village Featured in BBC TV show The Perfect Village in 2006. Wye also voted as the third best place to live in the UK in an annual broadsheet’s review in 2013. A top place to visit while in the South East. A little village in Kent also believed by some modern historians […]
829
Colchester CO3, United Kingdom
Discover Colchester Learn about Colchester’s past and present. From a troubled history including a Roman town burnt to the ground by Queen Boudica. Discover the facts and stories surrounding our rich heritage. From a Roman Temple to cutting edge 21st century design, via Victorian decor and medieval timber frames. Views of beautiful buildings reflect the town’s history and […]
827
London SE4, United Kingdom
Discover Brockley Firstly, Brockley contains several attractive open spaces, amongst them Blythe Hill, Brockley and Ladywell Cemeteries (opened in 1858 and now a nature reserve) and Hilly Fields. The Commons Preservation Society and local groups prevented development in the 1880s and 1890s. The park became a regular meeting place for the Suffragette movement between 1907 and […]
820
Yeovil BA22, United Kingdom
This small village and civil parish in South Somerset was the inspiration of the second poem of T.S.Eliot’s ‘The Four Quartets’, and the famous line ‘In my beginning is my end.’ You will find rolling hills surrounding the parish church of St. Michael where Eliot is buried, and if you visit the Heylar Arms for […]
740
Corsham, United Kingdom
Corsham developed from Saxon origins into a prosperous town thanks to the wool trade and the quarrying of golden Bath stone.
737
Bradford-on-Avon, United Kingdom
Perched on the edge of the Cotswolds, the honey-coloured gem of Bradford-on-Avon is packed with buildings from centuries past, many reflecting its textile heritage.
104
Rye, United Kingdom
Rye is one of the best-preserved walled medieval hill towns in England. It also has a wonderful selection of Tudor and Georgian buildings. The town kept a strong sense of its own identity when many high streets became clones of one another. One of its great draws is its many independent shops, particularly its antiques […]
592
Saltaire, Shipley, United Kingdom
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Saltaire is four miles from Bradford and is recognised as one of the best preserved 19th century ‘model villages’ in the world. It provides the chance to see just how the woollen industry worked, and it supported a whole community. The leading industrialist Sir Titus Salt founded the picturesque […]
231
Hastings, United Kingdom
Hastings in East Sussex is one of the medieval Cinque Ports. It has the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe. We call the beach here the Stade which is a Saxon term meaning landing place. The town is most famous for 1066 – the Castle was built by William the Conqueror. Its ruins are at […]
310
Sedbergh, United Kingdom
The historic market town of Sedbergh, with its flagged yards and hidden lanes, is set in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park. The town lies amidst the mighty Howgills, some of Alfred Wainwright’s favourite fells, and has been England’s Booktown since 2006. It now has six bookshops. The largest, Westwood Books, was last year named […]
118
Folkestone, United Kingdom
In Folkestone, quaint cobbled streets meet cutting-edge art and sea views to France. The Creative Quarter is home to a plethora of studio-galleries, quirky stores and chic eateries. Meanwhile, the historic Leas Lift is a fun way to ride between cliff top and the Lower Leas Coastal Park and a chance to take in the […]
108
Buxton, United Kingdom
Buxton is famed as the gateway to the Peak District, one of Britain’s 15 National Parks, yet it’s within 30 miles of the cities of Manchester, Sheffield, Derby and Stoke on Trent. The town is well served by bus services to and from local towns and by train to Buxton’s own station with direct services […]
610
Coventry, United Kingdom
For a city that has re-invented itself as many times as Coventry, you would be forgiven for thinking that most of its historic sites or places of interest might have been lost. But while transformations, in particular those resulting from the Blitz, have certainly had their effect and significantly altered parts of the city, there […]
