From its famous monthly markets to artisan boutiques, this charming town should be on your radar
I visited a quiet UK town with cobbled streets and independent shops – I’d live there(Image: GordonBellPhotography via Getty Images)
The UK is brimming with stunning towns and villages, and I’ve been fortunate enough to explore quite a few. One aspect that has consistently struck me is how distinct they all are, even when they’re situated close together.
Some are bustling and contemporary, while others seem stuck in the past. That’s precisely why I adore discovering the UK, as you’re never quite sure what you’ll encounter.
Frome in Somerset is one of those destinations that genuinely lingers in your memory afterwards. It isn’t one of those household-name tourist hotspots like Bath or Wells, but that’s part of what makes it special.
Nestled in eastern Somerset near the Wiltshire border, Frome wasn’t particularly high on my list of places to visit, but I’m absolutely delighted I made the trip.
Frome, pronounced Froom, is positioned in a valley along the River Frome, roughly 13 miles from Bath. Historically, it flourished as a wool and textile town, and you can still spot remnants of its heritage in the architecture and street patterns today.
What made the town particularly memorable for me was its blend of historic and contemporary elements, which seemed to resonate with virtually everyone.
There are twisting medieval lanes, Georgian terraces, and former industrial structures sitting alongside modern cafes and independent retailers.
It has long been a market town, and that heritage remains central to its character, which is largely why I chose to visit after spotting it on TikTok.
The highlight is the Frome Independent Market, held on the first Sunday of each month. The entire town centre essentially transforms for the day.
Streets become packed with stalls offering everything from artisan food and freshly baked bread to handcrafted goods, antiques and clothing. There’s frequently live music and street food on offer too.
Even when the big monthly market isn’t on, smaller regular markets maintain that community atmosphere throughout the week.
Its high street has also been recognised as one of the finest in the UK on multiple occasions, and it was easy to see why.
Beyond markets and shopping, one of the most enjoyable aspects of Frome is simply wandering around it. It’s compact enough to navigate with ease, yet packed with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Catherine Hill is arguably the most iconic street in the town. It’s steep and cobbled, lined with independent shops.
But it’s also among the finest vantage points, offering views back across the town’s rooftops.
There’s also a thriving arts and culture scene there. Galleries, studios and numerous creative venues are dotted throughout the centre, and the Frome Festival in July brings the town alive with music.
If you’re after something more peaceful, there are numerous riverside walks, as well as being far from open fields and rolling hills. The town is ideal for anyone and everyone.