This charming town has been named one of the ‘best places to live’
Looking for an easy escape from London? Tucked away in Somerset, just 90 minutes from the capital, lies the charming market town of Frome – an ideal destination for a summer weekend break, particularly for Londoners keen to discover a bustling high street boasting around 100 independent retailers.
Frome is a compact market town home to just over 28,000 people. The town regularly features in “best weekend breaks” and “coolest town” compilations, and was recently named amongst the “best places to live” by Muddy Stilettos.
It has established a reputation for its high street, set apart by a high number of quality independent retailers, period architecture and artisan markets – a refreshing change from the chain stores dominating many London high streets. One destination worth exploring is The Frome Independent market, which serves as a focal point for shoppers. The market operates on the first Sunday of each month from March through December, with trading hours from 10am until 3pm.
The Frome Independent is an award-winning, destination street market. Monthly, it presents the finest independent craftspeople, designers, makers, food producers and vintage traders across the South West. It adopts an unconventional approach compared to more traditional markets, weaving in live music, DJs, street performance, workshops and activities for both children and adults. The market charges no admission and draws approximately 80,000 visitors annually.
Another essential destination in Frome is Nunney Castle, a well-loved English Heritage location just outside the town. The castle originates from the 1370s and was built by Sir John de la Mare, a local knight who was popular with the royals. The structure underwent modernisation during the late 16th century and faced siege from Parliamentarian forces in 1645 during the English Civil War, reports the Express.
A Tripadvisor visitor commented: “This is an impressive free attraction, with plenty of free parking. You can go inside the castle, as well as walk round the moat. The village itself is nice to walk round.”
Visitors should additionally visit Catherine Hill, another prominent landmark within the town, celebrated for its traditional gifts, fashionable clothing and accessories, ceramics, haberdashery, art galleries, excellent cafes, restaurants and pubs.
One Tripadvisor reviewer remarked: “Absolutely fabulous shops, all unique and full of interesting things to buy. Shop owners were all so friendly and knowledgeable and the street is just stunning!”
A further visitor wrote: “Independent shops – great variety, quality and well presented shops and friendly staff. The place for great eats, great drinks and finding unusual items, top quality clothes and gifts in a gorgeous location. A one off!”
For Londoners seeking an easy, interesting weekend break in a lively town with a thriving independent shopping scene, Frome should be on your list. With train connections from London Paddington taking around 90 minutes, it’s the perfect antidote to city life.
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