‘Hidden gem’ market town on Somerset’s doorstep that’s ‘worth the time’

Tucked between Bath and Trowbridge, the lesser-known market town of Bradford-on-Avon offers as much charm as its neighbouring city, minus the constant hustle.

With its picturesque riverside location, Bradford-on-Avon is nestled along the tranquil River Avon, offering a wealth of local spots for visitors to explore.

The town’s rich history, dating back to the Ice Age when a settlement began around the ‘broad ford’, giving the town its enduring name, is one of the main attractions drawing people from across the UK.

Historical architecture.

Bradford-on-Avon boasts an original Roman villa, complete with original mosaics, located on the outskirts, along with a host of other stunning buildings. Dating back to the 17th century, there are numerous charming stone cottages and original factories from the area’s significant role in the Industrial Revolution, according to the Express, reports Bristol Live.

History buffs will certainly not be bored with so much to take in, including the famous bridge and Bradford-upon-Avon landmark, the Town Bridge. Its rounded Gothic arches date back to the 13th century, with new additions made in the 18th century.

Another key feature of the town’s English heritage buildings is the Tithe Barn, standing at 50 metres long, making it one of the country’s longest-standing medieval barns. This is a popular spot for visitors due to its free entry and close proximity to Barton Farm Country Park.

A TripAdvisor review states: “There are those of us who like a good barn and will travel miles to visit one. This one is good and worth the time and effort. Beautifully preserved and free to visit.

“Rarely do you get to see the ancient buildings used and worked in by ordinary folk, not just the castles, cathedrals or monasteries. Survivors such as this are always worth a look.”

Shopping.

The Shambles serves as Bradford-on-Avon’s vibrant commercial centre, featuring an array of delightful independent shops ideal for leisurely exploration. This stone-paved lane links Market Street to Silver Street and contains the town’s timber-framed 15th-century building – the only remaining specimen of its kind in the area.

Heritage lovers can also spot an extremely unusual monogram gracing the facade of the notable Post Office structure, displaying Edward VIII’s Royal cipher. Once home to the medieval trading square, the street now hosts wonderful bakeries, a bookshop, cafés and other ventures.

The Church.

Steeped in history, visitors have proclaimed the town’s church to be the ‘finest Anglo-Saxon church in the country’. One TripAdvisor review notes: “This Anglo-Saxon church is small and almost perfect in its original beauty.

“It was turned into a schoolhouse, and that is presumably why it survived. Outside and inside, it gives you a full idea of what a church in that ancient period would have been like.”

St Laurence Church, which provided refuge for pilgrims in the 15th century before being restored in the 1800s, boasts stunning views from its hilltop location. From here, one can admire the Cotswold stone cottages and the rolling hills surrounding Bradford-upon-Avon.