'Idyllic' market town with all the history and none of the crowds of famous neighbour

Nestled between Bath and Trowbridge, this lesser-known market town is just as charming as its neighbouring city, without the hustle and bustle.

Bradford-on-Avon, with its picturesque riverside setting, is home to the tranquil River Avon and a host of local gems for visitors to discover.

One of the main attractions drawing people from all over the UK is the town's rich history, which dates back to the Ice Age when a settlement began around the 'broad ford', giving the town its enduring name.

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Historic architecture

The town boasts an original Roman villa complete with preserved mosaics on its outskirts, along with a plethora of other stunning buildings. Dating back to the 17th century, there are numerous delightful stone cottages and original factories from the area's significant role in the Industrial Revolution, reports the Express.

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

Another key feature of the town's English heritage is the Tithe Barn. At 50 metres long, it's one of the country's longest-standing medieval barns.

It's a popular spot for visitors due to its free entry and close proximity to Barton Farm Country Park.

A TripAdvisor review says: "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 forms the beating heart of Bradford-on-Avon, featuring a collection of charming independent retailers perfect for browsing.

This cobblestone thoroughfare connects Market Street and Silver Street, housing the town's timber-framed 15th-century structure - the sole surviving example in the region.

History enthusiasts can also discover an exceptionally rare monogram adorning the front of the distinguished Post Office building, displaying Edward VIII's insignia.

The lane originally served as the location for the mediaeval marketplace but now accommodates delightful bakeries, a literary shop, café establishments and additional attractions.

The Church

Rich in heritage, tourists have declared the town's church to be the 'finest Anglo-Saxon church in the nation'.

A TripAdvisor review reads: "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, once a sanctuary for 15th-century pilgrims and later restored in the 1800s, sits atop a hill with breathtaking views. From its vantage point, one can see charming Cotswold stone cottages and the undulating hills that encircle Bradford-upon-Avon.