Quaint, quirky and surrounded by nature, charming UK towns evoke memories of childhood stories, like Enid Blyton’s, The Famous Five. Explore seaside caves with the ghosts of smugglers, hang out with locals at traditional pubs, hike along hilltop trails and find antique treasures at sleepy markets.
Most of all, get ready to have your socks charmed off.
Polperro, Cornwall
Winding, traffic-free streets, pretty cottages and a sparkling bay add to Polperro’s timeless, fishing village appeal. Once a smuggling hotspot in the 18th century, the town now brims with handcrafted goods and fresh seafood restaurants. Swim in the tidal sea pool, explore nearby beaches, visit art galleries and thoroughly embrace the relaxed pace of life.
Bakewell, Derbyshire
Bakewell is a small market town, with a whole lot going on. It’s located on the River Wye, in the heart of the Peak District. The Bakewell Show is just one of many attractions in the town’s yearly calendar, but you’ll enjoy gardens, museums, pubs, cafes, quirky shops and arts and crafts, no matter when you visit.
Weymouth, Dorset
Ice-creams, fish and chips and adventure-activities make Weymouth a top spot for traditional, seaside holidays. Life’s all about getting out and about in the fresh air here, with cycling, horseback riding, boating and walking. Combine fun activities with golden sand, a deckchair and clear waves lapping at the shore and you’ll be planning your next trip, before you’ve even left.
Rye, East Sussex
When a town is populated with artists, musicians and celebrities, chances are you’ll find inspiration there too. Ancient buildings, cobbled streets and secret passages attract tourists and film crews alike to Rye, with backdrops like dramatic Bodiam Castle. Perched on a hill, the town’s medieval streets are dotted with shops, galleries and restaurants, among beautifully preserved buildings. You don’t have to miss out on the sea either, with the golden sands of Camber close by.
Crail, Scotland
Cobbled streets wind down to a quaint harbour surrounded by historic fishing cottages, in pretty Crail. Situated in East Neuk of Fife, time slows down as you eat ice-cream and watch fishing boats rock on the water. Explore the heritage centre, local shops, tearooms and galleries. Most of all, just sit with the vibe of peace and serenity.
Whitby
It’s famous for its Blue Flag Beaches and historic Whitby Abbey, which was Bram Stoker’s inspiration for ‘Dracula’. Along with eating fresh fish and chips, visit the beach huts of West Cliff Beach, the Church of St Mary and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum. For these reasons, Whitby is a local favourite, among charming UK towns.
Framlingham, Suffolk
Nestled in the Suffolk countryside, Framlingham is a perfect slice of country living. Market Hill sits at the heart of town, with markets, shops, pubs and restaurants. History-lovers descend on the 12-century castle, surrounded by parkland and estates.
Bibury, Cotswolds
You’ll find enchanting Bibury just a short drive from Cirencester, in the Cotswolds. With its Arlington Row cottages and meandering river, it’s little wonder Willian Morris once described it as the most beautiful in the area. A backdrop for movies such as Bridget Jones’s Diary, the town offers a Trout Farm, The Church of St Mary, walking trails and historic hotels.
Tobermory, Inner Hebrides
With its postcard-perfect port decorated with colourful houses, the capital of Mull oozes charm. Walking, boating, fishing, golfing and whale watching are just a few of the attractions, but among the most popular. Culture abounds, with the Mull Museum, the Marine Visitor Centre, art galleries and live music.
Tenby, Wales
Overlooking the Pembrokeshire coast, Tenby is a seaside resort with cobbled streets, preserved old town walls, restaurants, shops, cafes and pubs. Stroll along the coastal path for panoramic views, cruise to nearby Caldey Island and discover wildlife in the surrounding areas.
From charming UK towns to awe-inspiring nature, check out incredible Autumn Holiday Destinations.