I love a weekend getaway. Here are some amazing options when traveling in southeast United Kingdom. Each Town offers historical sightseeing, High Streets to shop, and stunning cathedrals to explore.
Here’s my simple guide for Market Towns to visit when you find yourself in this region of England:
Winchester
Surrounded by rolling wheat fields, Winchester is a charming English village with an ancient castle, stunning cathedrals, a historical city mill, and museums to explore.
High Street has the charisma of an old Town with boutiques, bakeries, and restaurants to enjoy. Stroll The Weirs, a walking trail along River Itchen, while admiring the colorful flowerbeds.
Read more about what to see and do in Winchester here.
Whitchurch
Whitchurch may not be as popular as other cities in the United Kingdom, but don’t let that fool you. Stop at the Heritage Centre, home to Whitchurch Museum and Archives, with displays and exhibits reflecting the Town’s historical roots. Check out the stained-glass windows in St. Alkmund Church. Collect a copy of the Town Trail to lead you around the intriguing features of the Town. Tour the Whitchurch Silk Mill and see a silk weaving demonstration or enjoy a lunch at the Riverside Café.
Alresford
Known in the UK as the watercress capital is the Georgian Town of Alresford. Named as one of southeast England favorite market towns, Alresford offers unique specialty shops selling antiques, food, and collectibles. First, take a scenic ride on the Watercress Line and see the rolling hills of Hampshire. Then, tour the Bombay Sapphire Distillery in nearby Maverstoke Mill, with a guided tour of the historical buildings and gin sampling.
Find out what see and do in Alresford here.
Romsey
Romsey is an adorable bustling market town you don’t want to miss! Filled with medieval streets located on the River Test, Romsey is a great place to spend strolling the English town.
Visit the magnificent Norman Abbey built back in 907 AD. Next, wander through the five-acre meadow of Romsey War Memorial Park. Then be sure to check out King John’s House, which dates back to the 13th century. A short distance away is the Broadland Estate, known for being where Princess Elizabeth and Prince Phillip spent their honeymoon. Finally, see the world-famous collection of old-fashioned roses at Mottisfont.
Read more about things to do in Romsey here.
Salisbury
Here is where England’s most significant historical events took place. Home to the Magna Carta, the first official charter that gave their citizens individual rights and limited the monarchy’s powers. Some of England’s most unique and historical sites, such as Old Sarum, Stonehenge, Wilton House, and the village of Stockbridge, are all near Salisbury.
Find out all the things to see and do while in Salisbury here.
Southampton
The historic port city of Southampton is where the famous Titanic set sail on April 10, 1912. There are around 450 cruise ships that dock in Southampton’s port each year, with roughly 1.5 million visitors exploring the city. In addition, the famous Mayflower ship that took pilgrims to America set sail from Southampton in 1620. The Town is filled with medieval walls and gates dating back to 1180 AD. The Tudor House and Garden are Southampton’s most historically significant buildings in the city. The city has a wide range of places to visit, shop or dine while visiting Southampton.
Read more about Southampton here.
Portsmouth
Rich with maritime history, Portsmouth has many attractions that revolve around the sea, offering plenty more to do for a weekend getaway. Get a panoramic view at Spinnaker Tower. Walk the Gunwharf Quays for fabulous shopping or enjoy a sunset dinner at one of the many restaurants. Visit the Clarence Pier Amusement Park for some fun rides and arcades. Visit Charles Dicken’s birthplace or stroll the Roman fort of Portchester Castle. Spend the day visiting the
The Isle of Wight.
English market towns are the center of a region’s life and still form a crucial part of rural life, even today. Visit one of these market towns as a part of your itinerary.
Check out what to see and do in Portsmouth here.
CHECK OUT MORE DETAILS OF MANY OF THESE POPULAR MARKET TOWNS:
Here are excellent getaway market towns to consider when traveling in United Kingdom.
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Happy Travels!
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