WHY?

Malmesbury oozes with rich history as England’s oldest borough – it even has a resident 12th-century Abbey, still very much in use today. Its thriving high street is supported by a weekly artisan farmers’ market.

EAT

You won’t just want to sleep at The Old Bell, a newly restored hotel in the heart of Malmesbury. While it is Britain’s oldest hotel, it has a brilliant gin bar and the restaurant’s fare is simply delicious. The Summer Cafe is perfect for a light lunch and check out The Birdcage for pizza. The Kings Arms is also well worth a look.

SHOP

Sassy and Boo, Lula and Sailor and French Grey are our favourite places for browsing for clothes and gifts. Perfection Health and Beauty is a cool beauty salon just out of town.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Visit the original 15th-century Market Cross in the town centre, the Abbey House and Gardens or the Athelstan Museum detailing the town’s ancient and recent history.

AVERAGE HOUSE PRICE

£387,669. Good local estate agents in the area are Strakers, Lockstones and Fielder and Jones.

HOT PROPERTY

SCHOOLS

Westonbirt Prep and Senior School are just around the corner.

BEST KEPT SECRET

Stunning country house hotel Whatley Manor, just outside Malmesbury, has a day spa and two top-end restaurants.

COMMUTE

1 hour 46 mins from Malmesbury to London. Driving to London takes 2 hours 12 mins.

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