The prettiest towns in the UK: A guide for homebuyers

For those who value beauty and charm, the prettiest towns in the UK offer a unique and enchanting way of life. 

These towns are often steeped in history and offer a sense of community that is hard to find in larger cities.

In this blog, we will use our industry expertise to highlight some idyllic locations to search for the perfect home. 

St. Ives, Cornwall

St Ives is a small seaside town on the northern coast of Cornwall renowned for its arts scene and fine surf beaches and being an exceptionally pretty place to live. 

It has stunning beaches, a characterful harbour, and narrow cobbled streets lined with art galleries and independent retailers. 

St Ives hosts many arts and music festivals throughout the year and has four beaches: Porthmeor Beach is popular with surfers, while Porthminster Beach is more suited to families. 

The other beaches, Bamaluz and Harbour, are smaller and quieter. 

Garrington included St Ives in their list of the best places to live in Cornwall, as recommended by our local property expert. 

Properties range from cosy cottages to spacious family homes and the town is home to several highly regarded schools, making it an ideal place for families to live.

St. Ives is one of the prettiest towns in the UK, from its charming streets lined with pretty fisherman’s cottages to the truly impressive natural beauty that surrounds it. 

Rye, East Sussex

Rye is a town in East Sussex, known as one of the best places to live in the Southeast, and one of the prettiest towns in the UK, making it an attractive option as a beautiful place to live.

A standout feature of Rye is its rich history, which is reflected in the town’s architecture. 

There are a range of well-preserved medieval and Georgian buildings, including the Ypres Tower, a 14th-century fortification that is now a museum. 

The town’s cobbled streets and narrow alleyways add to its character, making it a delightful place to explore the galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.

Rye also has a thriving arts and culture scene with regular events including the annual Arts Festival, which features music, theatre, and art.

For those who love the outdoors, Rye is a short distance from the stunning Camber Sands beach, known for its golden dunes and clear waters. 

Bakewell, Derbyshire

Bakewell is a small market town in the Derbyshire Dales approximately 13 miles southwest of Sheffield. Situated on the River Wye, Bakewell is known for its beautiful countryside and historic buildings. 

On Mondays, Bakewell has an award-winning market that has taken place for over 700 years. It is a great place to find local produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts.

A popular tourist destination, Bakewell attracts visitors from all over the world, drawn to its stunning scenery and period architecture, including the 12th-century All Saints Church and the 17th-century Old House Museum. 

Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall are close by, and the town is also famous for its delicious Bakewell pudding.

Bakewell contains a variety of property styles, but surges in building during the early 17^th and 19^th centuries mean the architecture of those times is dominant.

Overall, Bakewell is one of the best small towns in England to live in.

Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire

When looking for places to live in the Cotswolds, Chipping Campden is a market town often considered, with its well-preserved period buildings and setting within the idyllic countryside.

The High Street is particularly noteworthy. Built of honey-coloured Cotswold stone it features a row of terraced houses dating, in places, back to the 14th century. 

Of note is the Market Hall with its open sided walls, built in 1627 as a shelter for merchants.

Chipping Campden is a popular tourist destination, with its selection of independent shops, restaurants, and cafes, but it also offers a great quality of life for those who make it home. 

It is an ideal place for families with its highly rated schools and strong sense of community.

Chipping Campden marks the finishing point of the 102-mile Cotswold Way trail and there are many other scenic walks and cycling routes in the surrounding countryside.

Burford, Oxfordshire

Burford is a small town often referred to as the ‘gateway’ to the Cotswolds. 

It was voted one of the prettiest towns in the country by Forbes Magazine in 2010, and it’s easy to see why. 

The town’s architecture largely consists of Cotswold stone buildings, which line its charming streets, making it a popular destination for visitors and a desirable place to live.

Burford’s historic High Street is filled with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place for locals and visitors alike to shop and explore. 

Away from its busy centre, Burford’s residential streets are surprisingly quiet.

For history buffs, Burford has plenty to offer, including its Grade I Listed church and The Tolsey,  a gabled and timber-framed former market hall first mentioned in 1561 and now home to the Tolsey Museum. 

Burford is a super location for those looking to live in a small, bustling town, whilst being surrounded by miles of stunning countryside.

St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland

St. Andrews is a picturesque town on the east coast of Fife. It is famous for its ancient University, the oldest in Scotland, and as the ‘home of golf’. 

The town’s lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere attracts people from across the world.

The town is home to the University of St. Andrews and has many old buildings, including the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, once the largest church in Scotland. 

Visitors can explore these ruins and view medieval sculptures and relics at the cathedral’s museum. 

St. Andrews offers stunning views of the Fife countryside and the North Sea. 

It is surrounded by breathtaking beaches, including West Sands, which was featured in the film “Chariots of Fire.” 

The town’s beautiful architecture and rich history make it a popular place for families and students to choose to live.

Ambleside, Cumbria

Ambleside is a small but thriving town in the heart of the Lake District. 

It is surrounded by mountains and stunning natural beauty, with Lake Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, just a short walk away. 

Ambleside is known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water sports, making it a perfect place for those who love the great outdoors. 

It is home to a small student campus of the University of Cumbria, which offers degrees in environmental studies and conservation sciences, amongst others.

The town itself is filled with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. It also has many historic buildings and landmarks to explore, making it a draw for tourists.

For those looking to relocate to Ambleside, there are plenty of housing options available; from cosy cottages to modern apartments, there is something for everyone. 

Ambleside is one of the best places to live in the lake district and has a friendly community, with plenty of local events and activities to get involved in.

Stamford, Lincolnshire

Stamford is a characterful market town often considered one of the prettiest towns in the UK. 

Situated by the River Welland, the town’s historic buildings, cobbled streets, and narrow alleyways have been well-preserved, making it a popular location for filming period dramas. 

Stamford is also known for its churches, including St. Mary’s Church, described as one of the finest churches in England.

Burghley House, an Elizabethan stately home with parkland created by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, is on the edge of the town. 

Host to the annual Burghley Horse Trials, the park also boasts a golf club, which is open to the public.

Stamford offers a range of amenities, including a weekly market, independent shops and restaurants, and several well-regarded schools. 

The town is close to major road and rail links, making it easy to travel to nearby Peterborough and Leicester.

Alresford, Hampshire

Alresford is a charming Georgian town known for its pastel-coloured houses and riverside walks. 

The preservation of Alresford’s character adds to its being one of the best places to live in Hampshire.

Broad Street is one of the most beautiful streets in the county, with its tree-lined roads and colourful buildings. 

Markets have been held there every Thursday for over 800 years.

Alresford is home to several clubs and societies, making it a vibrant community. 

Railway enthusiasts are drawn to Alresford Railway Station, the end of the ‘Watercress Line’, so called because it used to transport watercress to London. 

This railway line regularly runs steam and diesel trains.

The town is well-connected, with easy access to Winchester, Southampton, and London, making it an ideal place for those who want to enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside whilst still being close to the city.

Dartmouth, Devon

Dartmouth is a beautiful town on the banks of the River Dart. 

It is considered one of the most peaceful destinations in the UK, making it an ideal place for those wanting a tranquil lifestyle. 

The town is surrounded by stunning countryside and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, sailing, and fishing.

Dartmouth is known for its history and culture with many period buildings and landmarks, including the 14th-century Dartmouth Castle and the Royal Naval College, founded in 1863. 

The town hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Dartmouth Royal Regatta and the Dart Music Festival.

One of the main attractions of Dartmouth is its stunning waterfront and bustling harbour, home to many fishing boats and yachts.

 There are restaurants and cafes along the waterfront, where a meal or drink can be enjoyed whilst taking in the beautiful views.

Overall, Dartmouth is a charming town that would make a wonderful place to live for those who appreciate natural beauty, history, and culture.

Faversham, Kent

Faversham is a beautiful town in the heart of the ‘Garden of England’. It is the oldest market town in Kent and bursting with history. 

The town sits on the winding Faversham Creek, which connects to The Swale, offering plenty of opportunities for coastal and rural walks. 

It has a nature reserve and country park built on the former gunpowder works.

Faversham has many beautiful buildings, including the Guildhall, the Parish Church of St. Mary of Charity, and the Shepherd Neame Brewery. 

There is a wide selection of independent shops and restaurants.

Faversham has a growing reputation as a foodie destination, and the Macknade Food Hall situated on the edge of the town offers a variety of local and international food and drink. 

Guildford, Surrey

Guildford is a large town known for its stunning countryside, excellent schools, and vibrant shopping scene. 

Guildford’s High Street offers a mix of chain and independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

Historic and beautiful architecture adds to the town’s charm and includes the ruins of Guildford Castle built shortly after the Norman Invasion of 1066. 

In 1966, Battersea College of Technology relocated to Guildford and was renamed the University of Surrey.

For those who love the outdoors, Guildford offers easy access to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which boasts stunning views, walking trails, and cycling routes. 

It is also home to the beautiful Stoke Park, a 17th-century landscaped parkland with a lake.

Guildford has excellent transport links, and London can be reached in as little as 30 minutes by train, making it an ideal location for commuters.

Holt, Norfolk

Holt is a charming town known for its Georgian architecture, flint buildings, and cobbled alleyways. 

The town’s history dates back to the Domesday Book in 1086 when the parish church of St. Andrew the Apostle was established and it still stands today. 

In the early 18^th century, much of the medieval town was destroyed by fire and was rebuilt in the Georgian style of the day.

Holt has many independent shops including antiques, fine art, and stylish fashion. 

It has a strong sense of community and is becoming well-known for having some super places to eat.

A popular attraction is Holt Country Park, a fantastic place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or enjoy a family day out.

If you’re looking for a place to live that offers a perfect balance of rural and urban living, Holt is worth considering.

Saffron Walden, Essex

Saffron Walden is a beautiful medieval market town between Cambridge and Bishop’s Stortford. 

Originally known as Walden, and then Chipping Walden, Saffron was added to its name in the mid-16^th century when the saffron crocus was extensively grown in the town for trade.

The town is known for its colourful half-timbered houses, having the largest church in Essex, and a twice-weekly farmers’ market. 

It is also home to excellent schools, making it a popular choice for families.

There is a direct rail line from nearby Audley End to London King’s Cross, making it an option for commuters.

Saffron Walden’s popularity has kept demand for property high, with many people choosing to move there for its peaceful and picturesque surroundings.

Aldeburgh, Suffolk

Aldeburgh is one of the most appealing places to buy a charming coastal home in Suffolk, known for its stunning blue flag beaches and ties to Benjamin Britten. 

It was recognized as one of the UK’s prettiest towns by global travel magazine Condé Nast Traveller.

The town offers clothing boutiques, antiques, art galleries, a cinema, and boasts award-winning fish and chips. 

A literary festival is held every March and the Aldeburgh Festival, a predominantly classical music event founded by Benjamin Britten, every June.

There are some examples of the old Tudor town in Aldeburgh from when it was a leading seaport and pretty pastel-hued former fishermen’s cottages can be found on the beach front. 

When seaside resorts became popular in the 19^th century, many Victorian houses were built and remain a feature of the town, 

Overall, Aldeburgh is a charming town offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. 

It’s a great place to live for those who love the seaside lifestyle and enjoy history and culture.

Knutsford, Cheshire

Knutsford is one of the best towns located in the heart of Cheshire, known for its architecture, quaint cobbled streets, and beautiful countryside. 

It has been named one of the best places to live in the UK by The Times.

One of the town’s most notable features is its Georgian architecture, which can be seen throughout the town centre. 

Other historic buildings include the 19th-century St John the Baptist Church and the 18th-century Brook Street Chapel. 

The town also boasts many independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a weekly market.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Knutsford has plenty to offer. Nearby is Tatton Park, a 1,000-acre estate with a mansion, gardens, and a deer park. 

The park also hosts many events throughout the year, including a flower show and a food festival.

There are excellent transport links, with easy access to the M6 motorway and regular train services to Manchester and Chester. 

It is also within easy reach of Manchester Airport, making it a convenient location for frequent travellers.

Bruton, Somerset

Bruton is a charming market town known for its rolling hills, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. 

The town’s most notable landmarks include the 16th-century Bruton Dovecote, beautifully preserved and converted into a museum, the Grade I listed St. Mary’s Church, and the medieval Packhorse Bridge.

More recently, Bruton has become known as a hub for contemporary art and culture. 

It is home to the world-renowned Hauser & Wirth art gallery, which showcases the work of the world’s most exciting contemporary artists, hosts regular exhibitions, talks, and events that attract visitors from all over the world.

Bruton has a strong sense of community and many excellent restaurants, cafes, and pubs, with a range of local events and activities taking place throughout the year.

For those looking to move to Bruton, property styles range from period cottages to modern apartments. 

Bruton’s location in the heart of the Somerset countryside, along with its vibrant cultural scene and strong sense of community, makes it a great place to live.

Harrogate, Yorkshire

Harrogate is a beautiful spa town and living in Harrogate has been a popular choice for those moving to the North of England for some time. 

Harrogate is known for its elegant architecture, well-manicured gardens, and stunning countryside. 

It is home to the Royal Pump Room Museum, which tells the story of the town’s history as a spa destination. 

A visit to Harrogate isn’t complete without going to the famous Bettys Tea Rooms, established in 1919.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Harrogate offers a range of outdoor activities. 

The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the Yorkshire Dales National Park, where hiking, cycling, and fishing in the area’s many rivers and lakes can be enjoyed.

Harrogate is also an excellent place to do business. 

The town is home to companies such as the Bettys & Taylors Group, which produces the famous Yorkshire Tea. 

The town’s central location makes it a convenient base for commuting to Leeds and York.

Marlow, Buckinghamshire

Marlow is situated on the River Thames in Buckinghamshire and surrounded by the Chiltern Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

The town is a popular destination for foodies, and is home to the Hand & Flowers, the first gastropub to hold two Michelin stars. 

Award-winning beers are brewed locally in Marlow Bottom by the Rebellion Beer Company. 

For those who love the outdoors, Marlow has plenty to offer. 

Higginson Park has approximately 23 acres and is a great place to take a walk or have a picnic. 

It features a paddling pool, skate park, and children’s play area.

Marlow is a great place to live for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the countryside whilst still being close to London. 

It is located just off the M4 motorway and is served by a train station with direct trains to London Paddington. 

Tenby, Wales

Tenby is a coastal town known for its stunning beaches, colourful houses, and charming harbour. 

Named one of the prettiest towns in the UK, it is a highly sought-after place to live.

The town has a rich history dating back to the Iron Age. 

It was once a bustling port town, and remnants of its past can be seen throughout the town, including the ruins of Tenby Castle, which dates to the 13th century.

Tenby is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, and has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and exhibitions showcasing the work of local artists.

The town became renowned as a health resort during the Edwardian and Victorian eras and many pathways were built, meaning many beaches have good disabled access. 

Tenby offers a range of property styles, from modern apartments to quaint cottages and high-end properties, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in a beautiful location.

Buying a home in one of the prettiest towns in the UK

Whether you’re looking for a quaint cottage or a grand estate, there’s a pretty town that is perfect for you.

As property finders, we often advise clients on the best places to live in the UK based on their requirements.

Garrington would love to assist you in your search for a dream home. Please do get in touch with one of our team to discuss your needs.