Marlborough, Wiltshire
Marlborough is one of those towns where it’s a pleasure to pull up, get out and have a potter round; there’s something about it, it just feels rather chic, perhaps a little cosmopolitan. The town is most famous for its prestigious public school of course, but apart from that, it has a lot going for it. The High Street is one of the widest in the UK, lined with characterful old buildings, cafes, pubs and shops which, for the larger part, are independently run. Twice a week a market draws the crowds and every year there’s a Jazz Festival in July, a Literature Festival in September, and in October, the well known Mop Fairs (basically a fun fair).
What’s to do? Well, have a good wander around, explore the back streets, all quaint and pretty with centuries old wonky cottages; visit the 17th century Merchant’s House, and if you time it right, climb the tower of St. Peter’s church. Of course, you must stop for a bite to eat. Like restaurants? Sapore D’Italia is good. Prefer a traditional pub? Try The Castle & Ball Hotel on the High Street, and for coffee and cake, go to The Polly Tearooms where the Duchess of Cambridge used to go when she was a pupil at Marlborough College.
And that reminds us. Legend has it that the wizard Merlin is buried in the grounds of Marlborough College in a quiet spot known as Merlin’s Mound. No, you can’t go and see it, but fancy that.
All information correct at the time of writing