Melksham, Wiltshire
Melksham is a small market town on the banks of the River Avon, the kind of place that actually, it’s quite nice to stop by for a stroll around, knowing that the chances are it’ll be peaceful and there won’t be any big crowds, no fuss or noise to bother you. In the town centre you can enjoy a leisurely browse of the independent shops and the historic quarter, and maybe stop for a bite to eat in one of the cafes, pubs or restaurants – The Kings Arms is good value for pub grub as is The Milk Churn on the edge of town, and, Casa is good for Italian fare.
Bring plenty of bags when the weekly market is on so you can treat yourself to local goodies; if you do spot a crowd when you’re here, it’ll be one of the regular events held in the town – the liveliest is the annual Food and River Festival.
Extend your visit with a stroll along the river and around the nature reserve where in the summer you’ll see plenty of butterflies and dragonflies; if you’re very, very lucky, you might even glimpse a kingfisher darting by.
All information correct at the time of writing