Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire
If you haven't been to Tewkesbury, let us tell you a little bit about it, because it's an interesting place and as with a lot of old Gloucestershire market towns, it's not without its charm. What adds to the appeal is that Tewkesbury is right on the riverside, where the Rivers Severn and Avon meet, so whilst you're here you should allow time for a stroll along the river or even better, a boat trip for the chance to see things from a completely different perspective.
Wander around the town and you'll notice the history that's here - half timbered medieval houses and Tudor buildings stand side by side with elegant Georgian properties and red brick Victorian homes. There are also a lot of alleyways - around 30, though once there were at least 90! Go to the Visitor Centre, pick up one of the Heritage & Alleyways Trails, and discover it all at your own pace.
What Tewkesbury does have is a very nice community feel; you can really tell that the people who live here are happy, they like it here. Come on one of the market days and you'll find it's all very lively, especially on a warm spring day when the sun is shining and everyone is out and about after a long cold winter. Wander around and fill your basket with local produce - vegetables, meat, fish, artisan breads, cakes, and cider. If you browse the shops you'll find a mix of well known names and independent retailers; there are proper butchers, a book shop, a deli or two, antique shops, galleries, boutiques and tea shops.
Go and see the 18th century Old Baptist Chapel, Tewkesbury Museum, The John Moore Countryside Museum and of course, there's Tewkesbury Abbey which has been a centrepiece of the town for over 1,000 years. Oh, and places to eat? Try My Great Grandfathers, The Berkeley Arms or The Hide tea & coffee house.
All information correct at the time of writing