The pretty UK market town boasting one of the 'most beautiful' high streets in the country

As high streets across the UK struggle to survive, one beautiful Somerset town is bucking the trend - and doing it in style. Located among the rolling countryside and steeped in history, Frome has been named home to one of the most beautiful high streets in the UK. With its cobbled paths, medieval architecture and many thriving independent shops and local eateries, it's easy to see why this charming market town is drawing national attention.

One of the most iconic is Cheap Street, one of Europe's most well-preserved medieval streets, with its narrow, fairytale-like lane where a natural stream runs through the middle, flanked by centuries-old shopfronts. In recent years, Frome has become a beacon for independent retail, with local businesses reclaiming the streets and reviving the town's unique identity. Another one of the main shopping streets is Catherine Hill, a steep, cobbled street lined with artisan boutiques, vintage stores, coffee shops and art galleries.

In 2023, Holly Tucker MBE, founder of notonthehighstreet and Holly & Co, named Catherine Hill and Cheap Street in Frome among the best independent high streets in the UK as part of her national Shop Independent campaign. In 2019 Homes & Antiques Magazine also included Catherine Hill in its list of favourite and most beautiful UK shopping streets, praising its charm, community feel and historic cobbles.

The heart of this transformation lies in the St Catherine's artisan quarter, where you'll find everything from handmade jewellery and vintage clothing to modern crafts and gifts. Further down the hill toward the Market Place and its surrounding cobbled streets, shoppers can also browse a vibrant mix of bookshops, record stores, interior design boutiques and art galleries, all run by friendly locals.

The town hosts regular markets every Wednesday and Saturday, but it's the monthly events that truly set it apart. The Frome Farmers' Market on the second Saturday showcases the best of local produce, while the Frome Vegan Market on the first Saturday draws ethical foodies from across the region. The Frome Independent on the first Sunday has become one of the UK's most popular destination markets, combining street food, crafts, vintage stalls, live music, and more.

Located just 13 miles from Bath, Frome is an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend escape, and for those looking for even more history, the nearby village of Nunney also houses Nunney Castle, a striking moated ruin that dates all the way back to the 1370s.

One TikTokker called Rosie, shared a video portraying the medieival buildings and historic cobbled streets.

She said: "This is your sign to visit the most beautiful town of Frome in Somerset for a wander."

One TripAdvisor user also wrote: "Absolutely beautiful and extremely creative town. Lots of lovely shops to see, the sewing shop in Catherine Hill is amazing. Great places to eat."

Another TripAdvisor user wrote about Catherine Hill saying that there's "not a chain in sight" and it's "all independent shops."

They added: "Fascinating little shops and gallery outlets. A must to meander down the street. Artisan offerings such as plants, clothes, workshops, jewellery etc."