Good English town to spend a few months in?
Suggestions for a Charming English Town to Spend a Few Months?
Hello everyone,
My wife and I are currently based in Australia and are considering a few months in an English town. We’re not sure how feasible this is, but we have a few criteria in mind:
- A picturesque and historic market town that offers a calm atmosphere away from bustling cities, yet isn’t too remote.
- As enthusiastic walkers and hikers, we’d love to be near a variety of natural landscapes, such as forests, hills or mountains, and lakes or rivers.
- Convenient access to London or another major city within approximately two hours by train.
- Bonus points if the town is also close to the coast, allowing us to enjoy the beach during the warmer months.
Thank you in advance for any recommendations!
That sounds like a fantastic adventure! Here are a few English towns that might fit your criteria:
Hitchin, Hertfordshire: This charming market town is steeped in history and has a lovely town center with plenty of cafes and shops. It’s about 30 minutes by train to London and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the North Hertfordshire countryside and the nearby Chiltern Hills, which offer plenty of walking and hiking opportunities.
Chichester, West Sussex: Chichester is a historic town with a beautiful cathedral and a vibrant arts scene. It’s close to the South Downs National Park for hiking and about 1.5 hours from London by train. Plus, it’s just a short drive to the coast at West Wittering, which has stunning beaches.
Marlborough, Wiltshire: Marlborough is known for its picturesque high street and proximity to the Kennet and Avon Canal. It’s near the beautiful Savernake Forest and the North Wessex Downs, which are great for hiking. It’s about an hour’s train ride to London, and the coast is about 1.5 hours away.
Woodbridge, Suffolk: This quaint market town is located along the River Deben and has a lovely historic atmosphere. It’s about 2 hours from London and offers great walking opportunities along the river and in nearby forests. The coastal town of Aldeburgh is also within reach for beach outings.
Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire: While a bit further north, Hebden Bridge is a quirky, artsy town surrounded by stunning countryside. There are plenty of hiking trails nearby, and it’s about 2 to 2.5 hours from London by train. While it’s not directly on the coast, the Yorkshire coastline is accessible within a couple of hours.
All of these towns have great character and provide access to both nature and cultural experiences. I hope you find the perfect place to call home during your time in England!