Explore the Beauty of Spring in Seven Charming British Towns
As the days grow longer and the first signs of spring emerge with daffodils, primroses, and the birth of new lambs, it’s the perfect time to plan a getaway. Here’s a selection of seven picturesque towns across Britain that shine especially bright during this vibrant season.
Skipton, Yorkshire
Located just south of the stunning Yorkshire Dales, Skipton is a delightful market town known for its scenic beauty and rich history. The town’s 11th-century castle stands as a remarkable testament to its medieval past, while the bustling high street features a renowned market dating back to the medieval era. This market, which operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, offers an array of local produce, including fresh fish, artisan cheeses, and seasonal fruits and vegetables.
When the sun is shining, a leisurely boat trip along the River Aire is a must-do, providing a unique perspective of the charming surroundings. On drizzly days, the Craven Museum and Gallery showcases a fascinating collection of artefacts that tell the story of the Craven district, from prehistoric times to the present day. For accommodations, the Skipton Hotel offers comfortable B&B rooms starting at £109 in March, with accessible options available.
Tenterden, Kent
With its elegant main street adorned by Georgian and medieval architecture, Tenterden is particularly enchanting in spring. As crocuses bloom and the beech trees burst into bright green foliage, the town transforms into a picturesque haven. The charming Wealden town is home to the popular Kent and East Sussex Steam Railway, making it an ideal destination for sunny spring outings.
Visitors can indulge in the local culinary scene at quaint cafes and independent shops, or cozy up in pubs that offer warmth against the chill of early spring. Be sure to visit Chapel Down, England’s largest wine producer, where you can sample award-winning vintages while strolling through the lush vineyards. The White Lion provides welcoming B&B rooms starting from £129 in March, and dogs are welcome too!
Winchelsea, East Sussex
Known as the “medieval Manhattan” for its unique grid layout, Winchelsea may not be as famous as its neighbor Rye, but it offers a captivating glimpse into history. Perched on a hill, it boasts stunning views of lush valleys and the coastline. The St Thomas the Martyr Church features breathtaking stained glass windows crafted by renowned Scottish artist Douglas Strachan, and the churchyard is the final resting place of the beloved comedian Spike Milligan, marked by his humorous Gaelic inscription.
The Court Hall Museum provides insights into the town’s past, while guided tours of the cellars reveal tales of smuggling from a bygone era. For accommodations, the New Inn offers charming rooms starting from £130 on a B&B basis in March.
Ruthin, Wales
Nestled in Denbighshire, Ruthin is a market town known for its stunning hilltop location in the Vale of Clwyd and its iconic 13th-century castle made of distinctive red sandstone. Visitors can explore Nantclwyd y Dre, one of Wales’s oldest timber-framed houses, which features vibrant gardens that come alive during the spring.
The town’s Market Hall hosts a lively market from Thursday to Saturday, showcasing local artisans and produce, and includes a cozy onsite café. The Ruthin Castle Hotel and Spa offers rooms from £106.25 in March, which includes a delightful Welsh breakfast, with accessible accommodations available.
Inveraray, Scotland
Set on the shores of picturesque Loch Fyne, Inveraray truly comes alive in spring. The scenic views of the loch, combined with the town’s Georgian architecture and the majestic 18th-century castle, create a stunning backdrop for visitors. Adventurous types can hike to the Dun na Cuaiche watchtower, which offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscapes. Don’t miss the chance to sample local whisky at The George Hotel, celebrated as one of the best whisky bars in the country.
For a comfortable stay, the Loch Fyne Hotel and Spa offers accommodations starting at £107 per night in March, with accessible options available.
Great Malvern, Worcestershire
At the base of the iconic Malvern Hills lies Great Malvern, a charming Victorian spa town renowned for its reputedly healing waters, once frequented by notable figures such as Charles Darwin and Florence Nightingale. Visitors can drink from the famous Malvina Fountain and delve into the rich history of the town, which dates back well before the 1800s.
Don’t miss the stunning Priory, a former Benedictine monastery that houses the largest collection of 15th-century stained glass in England. Spring is the perfect time for walks through the surrounding hills, and in May, the town hosts the Well Dressing and Water Festival, where locals adorn wells and springs with beautiful decorations. The Abbey Hotel offers B&B stays starting from £103 a night in March, with accessible options available.
Stamford, Lincolnshire
This historic town, mentioned in the Domesday Book, has captivated visitors for centuries, with Sir Walter Scott famously calling it “the finest sight on the road between Edinburgh and London.” Stamford is particularly charming in spring, with its stunning limestone buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries complementing its older timber-framed structures.
Explore one of the town’s five medieval churches and take the time to visit the magnificent Burghley Estate, recognized as one of the finest Elizabethan houses in England. The estate’s parkland, designed by Capability Brown, is especially breathtaking during springtime. The William Cecil, located within the Burghley Estate, offers comfortable B&B accommodations starting from £121 per night in March, with accessible options available.
