Richmond is named best UK market town

The Times newspaper has named Richmond the No.1 best UK market town.

Journalist Tracey Davies selected seven short break market town destinations and Richmond secured the top slot. Here’s what she said in her write-up:

“There’s been a market in this hilly town overlooking the River Swale on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park since the late 11th century. These days, it remains great for shopping with Saturdays dedicated to fruit and vegetables and a covered market open daily, plus independent booksellers and fashion boutiques in Georgian townhouses. Catch a show at the Georgian Theatre Royal and don’t miss Number 29 Alehouse for tapas, gin and craft beer. But the big draw is Richmond Castle, a Norman fort noted for its contemporary garden. Stay at the Fleece Hotel Richmond and you’re a five-minute walk away from the castle, but also within striking distance of Easby Abbey and yomps in the Dales.”

The six other towns to make the list were: Lewes (East Sussex); Bakewell (Derbyshire); Faversham (Kent); Sherborne (Dorset); Machynlleth (Powys) and Linlithgow (West Lothian).