A TINY market town in the UK has been named one of the most underrated destinations.
West Sussex‘s Petworth, on the edge of the South Downs National Park, is often overlooked for a weekend break.
And according to one magazine, there are a number of reasons it should be on your staycation list.
CN Traveller said: “With an array of independent shops, cafes, and delis that line its quaint cobbled streets and hidden lanes, this quintessentially English town and its surrounding areas are a must-visit destination.
“One of the largest estates in the area, Cowdray Park is recognised worldwide as the Home of British Polo, the sport of Kings.
“he town also has the stately 17th-century Petworth House, Twenty (a one-stop destination for contemporary fashion connoisseurs), and The Hungry Guest deli (their chocolate brownies are to die for).”
It’s main attraction is the huge 17th century, Grade I listed Petworth House.
The National Trust property is open to visits, as well as having events such as archaeological digs, summer games and Tudor-themed activities.
It even has its own bookshop, as well as souvenir store and cafe.
You’ll also recognize it from films such as Napoleon, Rebecca and Maleficent, as well as Bridgerton.
It is also surrounded by the 700-acre Petworth Park, with a huge herd of fallow deer.
Once used by Henry VIII 500 years ago, as many as 800 deer roam the lands.
If you want to head back into town, you’ll find independent cafes and shops along the cobbled streets.
One of the most well known is Lombard Street, its most photographed road.
And time your visit right for a number of festivals and markets.
There is the Petworth Society book sale every second Saturday, or the Petworth Festival Literary Week in October.
There is a summer fete as well as Winter Wonderland with market stalls and entertainment.
Petworth is around two hours drive from London, with the nearest train station being Pulborough
The town used to have the Petworth Railway Station, built in 1892.
This has since been converted into accommodating, with The Old Railway Station having beds and afternoon tea.
If you fancy exploring some other historic market towns, the UK isn’t exactly short of them.
The town of Hitch has even been compared to Europe with it’s own Little Provence.
You don't need to spend a penny to keep your kids entertained this summer...
Museums – Some museums offer free entry to some exhibits, and also host events for kids.
Parks – Head to your local park to enjoy the playgrounds, games areas, courts and splash pads. Some even have trails for kids to enjoy.
Beach – It doesn’t have to be sunny to enjoy the beach, you can go rock pooling, crabbing, make sandcastles, or enjoy a walk along the headland.
Library – If the weather is awful, head indoors and borrow books, audiobooks, dvds.
Cooking – Have your own mini bake-off, or Come Dine With Me challenge.
Playdates – Invite friends over for an afternoon of socialising.
Boardgames – Enjoy a little sibling rivalry with rounds of Monopoly or stretch your brain with Scrabble.
Another market town is home to England’s oldest castle.
And here’s a UK market town set to be popular this year.
