Frome, a picturesque town in eastern Somerset, has a unique appeal that surprises visitors and locals alike. It’s not every day you might find Hollywood A-lister Hugh Grant casually picking up a sausage roll at Parsons Bakery—yet that’s exactly what happened a few years ago, much to the bakery staff’s delight.
Hugh Grant is not the only famous face to have visited Frome. Courteney Cox, known for her role in Friends, has been spotted in town, while music legend Paul McCartney makes occasional visits. The town is also home to Kevin McCloud, presenter of the popular show Grand Designs.
But it’s not just celebrities who love Frome. The town attracts both locals and city dwellers seeking a refreshing escape from London and other urban centers. Its charm earned it a spot on The Sunday Times’ list of the most charming towns for Christmas shopping, complete with a delightful Christmas market.
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In 2021, The Sunday Times crowned Frome the best place to live in the South West, describing it as a “pretty, cobbled town that likes its shops the way it likes its politicians—independent.” The town’s historic architecture, independent shops, excellent schools, scenic riverside walks, and diverse activities—from indoor diving to canoeing on the River Frome—make it an ideal place to live and visit.
Walking through Frome feels like stepping back in time. The town boasts over 350 listed buildings—the most in Somerset—many of which house antique and vintage shops. Cheap Street has been a shopping hub since the 1500s, complete with a natural spring that still trickles water down the street.
The Trinity area, developed between 1665 and 1725, adds to Frome’s historical appeal with its artisan heritage. Frome’s charm has also been recognized by the Traveller Review Awards 2022, which praised the town’s vibrancy, community spirit, and welcoming atmosphere.
Frome never runs out of things to do. It boasts a lively arts and food scene, an array of vintage shops, and diverse independent cafés and restaurants. On the first Sunday of each month, the town comes alive with a festival celebrating local heritage, food, drinks, artists, and street entertainment.
The town hosts Somerset’s first regular vegan market monthly, offering vegan food, drinks, clothing, and cosmetics. There’s also a weekly flea and antique market every Wednesday, perfect for treasure hunters.
Community sustainability is a core value in Frome. The innovative Library of Things allows residents to borrow items from sewing machines to DIY tools and even a fruit and wine press. The festive Christmas market, which started on November 24, features a lantern procession, live music, and the grand switch-on of the Christmas lights.
For shoppers, The Times recommends visiting Raves from the Grave, a unique record store, and Ground, a ceramicist-owned shop for pots and plates. Han-Made offers polymer clay jewelry at the monthly Frome Independent Market (held from March to December). And after a day of exploring, visitors can relax at the Archangel—a cosy pub with rooms.
Frome combines historic charm, a strong independent spirit, and a warm community vibe, making it a delightful destination year-round.