Every so often, a town captures the imagination of writers, developers, and tourists alike, transforming from an overlooked spot into a sought-after destination. While this newfound fame brings fresh opportunities and economic growth, it can also create challenges for longtime residents, from rising prices to strained infrastructure. This delicate balance plays out in the charming town of Bruton, a place beloved by the rich and famous but also home to hidden gems often overlooked in mainstream media coverage.
Much attention has been lavished on Bruton’s Michelin-starred restaurant Osip, the historic 400-year-old Chapel Hotel, the 500-year-old Old Pharmacy restaurant, and luxurious nearby hotels. These esteemed establishments certainly deserve the acclaim, yet as Karen, manager of the 700-year-old Sun Inn, points out, “The only thing that annoys me is that the press always mention certain places, but everyone is part of the town.”
We couldn’t agree more. Beyond the headlines and high-end venues, Bruton is brimming with distinctive spots that deserve your attention.
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Take The Stripy Duck Café and Bookshop, for instance. While food and books are traditionally kept apart, this welcoming spot breaks the rules invitingly. Here, you can sip a latte or enjoy a slice of cake while browsing an expansive collection of books spanning autobiographies, classics, fantasy, and children’s literature. The walls are lined floor to ceiling with new releases and timeless favorites. The café also hosts enchanting events such as poetry open mic nights, adding a cultural flourish to your visit. Open daily from 9am to 5pm, it’s a must-stop for book lovers and coffee aficionados alike.
Then there’s the Sun Inn, a living piece of history with roots tracing back to the late 1200s. Its medieval-style pub sign, featuring a frowning sun, welcomes visitors to this atmospheric establishment. Beyond its fascinating heritage, the inn boasts an impressive menu focused on Persian cuisine, offering dishes like Ghormeh Sabzi—a savory herb stew with lamb or chicken—and Mahi Polo, featuring pan-fried seasoned salmon fillets. Guests can also relax in the pub garden with a drink, basking in the ambiance of a centuries-old inn. The Sun Inn operates every day, with varying hours from noon until late at night.
On the outskirts of Bruton lies a vibrant warehouse shared by two inventive local businesses. SMOUK Interiors channels Moroccan-inspired flair into cushions, rugs, clothing, and more, adding a worldly touch to everyday living. A quirky highlight is their unexpected possession of a pot once owned by Boycie, a beloved character from the classic sitcom Only Fools and Horses.
Sharing the space is The Flaunt Collective, a boutique showcasing local creatives with a whimsical, bohemian spirit. From colorful “PEACE” jerseys to rebellious, festival-ready dresses and charming naïve art, the collective reflects a vibrant artistic community. Nicola, a 42-year-old interior designer and partner in the boutique, shared her passion: “I love colour. […] I’m trying to change the narrative that interior design is really expensive.”
Both SMOUK Interiors and The Flaunt Collective welcome visitors seven days a week, from 10am to 6pm Monday through Saturday, and from 11am to 3pm on Sundays.
Bruton’s allure lies not just in its famed restaurants and hotels but in these smaller, spirited places that tell its deeper story. Whether you’re after history, culture, or unique finds, this exclusive town offers surprising delights waiting to be explored.