A ‘wonderful’ quaint proper English market town is a must-visit location with its old buildings, historical streets and unique timber inns.

The ‘hidden gem’ is also home to over 60 charming independent shops which draw in locals and tourists all-year-round.

The Cotswolds town is a lesser-known tourist spot but is described as a ‘fabulous’ place with many lovely walks surrounding the area.

Situated above the River Isbourne in Gloucestershire, the town is close to the scenic Cotswold Way in the Tewkesbury Borough.

Centuries-old buildings date back to medieval times here, with several 15th-century coaching inns now serving as restaurants – and it’s set in beautiful countryside that stretches for miles around the town. 

Winchcombe is a great autumn break with stunning views, pretty stone cottages and historical black and white half-timbered buildings, it’s the ‘hidden jewel in the Cotswold crown’ and a great escape from the city.

The Cotswolds website described the place: “As well as the town centre, must see places are Sudeley Castle with its 1,000 years of royal history and stunning gardens at any time of year.

“The church which is home to an altar cloth made by Catherine of Aragon and 40 grotesques (which are shaped to look like the local characters of the 1460’s).

“Winchcombe is a delight for visitors, with a good range of shops including a wonderful deli, traditional retailers, boutique clothing, interior design and antique shops to browse.

“The town also boasts a wealth of historic pubs, some with a modern twist, several tea rooms and galleries to while away the afternoon.”

Winchcombe is also proud of its ‘Walkers are Welcome’ slogan – and many footpaths lead to beautiful countryside as well as lots of interesting things to see along the way.

There’s a Roman villa set in remote landscape and also an ancient Neolithic burial site, or you can hike to the top of the Cotswold Scarp, a steep edge of the Cotswold Hills, for breathtaking views.

The Experience Winchcombe website described visiting this place as experiencing a Cotswold town at its finest.

The website said: “Relax in our timbered inns, savour our fresh local produce and browse and buy in our independent, quality shops.

“Soak up the scenery with a walk or cycle around this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or a stroll alongside the River Isbourne.

“Discover the fascinating history and centuries-old architecture of this charming Cotswold town, or simply unwind in our breath-taking countryside.”

Winchcombe is a market town in the Borough of Tewkesbury in the county of Gloucestershire, the pretty place is situated seven miles away from Cheltenham – and it’s home to about 5000 residents.