The pretty UK market town without the crowds that most tourists overlook
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Tourists flock to the Cotswolds even in winter, seeking that perfect English countryside experience. If you've ever watched 'The Holiday' and yearned for a snug cottage getaway, there's no shortage of idyllic spots right on our doorstep. From the bustling charm of Bourton-on-the-Water to Bibury, hailed as the 'most beautiful village', the South West is brimming with tourist hotspots. However, some hidden gems remain off the beaten path.
Lacock may be known for its quaint 'timewarp' appeal under the National Trust, but just three miles away lies another town worthy of attention. On the edge of the Cotswolds, the Wiltshire market town of Corsham sits quietly away from the usual tourist trail.
READ MORE: My stay in town that inspired Lord of the Rings showed me new side of the Cotswolds. Corsham offers a unique spectacle - peacocks wandering the streets. These vibrant birds, typically found at Corsham Court, an impressive stately home open to visitors, are often seen strutting along the town centre's cobbled lanes.
Described by Visit Corsham as "a hidden gem waiting to be explored", the town boasts a lively arts scene, Georgian stone architecture, and a host of independent shops. When Bristol Live visited, it was noticeably free of the crowds that Lacock has. Corsham, a town known for its appearances in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, is also recognisable to fans of Poldark. The BBC drama's first series was partially filmed here, with the town centre standing in for 18th century Cornwall despite its inland location.
