Many guide books claim that Malmesbury is the oldest continually inhabited town in England. And, once you’ve seen the idyllic location — atop a flat hill, encircled by the Avon River, and overlooking rolling green countryside — you can begin to see why this claim makes a lot of sense. The town is also home to one of the hotels claiming to be England’s oldest, The Old Bell Hotel, which, arguably, has been one of the best places to stay in Malmesbury since 1220! Our other recommendations include a converted rectory, and a romantic, culinary retreat converted from a grand manor house.
In addition to the view, and the security of the location, the hill Malmesbury sits upon is dotted with natural springs. These were recognised as holy springs by the 7th century, and an abbey was built — a magical-looking survivor of the dissolution of the monasteries, and now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Come the 10th century, Malmesbury was England’s capital, and its first every king, Athelstan, is buried in the abbey grounds. Today the springs keep everything lush and green, and the area is well known for its gardens. And the abbey provides a centre for Malmesbury’s old honey-coloured streets, lined with 17th and 18th century buildings, now pleasant boutiques, galleries, tea rooms and the like.
As well as visiting the abbey, there's the small Athelstan Museum, Westonbirt Arboretum, and the adorable village of Lacock (an often-used location for filming). It’s worth timing your trip to coincide with the local market too — this is still a market town, and has one of the best preserved traditional market crosses in England.
But don't forget that this is a popular little town. The best places to stay in Malmesbury fill up fast during peak season, so do your research and book well ahead.