Marlborough, a picturesque market town in Wiltshire, has been recognized as having one of the UK's best high streets, with locals expressing gratitude for its thriving independent scene.
Award-Winning High Street
Last year, the high street was named one of the UK's best by readers of The Times, alongside other notable towns like Sherbourne in Dorset, Northallerton in North Yorkshire, and Wells in Somerset. In 2022, it also secured second place in the British Harper Dennis Hobbs Vitality Ranking, which monitors the health and prosperity of town centres.
Local Praise
Resident Chris Robe told The Express that the high street has remained strong "because it knows what it stands for," adding that it "hasn't sold out to big chains or businesses that don't fit the local vibe." He highlighted the presence of independent cafés, butchers, and bakeries, saying, "That's what keeps people coming back, and it's what keeps money circulating in the community."
Fellow resident Mandy Kelsey described the town as "beautiful" with a "lovely vibe" and a great range of shops and cafes. She noted the upmarket nature of some shops but pointed out that the Wednesday and Saturday markets offer less expensive items. "We should be grateful the shops are full and nothing is boarded up and run down, be grateful for what you have on your doorstep. I love it," she said.
Town Council's Perspective
A spokesman for Marlborough Town Council attributed the town's success to the "unique blend of everything on offer coupled with its scale." The council noted that residents have described Marlborough as a "friendly, historic, beautiful market town," a description they have embraced on welcome signs.
The council also highlighted that Marlborough is "lucky" to have one of the widest high streets in the country, lined with buildings that are "a real mixture of architectural styles and historic period." The town is "compact" with "quirky yards, streets and alleyways" to explore, full of independent businesses including cafés, shops, restaurants, galleries, hotels, and a boutique cinema.
Events and Surroundings
The spokesman added that there are many cultural events, including music festivals, performances, artist and artisan studio openings, and a literary festival. The town is surrounded by stunning historic countryside, such as Merlin's Mound, Silbury Hill, the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, the River Kennet, ancient Savernake Forest, and West Woods.
