A recent visit to the Somerset town of Frome rekindled my love for antiques, flea markets, and independent shops. This vibrant town, nestled on the edge of the Mendip Hills, has been on my list of UK destinations for years. Known for its unique blend of historic charm and modern creativity, Frome has become a magnet for artists and creatives, many drawn from London and surrounding cities to join a tight-knit artistic community in the countryside. The allure of affordable spaces, combined with train links to London, Bath, and Bristol, makes it easy to see why this place has such appeal.
Like many post-industrial towns, Frome wasn’t always the thriving hub it is today. In the 1990s, after an economic crash, the town faced rapid decline. Shops were left empty, and the vibrancy drained from its once-bustling streets. But in the late '90s, a regeneration scheme was introduced, dramatically reducing rents to encourage people back into the town.
Artists, always on the lookout for affordable space and inspiring surroundings, started to settle, transforming the town. In time, over 75% of the shops became independent, artist-run spaces—a creative revolution that turned Frome into a beacon for makers, painters, and dreamers alike.
Frome boasts a rich variety of artist spaces and cultural venues. Black Swan Arts Centre is home to studios and a gallery, providing a platform for contemporary works. The Cheese and Grain, a former market hall turned live music venue, brings together locals and visitors for concerts and events, while the Silk Mill—a former textile factory—has been repurposed into a dynamic hub for workshops and exhibitions.
One of Frome's highlights is its bustling monthly markets. Streets are closed off to cars, creating a pedestrian-friendly space where visitors can wander among the stalls. From local produce and handmade jewelry to baked goods, flowers, and of course, original art, the market is a true reflection of the town’s independent spirit. The energy is infectious, and the community vibe—so evident in the interaction between stallholders and shoppers—keeps the town’s economy thriving while fostering a sense of togetherness.
When in Frome
During my visit, I stayed in a four-story Georgian townhouse in the heart of Frome, a spontaneous decision for a short end-of-summer escape. This 300-year-old building had all the quirks you’d expect—wobbly floorboards, creaking staircases, and fragile single-glazed windows—but it exuded character and history at every turn.
One morning, while flipping through a book called 'The Perfect English Townhouse' I came across a photograph of an interior that looked startlingly familiar. The wallpaper in the image was identical to the one in the bathroom of the house I was staying in. On closer inspection, I realized it was the bathroom! It felt surreal to be staying in a place that had made its way into the pages of a beautiful book.
Among the most memorable moments of my stay was encountering a worn-out leather chair in the sitting room—a piece of furniture so full of stories, it practically begged to be painted. There was something in its shabby-chic beauty, its weathered elegance, that made me wonder about the people who had sat there over the centuries. Inspired by its quiet dignity, I set up an easel in the doorway, captivated by how the natural light streaming through the window turned this unassuming chair into the perfect subject for a painting.
Frome is, without question, a town where the past and present coexist harmoniously. It’s a place where history breathes through the cracks, where the stories of old are etched into every stone, every building. But it’s also a place where creativity thrives, where artists continue to shape its evolving narrative. As an artist, I’m already looking forward to returning—next time, with even more canvas, paints and brushes packed in my bag.
