‘Perfect’ Medieval market town named in Domesday Book is among UK's best in new Telegraph list
Horncastle, a historic market town mentioned in the Domesday Book, has been named among the UK's most perfect towns by The Telegraph. Discover why it's celebrated for its antique shops and rich heritage.
One of the region’s finest market towns has been named among the best in the country by The Telegraph.
The newspaper released its ranking of 12 ‘perfect’ towns that you should visit this year, including one from the East Midlands.
A Telegraph expert curated the list of Britain’s most perfect towns choosing the hallowed 12 from around 1,275 across England.
Horncastle in Lincolnshire was rated for its antique offering.
The historic town named by the Saxons ‘Hyrnecastre’ was mentioned in Domesday Book of 1086.
According to Horncastle Town Council, the Domesday Book entry listed the town as consisting of 41 households, 29 villagers, 12 smallholders and 100 acres of meadow all belonging to King William.
Telegraph expert Sarah Baxter named Horncastle in Lincolnshire as one of her perfect market towns.
Speaking of a top-tier market town activity - exploring an Aladdin’s Cave antique shop - Sarah wrote about Horncastle: “Who doesn’t love a good rummage? The antiques trade is big business, and shops often clump together, within the same buildings and along the same streets. Market towns can (and should) offer rich pickings.”
Where is Horncastle?
This former Roman settlement sits on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds.
It is known for being an ‘antiquing’ epicentre, boasting numerous antique shops including one of the largest in the region, the three-storey Horncastle Antiques Centre.
Located in a converted former factory, there is plenty to explore at this antique centre including hundreds of antiques, vintage costumes, furniture and collectibles.
What is so special about a market town?
One of the many benefits of exploring a market town is its size, which is right side of compact.
Market towns are a good size to stroll through one afternoon, but not so big that you need a whole day to discover hidden gems.
Many market towns are also heritage-rich, which means you can really explore local history and learn something new in a fun and informative way while enjoying lunches and light bites in quaint tea rooms.