We stayed in an Airbnb accommodation in Frome entitled “Cosy Georgian Cottage”. It was a short walk into the centre of town and ideal for us. Frome is a charming market town in Somerset located at the eastern end of the Mendip Hills – it has 350 listed buildings. The town is a centre for creative industries with artists, designers and craftspeople. Up and down its picturesque streets there there is a wealth of independent shops selling unique products. We visited the town’s art galleries including the Silk Mill which, as the name suggests, is a well-preserved former textile weaving mill. Black Swan Arts on Bridge Street is a contemporary craft centre, which was formally a centuries old pub. We had a look around and stopped for tea and cakes. The Round Tower, now used as an art gallery, was originally built for drying wool. It has a winding staircase up to a gallery. The cobbled streets of Frome itself are winding and full of character – and friendly characters.
Frome Festival was taking place when we were there, so events were taking place in every venue including the churches. The parish church of St John the Baptist had a traditional flower festival on the day we visited. There has been a church on the site since 685 Ad and this was replaced in the 12th century with restorations taking place over the centuries. The stained glass, , sculptures and architecture are all impressive. The church held a special interest to me for another reason. At that time the parish was seeking a new vicar – the previous vicar had just retired from the preisthood and has moved to my home town! He is now a valued local history researcher for our group. It was obvious, when I chatted to St John’s parishioners that they missed him and his wife. Their loss our gain!
One unique feature of central Frome is the Valentine’s Lamp, which is located at the top of Catherine Hill. Set in heart-shaped cobble stones the lamp has a “love seat” nearby and a renovated George V posting box attached to the lamppost for posting your cards. The gas lamp has been celebrated for over 30 years – and you can guess, they have special event on Valentine’s Day with wine and music. The lamp is lit by the lamplighter in period costume.
Frome is an ideal place to stay as there are excellent transport links. There are lots of places to eat and drinlk – many serving local produce from Somerset and set within historic buildings. With plenty of things to see and do, Frome is a hidden gem!
