Take time out to wander the cobbled streets, stoll alongside the river and enjoy the stunning views of Bradford on Avon.

Bradford on Avon has existed as a community for some 2,500 years. The classic view of the Town Bridge over the River Avon appears on many postcards and is one of the most famous scenes of Bradford on Avon.

The town grew up around broad ford' and the slopes of the riverbank. The narrow roads add to the town's character and are lined with grey buildings built from Bath stone. The textile industry was the backbone of the local economy for six centuries until its demise. At one point Bradford had over 30 cloth factories. The 19th century cloth mills still line the banks of the river and the old clothiers' houses and weavers' cottages provide plenty of old world charm.

The Saxon church of St Laurence is well worth a visit. Its origins are not known for certain but there is evidence that takes it back to the first millennium.

Bradford on Avon is also home to a medieval tithe barn. This large barn was constructed in the 14th century to store the taxes or tithes' paid by the local peasants. Produce would be bought to the barn across the 14th century packhorse bridge, which was built especially for that purpose. In 1971 the farmhouse, barn, bridge and farm was purchased by the local council and became Barton Farm Country Park.

Due to the narrow roads, walking is the best way to get around Bradford on Avon. You can also explore the Kennet and Avon canal towpath or river walks towards the tea rooms and pub at Avoncliff aqueduct. Watching narrowboats passing through the lock in Bradford is one of the town's colourful summer sights.

Step back in time

Just across the Town Bridge and to the left stands the 300-year-old stone building that now houses the Bridge Tea Rooms. Visitors duck their heads as they step through the tiny doorway into an authentic Victorian tea room, complete with bust of Queen Victoria herself. This busy retreat is a favourite hideaway for both locals and tourists.

The cosy shop serves guests on two levels, each decorated with 19th century antiques and other memorabilia. Waitresses dress in costumes which recall the early days of London's first tearooms, when white frilly aprons were worn over black dresses, and white caps covered their hair.

Enjoy beautifully prepared cakes and pastries, or a full afternoon tea with sandwiches, toasted buttered crumpets and scones, while you are transported back in time.