England's Pretty National Park Town With Inviting Shops And Tasty Restaurants Is Under Two Hours From London

In the countryside south of England's vibrant capital is the South Downs National Park, a scenic region of rolling hills reaching to white chalk cliffs along the coast. Aside from pleasant walks amidst the grassy slopes, travelers in search of underrated towns to explore will find communities big and small tucked into the landscape. One such destination is Petworth, an ancient little town with lots of charm.

The idyllic South Downs scenery can be seen all around Petworth. The winding roads leading into town are bordered by dry stone walls and leafy hedgerows backed by the ridge of green hills. Upon reaching the town center, the streets are crowded with rustic painted cottages and quaint brick and stone storefronts. Looming majestically over the edge of town is Petworth House, a baroque-inspired manor with a vast deer park looking out across the South Downs stretching into the distance. History buffs can wander the halls of Petworth House to admire the art collections amidst the 17th-century architecture, or take a tour of Petworth Cottage Museum for a glimpse of working-class life during the Edwardian era.

Meanwhile, the independent local shops scattered through town beckon casual sightseers for a shopping spree. At the end of the day, an array of quaint eateries and cozy tearooms offer visitors a tasty meal. Anyone traveling from London can take the Southern Railway line leaving Victoria Station, then change at Pulborough for the local bus towards Petworth. With the total journey taking roughly 90 minutes, Petworth is a fantastic day-trip option from the big city, while travelers can also stay overnight at the posh inns around town. Or you could plan a different sort of journey through South Downs National Park, a scenic coastal drive considered one of Britain's best road trip routes.

With origins dating back to the 11th century, Petworth has long been a market town. Visitors won't be surprised, therefore, to find an antique shop in Petworth almost every which way you turn. Just a short walk from the old market square is Petworth Antiques Market, where shoppers can browse for "a wide variety of interesting items," according to one Google Maps reviewer. With the weathered stone tower of St. Mary the Virgin Church looming in the backdrop, history fiends can snap photos of the architecture while shoppers head inside the antiques market. The shelves are crowded with everything from old books to vintage tableware and even apparel.

From the antiques market, make your way down Lombard Street, a narrow cobblestone alley crowded on either side with brick buildings. Beckoning customers inside with a large window display is Tallulah Fox, a family-owned gift shop offering all kinds of stylish knickknacks. "I always find something I really like and just have to buy," says a previous visitor. The rustic interiors create a calming atmosphere to browse the whimsical pottery, scented candles, patterned tea towels and tablecloths, throw pillows, and luxury bath products.

The other end of Lombard Street brings you back to Petworth's market square, where bookworms can continue onwards to the Petworth Bookshop, an independent store featuring a bright yellow marquee and busy window displays. Cozy armchairs dotted around the premises offer a spot to sit and read for a while, with titles ranging from non-fiction to modern literature. Shoppers will also find toys, souvenirs, and even vinyl records amongst the crowded shelves. Next, take the local bus to explore more of the South Downs in nearby Midhurst, a charming town with quaint shops and historic ruins.

After spending the day shopping, a proper meal is in order. A quintessential British experience is stopping for tea — including sandwiches and cakes, of course — which can be enjoyed at Tiffins tearoom. The simple, country-style decor inside creates a relaxing atmosphere for diners to fill up on toasties, soup, and jacket potatoes. For travelers staying overnight, stop at Tiffins in the morning for a full English breakfast. Previous customers have also mentioned the array of cakes on the menu, along with options for vegans.

For a more upscale dining experience, try the E.Street Bar & Grill, which has a 4.6-star rating on Google Maps. The menu offers seasonal, farm-to-table dishes including pork chops and steaks along with salads and oysters. Diners can also head up to the bar to enjoy a selection of cocktails, which ranges from classics like mojitos and cosmopolitans to sweet concoctions like a grasshopper with cream and créme de menthe. Previous guests have also been impressed with the elegant interior decor.

Meanwhile, travelers can immerse themselves in a classic British pub setting at The Angel Inn, a former pilgrim's stop dating back to at least the 18th century. A previous customer described it as an "atmospheric pub with genuinely fresh food." Order sandwiches or a Sunday roast and dine out on the terrace if the weather cooperates, or sip ales and ciders inside surrounded by characterful wood beams. Visitors can also book one of the inn's elegant rooms for an overnight stay. Another great destination to visit south of London is Uckfield, an English town with easy access to outdoor fun, historic charm, and tasty eats.