England's Lovely Town Near The Coast With Cozy Pubs And Tasty Eats Is An Unsung Shopping Haven

Eager shoppers will find plenty of opportunity for retail therapy while exploring London's bevy of high-end department stores. However, the rest of England provides just as many chances to shop till you drop, offering a more small-town experience. Dotted across the English countryside are lively market towns with quaint independent stores, and one in particular is somewhat overlooked. Near the Jurassic Coast of Dorset in southwest England is Bridport, a shopping haven with a medieval past. The town emerged in the ninth century, when King Alfred the Great built a stronghold called Bridian (also spelled Brydian) to protect against Danish invasions. But these days, you're more likely to spot charming boutiques than invaders.

Bridport has become such a great spot to browse for unique souvenirs that The Telegraph dubbed it "Notting Hill on Sea." Yet it still seems like a hidden gem. Sightseers can amble around the town's famously broad lanes, which are crowded with pastel storefronts. Whether you're looking for household decor, collectible toys, or secondhand books, you'll no doubt find something that catches your eye. After a day of shopping, head down to Bridport Harbor, a few minutes south in the small fishing village of West Bay. The lengthy Jurassic Pier lets you enjoy the scenery of boats moored on the water. Next, take a leisurely stroll across the rugged beach for views of the Jurassic Coast's dramatic cliffs. When hunger strikes, the array of pubs and eateries around town beckons you in for a tasty meal.

Travelers coming from the capital can take a train from London Waterloo station to Axminster, Dorchester, or Weymouth, then continue by bus to Bridport for a typical journey time of under five hours. Historic places like The Bull Hotel or The Bridge House make it easy to extend your stay here.

East, West, and South Streets make up the main thoroughfare of shops and eateries in Bridport. Start your shopping trip on East Street, where anyone with a sweet tooth should stop by Aleksandra's Chocolate Cafe, a luxury chocolatier featuring handmade goodies. Pick up gift boxes of chocolate truffles and a few Belgian chocolate bars, or grab a few bags of Brazil nuts and mocha beans coated in dark chocolate. Before leaving, make sure to try the cafe's menu of coffee, spritzes, and even milkshakes for a boost of energy to continue your shopping spree.

For quirky souvenirs, turn onto South Street and make your way to Chilli By The Sea, a family-run gift shop. Sporting a large window display within a weathered brick storefront, it's packed from floor to ceiling with all kinds of knickknacks. Looking for patterned throw blankets and decorative cushions? You'll find them here. Want some handmade metal jewelry? There's an entire display of necklaces and earrings. Scavenge around the shelves to find colorful tableware, cute figurines, and even houseplants.

Just a few steps away is The Book Shop, which invites bookworms inside with its impressive wooden facade. The shelves are packed with titles ranging from nonfiction to modern literature, not to mention children's books and graphic novels. You can even grab items like advent calendars and card games. "Please, take a moment to enter the [shop] and you will be amazed," wrote a previous customer on Google. Once you're done shopping, visit the Bridport Museum to explore the fascinating exhibits, or join one of the historic guided walks. For more treasure hunting nearby, take the regional bus around 30 minutes west to Lyme Regis, a coastal town which belongs on any history and fossil lover's bucket list.

Stopping by a pub for a few drinks and a bite is a quintessential part of exploring a rural English town. Highly-rated on Google is West Street's The Ropemakers, a former inn dating back to the 18th century. The pub's painted brick facade entices weary travelers into a cozy interior decorated with wooden beams, patterned rugs, and old photographs on the walls. Try the Dorset rarebit with the soup of the day, or get the beer-battered fish and chips paired with various malty ales from the drinks menu.

Also with excellent reviews is Goose & Badger, a vibrant cafe on South Street. Visitors can enjoy "Great coffee and a lovely atmosphere," according to a former guest. Grab some pastries with your coffee and find a comfy seat by the window to people-watch as you relax. Meanwhile, the cafe transforms into a bar in the evenings, meaning patrons can come back to sip a few glasses of wine amid the casual atmosphere.

Another delightful pub on South Street is The Woodman, which is often buzzing with the strums of live folk music. The pub's stone floors and giant fireplace create a rustic vibe, while the beverages on offer include various ciders and beers, along with rosé, red, and white wines. Meanwhile, anyone craving spicier flavors should try Rakhang Thai Cuisine on East Street. Previous diners at this popular spot have particularly enjoyed the red curry and chicken panang, while other reviews also mention the friendly staff. For more foodie adventures a few hours from Bridport, take the train to Torquay, England's town on the idyllic "seafood coast" with tasty restaurants and a renowned beach. You could also head inland to Keynsham, a town with riverside walks, charming downtown shops, and pubs.