When visitors from abroad picture quintessentially British destinations, they frequently envision charming villages featuring picturesque stone bridges, historic buildings and stunning countryside.

They want that charming experience that you can find in rural areas – and this has led to areas like the Cotswolds becoming seriously crowded.

Bus loads of tourists show up in the small villages, making it difficult to find parking or somewhere relaxing to enjoy your time there.

So as a result of this, people are looking for different places to visit instead. And thankfully, there are plenty of these available!

In fact, a TikTok travel creator called Chris recommended an underrated spot in the Midlands to anyone who wants to visit a quaint UK town without the hordes of tourists.

Chris begins his clip by revealing he’s discovered a ‘really perfect, little town that looks just like the Cotswolds.”

The location in question? Stamford in Lincolnshire.

Beyond charming cobbled lanes, striking yellow-brick architecture, delightful boutiques and impressive churches, Chris provided his audience with essential details for visiting the town.

He explained: “From both Leeds and London, it takes about two hours to get there. It’s right next to the A1 but it’s so much more than a stop off on the side of the road.

“It’s got a bustling high street, beautiful Georgian buildings and a history dating back to the Roman times.”

Adding further, he said: “There’s even links to Oliver Cromwell.”

This is likely a nod to Burghley House – a grand 16th Century stately home near Stamford – which was stormed by Cromwell’s troops during the English Civil War.

A portrait of Cromwell now graces the home in remembrance of his siege.

Chris also mentioned that Stamford reminded him of English locations used in major Hollywood films, which is probably because it has been on screen many times before.

Its picturesque streets have featured in productions such as “Pride and Prejudice” and the BBC’s “Middlemarch”, so it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in history.

Chris added: “I definitely got a vibe of it being a bit like the Cotswolds, it really reminded me of that dreadful Cameron Diaz film, The Holiday, and I can imagine in the run up to Christmas this place is going to be super magical. It’s got a lovely river running through it and some beautiful buildings.”

You can spend your day wandering through the town and looking at more than 600 listed buildings that are located there. 

Alternatively, Stamford is very close to Burghley House, which one of England’s grandest Elizabethan stately homes.

Other highlights include the bustling street market on Fridays, picnicking at Stamford Meadows or watching a show at Stamford Arts Centre. The possibilities are endless!

In conclusion, the travel fan added: “I think Stamford’s a bit under the radar but it should definitely be somewhere that’s on your ‘to visit’ bucket list.”