Pretty UK market town is ‘just like the Cotswolds’ but much cheaper - £68 hotels

While tourists love taking in the beauty of the countryside and quaint towns of the Cotswolds, this region can be quite expensive due to its popularity. However, there is one town that is much cheaper and just as pretty, and it's one that not many tourists from abroad and the UK consider going to. The UK is full of underrated towns and villages, and they are slowly becoming more popular as people avoid areas crowded with tourists.

One of those underrated towns is Market Harborough, in Leicestershire. Many Brits who aren't from the region wouldn't have heard of this place. However, those who have visited have had immensely positive things to say. Market Harborough is a small town with a population of around 24,000, according to the latest Census data. Its closest major city is Leicester, about 16.5 miles away. It is also not too far from Northampton and Coventry. Nestled in the scenic countryside, this little market town is a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Plus, a stay here is much cheaper than a stay in a Cotswolds town. A quick online search shows one-night hotel stays in Market Harborough for as little as £68.

People have praised this little town for what it has to offer. One of the top-rated things to do here is a stroll around Foxton Locks, which makes for a nice morning or afternoon by the water. The historic canal makes its way through picturesque landscapes in the town and beyond.

There is also nearby Rockingham Castle, located just outside the neighbouring town of Corby. This magnificent castle is perhaps one of the most beautiful and underrated in England.

Other top-rated attractions in and around Market Harborough include Foxton Canal Museum, Harborough Museum and The Old Grammar School. Other than that, the charm of this town is felt when you take in the lovely old architecture and winding streets.

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There are plenty of independent shops to visit, such as Bebooted, Saphire and In Heaven at Home. Meanwhile, there are some tasty restaurants that are loved by locals and visitors alike.

The top places to eat in Market Harborough include The Waterfront, Nossa Restaurant and Vault & Vine, while some of the best pubs in the town are The Red Cow Pub and the Freemasons Arms.

People have laid praise on Market Harborough. One TripAdvisor user said of their time there: "Although I had often been in the area and had visited Foxton Locks several times, it was the first time I went to the town.

"I must say I found it a delightful place. The huge church in the centre and the Georgian facades make it a very attractive town. There are some really nice shops and we spent a pleasant couple of hours there. We went on to Foxton and from there drove round some lovely little villages in the area."

Another shared: "We used to visit Market Harborough regularly and also found it a sweet little place. We particularly enjoyed the Thai restaurant, The Golden Orchid, and would travel the 20-odd miles just to have lunch there!"

A third wrote: "It's one of those places the guidebooks diss or ignore. I liked it, too, especially the Methodist chapel at the top of the town. Worth a visit if you're in the area."

Meanwhile, the town makes for a nice day-trip from places like Leicester, Birmingham, Northampton and Peterborough. Plus, other lovely towns and villages in the region include Brixworth, Desborough and Uppingham.