The fourth largest town in Somerset, Frome is built on steep slopes at the edge of the Mendip Hills. Named after the river that runs through it, the town dates back to the seventh century. The cloth industry played an important part in its growth and at one stage Frome was bigger and more important than the nearby town of Bath. With more listed buildings than any other Somerset town, its history is evident in the weavers' cottages that contrast with Georgian terraces and the Trinity area of the town has been preserved as an example of 17th Century industrial housing.
Frome has become known for its thriving contemporary arts and crafts scene and there are a number of galleries displaying work by local artists and craftspeople such as textiles, jewellery and musical instruments. The Cheese and Grain, a converted former farm produce warehouse, is a lively community centre and music venue, and twice a month it hosts a busy farmer's market, as well as the weekly town market that takes place on Wednesdays and Fridays.
The cities of Bath, Bristol, Wells are all within easy reach, as is Glastonbury, the legendary resting place of King Arthur, with its Abbey ruins and prominent Tor. The stately home and safari park of Longleat is also a short distance away.