The little-known UK market town with an 'unspoilt town centre' full of independent shops

There are few better ways to spend a Saturday or Sunday than browsing a local market. In the UK, we're lucky to have dozens of beautiful market towns that are ideal for a relaxed weekend trip. But over the years, many high streets have started to look the same.

Rows of chain stores and empty shopfronts have replaced what once made each town unique. Thankfully, a few towns have managed to keep their charm. One of them has what visitors and locals call an "unspoilt town centre" and a high street full of independent shops, and it's a proper hidden gem.

Leek, in Staffordshire, is known as the "Queen of the Moorlands". It's a historic market town just outside the Peak District with stone-cobbled streets, Victorian buildings, and family-run shops you won't find anywhere else.

One visitor said on TripAdvisor: "Leek's a proper find for anyone who's fed up with the usual high street scene.

"The town centre's full of brilliant little independent shops. I'm talking proper unique stuff, not just the same old chains. I reckon I could spend a whole day in there and not get bored."

The heart of the town is its historic Market Place and the beautifully restored Victorian Butter Market.

There's a general outdoor market every Wednesday, and the town also hosts monthly 'Totally Locally' Sunday markets packed with artisan food, vintage goods and crafts.

Another visitor said: "Leek's a total surprise for a foodie. I didn't expect such a cool food scene in such a small town.

"I kicked things off with a classic Staffordshire oatcake, seriously, you gotta try one, and then grabbed lunch at this fantastic little place called Duck Goose.

"Everything was so fresh and tasted amazing. There are tons of cute tea rooms and bakeries too. The food here is top-notch, and it's all about local ingredients, which is awesome."

Leek is also known for its history. The town was once a centre of the textile industry and still features buildings linked to designer William Morris and architect Larner Sugden.

One of the most beautiful is the Nicholson Institute, which still hosts exhibitions, lectures and music events today.

A recent visitor said: "The old buildings are beautiful, with a lot of Victorian and Arts & Crafts style. I especially liked the Nicholson Institute.

"When you walk through the Market Place, it feels like you're in a different era, especially on market days. The town has done a great job of keeping its authentic feel, which is something you don't see very often these days."

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Leek is surrounded by stunning countryside. The nearby Roaches are popular with hikers and climbers, while Rudyard Lake and Tittesworth Water are peaceful spots perfect for walking or paddleboarding.

"I'm an outdoor kinda person, and Leek's the perfect spot for it," one reviewer said. "It's an awesome launchpad for exploring the Staffordshire Moorlands.

"The Roaches are super close, and the views are just insane. I spent a whole afternoon just chilling by Rudyard Lake, so peaceful. It's the best of both worlds, really.

"You get this chill, historic town, but you're also right on the doorstep of some seriously epic countryside."

And with £17.1 million of Levelling Up funding now being used to improve its market hall, museum, and leisure centre, Leek looks set to stay special for years to come.