'I stayed in the village near Manchester that's like a step back in time - and found utopia'

Last year Tarporley was named one of the Best Places to Live in the UK by the Sunday Times, and it is easy to see why. The annual list hailed this picturesque village as 'Cheshire at its most well-heeled and welcoming'

It's just under an hour from Manchester but this chocolate box village feels almost utopian. Indeed, walking down the Georgian high street on a warm Sunday afternoon, you could easily think you've taken a step back in time.

From the quaint little cottages to the old fire and police stations, complete with their original features, you really do feel like you're in another world. There are cobbled alleyways and beautiful historic buildings all along the high street, which makes it the perfect spot for a day out or mini-break too.

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The historic village dates back as far as the Domesday Book and sits roughly halfway along the famous Sandstone Trail. It is also in easy travelling distance of Chester and Delamere Forest (the latter you can walk to via the Sandstone Trail), as well as popular family attractions like Oulton Park, the Ice Cream Farm, Beeston Castle and the Crocky Trail.

Tarporley itself is home to an array of independent shops and restaurants - including the popular Hollies on the High Street, a recent opening from the famous Hollies Farm Shop (yes, Molly-Mae Hague's favourite) in nearby Little Budworth. You can also find plenty of tea shops and award winning pubs along the village high street, including Ginger and Pickles, just been named Cheshire Life magazine's café of the year.

Right in the centre of the village you'll find The Swan, which is one of Tarporley's most distinctive, and famous, landmarks. The 16th