tour of english villages

Touring England's Villages as a mature and senior traveller

Touring England’s villages For many travellers, London is synonymous with England. This lively, cosmopolitan capital is a must see, of course, but there is more to England than booming cities and industrial centres. Instead, what…

2 Mar 18 · 16 mins read

Touring England’s villages

For many travellers, London is synonymous with England . This lively, cosmopolitan capital is a must see, of course, but there is more to England than booming cities and industrial centres. Instead, what makes this country truly unique are its picturesque villages. With centuries of history behind them, they remain the chosen dwelling places of many locals. England’s villages are beloved and cared for by their residents and the National Trust . If you wish to discover more about the history, architecture and mythic landscapes of England, you must inhabit the lives of the people who call it home. These villages are at once cute and intriguing, surprising and familiar, and each boasts its own distinct charms.

A winding journey

Furthermore, part of the joy of discovering England’s darling villages is experiencing the journey itself. As we move from one village to the next, we watch mountains give way to valleys, and colourful flowers pass to rocky cliffs. We gain insight into how people must have moved between villages in the past, and how these villages continue to represent warm and intimate havens nestled into the landscape.

The following article is arranged into counties, regions or areas where appropriate. We will explore the different characters of these counties to gain a sense and visual picture of village life there.

Sussex is a land of myth, legend and history. It is located in south east England, and corresponds roughly with its ancient iteration as the Kingdom of Sussex. As you weave through the green hills and mounds of Sussex, you may sense that you’re walking in thousands of years’ worth of footsteps. This is because “Boxgrove man”, or Homo heidelbergensis was discovered here in Sussex in 1993. The hominid remains found at Eartham Pitt, Boxgrove, date back around 500,000 years. Read more about the archaeological significance of this event here .

Sussex is also rich in relics from the Bronze and Iron Ages. This includes the settlement of ‘Trundle Hill’. It is one of four hill forts built in Sussex. The original purpose of this trundle on St Roche’s Hill is not known, but the site was used as a military base during the 17th and 18th centuries, and for an early warning radar system in World War II.

Sussex is incredibly peaceful: a place for contemplation and reflection. It is beloved by the children’s author Cressida Cowell ( How to Train Your Dragon ), who wrote for an article in the Guardian: “I guess I’ve created a world in fiction based on how this beautiful area made me feel as a child”. Read more of her thoughts on Sussex here .

The Weald and Downland Open Air Museum

No visit to Sussex would be complete without stopping in at The Weald and Downland Open Air Museum . This beloved institution showcases 1000 years of rural British life. It is home to a collection of over fifty historic buildings, including a replica Anglo-Saxon hall house, an Edwardian tin tabernacle church and a Tudor kitchen that hosts cooking displays! As Cressida Cowell observes, we often only have access to history in the form of ruins and castles. These were the homes of royals and the elite classes. The Museum, on the other hand, shares the lives of ordinary people. It sheds light on Britain’s rural history, by bringing it to life in our present. The Museum hosts craft displays, too, such as blacksmithing in their Victorian smithy. Its working attractions include a sawpit shed and water mill.

Wiltshire is a land of chalky hills and wide valleys. It is home to both Stonehenge and Avebury , the latter being England’s largest henge monument. Built in 2600 BCE, the Neolithic World Heritage site includes three stone circles, a long barrow (burial tomb), and a processional avenue. If you have an interest in henge monuments, you might like to read our article on Scotland’s standing stones and neolithic history .

Fascinating finds from the 1930s archaeological excavations are on show at the museum housed in the grounds of Avebury Manor. The Manor, of Tudor origin, was recently reopened following a major transformation for a new BBC series entitled The Manor Reborn. The early 16th century Manor house was redecorated and redesigned in five different styles, exhibited within its nine rooms and parts of the garden. These styles were Tudor, Queen Anne, Georgian , Victorian , and 20th century.

Each room reflects the way its inhabitants would have lived, and all furniture and objects were made not just for show, but to withstand ordinary use. The highlight of this house is that you, too, are invited to sit on the chairs, lie on the beds, play in the Billiard Room. The only exception to this is the Chinese wallpaper within the Georgian Dining Room, because it will be damaged if touched.

Wiltshire is also home to Lacock: a planned mediaeval estate village now owned by the National Trust. The layout and character of this well-planned medieval estate village has changed little since the 15th century. So, it provides a fascinating glimpse of village life at that time. There are fine timber-framed houses, a 13th century tithe barn, and inns with passageways and stables – survivors from the wool trade era. You might find Lacock strangely familiar. This is because it has served as the setting for many films and television series. The impressive list includes the BBC’s Pride and Prejudice, Wolf Hall and Cranford; and Hollywood blockbuster Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

The beautiful landscapes of Dorset are known as ‘Thomas Hardy country’, for the beloved writer and poet who called this part of the world home. His stirring evocations of rural life have captivated a century’s worth of readers, bringing the quintessential English village to life. It is well worth discovering the sites that inspired the man himself. Among its charms is Cranbourne Chase, the chalky plateau that has earned itself the national designation, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) .

Dorset is populated by a number of pretty villages. Milton Abbas is referred to as a ‘model village’. Its 775-strong population reside in white-washed, thatch-roofed cottages that are postcard perfect. The stunning Milton Abbey completes the fairy-tale image, rising out of a dreamy landscape crafted by Capability Brown.

The village of Corfe Castle shares its name with the ruined, limestone castle that overlooks it. The village and castle sit within a gap in the Purbeck Hills. Built by William the Conqueror, much of the castle was destroyed by Oliver Cromwell’s forces. The castle affords beautiful views across the village, which boasts cute stores and pubs.

It is worth venturing to Swanage for its views of the pretty coastline. Swanage Beach is a major draw for visitors, for its sunshine and sand. As you head west, make a special stop at the Church of St. Nicholas in tiny Moreton village. Behold the exquisite etched glass windows by the artist Sir Laurence Whistler, famous for his glass engravings. But it is T.E. Lawrence who put Moreton on the map. He often visited the village from his own home nearby, and when he was tragically killed by a motorcycle accident in 1935, ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ was laid to rest in the cemetery at Moreton’s church.

The craggy landscapes and surreal rock formations of Dartmoor are located in southern Devon . In Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous novel, The Hound of the Baskervilles , a message sent to Sir Henry Baskerville read, ‘as you value your life or your reason, keep away from the moors’. Doyle painted an image of the moors as grim, forbidding and dangerous. As the famous mists descend upon the peat bogs, you may feel your senses waking up. But there is no reason to fear! The moors are a dreamy landscape of tiny villages, farms, rolling hills, granite tors and wild ponies. Allow yourself to be swept up in the romance of this evocative place.

Cornwall ’s coastal villages tell tales of fishing and smuggling: two activities that shaped the history of this charming part of England. These tales are immortalised in Polperro’s Heritage Museum, where we learn that this village was the centre of the Cornish smuggling industry. Nearby Mevagissey is also proud of its history. Its museum showcases a photographic exhibition of village life in the 19th and 20th centuries. Mevagissey is said to be one of England’s prettiest villages. Wind your way through its narrow streets and toward the pretty twin harbour, which provides safe haven for fishing boats.

Then, there’s quaint Fowey – cargo port at the mouth of the River Fowey. The estuary forms a natural harbour which enabled the village to become an important trade centre. It has been here since 1300, perhaps longer. St Catherine’s Castle is a 16th century ruin perched on a cliff that overlooks the estuary, and the sea. In Fowey, climb aboard a boat to explore the port and harbour, or take the ferry to sleepy Polruan – a village famed for its boat building heritage.

A scenic drive from Cornwall to Devon

The pretty scenery of Cornwall’s west coast makes it perfect territory for a leisurely drive. The trip from Cornwall to Devon takes in villages worth stopping for, like Port Isaac, the coastal setting for popular television series Doc Martin. Explore its nooks and crannies before continuing along the picturesque West Cornish coast. Soon enough, you will reach Clovelly – an English Heritage site. Owing particularly to its location in a steep wooded cleft, this is one of Cornwall’s – and England’s – prettiest villages.

Finally, Dunster is the perfect spot to call it a day. This well-preserved medieval village is managed by the National Trust and sits just within the north-eastern boundary of Exmoor National Park. In Dunster, a castle towers over the cobblestoned main street, and the Yarn Market still stands, as does the ancient tithe barn. A gentle stroll leads to a packhorse bridge and beautiful scenery. Retire with a well-earned ale in one of Dunster’s historic pubs.

North Devon and Exmoor National Park

Exmoor is an undulating, bare plateau cut with wooded, steep valleys. Its picturesque coastline fronts the Bristol Channel. Though smaller than Dartmoor, Exmoor’s tracts of wilderness are equally as forbidding. A number of villages, some located within Exmoor National Park, form part of the Holnicote Estate, which is owned by the National Trust.

The village of Allerford boasts a picture-perfect packhorse bridge, along with a mill complete with pond and orchard. The lime-washed cottages of pretty Bossington village have tall, traditional chimneys and quaint bread ovens. The cottages at Luccombe are built of cream-washed cob, with uneven thatched roofs and wide eaves.

Castle Combe

A drive to the Cotswolds takes one through Castle Combe, which is often voted England’s most beautiful village. Castle Combe is located in Wiltshire, and like Lacock, it may also appear familiar. It was the location for the classic British version of Doctor Doolittle and more recently, Steven Spielberg’s Warhorse. The village cottages are exemplary Cotswold type, constructed in stone with thick walls and roofs made from split natural stone tiles. These cottages are many hundreds of years old and are listed as ancient monuments. St Andrew’s Church dates back to the 13th century, but arguably Castle Combe’s most famous feature is the old bridge over Bybrook. Peaceful woodland surrounds the village, which enjoys nature at its very best.

The Cotswolds

There are 38 official Areas of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales. The Cotswolds is the largest. Its 2000 square kilometres of rolling hills or ‘wolds’ span five counties: Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and Worcestershire. It is a pocket of rural England that is just waiting to be explored.

Among the most famous villages in the region is Bourton-on-the-Water, which is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds”. A series of low stone, 18th century bridges distinguish this pretty village. It is also within easy walking distance (2.4km) to the village of Lower Slaughter, where you can visit the Old Mill Museum and take in the scenery along the River Eye.

Religion played a significant part in the lives of rural people. A short walk in Lower Oddington village leads to St. Nicholas Church, the site of impressive and somewhat macabre medieval doom paintings. Their depictions of heaven and hell were designed to educate illiterate peasants. Once common, such wall paintings are rarely seen today.

Stow-on-the-Wold: “where the wind blows cold”! Stow has earned itself this expression for its position at the highest point in the Cotswolds. The market square attests to the size of sheep flocks once driven here for sale. Stow has a village green at its centre which still features stocks, or restraining devices – relics of a long-passed criminal punishment system. The church here is full of Civil War history, as it once housed 1000 Royalist prisoners. Stow is the scene of the last battle of the English Civil War.

Finally, Moreton-in-the-Marsh is located in north-eastern Gloucestershire. This 13th century market town also has a history as a coaching station, prior to the establishment of the Worcestershire railway in 1853. Its fine former coaching inns include The Curfew Tower and Market Hall.

The county of Derbyshire is located in England’s East Midlands. A large portion of the Peak District National Park lies within Derbyshire, but it is also home to some truly charming villages. These villages respond to Derbyshire’s varied landscape, which includes Coalfields, Claylands, Washlands and Lowlands. From a geological perspective, Derbyshire can be split into two halves. Older, Carboniferous-age rocks occur in the northern, upper county, while the southern, more lowland half is characterised by softer rocks. These latter, Permo-Triassic mudstones and sandstones create a gentler, rolling landscape with fewer rocky outcrops.

The village of Ashbourne in Derbyshire is often called the ‘Gateway to the Peak District’ or ‘Gateway to Dovedale’ – a popular National Trust-owned valley. But Ashbourne has its own attractions, including the annual historic Shrovetide football match – a quirky ‘Medieval football’ match played here on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday. The community also continues its tradition as a market town and fought the threat of closure from the local council in 2012 to retain its twice weekly outdoor market.

The estate village of Tissington is picturesque, replete with duck pond, a 1609 Jacobean Hall and Tissinghurst Hall. This is the seat of the FitzHerberts, who have owned the estate since 1465. Nearby, Youlgreave village swells with walkers who pass through on any of the three long-distance paths in the region. Its traditional stone-built houses and shops are served by three solid pubs. The All Saints Church is regarded as one of the most impressive in Derbyshire. Both Tissinghurst and Youlgrave practice “ well-dressing ”, wherein wells are decorated with flower petals pressed into clay, displayed for one week each year. The tradition is dated to 1348, when the village escaped the Black Death – a feat they ascribe to the purity of the well water.

A perfect Derbyshire day

For a perfect day in Derbyshire, begin at Ashford-on-the-Water. Described as one of England’s perfect ‘chocolate box villages’, check out what is claimed to be the country’s most photographed bridge: Sheepwash Bridge. Then head for the tiny village of Eyam, renowned for its heroic efforts to stop the Black Plague spreading from its inhabitants to other villages. Australian author Geraldine Brooks immortalised the villagers in her book, Year of Wonders . The village museum has an excellent exhibition, while a short walk leads to places associated with the event: when villagers sealed themselves off from the world to contain the disease.

Finally, spend an afternoon at famous Chatsworth House to absorb the exquisite furnishings and art collection – one of Europe’s best. It is believed that Jane Austen based her idea of Pemberley, the home of Pride and Prejudice’s Mr. Darcy, on Chatsworth House. The house was used as Pemberley in the 2005 film version of the book.

The edge of the Lake District

Settle is an ideal entry-way into the Lake District . This market town in West Yorkshire dates to 1249. Situated beside England’s largest outcrop of limestone, the town has a wealth of heritage-listed buildings including The Folly, the Town Hall and The Shambles. Giggleswick, too, is worth a visit. It is a typical Dales village that has retained a wonderful rustic charm, with mullioned windows and carved lintels in many of the old cottages, plus little stone bridges and a market cross.

The whole of gorgeous Clapham village, situated at the base of the limestone Ingleborough Mountain, is a heritage conservation area. A stream crossed by four stone bridges flows down the middle of the main street, which is flanked by rows of cottages in different architectural styles. Clapham is truly a picture-perfect village.

The Lake District

The beautiful scenery of rolling farmlands, deep dales and ancient woodlands inspired many of Britain’s writers including William Wordsworth, Agatha Christie, Charlotte Bronte and Jane Austen. You can read more about this area and its history here . The Lakes District is synonymous with openness, wilderness and awe; but its villages bring a surprising sense of warmth and intimacy.

At Grasmere, described by William Wordsworth as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath found’, take a guided tour of the poet’s home. Dove Cottage provides an intimate portrait of the life of a country gentleman. Explore the small but delightful garden and the Wordsworth Museum that houses manuscripts, paintings and other items. In the churchyard of St. Oswald’s, several members of the Wordsworth family are buried.

Amble through Ambleside and along the ribbon lake of Windermere to Hawkshead. This ancient township flourished in Norse times, belonging to Furness Abbey until the 12th century. Hawkshead Courthouse is all that remains of the monastery era; from this point, Hawkshead developed as a market town. Its 17th century architecture and the wealth of archways, squares and cottages preserve this proud heritage. Between Hawkshead and Windermere lake lie Near and Far Sawrey – two villages famed for their association with beloved children’s author Beatrix Potter. Various sites and buildings served as settings for her books.

This historic county in northern England is the country’s largest. Accordingly, it is home to many attractions set among a landscape nicknamed “God’s own country”. Drive through the wild scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, stopping at the village of Hawes, in Wensleydale valley. Here, the Dales Countryside Museum portrays rural and village life set about the Wensleydale Creamery, home of the famous Wensleydale cheese. Cheese making began in the area as early as 1150, when French Cistercian monks settled in the dale. The dairy continues to produce the distinctive and popular cheese, and their website shares more information on their interesting history.

Yorkshire Moors

The North York Moors is a national park containing one of the largest expanses of heather moorland. Come summer, purple flowers carpet the earth, stretching as far as the eye can see. But the moors respond to each season, creating an unfolding, quiet drama that bewitches all who visit. The famous North York Moors steam train provides stunning vistas. As the port of Whitby declined in the 18th century, the Whitby and Pickering Railways was built to open up links between these villages.

The train travels from Pickering and makes a stop in the tiny village of Goathland. This town is the setting of fictional Aidensfield from the popular television series Heartbeat. You might recognise the ‘Aidensfield Arms’, ‘Scripps Garage’, the post office and other sites as you wander around this little village. Should you be feeling energetic, George Stephenson’s original railway line of 1836 is now the site of a walk to Grosmont. Or, you might prefer to head for the coast, to the delightful Robin’s Hood Bay to search for fossils in the sand.

Yorkshire Wolds

The Yorkshire Wolds are a broad crescent of rolling chalk hills and valleys: unspoiled scenery. The landscape, changing across the seasons, is the subject of many paintings by British artist David Hockney .

Chiddingstone takes its name from the large sandstone outcrop in the village known as the ‘Chiding Stone’. One of the prettiest villages in Kent, and perhaps England, Chiddingstone is a beautiful example of a Tudor one-street village. The housing is typically Kent-style, with half-timbered sides, gables and stone-hung red-tiled roofs. The National Trust bought the entire village in 1939 to ensure its preservation.

The moat-encircled Hever Castle was the childhood home of Ann Boleyn. King Henry VIII scandalously courted his beloved here. The evocative tomb of Ann’s father, Thomas Boleyn, lies in St. Peter’s Church nearby. The oldest part of the castle dates to 1270. In the 1400s, London’s then Lord Mayor (and Anne’s great-grandfather) Geoffrey Boleyn added a Tudor dwelling within the walls. The castle remains an outstanding example of a Tudor mansion. William Waldorf Astor bought the castle in the 1920s and now it is owned by a private enterprise.

One of the most magnificent areas of the grounds is the Italian Garden, designed to display Astor’s collection of Italian sculpture. Over a thousand men worked on its creation. Within four years, a large area of classical and natural landscapes was constructed. The colourful walled Rose Garden contains over 4000 plants that burst into bloom come spring time. If you have a keen interest in gardens, you might like to check out our specialist garden tours .

England’s villages small group history tours for mature travellers

Our 18-night England’s villages small group history tours for mature travellers explores the many facets of country life in England. This small group escorted tour takes you through different eras and across a variety of beautiful landscapes. Professional guides teach you about the history and culture that over centuries have created the villages of England. England’s villages small group cultural and history tours for mature travellers includes a number of England’s prettiest and oldest villages. The villages visited reflect a range of economic activities, architectural styles and historic influences. This historic small group tour also provides a look at life in castles, a country estate and manor house. Short guided walking tours and village museums provide interesting insights into village history and life.

Villages of England small group tour: other highlights

The Villages of England small group tour includes visits to numerous country villages and houses that have been used as TV and film sets, including Lacock, Castle Combe, and Port Isaac. Perhaps you’ll recognise some of these locations from your favourite British dramas and period pieces! We also explore the haunting stones at Avebury, with its very own Neolithic World Heritage Site, and view the Tudor mansion and glorious gardens of Hever Castle, childhood home of Anne Boleyn. In addition, we take in the magnificent and varied scenery of rural England and learn about the fascinating styles of architecture that make English villages unique.

England’s villages small group history tours for mature travellers is one of some 20 tours Odyssey offers each year to Britain to mature couples and solo travellers who enjoy learning while travelling. Perhaps you will be drawn to a more active Walking Tour of Rural Britain , or to the story of Britain’s Industrial Revolution through its Canals and Railways . We also offer tours based on special subjects, like Shakespeare or the history of Tudor England vs Hapsburg Spain .

If you’d like to learn more about touring Great Britain, read our blog post here! If you’re keen to experience this tour, or learn more about Odyssey Traveller, please call or send an email.

Odyssey Traveller’s small group tours

Odyssey Traveller is a not-for-profit organisation offering Australia and New Zealand’s most comprehensive educational tour programs. We provide worldwide experiences for mature travellers who are keen to blend a love of travel with a thirst for knowledge, and we welcome participants from any country.

Odyssey Traveller is famous for our small groups, and we average eight participants per tour. Our maximum group size is eighteen people, which ensures quality, flexibility and care that is tailored to our clients. We specialise in small group tours for the senior traveller who is seeking adventure or is curious about the world we live in. Typically, our clients begin travelling with us from their mid 50’s onward. But be prepared to meet fellow travellers in their 80s and beyond! Both couples and singles are welcome.

About Odyssey Traveller

Odyssey Traveller is committed to charitable activities that support the environment and cultural development of Australian and New Zealand communities. Accordingly, we are pleased to announce that since 2012, Odyssey has been awarding $10,000 Equity & Merit Cash Scholarships each year. We award scholarships on the basis of academic performance and demonstrated financial need. We award at least one scholarship per year. We’re supported through our educational travel programs, and your participation helps Odyssey achieve its goals.

For more information on Odyssey Traveller and our educational small group tours, visit our website. Alternatively, please call or send an email. We’d love to hear from you!

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England Countryside and village visits Tour Reviews

Our guide to the prettiest villages in England

by Kathryn Burrington | England , Northern Europe

England is home to no end of idyllic villages dotted around the country’s rolling hills, valleys and coastlines in some of the most picturesque landscapes imaginable. Here’s our guide to the prettiest villages in England with an interactive map to help you plan your visit.

Which is your favourite English villages? And which are missing from our list?

Where are the prettiest villages in England?

Table of Contents

Staithes, Yorkshire

By Katharina, A Life Beautifully Travelled

Staithes, near Whitby, was once one of the busiest fishing ports on the North East coast and was the home town of the famous Royal Navy captain and explorer, Captain James Cook. Now, it’s a sleepy fishing village and a very picturesque one to boot.

In order to get there though, you will need to leave your car in the car park at the top of the hill, and then make your way down a pretty steep road on foot. But the hike down (and back up again) is totally worth it. At the bottom, you will find a labyrinth of cobblestone streets lined with cottages and a small harbour with a couple of pubs.

The village is popular with artists and has several small independent art shops and galleries. If you are a photographer you will be delighted by the many photo opportunities in this village. While keen walkers will find plenty of scenic trails to follow. This stretch of coastline, known as the Dinosaur Coast, is great for fossil hunting.

Where to eat in Staithes

The Cob & Lobster is a fabulous pub on the bay overlooking the water. 61 High St, Staithes, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS13 5BH Call 01947 840330 to book Menu

Excelsior Fisheries is an excellent fish n’ chips takeaway above the village just off the A174. 4 Staithes Ln, Staithes, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS13 5AJ Call 07478 735563 to pre-order Facebook

How to get to Staithes

The easiest way to get to Staithes is by car. From York, it’s about an hour and 20 minutes drive (56 miles) through the North York Moors National Park. Use the Staithes car park postcode TS13 5AD for your satnav.

Alternatively, you can take a train from York to Saltburn and then continue by bus, (about 2 1/2 hours). There is also a bus to Staithes from Whitby that takes around 30 minutes.

Where to stay in Staithes

Castleton, Peak District, Derbyshire

By Kitti Around the World

Once an important market and lead mining village, Castleton is one of the most picturesque villages in the Peak District in the north of England. Uniquely it is the only place in the world where the mineral, Blue John, is mined. If you love history, visit the museum or the ruins of Peveril Castle. For geology and adventure lovers, there are several unique cave systems open to the public. At Speedwell Cavern you can take a boat tour of the 18th-century lead-mining caverns 450m below ground on a huge subterranean lake. If you love the outdoors, hiking and walking then you must complete the iconic Winnats Pass and Mam Tor circular walk. And after a day of exploring, there are plenty of wonderful pubs and cafés to relax in.

Where to eat in Castleton

1530 The Restaurant is a cosy Italian restaurant in a stone cottage, perfect for a weekend lunch or evening meal. Cruck Barn, Cross Street, Castleton, Hope Valley, S33 8WH Call 0433 62187 to book or email [email protected] . Menu

Rose Cottage is a fabulous cafe and tearoom great for breakfast or lunch. Cross St, Castleton, Hope Valley S33 8WH Call 01433 620472 to book. Breakfast menu Lunch menu

Image above by Roshni, The Wanderlust Within

How to get to Castleton

Castleton lies in the Hope Valley about 16 miles west of Sheffield. The nearest train station is Hope from where it’s a 10-minute bus ride to the village. Busses also run from Bakewell or Sheffield taking about an hour.

Where to stay in Castleton

Mundesley, Norfolk

By Sheree, Winging the World

Mundesley is the perfect example of an idyllic English seaside village. Located along the North Norfolk coastline, it is smack bang in a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village is characterised by its medieval flint church, quaint cottages and family-run shops. It is also home to an incredible beach that has been awarded Blue Flag status, the gold standard for beaches. Colourful beach huts line the beach here which is backed by a lush green lawn leading up to the village.

There are two pubs in Mundesley, The Royal Hotel and The Ship Inn, although the latter is the more popular of the two. Although it is lesser-known than some of the area’s other coastal spots, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful seaside villages in Norfolk.

Where to eat in Mundesley

The Ship Inn 21 Beach Road, Mundesley, Norfolk, NR118BQ Book a table (or call 01263 722671 if within 24 hours) Menu

How to get to Mundesley

The nearest train station is North Walsham, just 12 minutes away by car. Regular bus services run from Norwich to Mundesley and take around an hour and fifteen minutes. Norwich is also home to the closest airport. If travelling by car from London, the journey is just shy of three hours.

Where to stay in Mundesley

Broadway, Cotswolds, Worcestershire

Image above by Larch, The Silver Nomad Image below and text by Cecily, Groovy Mashed Potatoes

In the gently rolling hills of Worcestershire, you will find the charming village of Broadway, also known as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’. Famous artists like Claude Monet and Oscar Wilde have even taken inspiration from the stunning area.

Take a stroll through the historic village to discover eateries, galleries and boutique shops in the golden stone buildings. Enjoy lunch in the back garden of Broadway Deli and shop for vintage candies at Hamilton’s Sweet Shop.

Don’t miss walking up the hill to Broadway Tower, an iconic landmark built in 1798, to get marvellous panoramic views of the village below. It feels peaceful walking through the English countryside and watching sheep graze on the open meadows.

Where to eat in Broadway

Market Pantry 31 High Street, Broadway WR12 7DP England 01386 858318 Menu

Russell’s of Broadway (closed Mondays & Tuesdays) 20 High Street The Green, Broadway WR12 7DT 01386 853555 Menu & opening times

How to get to Broadway

Broadway lies 9.8 miles northwest of Moreton-in-Marsh. By train, it’s a 1.5-hour ride from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh. From there it’s a 15-minute taxi to Broadway.

Where to stay in Broadway

Bourton-on-the-Water, Cotswolds, Gloucestershire

By Jiayi, The Diary of a Nomad

Bourton-on-the-Water is a vibrant little village in the Cotswolds characterized by beautiful stone cottages. The village straddles River Windrush and the many bridges and scenic river banks all add to the charm. Take a scenic stroll along the river and enjoy the laid-back vibe of the village. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and cafes lining the banks. Be sure to stop by Bakery on the Water for a cosy afternoon tea, and enjoy a delicious meal at the Rose Tree Restaurant.

The village is also home to Birdland Park & Gardens, a beautiful woodland with many exotic birds, including flamingos and penguins!

Where to eat in Bourton-on-the-water

The Den, a cute little vegan-friendly cafe Unit 4 High Street, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2AE England 01451 798120 Facebook

The Mousetrap Inn, worth the short walk from the centre of the village Lansdowne, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AR Call 01451 820 579 to book or via email [email protected] Menu

How to get to Bourton-on-the-water

Bourton-on-the-Water lies just north off the A40 which links the Cotswold to London via the M40. It’s 87.5 miles northwest of London . By train, it’s 2 hours and 15 minutes from London Paddington, but you’ll need to get off the train at Moreton-in-Marsh and take the 801 bus to The Cotswold Academy bus stop in Bourton-on-the-Water.

Where to stay in Bourton-on-the-Water

Bibury, Cotswolds, Gloucestershire

By Kathryn, Travel With Kat

One of the prettiest and most popular villages in the Costwolds , Bibury lies on both sides of the River Coln. It’s worth getting up early to get here before the crowds, especially in the summer months. The cottages of Arlington Row (pictured above)are said to be the most photographed houses in the country. They were built n the late 14th century as a wool store and converted into weavers houses in the late 17th century.

Bibury was once described by William Morris (1834-96) as “the most beautiful village in England”.  Scenes from both Bridget Jones’ Diary (2001) and Stardust (2008) were filmed here.

Where to eat in Bibury

The Catherine Wheel Arlington, Bibury, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5ND 01285-740250 Menu Resevations

How to get to Bibury

Bibury is 7.5 miles northeast of Cirencester and 86 miles west of London. The nearest train station is in Kemble 14 miles away. A taxi from here costs around £25. Alternatively, take the train (or bus) to Cirencester from where there are regular bus services.

Find somewhere to stay in Bibury or for a real treat check out this lakeside log cabin with a hut tub .

Minchinhampton, Cotswolds, Gloucestershire

By Larch, The Silver Nomad

Minchinhampton is a small town on top of a hill in the south of Gloucestershire. The town centres around the old Market Square with late 17th-Century Market House sits in the square with the original stone columns. Just off Market Square is Minchinhampton Parish Church, a beautiful light and airy church parts of which date back to the 14th Century. Its spire is interesting with a corona at the top instead of the traditional point.

If you walk up the lane behind the church, you come to Minchinhampton Common. Now owned by the National Trust it is a beautiful spot for walking.

Pop into The Crown for some great food including a selection of vegetarian and plant-based options.

Where to eat in Minchinhampton

How to get to minchinhampton.

Minchinhampton is on Windmill Road off the Cirencester Road, around 10 minutes (4.2 miles) south of Stroud. By train from London Paddington, the journey takes around 3 hours with the final 15 minutes by bus.

Where to stay in Minchinhampton

Castle Combe, Cotswolds, Wiltshire

Walking through Castle Combe, which also lays claim to be the prettiest village in England, more than anywhere feels like you’ve slipped back through time not least because there are no visible telephone wires or TV aerials. They were all hidden away when the village was used for the filming of ‘Dr Dolittle’ in 1967. More recently some major Hollywood films have been shot here including Stardust (2008), The Wolfman (2010) and War Horse . (2010).

The village is built in Cotswold stone with honey-hued cottages that are so typical of the area. In the village, there’s a traditional pub, a luxury hotel with a golf course and a couple of restaurants. St Andrew’s Church which dates from the 13th century has a faceless clock, said to be one of the oldest working clocks in the country.

There are some lovely walks from the village. If you walk south along the main road ‘The Street’ across the bridge over the brook that runs through the village. Take the path on the left, signed Long Dean. There’s a stile to climb over from where you can follow the path as it weaves its way along and above the brook with some lovely views as you climb higher and head into woodlands.

The Castle Combe Race Circuit is less than a mile from the village.

Where to eat in Castle Combe

The Castle Inn, charming gastropub

West St, Castle Combe, Chippenham SN14 7HN

Menu & booking

How to get to Castle Combe

Castle Combe is just south of the M4 about 5 miles north-west of Chippenham, 20 miles east of Bristol and 100 miles west of London. Trains leave from London’s Paddington Station to Castle Combe with the journey taking between two to three hours.

Where to stay in Castle Combe

Lacock, Cotswolds, Wiltshire

By Laura, What’s Hot?

Lacock is a small English village that has famously retained its medieval architecture from centuries ago. One could be forgiven for thinking that they’d been transported back in time to a period drama or earlier as there are few overt signs of modern technology in the village. For this reason, it is commonly used in films and television programmes, the most famous being the Harry Potter films .

Where to eat in Lacock

Sign of the Angel 6 Church St, Lacock, Chippenham SN15 2LB 01249 730230 Menu & booking

How to get to Lacock

Lacock is a small village, just south of Chippenham in Wiltshire. By train, it’s just an hour and 40 minutes from London Paddington to Chippenham from where it’s a 20-minute bus ride to Lacock. By car it’s around a 2-hour journey from London along the M4 leaving the motorway at the turning for Chippenham and taking the A350 to Lacock.

Where to stay in Lacock

Lynmouth, North Devon

By Rachel, Average Lives

Where to eat in Lynmouth

Esplanade Fish Bar , fish n’ chips takeaway The Esplanade, Lynmouth EX35 6EQ 01598 753798

The Rising Sun, a historic inn overlooking the harbour Harbourside, Lynmouth EX35 6EG 01598 753223

How to get to Lynmouth

Lynmouth lies on the A39, 17 miles from Minehead and 19 miles from Barnstable on the North Devon coast. The nearest train stations are Barnstable and Taunton. From Barnstable, the 309/310 bus service takes around 55 minutes (not Sundays or Bank Holidays). In the summer, buses also run from the train station at Minehead. Bristol airport is 67 miles away.

Where to stay in Lynmouth

Chilham, Kent

Image by Ray in Manila , Creative Commons, Text by Kathryn, Travel With Kat

Another favourite location for films and television series, Chilham has appeared in Jane Austen’s ‘Emma’, Agatha Christie’s ‘Miss Marple’ and ‘Poirot’, ‘A Canterbury Tale’ and ‘Top Gear’. It’s a quintessential English village on the Pilgrim’s Way with a beautifully preserved Medieval village square and a magnificent castle

Where to eat in Chilham

The White Horse Inn The Square, Chilham CT4 8BY England 01227 730355

How to get to Chilham

Chilham is 6.7 miles southwest of Canterbury. That’s about a 15-minute drive or a 20-minute train ride.

The M2 links London to Kent with the drive to Chilham taking around an hour and a half.

The train from London to Chilham leaves from St Pancras International with a change at Ashford International and takes around 2 hours.

Where to stay in Chilham

Amberley, South Downs National Park, West Sussex

Amberley near Arundel has more than its fair share of picturesque thatched cottages yet it’s not as well known as many other pretty villages in England. IIn the village you’ll also find a castle (now a luxury hotel), two wonderful pubs, a couple of cafes and a fabulous open-air museum in a disused quarry, with its own little steam train.

Take the road that leads up to the 12th-century church and you’ll also stumble across a wonderful pottery workshop. Located in a valley in the South Downs National Park the River Arun flows nearby and there are some wonderful riverside walks. The long-distance walking route The South Downs Way also runs through the village. There is no end of footpaths and bridleways to explore in the area. For a real treat book an afternoon tea in Amberley Castle .

Where to eat in Amberley

Amberley Black Horse , excellent gastropub High St, Amberley, Arundel BN18 9NL 01798 831183 Menu & bookings

How to get to Amberley

Amberley lies on the B2139, 5.6 miles north of Arundel. By train, it’s just an hour and 40 minutes from London’s Victoria Station. Gatwick Airport is just over 24 miles away (40 minutes by train).

Where to stay in Amberley

Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire

The small red-brick village of Beaulieu lies on the edge of the New Forest in Hampshire. Home to the National Motor Museum, Palace House and the ruins of Beaulieu Abbey, there’s plenty to do here for a great day out or a long weekend. Perched on the banks of the River Beaulieu it’s a beautiful little village with a couple of lovely cafes, a luxury hotel and a fabulous chocolate shop. To see the cars, gardens, house and abbey, you’ll need to buy a ticket for Beaulieu Motor Museum. There’s also a fun monorail there to take you around the grounds and plenty more things to see and do.

As you wander around Beaulieu, you’ll probably notice many signs bearing three red diamonds. These diamonds are taken from the Montagu Coat of Arms and mark the property of the Beaulieu Estate.

There are some lovely walks nearby including a 2 miles path that leads from Beaulieu to Bucklers Hard, a unique picturesque hamlet on the River Beaulieu with a small naval museum.

Where to eat in Beaulieu

The Terrace Restaurant, fine dining Monty’s Inn, a traditional country pub Details for both the above options: Palace Lane, Montagu Arms Hotel, Beaulieu, New Forest, Brockenhurst SO42 7ZL 01590 612324 Montague Arms Hotel website

How to get to Beaulieu

By car from London, take the M3 to Southampton then follow the M27 and M271 to the Totton bypass. From here take A236 to Pooksgreen and follow the signs to Beaulieu. It’s about a 2-hour drive. Please drive with extra care through the New Forest National Park as ponies, donkeys, and cows roam free here and often on the roads.

Trains to the New forest leave London from Waterloo Station to Brockenhurst. from here you can catch a bus to Bunkers Hill, just a few minutes walk from Beaulieu.

Where to stay in Beaulieu

Shanklin, Isle of Wight

By Miriam, Miry Giramondo (who also took the featured image)

Old Shanklin on the Isle of Wight seems to have slipped back in time to an era when poets like Keats and Longfellow stayed here. It rightly earns its place as one of the prettiest villages in England. Charming winding streets are lined with pretty thatched cottages, small shops, restaurants, pubs and traditional tea rooms. Pictured above is the gift shop, Pencil Cottage, formerly The Shanklin Bazaar. It’s one of the oldest buildings in the village and no doubt Keats and Longfellow once shopped here.

Not far from the village is Shanklin Chine, the oldest attraction on the island. Walk along the picturesque gorge between sandstone cliffs and admire the views. In summer, you can even visit it at night in the glow of hundreds of lights. Even the golden beaches of Shanklin are among the best on the island, a great place to relax after visiting its attractions.

Where to eat in Shanklin

The Salix Beach Cafe (breakfast and lunches, Thursday to Sunday only) The Esplanade Small Hope Beach, Shanklin PO37 6BG 0 7772 056204 Menu

Pendletons (evenings only, closed Monday) 85 High Street, Shanklin PO37 6NR England 0 983 868727 Menu

How to get to Shanklin

The Isle of Wight is easily accessible by ferry via three mainland ports, Portsmouth, Southampton, and Lymington and also by hovercraft from Portsmouth. Once on the island, the bus service is excellent or you could take your car over on the ferry.

 Where to stay in Shanklin

Polperro, Cornwall

By Rich, RJ on Tour

Polperro is a beautiful fishing village on the South East Cornwall coast between the towns of Looe and Fowey. Set amongst some stunning scenery, the village is quaint, with many picturesque cottages and has a history of fishing and smuggling as highlighted in the local museum. The harbour is a great place to chill out and relax. You can also catch a boat from here for a trip along the coast.

The village has its own sandy beach to enjoy, as well as, Chapel Pool, a natural swimming pool just a 15-minute walk along the coastal path. For a longer hike, take the South West Coast Path which runs right through Polperro. It’s England’s longest waymarked footpath and a National Trail. It stretches for 630 miles, running west from Minehead in Somerset, along the North Devon coast and around Cornwall , before heading east along the south Devon Coast to Poole Harbour in Dorset .

Polperro is a great place to dine out, many of the local restaurants and pubs serve locally caught fish or seafood. The Three Pilchards is a lovely place, that has a seafood platter ideal for sharing.

Where to eat in Polperro

Michelle’s Restaurant (Wednesday to Saturday evenings, Sunday lunchtime) Little Green, Polperro PL13 2RF England 0 1503 272459 Facebook

The Three Pilchards, the oldest pub in the village Quay Rd, Polperro PL13 2QZ 01503 272233 Bookings

How to get to Polperro

Polperro is 26 miles west of Plymouth. To get there by car, take the M5 to Exeter then pick up the A38 road to Trerulefoot and the A387 via Looe to Polperro. Looe is the closest railway station to Polperro, from where you can catch the 72 or 73 bus direct to the village. Alternatively, visitors can also arrive by boat with services from Looe or Fowey.

Where to stay in Polperro

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A great collection of picturesque villages. I’m happy that I could contribute to this post. I’ve visited a few already, but definitely adding more to my list.

Thanks, Miriam! I live in West Sussex and there are many more beautiful villages on my doorstep but I’m hoping to visit some further afield this summer too.

So many pretty villages in England. I have visited a few on this list but there are still quite a few to add to my list. I’m so happy I could contribute to this list 🙂

Thanks for contributing Kitti. I feel exactly the same. I desperately want to visit more from this list and I’d love to fill some of the gaps on the map too!

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11 Beautiful English Villages to Discover Before the Crowds Do

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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You’ve toured the museums of London, paid tribute to the Beatles in Liverpool, and walked the hallowed halls of Oxford’s famous university—but if major cities are all you’ve seen of England, you’re missing out. For a slower pace of life and an up-close glimpse of rural life, you’ll want to visit the following English villages that haven’t yet been spoiled by tourism.

From fishing hamlets in Cornwall to traditional market towns in North Yorkshire, these are some of the most beautiful villages in England, featuring cobblestone streets, quaint churches, and cozy pubs—but not motorcoaches and crowds.

Painswick, Gloucestershire

The Cotswolds region is ground zero for picture-perfect English villages, but some of them feel overly touristy. That’s not a problem in Painswick, a quiet hilltop village with charming narrow streets and relatively few international visitors. Don’t miss a stop in the colorful Painswick Rococo Garden, originally designed in the 1740s. There are also plenty of lovely walks in the area.

Where to stay: Located in the heart of the village with rooms overlooking the Cotswold hills, The Painswick is the most elegant spot in town.

Polperro, Cornwall

Once a fishing village (and shelter for smugglers), Polperro is now a popular summer holiday spot—but it’s maintained its unspoiled charm. Walk the footpaths along the coast on either side of the harbor to soak up the salt air and discover uncrowded beaches, or stay in town to explore its art galleries and shops. You’ll find tasty, fresh seafood on menus around town.

Where to stay: With just 12 rooms, Penryn House is a cozy lodging spot within walking distance of Polperro’s pubs, shops, and restaurants.

Kettlewell, North Yorkshire

Kettlewell is an ideal base for walking and hiking in Yorkshire Dales National Park, but it’s also a beautiful village in its own right, with welcoming pubs and quaint stone cottages. The most popular time to visit is in August for the annual Scarecrow Festival, when the community comes together to hunt for whimsically themed scarecrows hidden around town.

Where to stay: The Pennycroft Guest House draws raves from past guests for its comfy beds and warm hospitality.

Rye, East Sussex

With its quiet cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval and Tudor buildings, Rye is the type of English village where it feels like time simply stopped centuries ago. One of the greatest pleasures in Rye is simply walking around and taking photos, but you can also visit a 13th-century castle and browse local art galleries. Don’t miss a stop in St. Mary’s Parish Church, where you can climb the tower for views over the surrounding countryside.

Where to stay: Individually designed rooms at The George in Rye feature quirky touches like antique mirrors, built-in bookshelves, and colorful vintage wallpaper. The hotel has been in its current High Street location since 1719.

Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

If you love wandering on foot, you’ll appreciate this beautiful English village overlooking the North Sea. Leave your vehicle in the parking lot at the top of the main street and head downhill to stroll along the coastal path, rummage through shops and galleries, or visit the clean sandy beach—where you might even find a fossil or two. You can also learn about the town’s seafaring and smuggling history at the Robin Hood’s Bay Museum. Despite the name, Robin Hood’s Bay has no known affiliation with the famous outlaw, and the origins of the moniker remain a local mystery.

Where to stay: The Raven House Bed & Breakfast offers a comfortable home away from home with sweeping sea views and homemade breakfast.

Stamford, Lincolnshire

If this elegant Georgian town looks familiar, it might be because it was used as a filming set for the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice with Keira Knightley. You can easily spend a day wandering among its well-preserved churches, shops, and pubs, which overlook the Welland River. Also worth seeing is Burghley House, a grand Elizabethan estate just a few minutes’ drive from downtown.

Where to stay: The William Cecil at Stamford is located on the grounds of the Burghley Estate but still within easy walking distance of Stamford’s main attractions.

Turville, Buckinghamshire

With just 100 inhabitants, the tiny English village of Turville offers a quiet break from the London crowds. It’s less than 90 minutes from the English capital, and worth a quick detour en route to Oxford. Stroll up to Cobstone Windmill for views of the village; have lunch at The Bull and Butcher, a traditional pub; and visit St. Mary the Virgin Church, which served as the featured church in the 1990s British sitcom The Vicar of Dibley.

Where to stay: Turville is so small that it doesn’t have any hotels of its own, but you can stay overnight just a few miles away at the Row Barge Inn , a traditional B&B in Henley-on-Thames.

Helmsley, North Yorkshire

This beautiful English village features historic stone buildings, a peaceful walled garden, and a square where you can check out a traditional market every Friday—all in the shadow of medieval castle ruins. Love wildlife? Pay a visit to the National Centre for Birds of Prey, where you can have hands-on experiences with hawks, falcons, and owls. Also nearby are the rolling hills of North York Moors National Park.

Where to stay: The 45-room Black Swan Hotel has been hosting travelers for more than 500 years. Rooms have garden or market square views.

Hawkshead, Cumbria

It’s almost impossible to find hidden gems in England’s popular Lake District, but Hawkshead hasn’t yet been spoiled by the tourist hordes. Because cars aren’t allowed within the village, visitors can enjoy its whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and medieval square the same way locals have for centuries. Stop by the grammar school where poet William Wordsworth studied, and see drawings by children’s author Beatrix Potter at the gallery named after her in town.

Where to stay: A flower-filled courtyard welcomes you into Ivy Guest House , a Georgian building with a half-dozen cozy rooms. The hosts serve a full English breakfast each morning.

Beaulieu, Hampshire

A cluster of historic buildings overlooking the scenic Beaulieu River, this beautiful English village dates back to the 13th century. The area’s main attraction is the Beaulieu Estate, home to the National Motor Museum, a collection of nearly 285 classic vehicles. Also on the estate grounds are the Palace House (a Victorian mansion) and Beaulieu Abbey. But you’ll want to leave plenty of time to stroll the streets of the village, browse its shops, and wander along its riverside path.

Where to stay: The Montagu Arms Hotel oozes with Old World charm, from its classic English gardens to its conservatory serving afternoon tea. Upgraded rooms include lavish four-poster beds.

Mousehole, Cornwall

Just a few miles down the coast from the better-known town of Penzance, Mousehole (pronounced “Mowzel”) is one of Cornwall’s prettiest seaside villages, with stone buildings overlooking a harbor filled with sailboats and fishing boats. The most popular times to visit are summer, when you can relax on the sandy beach, and the period from mid-December through early January, when the harbor is decked out in twinkling holiday lights.

Where to stay: Thanks to its bustling pub and convenient location, The Ship Inn is the center of the action in Mousehole. Many of its eight rooms overlook the harbor.

More from SmarterTravel:

• England Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to England?
• Top 25 Ways to Save on Europe Travel
• 11 Secret Italian Villages to Discover Before the Crowds Do

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

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Villages of The Cotswolds Small Group Tours

With its rustic rural charm, rolling hills, vibrant market towns and picture-perfect villages, the Cotswolds cover nearly 800 square miles of unspoilt countryside. Take a small group trip through its rolling hills, home to some of England's most famous and historic towns and villages.

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this range of hills in west-central England is packed with picturesque villages built of Cotswold stone, beautiful churches and vast manor houses. As you make your way through little villages and historic market towns , you will have the opportunity to explore the honey-coloured cottages of Bourton-on-the-Water , Bibury and Burford .

Evan Evans Tours Office: 258 Vauxhall Bridge Rd, London, SW1V 1BS

Covering almost 800 square miles and no fewer than five English counties, the Cotswolds are the single largest designated Area of Natural Beauty in the UK. The area was once renowned for its wool production, reminders of which you can still see today.

During this Experience, we will be visiting three picturesque villages hidden in the heart of the Cotswolds, with honey-coloured limestone period buildings and rich cultural heritage. Relax aboard your Luxury Small Group Vehicle with an expert guide as you enjoy the best of the English countryside.

On arriving at Bibury, you may think you have been transported back to a different age. The village was once described by the British poet, artist and novelist William Morris (1834-96) as “the most beautiful village in England”.

Bibury’s attractions include Arlington Row, a 17th-century row of weavers' cottages built of local stone next to the River Coln. It is one of the most photographed areas in the region and was chosen as a location for the 2007 film ‘Stardust’. Close by, you will find the Bibury Trout Farm and a Saxon Church.

The River Coln flows between the main village street and a watermeadow: together with Arlington Row as a backdrop, it makes one of the most picturesque scenes you will find in the Cotswolds.

Burford is known as the gateway to the Cotswolds. Its High Street slopes from the high Wolds, where you have beautiful views over the open countryside, down to the willow-fringed River Windrush in the pretty Windrush valley.

Regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England , Bourton-on -the-Water has a unique appeal to visitors and residents alike. Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, this one village offers a wealth of attractions and shops, restaurants and tea rooms, or simply the space for you to enjoy some tranquil time by the River Windrush, spanned by its five arched bridges.

Bourton-on-the-Water’s most prized feature is its tranquil river. Fed from many springs, its source is approximately ten miles from the village, and even in the 1976 drought, the flow continued. Where the river enters the village centre, over the rapids next to the Old Mill, its clear waters flow under a miscellany of arched stone bridges past the green with its banks of Cotswold stone.

The earliest evidence of a Christian presence in Bourton-on-the-Water goes back as far as 709 AD, when a wooden church was built on land donated by the local king, centred to the Abbey of Evesham. Today the parish Church remains the focus of a lively worshipping community in the village of Bourton-on-the-Water, extending a warm welcome to visitors.

London Victoria Train Station - Your Experience will finish outside London Victoria Train Station, centrally located and easily accessible by national rail and underground; it is serviced by the Victoria, District and Circle Lines and is in Travel Zone 1.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Tour Starts: 9:00 am at Evan Evans Tours, 258 Vauxhall Bridge Road, London, SW1V 1BS (boarding commences at 8:45 am)
• Tour Finishes: approx. 7:00 pm, Victoria Train Station
• Itinerary is subject to variations due to operational reasons
• We encourage guests with e-tickets to bring these on their smart devices
• Vehicles are fully sanitised before the start of each tour. All surfaces are cleaned and disinfected daily
• Guests are provided with personal audio headsets so distancing can be maintained when listening to the live commentary
• Our vehicles are operating at normal capacity
• Please visit our Travel Health page for full details of our enhanced hygiene standards and protocols
• Images © Christine Gregory

PACKAGE OPTIONS

Cotswolds Small Group Tour (excluding lunch):

Walking tour of Cotswold villages

• An immersive, complimentary audio guide available in Spanish, German, Chinese (Mandarin), Japanese and Korean

Expert Guide

• Luxury Small Group Vehicle with free Wi-Fi & USB charging on board
• Small group luxury vehicle helping to make the small villages of the Cotswolds easily accessible
• Experience Burford ‘The Gateway to the Cotswolds’
• Enjoy stunning photo opportunities in Bibury, chosen as a film set
• Explore Bourton on the water – the Venice of the Cotswolds
• Leisurely paced tour with plenty of time

What's Included

Luxury small group vehicle with free wi-fi & usb charging on-board, personal audio headset, what's excluded, hotel pick-up and drop-off.

• No Cancellation Fees
• No Change Fees
• No Booking Fees
• Your Money is Protected - Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the day of departure
• Our team, including our guides and drivers, have been trained in our enhanced hygiene procedures, Please refer to our Travel Health page for more information

For full terms, see Our Flexible Promise to You

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The Cotswolds Villages: A Complete Guide for an English Countryside Retreat

No matter where you are in the Cotswolds villages, there’s a distinct feeling time has stood still, with the landscape remaining unchanged for hundreds of years.

The villages, with their honey-colored cottages, shops, and churches were made from a kind of limestone quarried in the area beginning in the Middle Ages and this distinctive charm has been preserved.

During the Middle Ages, the Cotswolds towns and villages were also famous for their wool production. The herds of sheep still grazing in the rolling pastures are reminiscent of this past, as are the market squares in the central towns.

Today the lucky travelers who visit can easily see why the Cotswolds have been recognized as an area of Outstanding Beauty.

Use this guide to do your Cotswolds planning. Discover things to do in the Cotswolds, how to get here from London, Cotswolds places to stay and eat, and of course, the best Cotswolds villages to visit.

The Cotswolds villages are the perfect complement to spending time in London. Swap the city vibe for the English countryside, dotted with grazing sheep and quaint villages for a quintessential UK retreat.

Where are the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are a cluster of tiny villages nestled in the countryside about 2 hours by car northwest of London. To orient yourself, use the map below.

From the map of Cotswolds villages, you can see how close they are to one another, as well as other popular places to visit. Oxford is an hour to the east. Bath is about an hour and a half to the south. And, Stratford-upon-Avon is just a half-hour to the north.

Best Cotswold Villages to Visit

I think one of the reasons why I so love spending time in the Cotswolds is I am reminded of one of my favorite books, Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett.

I can imagine what the wool markets must have been like when I see the sheep grazing, the market squares, and the churches built from money made on busy wool market days.

Driving along A44 and A429, you can visit some of the best towns in the Cotswolds like:

• Chipping Campden,
• Moreton-in Marsh,
• Stow-on-the-Wold,
• the Slaughters, and
• Bourton-on-the-Water.

These places in the Cotswolds are the most visited. You’ll want to include them on your Cotswolds itinerary, too. And, from these main routes, narrow and winding countryside roads will bring you to villages like:

• Snowshill, and

In addition to the well-built and maintained limestone houses, Chipping Campden has a historic Merchant Hall that was used to sell cheese, butter, and poultry and a pretty Church of St. James with grounds that overlook the rolling green hills just beyond the town.

Chipping Campden was known for the high quality of its wool in the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries and still, today sheep graze in the pastures just behind the church.

Stow-on-the-Wold is a market town situated in the heart of the Cotswolds.

The location made it ideal for farmers and wool merchants to come together for some of the area’s largest fairs where sheep were bought and sold. The large market square speaks to this past.

Today, Stow is one of the best places in the Cotswolds for its cafes, boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. It’s also between 10-30 minutes from many other Cotswolds villages.

Be sure to visit the medieval St. Edward’s Church in Stow. It largely dates back to the 13th-Century and is a true architectural gem with stained glass windows.

Lord of the Rings fans will wonder if J.R.R. Tolkien was inspired by the door on the church’s north side flanked by 2 very Middle Earth-looking trees!

Bourton-on-the-Water is rightly named because of its pretty Venice-like canals that run through the town. The trees arching over the river, along with walkable stone bridges and shop-lined streets make this Cotswolds village a big draw for visitors. If you can visit before noon or wait until after 4:30-5:00 p.m. when the Cotswold day tour buses leave.

Lower and Upper Slaughter are quintessential Cotswolds. Picture-perfect, tranquil, and complete with Cotswolds’ kissing gates in the meadows and fields connecting both villages. A weekend in the Cotswolds isn’t complete without spending time in the Slaughters.

Bibury’s weaver cottages along Arlington Row were built in the 1300s and have been named a national architectural conservation area. It’s one of the most photographed streets in the Cotswolds and considered one of the prettiest villages in England, too.

Burford’s High Street is the main draw with its antique shops and cafes. The church and the town’s historic buildings like Tolsey Building are also worth seeing. If you’re driving to the Cotswolds from Oxford, Burford is just 18 miles further to the west.

Snowshill overlooks the Cotswolds countryside and villages like Broadway. It’s a tucked-away spot offering tranquility and great views. Snowshill Manor and Garden belongs to the National Trust and can be visited. Grab a beer and a bite at the Snowshill Arms.

The dreamy little village of Stanton is classic Cotswolds. It has quiet lanes to walk around with the signature limestone cottages. There are no shops or businesses, except for a single pub. It’s not far from Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold and can be part of a walking loop from Broadway.

Things to Do in the Cotswolds

The sleepy, scenic Cotswolds lend themselves to this type of long-ago imagining. Time spent in the Cotswolds is for clearing your mind and taking it slow. Part of what to do in the Cotswolds is to just enjoy wherever you are.

The area is as pretty as a picture. You’ll want to spend as much time outdoors taking in the landscape. Cotswolds walks like the Cotswolds Way , a 100-mile walk through the countryside and villages, is a popular multi-day activity.

Parts of the Cotswolds Way, as well as shorter walking trails in and around the villages, are perfect for day outings. Others choose to cycle or horseback ride to immerse themselves in the pastoral surroundings.

I love the picturesque Slaughters and, for example, there’s a 1-mile walking path from Lower to Upper Slaughter, which goes through the village and past the Old Mill and its shop and cafe inside. If you loop back, you can even continue along Warden’s Way to Bourton-on-the-Water for a longer full-day walk.

Regardless of which walking paths you choose, it’ll be easy to see how an author like J.R.R. Tolkien, who wrote the Lord of the Rings , was said to have been inspired by the Cotswolds landscape. (The Shire, anyone?)

Shopping (even window-shopping) makes for a great day in the Cotswolds.

The villages have their own one-of-a-kind boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and more. Chipping Campden, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cirencester, and Moreton-in-Marsh were my favorites to stroll through and shop.

What’s more, many of the shops in the Cotswolds villages are centered around the village square which have been the village marketplace for hundreds of years!

Not far from the Cotswolds villages of Chipping Campden and Snowshill, you can visit Hidcote Manor Garden . It’s a British arts and crafts style garden that feels like it has different “rooms.” Each room has its own unique design and feel.

If you visit the Cotswolds in June or July, stop at the Cotswold Lavender farm for a chance to see the fields in full bloom.

Besides the thatched-roof houses, churches, and shops in the villages, architecture and history buffs will love visiting Blenheim Palace, Sudeley Castle, and Chavenage House .

Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 1700s and the place where Winston Churchill was born. Visitors can tour the elegant State Rooms and manicured gardens on the grounds. The Palace is just 20 minutes along country roads from the Cotswold village of Chipping Norton.

Located near Winchcombe and dating back to the 15th Century, Sudeley Castle is privately owned and has historical artifacts belonging to past Kings and Queens.

The Castle has 9 gardens, most famously the Queen’s Garden which was beloved by several past Queens of England. The chapel on the castle grounds is also the final resting place of Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII.

Chavenage House is an Elizabethan Manor House owned and shown by members of the family who own the house. It was built in the late 1500s from the Cotswold stone and is less than 2 miles from the Cotswold town of Tetbury.

Lastly, and because I’m a huge Downton Abbey fan, Cotswolds visitors should know the town of Bampton is just a half-hour from Stow-on-the-Wold and is the place where many of the show’s village scenes were filmed. Highclere Castle (a.k.a. Downton Abbey) is just an hour’s drive.

If you’re basing yourself in London, it’s still possible to visit Downton Abbey for the day. 🙂

London to the Cotswolds

Most travelers will start their England trip in London and then move on from there. The best ways to get to the Cotswolds and explore the area are to rent a car or to plan a Cotswolds tour from London.

It is possible to get to the Cotswolds without a car. From London to the Cotswolds by train, you’d depart from Paddington Station and get off in Moreton-on-Marsh with a likely connection through Oxford.

But, from there, it would still be tricky to get around. The Cotswolds have few public transportation options, with limited-schedule buses being the best and only way to get from village to village.

With a rental car , you’ll have the freedom to move around as you wish. Just know, if you’re visiting in the warmer, peak-season months, there’s likely to be some traffic along A44 and A429. A Cotswolds day trip is best planned during the week. Even a weekend break to the Cotswolds might be better off moved to a couple of days during the week instead.

If you’re short on time or are just planning a Cotswolds day trip from London, be careful with tours that offer too many places to see in a single day.

A full-day tour promising some combination of Oxford, the Cotswolds, Warwick Castle , and Stratford-upon-Avon likely means shorter stops in each place and seeing many of the Cotswolds villages from a bus window.

If you’re truly wanting to experience the Cotswolds and have 1 day, consider a Cotswolds from London tour that focuses on just the best places to visit in the Cotswolds. I know it’s tempting to squeeze more places in, but even after 2 trips to the Cotswolds, there are still reasons to return!

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds

I stayed in Chipping Campden at the beautiful Charingworth Manor . This manor house is over 700 years old. It sits high atop a grassy hill, offering picturesque views of the countryside.

I’ve also looked at and wanted to book the Slaughters Manor House on one of my Cotswolds trips. But, it was a bit last minute and I couldn’t find the availability I needed.

Many of the Cotswolds hotels range from small inns and B&Bs. The surrounding countryside is so charming, even if you’re someone who typically stays in a larger, branded hotel, the best hotels in the Cotswolds are the luxurious manor houses and small B&Bs to match the ambiance of the area. Check current prices in the Cotswolds  or book now .

Cotswolds Rental Accommodations

If you’re not exactly finding the best places to stay in the Cotswolds, perhaps it’s because you’re really hoping for a manor house all your own! Well, you’re in luck!

Plum Guide has pretty honey-hued cottages and rustic countryside homes to make your Cotswolds fantasy come true! What I love about Plum Guide over other home rental sites is their home vetting process! You have to be among the best of the best properties in the area to be listed on their site. Plus, they offer 24/7 phone support should you need any assistance with your booking or property.

Even better, rental accommodations aren’t limited to town centers like hotels or B&Bs. You can search a wider area range and use the home you found as a base to explore the region.

Where to Eat in the Cotswolds

There are plenty of places to eat in the Cotswolds, from picking up sandwiches for a picnic to having dinner at a fireside pub.

I recommend lunch or just a midday snack at Lucy’s Tearoom in Stow-on-the-Wold. The sandwiches and cakes were delicious. The jars of strawberry jam we purchased were out of this world and caused several quasi-silverware sword-fights back home.

Be sure to have dinner at Eight Bells in Chipping Campden. The atmosphere was warm and cozy, the food hearty and delicious. There was even a see-thru panel on the ground showing tunnels Priests had used when they needed to escape the nearby church!

Where would you like to visit in the Cotswolds?

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10 thoughts on “the cotswolds villages: a complete guide for an english countryside retreat”.

Love your article. Really informative. I will be visiting in 2 weeks’ time and will use your detailed info as a guide. Thank you for sharing!

Gan (Malaysia)

Thanks so much for reading and enjoy your trip to the Cotswolds!

Thank you for the first-person view of this lovely area. We will be visiting the Cotswolds for Christmas week, staying at a house in Northleach. We would like to take a few excursions around the area but wonder if many things will be open over the holidays. Have you visited the area in the winter months? Any suggestions?

Thanks for reading, Elizabeth. A Cotswolds Christmas sounds amazing! I haven’t been during Christmas, but they do have holiday markets in the area and the castles and sights should be open except for December 25th. Blenheim is a good example of this. It’s open except for Christmas Day. Enjoy your time in the Cotswolds!

We plan to visit London soon. We would like to travel to Oxford and the Cotswolds for an overnight stay upon our arrival at Heathrow early on a Sunday morning. What is the best way to get from Heathrow to Oxford? We will have one checked bag and two carry-ons.

Thanks for reading, Jo. I’d recommend taking the train from Heathrow to Oxford. You’ll have to switch at Paddington Station so you can take the Heathrow Express to Paddington or a regional train there. Trains from Paddington to Oxford run regularly. Have a great trip to the UK!

Thank you so much for all the good information! We are planning a 4 day stay in the Cotswolds in May and this will be extremely helpful. Can’t wait!

Thanks for reading, Tracey. You’ll love the Cotswolds. Enjoy!

Love your guides. Can’t wait to plan a trip post COVID. Do you have any suggestions for heading north from London to Scotland? Wales?

Thanks for reading the blog, Julie! Right now, I don’t have any content on Scotland or Wales. I’ve primarily spent my time in England and wouldn’t feel comfortable giving advice beyond that. The Cotswolds are so pretty though, and shouldn’t be missed. I hope you’re able to include them in your itinerary! Thank you again for reading the blog 🙂

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Planning an England trip in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Gracious Bath is an excellent place to immerse yourself in England’s history and beauty © gowithstock / Shutterstock

The story of  England  stretches back more than 5000 years (and likely many more). Which means its impossible to escape the past here.

As you wander its historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes and rugged  coastlines  and national parks , you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit that are are the more compelling thanks to all those who have visited them before.

As you plan a trip to England this year, here’s our list of 16 historic, exciting and all-around fabulous highlights to consider.

1. The Seven Sisters 

While  Dover ’s iconic white cliffs grab the most attention, the colossal chalky walls of the Seven Sisters are a more spectacular affair, a four-mile roller-coaster of sheer white rock stretching along the Sussex shore and overlooking the waters of the English Channel. It forms an impressive southern border to the South Downs National Park , and is most dramatic at the towering headland of Beachy Head . Hikes through the grassy clifftop fields provide wide sea views, breathtaking in every sense.

Local tip:  Stop for a breather at the tiny seaside hamlet of Birling Gap, where the secluded beach is a sun trap popular with locals and walkers.

Oxford  lets visitors feel close to the brilliant minds and august institutions that have made this city famous across the globe. This rarefied world comes to life in the cobbled lanes and ancient quads where cycling students and eccentric academics roam. The beautiful college buildings and stunning architecture have changed little over the centuries, coexisting with a lively, modern, working city. As befits a city of students and professors, Oxford is one of the last bastions of the great British pub, with irresistible old watering holes dotted all over its central lanes and alleyways. 

3. Cambridge

In England’s other great historic university city, Cambridge , you can tour a  college , and spend time marveling at the intricate vaulting of King’s College Chapel . But no trip to Cambridge is complete without an attempt to take a punt (flat-bottomed boat) along the River Cam by the picturesque Backs , the leafy, green lawns behind the city's finest colleges – an experience that offers the best views of the exquisite architecture. Polish off the day with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many rustic pubs. 

In a nation packed with pretty cities, Bath  stands out as the belle of the ball. Founded by the Romans, who established the spa resort of Aquae Sulis to take advantage of the area’s hot springs , Bath hit its stride in the 18th century, when the rich industrialist Ralph Allen and architects John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger oversaw the city’s transformation into a model of Georgian architecture at its most refined . Bath is awash with golden stone townhouses, sweeping green crescents and Palladian mansions, along with appealing pubs and restaurants, and you’ll take great pleasure in plunging in. 

5. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the country's most dramatic Roman ruins, a 2000-year-old procession of abandoned forts, garrisons, towers and milecastles marching across the wild and lonely landscape of northern England. While the Romans built the fortification to defend and control its territory, this edge-of-empire barrier also symbolized the boundary of civilized order in the ancient world: to the north of the Roman settlement lay the unruly land of the marauding Celts. Near Newcastle  you can visit Segedunum , the wall’s last stronghold, for an insight into life during Roman times.

Planning tip:  Hiking the full 84-mile distance coast to coast along the national trail takes around a week. If you have less time and your own car, you may want to select from a few of the wall's  highlights .

With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider’s web of “snickelways” (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character. At the city’s heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster , the biggest medieval cathedral in all of northern Europe, and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. Admire feats of engineering of a more recent vintage at the National Railway Museum , the world’s largest collection of historic locomotives.

York’s long history and rich heritage are woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city – with its myriad museums, restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs – is a carefully maintained showcase of that heritage.

Local tip: You’ll find some of the finest views of York from its old city walls, particularly the bucolic section behind the Minster. 

7. The Peak District

Curiously, you won’t find many peaks in the Peak District . You will find blissful miles of tumbling moorland, plunging valleys, eroded gritstone crags, lush farmland and ancient pocket-sized villages. This beautiful landscape attracts a veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts – cyclists, hikers, cavers and rock climbers – on summer weekends, while those seeking more relaxing enjoyment can admire the rural market and famous puddings of Bakewell, the Victorian pavilions of spa-town Buxton, and the architectural drama of Chatsworth House – the “Palace of the Peak.”

8. Brighton

Barely an hour’s train ride from the capital, the seaside city of Brighton has a quirky character that’s completely its own. Overlooking the English Channel on England’s pebbly south coast, this is a city that's long been known for its oddball, alternative character. The warren of streets known as the Lanes is a good place to soak up the vibe, with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores and bric-a-brac shops. (Browsers will be in heaven at local institution Snooper’s Paradise .) You'll also find the UK ’s biggest queer scene here, and the region’s best small clubs. The highlight for the sightseeing visitor is the Royal Pavilion , a 19th-century party palace built by the Prince Regent, who kicked off Brighton’s love of the outlandish.

9. Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England’s most famous ancient site . Even though people have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, we still don’t know quite why it was built. An ultramodern makeover at the ancient site has brought an impressive visitor center and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland). The result is a strong sense of historical context, with dignity and mystery returned to an archaeological gem.

Most visitors gaze at the approximately 25-ton stones from behind the perimeter fence, yet with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour and gain access to the inner ring itself. In the slanting sunlight, away from the crowds, it’s an ethereal place. This is an experience that stays with you.

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

The pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and later shuffled off this mortal coil. Today, its tight knot of Tudor streets form a living map of Shakespeare’s life. Huge crowds of thespians and theater lovers come to take in a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre . Bard fans will love visiting the five historic houses owned by Shakespeare and his relatives and  the schoolroom where he was educated, before taking a respectful detour to the old stone church where he was laid to rest.

11. Liverpool

It’s hard not to be infected by Liverpudlians’ love for their hometown. The love endured despite decades of decay and all manner of social ills – finding its expression in a renowned gallows humor and an obsession with football. With some of the most passionate crowds in the country, taking in a game at either Liverpool FC or Everton FC is a rite of passage here.

Outside of the stadium, the rejuvenated waterfront is once again the heart of Liverpool . The focal point is Albert Dock, an iconic docklands flanked by protected buildings, including a batch of top museums. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum ensure the good and bad sides of Liverpool’s history are explored in equal measure, while the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story museum celebrate popular culture and the city’s most famous musical sons (still).

12. The Cotswolds

A tangle of impossibly quaint villages of rose-clad cottages and honey-colored stone, The Cotswolds  is a region that spreads over six English counties. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its most wonderful quality is that no matter where you go or how lost you get, you’ll still end up in a spot with a charming village green, a pub with sloping floors and fine ales, and a view of the lush green hills. Crisscrossed by long-distance trails including the 102-mile Cotswold Way , these gentle yet dramatic hills are perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Local tip: It’s easy to leave the crowds behind and find your very own slice of medieval England here – and some of the best boutique hotels in the country.

A little weird, occasionally weather-beaten and all-around wonderful, the classic northern seaside town of Whitby has haunted lanes, fossil-hunting and arguably England’s finest fish-and-chips. The huddle of 18th-century fisher’s cottages along the East Cliff are testament to its longtime role as a busy commercial and fishing port: it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook earned his sea legs. Atop the West Cliff, a sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers show Whitby’s beach-resort side.

Keeping a watchful eye over the town and the River Esk that divides it is an atmospheric ruined abbey , the inspiration and setting for part of Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror story Dracula . But tales of witchery and ghostly legends have haunted Whitby ever since Anglo-Saxon St Hilda landed here to found a monastic community in 657 CE.

Planning tip: The town embraces its pseudo-sinister reputation, which culminates in two hugely successful Goth Weekends each year.

14. The Lake District

William Wordsworth and his Romantic friends were the first to champion the charms of the Lake District  – and it's not hard to see what stirred them. Already the UK’s most popular national park, the Lake District also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, in recognition of its long history of hill-farming. But for most people it’s the chance to hike the humpbacked fells and drink in the gorgeous scenery that keeps them returning year after year.

The region is filled with outdoor pursuits, from lake cruises to mountain walks – excursions that help reveal why the region has such deep literary connections. In addition to Wordsworth, writers who found inspiration here include Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter.

15. The Eden Project

A cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain’s lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project  have become a symbol of Cornwall ’s renaissance. Built in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell to mark the start of the new millennium, and now considered one of Britain’s modern architectural wonders, the Eden Project aims to explore issues of environment and conservation, and point the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

Exhibits cover everything from global warming to rubber production and chocolate-making. The glass-domed “biomes” recreate major world climate systems in microcosm, from the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest (complete with treetop walkway winding through the canopy) to the olive trees, citrus groves and colorful flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. It’s incredibly impressive – not to mention educational, and inspiring, too.

Shoulder-deep in history, London ’s rich seams of eye-opening antiquity appear at every turn. The city’s architecture pens a beguiling biography, and a multitude of buildings – the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , Big Ben – are internationally recognizable landmarks. It’s also a tireless innovator of art and culture, a city of ideas and imagination. This legacy is enshrined at world-class institutions such as the British Museum , Natural History Museum  and the Science Museum , as well as such world-leading art galleries as the  Tate Modern , Tate Britain , the National Gallery  and the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery , all of which are free to visit. 

Local tip:  However you budget your time and money in London, make sure you take in a show. Big names perform on  the West End (London’s equivalent of Broadway), and on the South Bank at the National Theatre  and  the Old Vic . Smaller theaters from the Almeida to the Lyric Hammersmith are places to discover up-an-coming talent.

This article was first published Apr 13, 2021 and updated Feb 26, 2024.

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20 Must See Beautiful English Villages

Quaint stone cottages, cute historic pubs surrounded by rolling green hills and little streams flowing through – there are few things in this world more picturesque than a quintessential English village. The countryside of England is home to an abundance of stunning little towns and villages, each one just as pretty as the next.

Some are so beautiful, it’s hard to imagine that people actually live there and you’re not walking through the set of a movie! Full of character and old-world charm, every village has its own story to tell. Each one featured in this article would make an excellent addition to your England road trip itinerary , otherwise it is possible to visit most of them on a day trip from London if you’re short on time!

Retreating to the English countryside is the perfect way to escape the city, take a step back in time and enjoy the slow-paced way of village life. From the popular Cotswolds villages to some lesser known gems, here are 20 of the most charming and beautiful English villages to inspire your next visit.

Table of Contents

20 of the Most Charming and Beautiful English Villages

The fairy-tale village of Castle Combe in the Cotswolds

Broadway, Worcestershire

-By Wendy from Empty Nesters Hit The Road

Photo of Broadway by Empty Nesters Hit The Road

Located in West England, the Cotswolds is full of picturesque villages. Choosing which one to visit is never easy, but Broadway is a good bet. Like all of its neighbours Broadway is full of honey coloured stone buildings, streets lined with ancient trees, and plenty of window boxes filled with colourful flowers. But as it’s larger than many of the surrounding towns, it offers great boutique shopping and a selection of excellent restaurants. As a popular destination for artists, there is also a nice selection of galleries in town.

With its location along The Cotswold Way , Broadway is a popular overnight stop for multi-day hikers. It has a nice selection of bed and breakfast inns and guest houses, most of which are locally owned and operated. After a long day in the countryside, walkers look forward to the creature comforts of this lovely village.

For history and architecture buffs, the famous Broadway Tower is located one mile south-east of the town in Broadway Tower Country Park. Built in 1798, this tower is known as the Highest Little Castle in the Cotswolds . Today the tower houses a museum on three of its floors. Also located in the park is a herd of red deer. In the Spring and Fall it’s possible to see the deer and their babies.

Broadway is just two hours northwest of London. Many visitors opt to take the train from Paddington Station to Moreton-in-Marsh and then a cab or bus to Broadway.

→Click here to browse accommodation options in Broadway←

Painswick Village , Gloucestershire

-By Sophie from We Dream Of Travel

The beautiful Painswick Village, photo by We Dream of Travel

Painswick is a beautiful, quaint village tucked away amidst the British countryside within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  With its honey-hued homes and cobbled streets, it is easily the prettiest village in the Cotswolds , if not the whole of England!

Located just over 2 hours’ drive from London, it makes for a perfect day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and can be combined with any of the other charming Cotswold villages.  Painswick is steeped in history and as you meander through its labyrinth of streets and alleyways, you’ll encounter clues to the past.  Many of the buildings have small plaques on them to acknowledge their former use and there are a number of informative boards around the town to give insight into the village’s long history.

There were once 17 inns and alehouses in Painswick, and today Painswick is still well known for its excellent restaurants. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Golden Heart pub sign on Tibbiwell Lane.  While the pub no longer exists, the sign remains as part of a protected Grade II listed building.

The pretty church garden, photo by We Dream of Travel

The village of Painswick is also renowned for its church garden, home to 100 yew trees.  Until 2000, there had been 99 yew trees and legend told that the hundredth yew tree planted would be destroyed by the devil.  However, to commemorate the millennium, each parish in Gloucester received and planted a yew tree.  Contrary to the legend, the 100th tree is still alive and well!

Painswick is also home to the Rococo gardens, dating back to 1748 and hailed as one of the Cotswolds’ best kept secrets.  These gardens provide the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.

Bibury, Gloucestershire

-By Christina from Travel2Next

The charming Arlington Row in Bibury, photo by Travel2Next

British poet William Morris wasn’t wrong when he called Bibury “the most beautiful village in England”. When the sun streams on the honey-coloured stone cottages of Arlington Row, it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful of all the Cotswold villages . It looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. Completing the picture is a bubbling brook, lovely gardens and a tranquil pond. Arlington Row is possibly the most photographed village in England. Built in 1380, the cottages were initially used to store wool but later became weavers’ cottages to produce cloth that was sent to Arlington Mill for processing.

While most people are attracted to Bibury to take photos of Arlington Row, it’s also worth visiting the Bibury Trout Farm to learn how they breed Rainbow and Brown Trout. The farm has been operating since 1902 and has a gift shop, picnic areas and a fresh seafood counter where you can buy smoked trout and other seafood. On weekends, a fun thing to do is to go fishing and catch fish to take home. The farm supplies fishing rods and the activity is suitable for beginners, and you pay for your catch by weight.

There are some charming cottages to stay at in Bibury, but you’ll want to book a room at The Swan Hotel , which was once a coaching inn and is beside the River Coln. You can get to Bibury by train, public bus or by car but if you’re planning on exploring other villages in the Cotswolds driving is the most convenient way to get around.

Bourton-on-the-Water , Gloucestershire

-By Emily from Kids and Compass

Bourton-on-the-Water, photo by Kids and Compass

Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most beautiful and popular villages in the Cotswolds. Think old, honey coloured houses, covered in climbing roses with pretty little gardens lining a stream; cute cafes and boutique shops.

Bourton-on-the-Water is also known as the Venice of the Cotswolds. The river Windrush is crossed by several little bridges, although sadly you can’t punt up and down as the stream is far too small!

You’ll find plenty of attractions in Bourton-on-the-Water when you’re finished admiring the surroundings. Families will enjoy visiting Birdland which is home to flamingos, cassowaries and other exotic species, although it’s also a haven for wild birds. Don’t forget the Jurassic Journey walk, where kids can look for dinosaurs hidden in the undergrowth.

The Cotswold Motoring Museum has an incredible collection of cars, buses and other vehicles and motoring memorabilia. There’s a great collection of toys too. You might also want to visit the miniature village in the town centre.

Bourton-on-the-Water also has a cute little hedge maze. You have to solve clues as you walk around, and you won’t be able to find the treasure at the centre without completing the puzzle.

Bourton-on-the-Water is a two-hour drive from London.  If you can’t drive, then take a train to Moreton in Marsh and then a bus to Bourton-on-the-Water. The town is also a great base for exploring the rest of the Cotswolds as it’s so centrally located.

Stay in the boutique and centrally located Chester House Hotel , although there are plenty more choices to suit any budget.

Lower Slaughter, Gloucestershire

– By Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

The picturesque village of Lower Slaughter

Lower Slaughter is a picturesque Cotswold village in the county of Gloucestershire, filled with limestone cottages built in the traditional Cotswold style. It doesn’t receive as many tourists as some of the more popular Cotswold villages and has managed to retain a more authentic charm. As a  vegan traveler  in the Cotswolds, I was a bit wary of staying in a place called “slaughter”, but thankfully the name does not refer to the slaughter of animals.

Rather, it comes from the Old English word sloh, which means “a marshy or muddy place”, and refers to the nearby wetlands and the Eye stream that flows through the village. Lower Slaughter is known as one of the Cotswold’s “water villages” and features several quaint stone footbridges that cross the stream. You can often see geese and other water birds paddling around in the water. Copeshill Road, which follows the stream, has been voted the Most Romantic Street in Britain!

A cute bridge in Lower Slaughter, photo by The Nomadic Vegan

As you may have guessed, there is also a village called Upper Slaughter, which is just a short walk away. This lovely stroll along the stream takes about 25 minutes and is highly recommended. Along the way, you’ll pass the Old Mill, which was built in the 19th century and has now been converted into an arts and crafts shop. The mill’s original water wheel is still functioning.

By car, Lower Slaughter is about a two-hour drive from London. If you’re taking public transport, the train takes about three hours, while the National Express bus is a bit faster and also much cheaper.

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

-By Josie from Where Jo Goes

The gorgeous architecture of Castle Combe, photo by Where Jo Goes

Often lauded as England’s prettiest village, Castle Combe in Wiltshire is a single meandering high street of honey coloured stone, a brook bubbling through it. At one end of the street is the much photographed bridge with the picturesque cottages that overlook it. At the other stands the Market Cross, the village pump, traditional English pubs including the 12 th  Century  Castle Inn  and St Andrews Church. You’ll notice the locals sell produce such as home-made cakes and jams straight from their doorsteps, bringing a touch of local personality to this bucolic spot in the heart of the English countryside.

On arrival, Castle Combe may well look familiar. War Horse was filmed here and it features in Downton Abbey and many period dramas.

The  Manor House Hotel at Castle Combe  is a luxury hotel with a Michelin starred restaurant. Take a wander through the Italianate gardens or along the river bank if you’re stopping for a meal or drink in the hotel or a game of golf at the hotel’s club. It’s also the perfect spot for a quintessentially English afternoon tea. Confession, I spent the first night of my honeymoon here so it has a soft spot in my heart, it’s such a beautiful spot!

Photo of Castle Combe by Where Jo Goes

For a more adrenaline filled pursuit, Castle Combe Circuit  offers a range of driving experiences.

Getting here: A 3-hour drive from London or 50 mins from Bristol, the village is best reached by car. Nearest train station: Chippenham (15 mins drive away). Click here to find train times and tickets.

If you are on the hunt for yet more gorgeous English villages, combine with a trip to  Lacock  or head to  Bath to sample the spa waters.

→Click here to book your accommodation in Castle Combe←

Lacock, Wiltshire

-By Laura from What’s Hot Blog 

Lacock, Wiltshire, photo by What’s Hot Blog

Lacock is a charming English village that has somehow managed to preserve its medieval spirit to this very day. As you wander through the village, you’ll see cosy pubs and eateries, even the odd honesty vegetable stall or two. Locals will often leave their homegrown vegetables and other homemade wares on their doorsteps and windowsills and you can leave a coin or two in exchange.

Just 30 minutes by car from Bath , Lacock is definitely worth visiting for an afternoon, especially if you’re a film aficionado. Walking through the streets of Lacock, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d stumbled into a period drama. That’s exactly why this tiny British village is so often used as a filming location, famously for the most magical tale of our time: Harry Potter.

The best thing to do in Lacock is to visit Lacock Abbey, which dates back to the 13th century. The interiors are beautiful with ornate decorations and furniture. It also served as a  Harry Potter filming location  with its cloisters being used as Hogwarts corridors and the now-empty rooms doubling up as Quirrel and Snape’s classrooms. In the main village, you’ll see other traditional, quaint British homes, one of which served as Harry Potter’s parents’ house and another as Slughorn’s hideaway. Other films shot here include Wolf Hall, Cranston and even an episode of Downton Abbey.

It’s small, but it’s beautiful. If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into times gone by and have a very charming British day then you must add Lacock to your bucket list.

The Best Tours to the Cotswolds from London

Looking to take a day trip to the Cotswolds from London? Find some of the best Cotswolds tour options below or click here to read my complete guide on choosing the best Cotswolds tour from London .

Bampton, Oxfordshire

-By Faith from XYUandBEYOND

St. Mary’s Church in Bampton, photo by XYUandBEYOND

Bampton is set in the Oxfordshire countryside right on the edge of the Cotswolds. A chocolate box village that sits about 20 miles west of Oxford this charming little town stands in for Downton Village in the Downton Abbey show.

Bampton’s history goes back as far as the Iron Age and it is said that the Romans also settled here. What makes Bampton special is that it is  Downton Village . The Village is also incredibly peaceful and quintessentially English with its independent shops and a high street that still features its historic buildings.

Church View is a lovely little green square behind the main village high street. If you watched Downton Abbey you will immediately recognise the area and St. Mary’s Church. The Church dates back to the 11th century and was built as a Saxon Minister. Over the years new additions such as the gothic spire have been added.

To the left of the Church is the Rectory now called the Deanery it was built in the 13th century and later was reconstructed as a Georgian Manor. In Downton, it was used as Isobel Crawley’s home.

Bampton Church View, photo by XYUandBEYOND

Church View stands the same as it has done for centuries the green square with its large oak trees is a little peaceful oasis. Just down from the Deanery is “Downton’s hospital”. Now run as a visitor’s Centre where local crafts and Downton memorabilia are sold. All the profits from sales and the filming of Downton are used to assist the village in its conservation efforts.

Walking into the main village past the visitors’ centre you will be treated to a lovely main street where you can grab a pint at the Horseshoe Inn or treat yourself to a cream tea at the Bampton Coffee House.

Stratford-upon-Avon , Warwickshire

-By Maggie from Pink Caddy Travelogue

Beautiful medieval buildings of Stratford-upon-Avon, photo by Pink Caddy Travelogue

Stratford-upon-Avon is not only one of the most beautiful English villages, but it’s also a can’t-miss for literature buffs. Named for the River Avon that flows through it, Stratford-upon-Avon  is a beautiful, historical gem just an hour from London that can be easily reached via train or car.

Visiting the village is like stepping back in time. Founded in 1196, Stratford upon Avon has retained much of its historic flavor, despite being a bustling modern village. Although visited by millions of tourists every year, the town itself is charming and distinctly English. Many of the buildings have kept their original Elizabethan or medieval look, and in springtime, English gardens abound in the streets surrounding town-center.

It’s charm alone is worth checking out, but the town’s biggest claim to fame is for being the epicenter of all things Shakespeare. The famous poet was born here, spent most of his life here, and died and was buried in this quiet English village. Most of his immediate family had homes here as well.

Visitors can tour Shakespeare’s birthplace, a waddle-and-daub cottage where, in 1564, the poet himself was born. Tourists can also check out Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare’s family worshipped and where many of them are now buried. End the day by seeing one of Shakespeare’s works brought to life on stage at the Royal Shakespeare Theater, an unforgettable experience!

→Click here to book your accommodation in Stratford-upon-Avon←

Downham, Lancashire

-By Chris and Heather from A Brit & A Southerner

The lovely village of Downham in Lancashire, photo by A Brit & A Southerner

When it comes to idyllic English villages, you could be forgiven for thinking about hamlets in the Cotswolds or neighbouring counties. However, why not head north to the Red Rose county of Lancashire to explore the beautiful village of Downham, located in the Ribble Valley less than 40 miles north of Manchester.

Rural England is epitomized in this part of Lancashire and if you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Lancashire locals in Downham will certainly make you feel welcome as they go about daily life in this quintessential English village. Visit Downham if you are looking for a location that epitomizes everything there is to love about stereotypical rural England.

The history of Downham dates back to the 15 th -century and the Assheton family who are responsible for the village and surrounding estate. Today, visitors can enjoy a quiet, relaxing stroll up and down the village before heading inside the Assheton Arms to sample fine Lancashire cuisine and a beer or two. Visit St. Leonard’s Church towers above the Downham landscape at the top of the hill and you may well be greeted either by the local vicar or perhaps the resident hen that frequently roams around the church and down into the village.

Downham is a charming village full of character, frequently associated with the nearby Pendle Hill and the resident witches but this story should be left for another day. Instead, take your time enjoying the inherent beauty of a picture postcard village.

Castleton, Derbyshire

-By Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

The quaint village of Castleton, photo by The Wanderlust Within

The chocolate box village of  Castleton  in Hope Valley, is a hotspot for hikers, outdoor lovers and history buffs. Looming over this quaint and charming village is Mam Tor, also known as Shivering Mountain. It is the top attraction in Castleton and is one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the Peak District. Mam Tor is only a two-hour circular hike from the village centre, making it possible for adults and children alike.

Castleton village is also overlooked by the ancient Peveril Castle. The 11th century castle is one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses, and the ruins can still be visited today. A short hike to the top of the hill is required but you’ll be awarded with breath-taking views of Hope Valley.

In fact, Castleton is surrounded by hikes, so after you’ve burnt some calories, the best place to visit is one of the many tea rooms in Castleton. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the Peak District, followed by a visit to some of the country’s best show caves and caverns.

Castleton village is situated in Derbyshire’s Peak District and can be reached in only half an hour from Sheffield by train. If you arrive by car, you’ll be blessed with spectacular views of Winnats Pass as you drive into Castleton. Just another reason to visit this picturesque English village.

→ Book your day trip to Castleton from Manchester ←

Debenham, Suffolk

-By Chelsea from The Portable Wife

The riverside village of Debenham, photo by The Portable Wife

Debenham is a tiny riverside village nestled in the Suffolk countryside. Despite its small size, Debenham gets regular visitors thanks to its numerous antique stores, artisan craft shops, and charming “chocolate box” cottages.

The best way to experience Debenham is on foot. The village is very walkable, and you’ll find plenty of Instagrammable buildings and gardens as you stroll up the main road and smaller residential streets.

If you get hungry, stop into the Vanilla Bakery Cafe for some delicious baked goods or the River Green Cafe and Deli for tasty sandwiches and tea. The deli also sells locally crafted food and drink, including infused gins and fruit preserves.

Book lovers should stop into David Shacklock Book Services, where towering stacks and shelves of antique novels create a cozy atmosphere. If you like one-of-a-kind items, head to Spiral for unique accessories and home decor. And of course, no trip to Debenham would be complete without visiting a few antique shops, especially Swan House and Garden.

Getting to Debenham is easiest by car. However, there are buses that run from nearby Stowmarket and Ipswich. And if you want to try  glamping in Suffolk , Kenton Hall Estate is walkable from the village and offers yurt and shepherd’s hut lodging from May through October.

→ Book your glamping experience at Kenton Hall Estate ←

Cley-Next-the-Sea, Norfolk

-By Susan from Travel Guideline Blog

The beautiful beach at Cley-Next-the-Sea, photo by Travel Guideline Blog

Cley-Next-the-Sea is a small village with a population of less than 500 people. But despite the small size, there’s so much to see and do!

The most popular attraction is the nearby Cley Marshes , home to thousands of birds and a must-see spot for birders and wildlife photographers. It’s the oldest county wildlife trust in Britain, dating back to 1926. Annually it brings in more than 100,000 visitors. It’s a lovely property with marshes, a beachfront, and views of the Cley Windmill.

In town, you can visit Artemis , a coffee shop with delicious breakfast, scones, coffee and tea. When the weather is nice, their terrace overlooks a marsh area that’s scenic and peaceful. While you’re there, you can also visit The Artemis Barn. It’s a boutique on the same property that carries clothing, home decor items, and gifts of all kinds.

Just across the street is Picnic Fayre , a small grocery and deli housed in the town’s old forge building. They carry all kinds of meats and cheeses, plus an amazing array of chutneys. You can also find homemade cakes and bread, plus locally-grown produce. The store is entirely charming, from the window front to the wine room in the back.

Cley-Next-the-Sea, photo by Travel Guideline Blog

Don’t forget to book a seal-watching trip to Blakeney Point! The tours last 60-90 minutes and depending on the time of year, you will see grey and/or common seals. The boat trip itself is loads of fun and perfect for families with young children.

History buffs will enjoy the Cley Windmill , Felbrigg Hall, and St. Margaret’s Church. The windmill dates to the 1800s. It now operates as a bed-and-breakfast , so consider a stay there if it suits your fancy. Felbrigg Hall is located in nearby Felbrigg Village, and is a 17th-century country house of Stuart architecture. Lastly, St. Margaret’s is an active parish in the Anglican Church, and dates back to the early 1300s.

If you’re taking a Norfolk beach road trip along the A149, you’ll go right through Cley. You can also get there by bus or train.

Cheddar, Somerset

-By Darek from DarekandGosia.com

The village of Cheddar, photo by DarekandGosia.com

Cheddar is one of those beautiful and sleepy English villages which is worth visiting on a weekend trip to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The village is located in Somerset, in South England. If you travel by train, it is best to reach the seaside resort of Weston-Super-Mare or nearby Bristol, and then take a bus from Westop-Super-Mare 126, or from Bristol 672. All travelling by car from London should drive the M4 motorway to Bristol, then exit on M5. The road to Cheddar itself is well signposted so you will not have a problem reaching it.

The village is not only a land of rock walls, beautiful caves and mountain viewing terraces. Cheddar is famous for its production of sweet yellow cheese which originated there over a thousand years ago! In addition, delicious cheddar Ale is produced in the mini-brewery and available in all local pubs. Tea enthusiasts can enjoy a drink in the local tearoom, famous for its excellent home-made cakes.

Cheese lovers who visit Cheddar because of its famous production should not only visit the original place of its production – in a deep cave – but also see the modern place of cheddar production. On site there are shops where you can buy fresh and original cheese in many varieties.

This might sound cheesy, but Cheddar is really one of the best villages in England.

Wembury, Devon

-By Annemarie from Travel On The Brain

Wembury Woods bluebells, photo by Travel On The Brain

Wembury in Devon, England is a cute little village near Plymouth, right by the coast. But what makes it so special isn’t its cottage style houses but its nature settings. In summer, it’s a great idea to stroll down among the rugged cliffs and take a dip at Wembury Beach. Throw down a towel on the small sandy beach for some sunbathing afterwards.

Should you plan your visit in spring, time it so you can see the ancient woods carpeted by magnificent fields of bluebells. British bluebells are protected and native (and pretty much exclusive) to Britain and are not to be missed.

If you don’t have a car, you can take the local hourly bus 48 from Plymouth to the northern edge of the town (ask for stop ‘Hollacombe’) and start your walk through   Traine and Hollacombe Wood down to Wembury Woods.

After entering through the gate, take a left down into the valley and follow the signs towards the village. Already here the bluebells will completely surround you and it’s a breathtaking sight! However, please do not leave paths or step on the flowers as they are very fragile. (This includes pets you may walk or like to place for a pose.)

In total – and if you don’t constantly stop and gaze at the flowers for a prolonged time – the walk through the woods to the Wembury Woods bluebells takes around an hour and is relatively easy to do. There are some inclines but nothing dramatic. Sturdy shoes are advised as the path can still be muddy after a rainy day.

Cadgwith Cove, Cornwall

-By Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Cute cottages of Cadgwith Cove, photo by Smudged Postcard

Tucked away on the south east coast of the  Lizard Peninsula  in the English county of Cornwall is Cadgwith Cove. This little fishing village features a tangle of pretty cottages with flower filled gardens and a smattering of appealing shops and pubs. The village has an attractive pebble beach filled with colourful fishing boats. Wander along the coastal path to discover the Devil’s Frying Pan, a deep hole in the cliffs where a cave collapsed into the sea.

As with much of this hidden corner of Cornwall, Cadgwith Cove does not receive the same volume of visitors as other parts of the county, except during the summer BBQ evenings when the whole village is alive with the sound of locals and visitors enjoying freshly cooked fish. Monkfish and king prawns are particularly delicious and you need to come early as the delicious food sells out very quickly. There’s entertainment on the beach for children and an informal bar for refreshments.

Cadgwith Cove can be reached by car from the airports at Newquay or Exeter. It’s worth exploring some of the other villages as well. Fans of the BBC series Poldark will no doubt recognise some of the dramatic coastline which has made this region such an enjoyable place to visit.

Corfe Castle, Dorset

-By Nesrine from KEVMRC

Corfe Castle, photo by KEVMRC

If you like castles and time travel, you should definitely visit Corfe Castle. Located on the Jurassic Coast, the region that runs along the furthest south of the English Channel coast, Corfe Castle is a very pretty and picturesque village in the famous Dorset county. Corfe Castle is actually the best place to stop for a lovely break if you are visiting the region as it is only a 12 min drive from Old Harry Rocks, and 25 min drive from Durdle Door.

As you may have assumed, there is a castle in the village, and what a castle! It can be seen from miles away as it sits on a hill above the village. There are many different viewpoints from where the ruins can be seen throughout the surrounding area. Of course, you can also visit the monument itself to have a full experience and enjoy a nice view of the village from above.

Besides the castle, Corfe Castle is also famous for the old train station where you can take a steam train! Yes, the steam train still works and you can take it for real! Visiting this train station is definitely a travel in the past as it is exactly how you picture the beginning of the 20th century in England.

Corfe Castle has a lot more to offer. Indeed, the village has very charming streets with beautiful stone houses that make it very attractive.

Ready for your trip to Corfe Castle? Find everything you need to know about the village and prepare for your trip with this guide.

→Book your day trip to the Jurassic Coast from Bournemouth with a stop in Corfe Castle←

Dulwich Village, South London

-By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

The beautiful Dulwich College, photo by 24 Hours Layover

Don’t be fooled by Dulwich Village’s proximity to Central London. Dulwich Village is one of the most quaint English villages and one of the only neighbourhoods in the capital that has managed to hold onto its unique and true village charm. Located in Zone 3 in the London borough of Southwark, Dulwich Village is known for the world-class Dulwich College and the famous Dulwich Picture Gallery built by Sir John Soane, which features paintings by Rembrandt and Reubens, amongst others.

Dulwich Village is an upmarket and exclusive neighbourhood full of upper-class families residing in its many mansions and cottages. Many buildings here are Grade II listed, including the local pub, and there are plenty of independent boutique stores and cafes. There are many green spaces here for families to enjoy such as Dulwich Park and Dulwich Wood. You can also see the only remaining London Tollgate here, just past Dulwich College. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you’re in Dulwich Village.

The easiest way to get there from Central London is to take the train from either London Victoria (arrives at West Dulwich station) or London Bridge (arrives at North Dulwich station). Both routes take around 15 minutes and Dulwich Village is located in between the two stations. Click here to find train times and tickets.

The nearest Underground Station is Brixton however it is almost 2 miles away so you should take the P4 bus from Brixton to Dulwich Village once you get off the tube. There are several other ways to reach Dulwich Village depending on your location, so the best thing to do is to always check the Citymapper app as it will show you the cheapest and fastest way to reach anywhere in London from your current location.

Rye, East Sussex

-By Aimee from Snap Happy Travel

The famous Mermaid Street, Rye

Rye is a quaint market town nestled towards the coast of East Sussex. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Hastings and easily accessible by bus. The poster child for Rye is Mermaid Street with its storybook charm. Mermaid Street is a winding cobbled street with great views of slightly wonky stone and timber houses; reminiscent of a Harry Potter film if you’re into that sort of thing.

Be sure to pop into the coziest pub in prime position on the street for a pint or some afternoon tea; The Mermaid Inn is an amazingly well preserved 15th century pub and inn with a beautifully decorated interior.

There is certainly much more to see and do in Rye than the famous Mermaid Street. Why not stop for a coffee at Cafe des Fleurs on Station Road, or if you fancy the most amazing hot chocolate then you can’t miss Knoops, perfect for a cold winter’s day. For the best view of Rye, climb up the Bell tower of St Mary’s Church to see this historic town in all its glory.

If you have more time why not take a walk out to Camber Sands which is a long stretch of golden sand, a 20-minute walk from Rye. Aim to catch a sunset while you’re there and watch the sky light up with a spectacular show.

→Book your stay at the gorgeous Mermaid Inn←

Alfriston, East Sussex

-By Rick from The Road Is Life

Exploring the beautiful high street of Alfriston

Alfriston is a very small, quintessentially English village in East Sussex surrounded by the incredible natural beauty of the South Downs hills. The village of Alfriston dates back to the Saxon period, making it one of the oldest in the county. It later became a market town in the middle ages and still retains much of its medieval spirit to this day.

A wander down the village’s charming high street is sure to transport you to times gone by. Admire the well preserved timber-framed buildings that line the narrow street and make sure to stop for lunch and a pint at one of the beautiful historic pubs.

The Star Inn makes a good choice for a traditional English pub experience. It dates back to the 15 th century when it served as a shelter for pilgrims making their way to Chichester. Nowadays you can expect to be served delicious pub food and try out some local ales.

Another great option is the George Inn which is a classic old pub on the high street serving up excellent food with a cosy atmosphere. It dates back to the 14 th century when it was the first pub in Alfriston to be granted an Innkeepers licence.

A windy day at the Beachy Head Cliffs

A 20-minute drive south of Alfriston will take you to The Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, a series of chalky white cliffs that will take your breath away with their beauty. A great option for a day trip would be to combine a visit to the cliffs with a lunch stop and an afternoon stroll around Alfriston.

Getting to Alfriston is only a 20 minute drive from Eastbourne or a 30 minute drive from Brighton. If you’re travelling from London, the drive will take up to 2 hours and by train, it’s a 1.5 hour journey.

You can catch the train from London Victoria to Polegate and then catch an 8 minute taxi from there to Alfriston. Click here for more details on train times and tickets.

→Browse accommodation options in Alfriston←

-By Ann from The Road Is Life

The Tickled Trout pub sits peacefully next to the Stour River

Wye is a tiny medieval village nestled in the heart of the Kent Downs. This part of England has been named “an area of outstanding natural beauty” as it’s home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Southeast. Located only 1 hour from London by train, the village of Wye makes the perfect day out in Kent for those seeking a peaceful countryside retreat.

The most popular thing to do in Wye is to go for a scenic walk in the hills surrounding the village. There are a number of walks of varying length depending on your preference. Each one offers stunning countryside views and viewpoints that will take your breath away.

An easy walk that only takes 30 minutes begins in the village centre and leads you up to the Wye Memorial Crown in the hills. The view from the top is spectacular. Click here to find more detailed information about hiking around Wye.

A beautiful view of Wye village from the top of the Memorial Crown viewpoint

After you’ve worked up an appetite from all that walking, make your way back to the village for a delicious pub meal. The village of Wye is home to a few of the cutest old English pubs around.

The Tickled Trout is one of the most popular ones, and for good reason. This historic pub is perfectly situated on the edge of the Stour River and has the loveliest outdoor beer garden. Whether you visit during winter or summer, the Tickled Trout is the best pub in Wye for delicious food and post hike pints.

Getting to Wye from London requires catching the train from London’s St Pancras Station to Ashford . You will then get on the train toward Canterbury West and get off at the next stop which is Wye. Click here for more details on train times and tickets.

Planning your trip to England? Read more of our travel guides!

• An amazing one week road trip from London
• The perfect day trip itinerary to Dover from London
• The top 10 day trips to Kent from London
• How to spend a full day in the historic town of Canterbury
• The ultimate day trip from London to Bath itinerary
• The 10 best tours to the Cotswolds from London

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

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17 comments.

What a comprehensive coverage of quaint English villages. Wish I had all this info back in the day when I traveled around England.

Glad you enjoyed the post! Never too late to head back and tick more of these beautiful villages off your list 🙂

It was such a pleasure contributing this guide and I’ve LOVED reading all the other recommendations. There are so many beautiful places I still need to visit in England.

Thank you so much for your lovely contribution and beautiful photos!

Oh my gosh! They all look so beautiful. I want to visit each and every one of them. A month-long road trip through England and Wales would be a dream trip! Burton-on-the-Water would be at the top of my list. Thank for such a great post!

So glad you enjoyed the post 🙂 The Cotswolds are full of gorgeous villages, it’s hard to pick just a few to visit!

Stunning selection! I’ve only been to Stratford-Upon-Avon in this list, but pinning for my UK trip this year ❤

So glad you liked the post! Enjoy your time in the UK 🙂

So many of my favourites here! I’m lucky enough to live in the south west so am spoilt for choice!

Thank you so much for your contribution Jo. The south west definitely has so many gems!

lol I love how the first like 5 are just Cotswold villages. I really need to explore that area more! Absolutely love Stratford. I also cannot believe I’ve never been to Rye, considering I lived pretty close to there for a few years!!! It’s amazing what you miss on your doorstep, isn’t it haha.

Right!? The Cotswolds have an epic collection of the most stunning little English villages! And totally check out Rye if you get a chance, it’s one of my all time favs!

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Amazing English villages .. I want to explore in this place..

England has so many beautiful villages! 🙂

Charming list! It’s like stepping into a storybook. Each village must have its own unique history and character.

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35 Most beautiful Villages in England – Top British countryside!

Probably* the best list of the most charming & beautiful English villages! From small villages in England to stunning UK countryside areas.

Looking for top villages in the UK and the most beautiful English countryside? With cute historic pubs, rolling green hills and charming stone cottages, the most beautiful villages in England have all that you need to spend a wonderful time during a getaway in the UK !

From stunning Cornwall , fairy-tale-like Cotswold villages to the amazing countryside in Yorkshire. Many villages from our list could be easily named “the prettiest village in England”.

All tourists should remember that England is not only about visiting London! The real England is further away from the capital city. It’s full of historic sites and most importantly beautiful English villages.

Yes, there are many pretty villages in Europe but why would you go that far if you have amazing English countryside on your doorstep? Maybe it’s only us, but there is really something special about the rural areas of England and its charming villages – the picturesque beauty hidden away in countryside areas across England.

If you only have a chance, make sure you visit the most beautiful villages in England – you will love all of them!

Where is the most beautiful village in England?

There are so many beautiful villages in England, and it can be hard to choose the most beautiful. Listed below are the top picks for English villages that are gorgeous and scenic, as well as a little look at what makes them so spectacular. Ready to explore the best of the English countryside? 🙂

Explore the most beautiful countryside in England and top prettiest villages in England:

35 Most Beautiful Villages in England

1. castle combe, wiltshire.

Looking for top UK countryside? Quintessentially English, it is no wonder Castle Combe village has been named as the prettiest in England. Found in Wiltshire, it is another Cotswold location that really captures the charm of the area’s aesthetics. This probably is one of the best villages near me!

Striking stone cottages and bridges of the same hue combine to create a picturesque location that you will never want to leave. The river is peaceful to watch, and there are plenty of locations where you can grab a bite to eat and watch the water.

With all that in mind, you can consider Castle Combe as one of the best places to visit near London .

2. Fingest, Buckinghamshire

Best best countryside in UK? Buckinghamshire is home to many beautiful places. Due to its location many of them you can visit on a day trip from London . When it comes to most beautiful villages in England, Fingest has to be very top on the list!

The village is often described as a great example of an unspoilt British village. A combination of Georgian and medieval cottages, beautiful countryside and a top call English village pub called The Chequers attract many tourists to visit this village every weekend.

Fingest definitely is a must-visit village in the Chilterns !

3. Shere, Surrey

Most beautiful village in UK? If you are after popular UK villages then Shere is Surrey is a great option for you!

Nestled in the Tillingbourne valley, the village of Shere is located between beautiful towns of Guildford and Dorking, making it a perfect place to live near London!

The village offers visitors a stream with ducks, many charming buildings, two pubs (The White Horse & The William Bray) a tearoom, as well as a 12th-century church. You may recognise the village from the 2006 rom-com The Holiday starring Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz.

You can be sure that you will fall in love with the village of Shere near Guildford.

4. Goring on Thames, Oxfordshire

Yes, Oxfordshire is home to England’s most beautiful villages and Goring on Thames really has to be very top on the list of cute villages in England!

From an old mill, which is no longer in use to many traditional British pubs, there is much to see and visit in the village of Goring .

Goring is located on the River Thames in the southern part of Oxfordshire and features the Goring Gap. This area really is spectacular for hiking so if you are looking for the best places to walk near London , you need to visit this cute English village.

All you have to do is book a hotel in Goring so you can explore the unspoilt natural beauty around this historic English village.

5. Polperro, Cornwall

Recommended by Sophie from thewanderfulme.com

Where to find the most beautiful countryside in England? Who else loves little seaside villages featuring quaint little pubs bustling with locals having a pint, fishing boats bobbing up and down in the harbour, the sounds of seagulls floating along in the salty breeze, and the crash of waves along the rocky coast?

The tiny little Cornwall village of Polperro delivers all that and more. It really is one of the most beautiful villages in the UK.

You’ll find it hard to not go absolutely crazy for the colourful cottages clinging to the jagged hillsides, charming local shops selling everything from handmade pottery to homemade candy, picturesque ocean views, timeworn pubs with their stooped ceilings serving up crisp Cornwall cider, and teeny cobblestone pathways leading to nowhere.

What makes Polperro unique though is its history. Once a thriving centre for the area’s smuggling days, under the cover of night smugglers used to weave their way through the winding streets, carting off barrows of fish, tobacco bales, and casks of brandy to places like London.

Without a doubt, this is one of the cutest and most unique fishing villages in southern England and is a must if you’re ever in the area.

6. Sonning on Thames, Berkshire

Looking for the most beautiful villages England? Without a doubt, Sonning on Thames has to be very top on any list of the prettiest English villages!

There are many places to have to explore while visiting this pretty English village.

Start with Sonning Lock – colourful gardens perfect for a stroll along the towpath. You will definitely enjoy the magical scenery surrounding this village as it’s pure joy for cyclists and walkers. In fact, this is one of the best places for nice walks near London .

Anyone visiting Sonning on Thames has also go to The Mill at Sonning. This 18th-century Flour Mill has been converted into a beautiful Dinner Theatre, which really is one of the most famous places to visit in Berkshire!

7. Turville, Buckinghamshire

Nicest villages in England and top countryside areas in the UK? Known for numerous appearances in televisions shows (e.g. The Vicar), Turville is a stunning example of a quintessentially British village. Located in the beautiful Chilterns Area of Outstanding Beauty , just 5 miles of High Wycombe is a famous spot for hiking near London and one of the best forests near me !

The Bull and Butcher, as it’s called the only village pub, is a perfect place to relax after exploring the surrounding area. Or, you can just get the for a pint after visiting nearby Henley-on-Thames .

Don’t forget to walk up the hill to see the Cobstone Windmill and take an amazing picture of Hambleden Valley and the village. Without a doubt, Turville is one of the best places to visit in Buckinghamshire !

8. Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire

Most beautiful villages near London? Anyone looking for picture-postcard villages in England has to visit Long Crendon! If you are planning a weekend getaway in England and Buckinghamshire is your location of choice, then you have to stay at Long Crendon Manor . This unique and historic country house provides luxury bed and breakfast , which will definitely make your visit special.

The rural stunning landscape is watered by the River Thame on which the Long Crendon village stands. Apart of spending time in the village, you should also visit the nearby Thame and Brill, both are within easy driving distance.

We really liked this village as it’s a delightful one to stroll around – it really is one of the best places to visit in Buckinghamshire and a top British village!

9. Ickleford, Hertfordshire

Where to go for best English countryside? Hertfordshire is home to many quaint English villages you just have to visit. If you are big fan of lavender fields and sunflower fields, the head out to Ickleford – it’s located just stone throw away from Hitchin and it’s known as one of the most beautiful village in UK!

The village of Ickleford is as popular with visitors as it is with its friendly local community so if you are planning to visit Hertfordshire , make sure to have Ickleford on your list!

10. Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire

Best old villages in England to visit? Head out to Buckinghamshire and visit Milton’s Cottage museum located in a Chalfont St Giles . It really is one of England’s prettiest villages!

John Milton, who completed his epic poem Paradise Lost was one of the most known residents of this pretty village. You may also recognise the village from the 1971 film version of Dad’s Army or an episode of the BBC Television sitcom As Time Goes By.

If you are looking for ideas where to go for a day trip from London , Chalfont St Giles in Buckinghamshire is a great option. It really is one of the most beautiful villages UK.

11. Bakewell, Derbyshire

Recommended by Jenny from peakdistrictkids.co.uk

Where is the top England countryside? Anyone visiting the Peak District finds themselves in Bakewell at some point, whether it to taste a traditional Bakewell pudding, to add a love-lock to the bridge, or to start a hike along the Monsal Trail.

Idyllically situated on the banks of the River Wye, it’s a lovely town for an afternoon stroll past mellow stone buildings to quaint courtyards showcasing local artwork, before popping into a cosy cafe for a pot of tea and slice of Bakewell pudding. The medieval five-arched stone bridge is also a picturesque spot and you can continue your walk along the river.

Bakewell really is one of the best villages in the UK.

Bargains galore are on offer every Monday at the bustling outdoor market, and for an extra buzz, head for the livestock market to experience the action in the theatre-like auction ring!

Bakewell also marks the start of the Monsal Trail, which runs along the former Midland Railway line for 8.5 miles to Chee Dale. This traffic-free gravel path is a popular cycle and walking track.

A top local tip: don’t try and park in the town centre, especially on a weekend or during the school holidays. Instead, head to the car park next to the Agricultural Business Centre. There’s then a footpath that leads you in to town.

12. Cuddington, Buckinghamshire

Looking for beautiful countryside UK? This small village with a population of around 550 residents is mostly popular due to being the location of several Midsomer Murders episodes .

There are a few facilities, a proper British village has to have – those include shop a post office and even 2 churches, but only one is really in use.

It is also worth mentioning that for many years Cuddington won the regional competition of Britain’s best kept villages, so it has to be very top on the list of most beautiful villages in England!

13. Little Missenden, Buckinghamshire

There are many rural village UK and beautiful countryside near me. Without a doubt, Little Missenden can be named as one of the pretty villages in England! Located just of the A413 between Amersham and Wendover , this English village is perfect to visit on a day trip from London while exploring the surrounding British countryside.

Little Missenden village lies on the River Misbourne in the Misbourne valley, which really makes it one of the most picturesque villages in England.

This village with less than 2,500 inhabitants is very often visited by tourists. Mainly because of the beautiful buildings, but also its location in the Chilterns , which makes it a perfect location for hiking near London .

14. Dorchester-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

There are many English villages to visit but many say that Dorchester-on-Thames is the best village in England! Whether it’s true or not, we leave this for you to decide. To us, Dorchester on Thames is for sure one of the best places to visit in Oxfordshire . A perfect place as a base for UK getaway trip !

Anyone looking for a pretty village with a high street full of timber-framed houses has to visit Dorchester-on-Thames . From beautiful Dorchester Abbey and nice landscape of water meadows to Thames Path walks – there is a little bit of everything in and around this irresistible British village.

15. Cheddar, Somerset

Ideas for best villages in UK? This Somerset village is known for two things. The first is an array of cheddar cheeses that are made using traditional methods, and taste unlike anything you have had before.

The other is the mysterious and alluring Cheddar Gorge . This limestone canyon leads to gorgeous caves filled with dazzling geology and stalactites (and mites) that leave you wondering how nature manages to be so artistic in everything it does. To top it all off, they have some of the best afternoon tea you’ll find. 

16. Hambleden, Buckinghamshire

Yes, there are many pretty villages in England. If you are looking for the most beautiful countryside in England, you need to visit Hambleden village !

Located around 3 miles north-east of Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire and 4 miles west of Marlow , this village is a must-visit place in Buckinghamshire .

As one of the quaint villages in England, Hambleden is just a gorgeous little village you will love. With a great pub, local shop and a village church it is one of the cutest villages in England we have ever visited.

17. Grassington, North Yorkshire

Recommended by Cora from insideoursuitcase.com

Most charming villages in England? Grassington is located within North Yorkshire and is has been a place I have visited since I was young. With the area being a great hub to start and end walks within the area and neighbouring villages, it is a perfect spot to head to when looking to further explore the Yorkshire Dales.

Grassington is one of the prettiest villages in England because it is old, has wonderful countryside charm and a wonderful village of unique shops, great places to eat and even more wonderful places to stay.

It is definitely one of England’s prettiest villages!

Grassington has some great festivals that occur throughout the year though the better months to visit are Spring and Summer when you can see the lambs within the fields.

My favourite thing to do within the area of Grassington is going on a walk. Whether this is around the village, down by the River Wharfe or up into the hills to see the spectacular views over the fields.

If you aren’t much of a walker, Grassington makes for a great base while exploring some of the small neighbouring villages such as Burnsall, Kettlewell and even down to Bolton Abbey.

18. Pangbourne, Berkshire

What to add to your list of best English villages? There are many nice villages in England you can visit on a day trip from London. And Pangbourne in Berkshire is definitely one of the must-visit charming English villages!

This charming village, nestling along the River Thames is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Berkshire.

Full of individual shops, places to potter and pubs, Pangbourne village is an ideal location attracting many tourists. The surrounding picturesque countryside is also perfect for everyone looking for the best walks near London .

Yes, Pangbourne really is one of the most beautiful villages in the UK!

19. West Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

This really is one of the top 10 best villages in England! Located in Buckinghamshire , the charming village of West Wycombe is situated along the A40 road. There is ample parking in and around West Wycombe so you can easily visit this beautiful village by car.

This one-street village lined with stunning Tudor houses is must-see in this part of southern England !

Without a doubt, West Wycombe village is one of the most beautiful villages in England. It is also a perfect place to visit on a day trip from London – you not only get to admire stunning old building in the village, but you can also explore the National Trust’s West Wycombe Park and hike the hills. This area is known for being the best countryside in UK!

20. Framlingham, Suffolk

Recommended by Jacquie from flashpackingfamily.com

Top countryside places in England? Framlingham is located in the heart of Suffolk, one of the most rural parts of the UK. It is quintessentially English with its small independent shops, colourful houses and resident ducks taking right of way over the traffic. So idyllic is it that it has previously been voted the best place to live in England by Country Life magazine.

The pace of life in Framlingham is slow but really comes alive in the summer when visitors come from all around to visit Framlingham Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. It sits on a bluff with commanding views over the Suffolk countryside and is a great place to explore if you’re visiting Suffolk with kids .

If you are looking for picturesque villages in England, Framlingham is one of them!

After visiting the castle, you can take a walk around the narrow streets lined with colourful houses and adorned with equally colourful flowers. There are a couple of small tearooms where you can enjoy a traditional high tea and a handful of pubs, one of which is Ed Sheeran’s local which he pops into from time to time.

If you’re visiting Framlingham on a Saturday, make sure to check out the small market with produce from the local area. Framlingham is the perfect place to visit if you want to feel like you’re stepping back in time.

21. Bibury, Gloucestershire

Top village England? This serene Cotswold village is famed for the honey-stone walls that make up most of the homes there. It’s surrounded by stunning rural scenery, as well as friendly locals that will make your stay a welcome one.

The famed Arlington Row is where the movie Stardust was filmed, as well as Bridget Jones’ Diary. Despite this, it remains undisturbed and perfectly peaceful.

Would you add Bibury to the list of the most beautiful villages in England? 🙂

22. Cookham, Berkshire

Where to go to see the best village in UK? Berkshire is definitely home to some of the most famous villages in England and Cookham just has to be added to the list of best villages to visit in England!

This pretty village located between Marlow and Maidenhead is just another well-heeled Thames-side village you just have to see. Cookham is a very popular tourist destination in Berkshire, as well as a great place to live near London.

The village used to be home of the 20th-century artist Sir Stanley Spencer, who once called Cookham “a village in heaven”. Was he right? Just visit this charming British village and see it yourself.

23. Ashburton, Devon

Recommended by Annemarie from travelonthebrain.net

Where to go for the most beautiful villages in UK? When I explored Devon in Southwest England I decided to base myself in Ashburton. It’s well connected to the bus lines across the county, right at the fringe of the gorgeous Dartmoor National Park and busy enough to dine out and get some shopping done as well.

While not particularly big, I found plenty of things to do in Ashburton . I absolutely adored the many opportunities to amble around the countryside with shady walks through bluebell woods, over open pastures and up to Hound Tor and other natural landmarks of the national park.

Moreover, Ashburton has a few restaurants, pubs and cafes to please the foodie in you. I can recommend The Old Library Restaurant for an amazing avocado toast, Rust and the Wolf for a nightly drink out and Taylors for tea time.

This picturesque village in England really is worth visiting!

When you’re done filling your stomach, check out the many different antiquity stores all over Ashburton. There sure is something to intrigue, maybe vintage brooches, period furniture or shiny frames, to name just a few.

Having said all that, what Ashburton is most known for is its renowned cooking school, where beginners and professional chefs alike can perfect the art of cooking that is both delicious and pleasing to the eye.

24. Bradenham, Buckinghamshire

Looking for chocolate box village in England? Set in the Chiltern Hills , Bradenham village is definitely one of the most charming British villages. Blessed with a network of footpaths, it’s an ideal place for anyone looking great hiking spots near London .

Bradenham is a very small village located just 3 north of West Wycombe village . It is one of the best places to visit in Buckinghamshire !

If you are visiting by car then you should know that free parking is available in the village. It’s located just opposite the cricket pavilion.

The two most prominent historic buildings are Bradenham Manor, which is currently in use by a commercial company and is not open to the public, and the medieval parish church.

There is also a cricket pitch in the village – a perfect place for a quick game on a weekend!

25. Cadgwith Cove, Cornwall

Recommended by Annabel from smudgedpostcard.com

Is this the most beautiful countryside UK? Cadgwith Cove is a Cornish working fishing village on the east coast of the Lizard Peninsula in southern Cornwall, England . Visit the village during summertime to see it at its best. The pretty thatched cottages have flower-filled gardens and the narrow lanes wend their way down to the harbour where at low tide colourful boats sit on the pebbly beach.

The locals of Cadgwith hold a charity BBQ party on certain evenings in the summertime, visitors and residents enjoy freshly caught seafood and children are entertained with a puppet theatre on the beach. There’s an excellent local pub, the Cadgwith Cove Inn, which hosts live Cornish folk music each week.

The village is close to some great coastal walks, there’s a path from the village to the Devil’s Frying Pan, a collapsed sea cave. There’s also a host of lovely beaches nearby which remain relatively quiet even in the high season compared to those found in other parts of Cornwall .

Would you add Cadwigh Cove to the list of England’s most beautiful villages?

26. Castleton, Derbyshire

Recommended by Roshni from thewanderlustwithin.com

Top UK countryside destinations? One of the prettiest villages in the Peak District is Castleton in Hope Valley. Castleton has long been a hotspot for hikers, outdoor lovers and history buffs. Castleton village is situated in Derbyshire and can be reached in only half an hour from Sheffield by train.

The charming village of Castleton is home to Mam Tor, also known as Shivering Mountain. It is the top attraction in Hope Valley and provides dramatic views of the Peak District from above. The hike to Mam Tor only takes two hours from the village centre, making it popular amongst families as well as seasoned trekkers.

Also overlooking this quaint village is also the 11th-century ruins of Peveril Castle, one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses. The castle makes for another great hike in the area as it is perched well above Hope Valley, and is opposite Mam Tor.

Surrounded by the most beautiful countrysides in England, Castleton really is one of the most beautiful English villages!

For those who want to soak up history, Castleton is home to some of the best show caves and caverns in the country, such as Speedwell Cavern, Peak Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern. Once you’ve enjoyed the hikes and caves, tuck into a traditional afternoon tea or a delicious pub lunch in one of the many eateries in the village.

27. Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire

There are many nice villages near me! Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton on the Water really is a unique place to visit in England. Straddling the River Windrush, it is famed for its low bridges and stone houses.

Home to Birdland, incredible species of birds are available for you to see and learn about on your trip. Combined with some of the best little tea rooms and cafes in the area, it is the ideal getaway.

Bourton on the Water Model Village is also one of the most popular attractions in this stunning English village.

28. Boscastle, Cornwall

Recommended by Kat from wandering-bird.com

Best villages to live in UK? If you’re looking for a beautiful English village, look no further than Boscastle, Cornwall . This pretty village has several reasons to visit – some more macabre than others!

To start, it’s a typical Cornish village – beautiful slate and stone houses set around a cute little harbour full of local fishing boats. It also has world-famous local pottery and one of the best ice cream shops in the area!

It’s also home to one of the most famous witchcraft museums in the world. Yep, this tiny cute village houses an entire building filled with myth, magical and gore. It’s a fascinating place to visit – learn the history of witchcraft in the area, devices used to torture and condemn witches and even discover your fortune!

We visited Boscastle after our trip to the incredible Tintagel Castle (supposed home of King Arthur and also worth a visit.) Boscastle is a short drive away from the Castle and there are plenty of hotels/B & Bs in the area if you need them.

In short, if you’re looking for a cute village in one of the prettiest parts of the country, Boscastle is it!

29. Ripley, Surrey

Looking for little villages in England to visit on a day trip from London ? Ripley in Surrey is just a perfect option. It really is an example of stunning picturesque English villages!

If you wish to explore Ripley for yourself, just go for a day trip from London. The picturesque Surrey village of Ripley is also a perfect base for everyone willing to explore Surry Hills or planning a weekend getaway in England .

Many coffee shops, restaurants and independent boutiques make Ripley village also a perfect place to live near London.

So, is Ripley on your list of UK’s most picturesque villages?

30. Alfriston, East Sussex

Recommended by Enikő from travelhackergirl.com

Looking for the best villages in England to live? Alfriston is a real hidden gem in the South Downs National Park. It was even named as one of “ England’s 27 most beautiful villages ” by the Telegraph. You can reach the village by public transport if you take the train to Polegate and then change to the local bus.

Alfriston lies in the valley of the River Cuckmere, which is a lovely place for recreational sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. If you go for a stroll, you can explore the historic heritage of the village and visit one of the cute cafes, pubs, shops or galleries. Don’t miss St Andrew’s church (the “ Cathedral of the South Downs “) and the clergy house (the National Trust’s first property).

The village also hosts many events throughout the year including music festivals, summer fairs, book launches. Alfriston is also surrounded by beautiful countryside. From the village, you get great views of the Litlington Horse, which is a popular place to go hiking near London . As one of the best countryside villages in England, Alfriston is a must-visit.

31. Romsey, Hampshire

Recommended by Mal from rawmalroams.com

Romsey is a charming market town dating from Medieval times. It’s a quiet and traditional place where people smile at each other and where you can have a chat in a grocery store because the owner recognises you.

In the heart of this small town, there is an expansive Norman Abbey built in 907 AD which is the largest Parish church in Hampshire that houses many notable musical events. Sometimes you can hear Abbey’s bells kilometres away from town.

There is a king John’s House heritage centre where you can have tea and a cake, and a stunning period garden bustling with colours and scents of flowers and plants in the Springtime. Romsey was home to the 19th-century British prime minister William Petty. Today, his statue takes a central place in Romsey and his former residence – the Broadlands, hosts many craft events and charity races throughout the year. 

A great time to visit Romsey is during its summer festival – Beggars Fair that includes over 90 acts in various venues and most importantly it’s free. 

Without a doubt, a list of the most charming villages in England wouldn’t be complete without Romsey village.

32. Lindisfarne, Northumberland

Recommended by Tracy from uktravelplanning.com

Best countryside village? The beautiful village of Lindisfarne can be found on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne located off the coast of Northumberland. The village and island of Lindisfarne are popular destinations in the northeast of England . This tiny island only 3 miles long and half a mile wide welcomes over half a million visitors a year.

The village (and island) are incredibly pretty with stunning views towards Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands. Cross over to the island via a tidal causeway (be sure to check the tides before you drive over) and park in the island car park before walking up to the village.

Once in the village enjoy a stroll around the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory. The Priory was home to St Cuthbert and was one of the centres of early Christianity. The famous Lindisfarne Gospels were also written at the Priory. After learning about the history of the Priory at the museum walk a little further through the village to Lindisfarne Castle which was built in 1550.

With so many beautiful villages in England, Lindisfarne really is up there!

There are a number of cafes, restaurants and pubs in the village and I recommend the Ship Inn during the summer months. Its large beer garden is a great place to relax during a day of sightseeing.

33. Stow on the Wold, Gloucestershire

Looking for medieval villages in England? Found in jolly Gloucestershire, this village stems back to the Norman period and is rich with tradition. It’s located at the top of an 800-foot hill and is defined as the junction of the Cotswolds and the Roman Road, Fosse Way.

The town itself was founded by Norman Lords, and it has since been a central point for trade due to its ideal location on so many key roads for the area. The markets held in the village uphold that trading tradition. 

Stow on the Wold really is one of the prettiest villages in England!

34. Hartley Wintney, Hampshire

Recommended by Danni from livein10countries.com

This really is one of the best villages to live in. Set in the very popular Hart District of Hampshire, Hartley Wintney is an immensely popular place to live. You’re on a direct train line from Waterloo, with lots of towns and attractions in an easy drive, but your immediate surroundings are a sweet village with charming cottages, a luscious cricket green (and highly competitive cricket team), quirky boutiques and welcoming local pubs.

For a day trip, you can whip down the A30 easily to Hartley Wintney and soak up the quaint atmosphere. There’s a small selection of boutique shops on the High Street that you won’t find elsewhere and afterwards a bite from the bakery is great for refuelling.

Kids will love feeding the ducks in the duck pond or watching a summer cricket match with the rest of the village and Hartley Wintney’s houses also back onto a wide heath which is popular with horse riders and wildlife fans. Don’t miss the hearty pub lunches and friendly country folk you’ll find in the Waggon and Horses Pub.

Would you add Hartley Wintney as one of the most beautiful villages in England?

35. Hawkshead, Cumbria

Recommended by Elizabeth from thefearlessforeigner.com

Hawkshead is one of the most charming villages in the Lake District of England. If you are a fan of the beloved children’s book author, Beatrix Potter, you will definitely want to visit. The author’s gallery, full of her artwork and books is located in the centre of the village. You can also learn more about where she received the inspiration for her books and then go out the door of the gallery and walk around the surrounding area to see for yourself!

Within Hawkshead, the Grammar School is another interesting place to visit. The school, known as the best boy’s school in the country was founded in 1585. When visiting you will get a tour of the school and learn about history.

The main street of Hawkshead is lined with quaint shops and cafes. Poppi Red, a combined gift shop and cafe was one of my favourite places. You can find some unique gift items there and choose from a wide selection of fresh baked goods. Not only is Hawkshead a beautiful village to walk around in the surrounding countryside is also worth the walk or drive to the village. The quaintness of the village combined with the idyllic countryside make it one of the best villages to visit.

Most beautiful villages in England FAQ:

Castle Combe is the most beautiful village you can visit in the Cotswolds.

Bibury was described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England” – explore Cotswold villages to see if that’s true!

The South of England is full of beautiful places to visit and home to some of the best countrysides in the country.

Facts about villages in England:

Where is the best countryside in england.

There is so much glorious countryside in England, that it can be hard to choose just one location. The Cotswolds are hailed as some of the best areas in the country, and they have such a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel as though it was always your home. Additionally, they serve delicious treats and local foods that make the trip even more wonderful. 

However, Cambridgeshire and Hampshire also have their fair share of gorgeous countryside retreats. Manor houses and large gardens make some of the most inviting and relaxing places to spend a day and maybe learn a little history. The Devonshire countryside is vast and rural, and you often have the benefit of rolling fields turning into sand and sea in the blink of an eye. 

Best countryside near London

Ashwell in Hertfordshire is certainly one of the best countryside locations near London. It is quaint and quiet, but not so much so that it leaves you wanting something to do. It’s a civil parish laced with history and some truly beautiful buildings, including the church which acts as the perfect centrepiece. 

Lined with shops and local businesses that sell unique items, it brings you back to a time where everything was less mainstream and more personalised. Sampling local baked goods and meals at cafes and restaurants that are family owned make this the perfect place to escape to if you want to escape the manufactured feel of the city and would rather try something that is a little more down to earth.

How many villages are there in England?

An interesting way to start this is with the number of abandoned villages in England. This number is estimated to be a staggering 3000. The reasons for this vary from the Black Death and social reorganisation (each of which caused depopulation), as well as changes to both the monastic and manorial system during the Medieval period.

However, these numbers might not be entirely accurate – we could be looking at a lot more abandoned villages. This is because a regular census has not been carried out prior to the Doomsday Book, and even after its creation, the census was massively lacking. Therefore, we find ourselves uncovering even more abandoned ancient villages.

Currently, in Modern England, it is a little difficult to determine the exact number of villages. This is because there is no clear definition, and some fall under the small town category and hamlets do not have their own section in the government charter. Put simply, there are thousands of villages in England and the UK. As an interesting side fact, there are 56 cities in England and 74 in the UK – with more pending in their application for becoming one.

What makes a village a village?

A village is classically defined as a small settlement in a rural location. They are larger than a hamlet, which has very small populations. It is generally agreed by geographers that the population of a village is usually between 500 people and 2500 people. One of the defining features of a village is that they are usually clustered around a single point.

In the UK, this point is commonly a church. This is because many of the villages that stand today grew around the church that was built in them, or were newly formed when Christianity became the prevalent religion. Some are centred around green areas or homes – such as Old Basing which has the magnificent Basing House (now in ruins) as one of the central features.

The small population of a village often means that the communities are very close, and there are usually limited places to buy food and supplies. Usually, there is one local shop and a pub where the residents can buy essentials as well as socialise. Their rural location also tends to mean that they are a popular place for walking dogs as well as taking long strolls with family.

Where is the oldest village in England?

There are conflicting ideas on this, and while both are technically classed as towns they are also very small. Colchester is the oldest recorded town. This is significant because it was referenced by Pliny the Elder, a Roman writer, in AD 77. This far predates the Doomsday Book where we find many of the villages, towns, and cities that we know today.

On the other hand, archaeologists claim that Amesbury in Wiltshire is the oldest village. This is not because of any written record, but simply through proof of habitation. It is the oldest continuously habited village in England. This is quite incredible because of the way settlements move so much throughout history.

To have evidence of a settlement that has not ceased since 8820 BC. A little fun fact is that the consumption of frogs’ legs was recorded here 8000 years before the French even thought of the notion. The reason this site is so interesting is because the Neolithic period is so known for its nomadic people. To find a solid settlement that has been inhabited for so long is astounding.

What’s the difference between a town and a village UK?

The very basics of this are that a village is a small community in a rural setting, and a town is a populated area with fixed boundaries and a local government. But the question on the tip of the tongue is how exactly a village becomes a town. The answer is through an increased population, which also leads to the construction and expansion of the village boundaries.

Where a village tends to be classed as having up to 2500 people, a standard town will often contain at least 10000 people. This does leave a notable gap between the two population levels, and this is a sort of limbo that villages are left in while they are transitioning to towns. At this point, they are often classed as small towns as opposed to villages.

Love England and the rest of the UK?

Read our other articles related to this stunning country:

Weekend trips UK

Best Cotswold villages

Places to visit in South England

Things to do in St. Albans

Broadway Tower

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• Best weekend getaways in the UK – TOP 20 weekend trips UK!
• Best beaches in Algarve Portugal – Algarve’s TOP 13 beaches!
• Visiting Verdon Gorge France – Top tips to French Grand Canyon!
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Further reading

27 Cotswolds Places So Ugly, Even the Birds Refuse to Sing

Dive into Darek and Gosia’s wickedly humorous guide to the Cotswolds’ most ‘ghastly’ places. Discover why the unbearable beauty of these top locations might just be too much for any sensible traveller to handle. Welcome to...

Looking for Magic? 30 Most Magical Places to Visit in the UK!

Discover the UK’s most “magical” destinations like you’ve never seen them before. We guide you through stunning places with a unique twist of British humour. Expect the unexpected! Welcome to the magical world of the UK...

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Lady’s 21 Beautiful Villages Near London You Have to See

Today I want to share my guide to the most beautiful villages near London. The English countryside is the stuff of dreams, and it’s worth a special trip to see the highlights. From Kent to Surrey, Sussex, and the Cotswolds, there are fairy-tale villages in easy driving, train, and tour distance of the UK capital. Read on for my top picks. I’ve included a map, too.

Villages Near London

It’s hard to make a list of the best villages near London because there are so many of them. In fact, the whole of the English countryside is pretty. Some of the best places to visit in the UK are here.

From rolling hills to fluffy sheep, this green and pleasant land feels like something straight out of a storybook. But since it’s real and since I’ve set myself the task of making a list of some of the prettiest villages in England , I’m going to do my best.

Whether you’re looking for places with idyllic thatched-roof cottages, destinations for country breaks near London , or fun ideas for day trips from London by train or car, there’s a village you’ll love.

1. Shere, Surrey

Down in Surrey , Shere is one of the most beautiful villages near London. With streets packed full of heritage buildings and a pretty pond full of ducks, this place has all the ingredients for a rural idyll.

Picture-pretty Shere is famous for being a filming location for The Holiday and the Bridget Jones movies. In fact, the church in the village was used in multiple Bridget Jones films.

The streets of Shere are everything one could dream of in an English country village, and pubs like the White Horse have historic interiors worthy of a leisurely Sunday lunch.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay near Shere here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and pubs with rooms.

2. Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Castle Combe. With its chocolate-box high street, picturesque side streets, and shops with teapot signs overhead, it has everything one could want in one place.

Castle Combe is one of the best villages in Wiltshire to explore, not least because of its picture-pretty houses and bridge over the By Brook river.

This quintessential village in the Cotswolds will get you dreaming about England. It makes a great day trip from London by car or overnight trip to Bath and the Cotswolds . You can also take a day tour from London to see Castle Combe. You can book one here .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can reserve a place to stay in Castle Combe here . The most famous is The Manor House . It’s a real treat to call this hotel home-away-from-home. You can book your room here .

3. Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire

Great Missenden is next on my list of the most beautiful villages near London. This place is famous for its Roald Dahl connections.

The famous children’s book author lived in the village for 36 years, and today there’s a museum dedicated to him in the heart of town.

But there’s more to see in the village beyond the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre. The High Street and Church Street are both lined with historic facades and listed buildings.

Given the village is in the Chiltern Hills, there are lots of great walks and places to explore in nature around here, too. From Angling Spring Wood to Abbey Park, there’s no shortage of options.

This place is also accessible from London by direct train, so it’s an easy trip if you don’t have a car. I’ve done it before and I really enjoyed it.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Great Missenden here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, cottages, and inns.

4. Bray, Berkshire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Bray. This beautiful place in Berkshire is so close to London you can take the Elizabeth Line (plus a short taxi ride) to get here.

Once in town, there are some exciting things to do in Bray. The village streets are packed with picturesque cottages, and the riverfront scenery on the Thames is beautiful. There are great walks you can do here, too.

But let’s be honest. Most people come here for the food. Bray is known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and pubs. From The Fat Duck to the Waterside Inn, it has more stars than many major cities.

It’s easy to come here for a half-day trip from London to walk around the village and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants or pubs.

But it’s worth staying a night to experience a couple of the famous places to eat here (and explore the streets). You can see why on my guide to spending 24 hours in Bray .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Bray here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, cottages, and restaurants with rooms.

5. Painswick, Gloucestershire

Back in the Cotswolds, Painswick is another of the most beautiful villages in England. With its pretty stone buildings and larger-than-life topiary trees, this place is bursting with beauty.

There are fun things to do in Painswick , too. The streets are full of heritage details, and the Painswick Rococo Garden is a stunning 18th-century number in a hidden valley with views across the English countryside.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Painswick here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and B&Bs.

6. Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire

In Buckinghamshire, Amersham is another of the best villages near London. Just outside the UK capital, this place is so close to the city you can reach it on the tube.

Amersham is famous for the historic houses and buildings on the high street in Old Amersham. It’s also known for country walks, as it’s located in the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

This is a fun place to visit if you want an easy half day trip from London with as little time in transit as possible.

If you want to extend your stay and live like a local, you can book a place to stay in Amersham here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including historic hotels and inns.

7. Lacock, Wiltshire

Back in Wiltshire, Lacock is another of the most beautiful villages near London. Lacock is close to Castle Combe, and it’s famous for being a filming location for everything from the Harry Potter movies to Downton Abbey .

This beautiful village in the English countryside is brimming with yellow stone buildings and picturesque roadside stands with baked goods and bunting. Photogenic shopfronts with bicycles outside round out the scene.

This place is also home to the 13th-century Lacock Abbey. It has stunning medieval cloisters and a museum dedicated to the history of photography.

You can reach the village by car, or you can take a day tour from London to see Lacock and other famous places in the area. If the latter appeals, you can book the tour I recommend here .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Lacock here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including inns and B&Bs.

8. East Meon, Hampshire

Out in Hampshire , East Meon is another of the best country villages near London.

This idyllic spot has a river meandering through its heart. Thatched-roof cottages and pink facades make it a fairy tale lover’s dream.

Cheerful hollyhocks bloom on the waterfront in the warmer months, and red post boxes are set into by brick walls in true storybook fashion.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in East Meon here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including lodges and guesthouses.

9. Bibury, Gloucestershire

Home of the most photographed street in the Cotswolds (that’s Arlington Row if you don’t know), Bibury sits on the banks of the River Coln. William Morris once called it ‘the most beautiful village in England’, and he could be right.

Arlington Row features 17th-century weavers’ cottages that attract photographers from all over the world. A historic village pub called The Catherine Wheel is the perfect place for a drink, too.

This English village is also home to a water meadow called Rack Isle. It’s an important wildlife habitat in the Cotswolds.

Bibury features a trout farm, too. Established in the early 20th century by naturalist Arthur Severn, it stocks local rivers and streams with native brown trout.

You can get here by car, or you can easily visit Bibury on a guided Cotwolds day tour . You can book the one I recommend here .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Bibury here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, houses, and B&Bs.

10. Burnham Market, Norfolk

Up in North Norfolk, Burnham Market deserves a place on my list of beautiful villages near London. Often referred to as Chelsea-on-Sea, the central green in this well-heeled place is surrounded by pretty buildings and cafes.

With great shopping, lively pubs and restaurants, and access to nearby coastal gems like Holkham Beach, Burnham Market is the perfect place to spend a weekend in Norfolk .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Burnham Market here . I’ve spent a weekend at The Hoste and I loved the rooms, pub, spa, and restaurant. You can book a room here .

11. Upper Slaughter, Gloucestershire

Back in the Cotswolds, Upper Slaughter is another of the best villages near London. This place wins hearts with its pretty stone cottages and idyllic surroundings.

The village lies on a slope above a stream, and it’s known for its 15th-century manor house, attractive medieval almshouses, and historic St Peter’s Church.

Upper Slaughter and its neighbor, Lower Slaughter, are some of the most beautiful places in England . They’re great to visit on a Cotswolds day trip .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Upper Slaughter here . The most exciting is Lords of the Manor . This famous country house hotel is straight out of a fairy tale. You can book your room here .

12. Bampton, Oxfordshire

Situated between Oxford and the Cotswolds, Bampton is another of the most beautiful villages near London. This place has thatched-roof cottages, a historic church, and charming local pubs.

Bampton’s pretty streets have great details to discover, and the Church of St Mary the Virgin was used as a filming location for many scenes from Downton Abbey .

It’s easy to discover Bampton on a day trip from London by car. You can also take a guided day tour of Oxford and the Cotswolds or a Downtown Abbey tour to see it. You can book one here .

If you want to stay longer, you can reserve a place to stay in Bampton here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels and inns.

13. Chilham, Kent

Next on my list of the prettiest villages near London is Chilham. Not far from Canterbury , this place is known for its chocolate-box streets and heritage buildings.

Chilham sits in the Kent Downs above the valley of the River Stour. It features steep, narrow lanes and a pretty square. There’s also a castle here.

You can visit Chilham independently by car or on a guided tour from London . You can book the tour I recommend here . It includes stops in famous places like Canterbury and Dover .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Chilham here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including B&Bs and inns.

14. Sapperton, Gloucestershire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Sapperton. This is one of my favorite places in the Cotswolds for a number of reasons.

The village is full of pretty houses, many of which feature Arts and Crafts architecture. Some of the most famous architect-designers of the movement lived here and are buried in the churchyard.

Speaking of which, St Kenelm’s Church is worth popping into for its historic interiors. There’s also a village hall, which is across the street from The Bell at Sapperton pub. Speaking of the pub, it’s fun to have a drink in the atmospheric surroundings.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Sapperton here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels and pubs with rooms.

15. Brockenhurst, Hampshire

Back in Hampshire, another of the prettiest villages near London is Brockenhurst. Located in the New Forest, it’s been called ‘Britain’s Most Beautiful Place to Live’.

Brockenhurst is home to a high street full of shops, pubs, cafes, and restaurants. It’s easy to stop here on a New Forest day trip , or make a longer journey of it.

There are famous restaurants nearby, too. And that’s to say nothing of surrounding villages like Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Brockenhurst here . There’s a wide variety of options to choose from, including hotels, inns, and apartments.

16. Aylesford, Kent

Next on my list of the most beautiful villages near London is Aylesford. Situated in the heart of the countryside, this is one of the best places to visit in Kent .

Aylesford sits on the River Medway not far from Maidstone. The heart of the village is home to beautiful historic houses, shops, and pubs. It’s a treat to wander around and take in the views here.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Aylesford here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including guesthouses and apartments.

17. Ashwell, Hertfordshire

Ashwell is another of the best villages near London. This picture-pretty place is known for its half-timbered facades, museum, pubs, and heritage buildings. It’s also right by the Icknield Way, so it’s a great place for country walks .

The 14th-century Church of St Mary the Virgin is renowned for its tower and the Medieval graffiti on its walls. There are also springs in the village that make up one of the sources of the River Cam (it’s the one that runs through Cambridge ).

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Ashwell here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and B&Bs.

18. West Chiltington, West Sussex

Next on my list of the best villages near London is West Chiltington. With pretty houses and country pubs with sunny gardens, this place is a treat to visit.

The village is surrounded by fields full of cows and gentle hills with some of the best vineyards near London . Idyllic cottages round out the scene.

There are great walks you can do while you’re here, too. I’ve done a fun circular walk in West Sussex that started in West Chiltington and took me alongside ponds and through fairy-tale woods adorned with flowers.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in West Chiltington here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including lodges and homes.

19. Lavenham, Suffolk

Another of the best villages near London is Lavenham. This place was one of the wealthiest settlements in England in the Medieval period.

Today Lavenham numbers among the best-preserved Medieval villages in England. So much so that it was used as a filming location for one of the Harry Potter movies.

Lavenham is known for its eye-catching historic buildings. From the Guildhall to Little Hall, the 15th-century church, and the half-timbered medieval cottages, there’s a lot to love about this place. There are also great country walks you can take from here.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Lavenham here . There’s a wide variety of options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs.

20. Kingham, Oxfordshire

Kingham is another of my favorite villages near London. From topiary hedges to Cotswold stone cottages, this prettiest of villages is picturesque in every way.

It’s fun to explore the village streets and take walks in the area to soak up the fields and flowers. You can even walk to Daylesford Organic Farm in Gloucestershire. It’s a luxurious complex with shops, restaurants, and a garden center.

Additionally, Kingham has a village shop to browse, the historic St Andrew’s Church to admire, and atmospheric pubs to eat and stay in.

Kingham is easily accessible by train from London, so it’s a great place to go if you want to visit the Cotswolds without a car . You can see more about the village in my itinerary for 3 days in the Cotswolds and my blog post about a Kingham circular walk .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Kingham here . I’ve stayed at The Kingham Plough and I love it. This beautiful property is a historic pub with rooms. You can book your stay here .

21. Cookham, Berkshire

Cookham is another of the best villages near London. Right on the Thames, this pretty place is known for its connections to Sir Stanley Spencer, one of the great 20th-century British painters. Many visitors come here to visit the Stanley Spencer Gallery.

But there’s more to the village than that. Cookham is home to one of the oldest pubs in England, a church with Norman origins, and sweeping views from Winter Hill.

It’s also one of the sites where the UK’s annual Swan Upping Ceremony takes place each summer. If you’re interested in witnessing this historic tradition, you can time your visit to coincide with it.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Cookham here . There’s a range of hotels to choose from.

Map of Villages Near London

As promised, I created an interactive Google map of all the villages on my list. You can find it here . If you click on the pins, you can see my relevant blog posts about each one.

I’ve also published a Cotswolds map and a map of Cotswold villages . You might find them useful in your planning, too.

Beautiful Villages Near London

I hope you’ve enjoyed my list of beautiful villages near London and that you’ve found some inspiration for your future British travels.

If you want more ideas, you can take a look at my blog post about the prettiest towns and villages in Britain . It includes lovely places like Rye .

If you prefer to stay closer to the capital (or in it, rather), there are some great villages in London you can explore. From Hampstead Village to Dulwich Village , Highgate Village to Greenwich Village , they’ll let you get your fix without leaving the city. Happy travels!

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2 Comments on Lady’s 21 Beautiful Villages Near London You Have to See

I’ve only been to Lavenham. This is such an inspiring list. I’d love to visit some of these villages such as Shere or Lacock

Thanks, Tanja! I hope you can see them soon.

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England Small Group Tours

Small group tours of england.

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By its very nature, England, with its rolling countryside and rambling villages, lends itself perfectly to touring by small group. The nimble 16 seater mini-coach can easily negotiate the country lanes and coastal towns characteristic of this charming nation, regions that larger coaches simply can’t reach. And the smaller group-size also enables us to experience English hospitality as it should be, in the comfort of a range of hand-picked hotels that offer a quainter and more authentic English accommodation experience. Not to mention hearty breakfasts each morning and traditional evening dining on selected days.

To explore England the adeo way, see our recommended tours below and combine with Scotland or Wales for even greater insight in to British culture…

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• Experience England’s hospitality in quaint and characterful hotels
• Hassle-free planning with your own dedicated England expert.

A small group tour of Britain – Aspects of Britain offers a leisurely tour through England, Scotland and Wales for an engaging insight in to British culture and countryside. Your journey will take you through the rural regions of the South Wales valleys, the Cotswolds, the North Yorkshire Moors and the Scottish Lowlands to the heritage cities of Cardiff, York and Glasgow. Along the way we’ll visit medieval castles, roam Shakespeare country, wonder at stately homes, discover ancient abbey ruins and see shimmering Scottish lochs. The highlights of Britain are waiting to be explored.

A small group tour of England and Wales – Enjoy an epic journey of discovery through the varied histories and landscapes of England and Wales. We’ll see many of Britain’s most beautiful natural landscapes from the golden coasts of Pembrokeshire and the mountains of Snowdonia in Wales to the rustic hills and vales of Yorkshire and the Lake District in England. Along the way we’ll sample traditional fare and enjoy a host of local visits including archetypal medieval fortresses, stately English manors, ancient cathedrals and historic steam train journeys; the ideal tour to discover the very essence of Britain.

A small group tour of England – England’s Rustic Charm is a leisurely tour exploring the highlights of central and Northern England. Departing the medieval university city of Oxford, you’ll enjoy a journey through the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds to the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the English Lake District and Yorkshire Dales. Along the way we’ll experience the dreaming spires of Oxford, the Tudor streets of Chester and spend two nights in the charming city of York. A leisurely journey that will leave you charmed by England’s unique heritage and rustic landscapes.

A Small Group Tour of England – Discover the rich history and rustic landscapes of England on this diverse journey from the far South West to England’s Northern territories. England’s Coastline and Countryside takes you from the golden bays and craggy cliffs of Cornwall through the quintessential villages of the Cotswolds to the rugged landscapes of Yorkshire and the Lake District. Along the way we’ll visit the elegant cities of Bath, Oxford and York and enjoy a host of local visits and experiences to truly immerse ourselves in England’s unique charm and heritage.

A small group tour of Britain – discover what makes Britain Great on this small group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales. This comprehensive itinerary takes you from the peaceful coasts and mountains of Wales, through rustic landscapes of rural England and north in to remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. We’ll see iconic landmarks and hidden gems, visit Britain’s quaint villages and heritage cities and enjoy a host of local experiences from steam train rides through the English countryside to whisky tasting in the Highlands.  In the company of your local guides, the Great British Journey is the ultimate way to explore Britain.

A Small Group Tour of England and Scotland – From the southernmost tip of the Cornish Peninsular to the remote wilderness of the Isle of Skye, enjoy an epic small-group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England and Scotland. Discover the quaint fishing towns of Cornwall, the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds, the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the English Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, and finally the barren moorlands of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way we’ll visit the heritage cities of Bath, Oxford, York, Chester, Inverness and Edinburgh, and experience regional food, drink and hospitality. South Coast to Skye is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture and panoramas of England and Scotland.

A small group tour of Wales and England’s West Country – A perfect combination of Celtic cultures discover the beauty of England’s West Country and the beguiling landscapes of Wales. Your journey will take you over the barren moors and along the rugged coastlines of Devon and Cornwall before passing in to the undiscovered nation of Wales, home to towering mountains and ancient castles. This journey is a combination of our Treasures of Cornwall and Enchanting Wales tours.

A small group tour of England’s West Country – Treasures of The West Country takes you on a leisurely journey through the charming counties of Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, a region of unique Celtic heritage and beguiling natural landscapes. Arriving in Devon by rail, we’ll explore the barren uplands of Dartmoor and the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall before returning to the elegant Georgian city of Bath. Along the way we’ll sample local specialities, unearth Arthurian Legends, discover cliff-top castles, hear smugglers tales and explore rambling fishing villages! The South West of England’s many treasures are just waiting to be discovered.

A small group tour of England and Scotland – Beauty of Britain is an epic journey exploring the history, heritage and natural landscapes of England and Scotland. We’ll pass from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, through the rustic landscapes of Yorkshire and the Lake District to the barren wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. Our journey is punctuated with visits to Britain’s heritage cities, including Oxford, York and Edinburgh, and we’ll enjoy a host of local experiences including a countryside steam train ride, ancient castle visits, traditional afternoon tea and a whisky distillery tour. The true beauty of Britain is waiting to be discovered.

Sussex Adventures

Explore, Dream, Discover Sussex!

20 Most Scenic Pretty Towns and Villages in Sussex

Welcome to Sussex, a county that unfolds like a storybook, filled with charming towns and villages that showcase the essence of English beauty. In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a journey through the top 20 scenic gems, each offering a unique blend of history, natural wonders, and architectural marvels. Let’s delve into the heart of Sussex, exploring the picturesque landscapes and quaint streets that make each town and village a captivating destination.

1. Rye – A Coastal Haven of Medieval Magic:

Rye, perched on the Scenic Sussex coast, invites visitors into a world frozen in time. With its cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and views of the English Channel, this medieval gem is a quintessential example of a beautiful town in Sussex . Wander through Mermaid Street, adorned with charming antique shops and tearooms , and feel the echoes of centuries past.

Rye enchants with its historic allure, inviting you to explore the preserved medieval architecture that whispers tales of smugglers and seafarers. The breathtaking views of the coastline add an extra layer of allure to this timeless town.

2. Lewes – Where History Meets Festive Cheer:

Nestled on the banks of the River Ouse, Lewes stands as a testament to historic elegance. Its cobbled streets, historic castle, and medieval charm create an atmosphere that transports visitors to another era. The highlight of Lewes is undoubtedly its Bonfire Night celebration, a festival that infuses the town with a unique blend of history and festive cheer.

In Lewes, history comes alive as you explore the narrow streets and hidden alleyways. The castle, perched atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the town, the river, and the surrounding South Downs. The juxtaposition of medieval architecture and the lively Bonfire Night celebrations make Lewes a truly enchanting destination.

3. Arundel – Majestic Castle Views and Riverside Romance:

Arundel, with its imposing castle and riverside charm, is a visual delight that captures the essence of a picturesque Sussex village. The castle, standing proudly against the skyline, dominates the landscape and invites exploration. Stroll along the scenic River Arun, taking in the tranquility that defines this historic town.

Arundel unfolds as a storybook of grandeur and natural beauty. The castle, a true architectural marvel, invites visitors to delve into centuries of history. The riverside setting adds a romantic touch, creating a perfect blend of majesty and serenity.

4. Midhurst – Market Town Sophistication Amidst Nature’s Canvas:

Midhurst , cradled within the South Downs National Park, combines market town sophistication with the beauty of its natural surroundings. The rolling hills provide a breathtaking backdrop to this charming town, inviting exploration of both historic architecture and rural landscapes.

Midhurst invites you to escape into the heart of nature, surrounded by the South Downs’ undulating hills. The market town’s architecture reflects a rich history, and the bustling market square adds a touch of vibrancy to the tranquil setting. It’s a haven for those seeking a perfect balance between sophistication and natural beauty.

5. Chichester – Cathedral City Tranquillity:

Chichester , a cathedral city with a tranquil atmosphere, seamlessly blends history and modernity. The stunning cathedral and Georgian architecture create an elegant backdrop for exploration. Stroll through the charming streets, and immerse yourself in the serenity that defines this picturesque English destination.

Chichester unfolds as a tapestry of tranquility, where the cathedral stands as a beacon of architectural splendor. The blend of historic charm and contemporary vibrancy makes it a city that caters to both history enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely escape.

6. Petworth – Artistic Heritage in the Heart of the South Downs:

Petworth, nestled in the embrace of the South Downs, boasts not only natural beauty but also an artistic heritage that sets it apart. The stately home and its impressive art collection beckon art enthusiasts, while the historic market square and surrounding countryside add layers to its timeless charm .

Petworth unveils itself as a canvas of art and nature, with the stately home standing as a cultural gem. The market square, surrounded by historic buildings, creates a sense of timelessness that resonates with the artistic spirit of the village.

7. Steyning – Quintessential English Village Charm:

Steyning, often hailed as the epitome of an English village , exudes charm with its timber-framed houses and verdant surroundings. The historic high street, lined with unique shops, and the village’s proximity to the countryside create an idyllic setting for those seeking quintessential English charm.

Steyning invites you into a world where time seems to stand still. The timber-framed houses, adorned with colorful flowers, line the historic high street, creating a picturesque scene that epitomizes the charm of an English village.

8. Winchelsea – A Medieval Time Capsule:

Winchelsea , with its medieval layout and well-preserved architecture, stands as a living time capsule. The cobblestone streets, medieval gates, and charming houses transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the rich history of this hidden gem.

Winchelsea unfolds like a storybook of medieval tales, where each cobblestone street whispers stories of a bygone era. The well-preserved architecture adds authenticity to the village, creating a unique atmosphere that captivates history enthusiasts.

9. Alfriston – Tudor Elegance amid the Cuckmere Valley:

Nestled in the Cuckmere Valley, Alfriston radiates Tudor elegance against the backdrop of the Scenic Sussex countryside. Timber-framed buildings and charming tearooms contribute to the village’s serene escape, inviting visitors to revel in the beauty of its historic architecture.

Alfriston invites you to step into a world of Tudor elegance , where each building tells a story of centuries past. The tearooms, nestled within the charming surroundings, offer a taste of both history and tranquility in the heart of the Cuckmere Valley.

10. Shoreham-by-Sea – Coastal Beauty and Artistic Vibes:

Shoreham-by-Sea, a vibrant town on the beautiful Sussex coast , combines coastal beauty with an artistic vibe. The scenic waterfront, dotted with boats and cafes, sets the stage for exploration. Dive into local art galleries, soak in the relaxed atmosphere, and discover the charm that defines this picturesque English destination.

Shoreham-by-Sea unfolds as a canvas of coastal beauty, where the seafront promenade invites leisurely strolls. The town’s artistic flair, showcased in local galleries, adds a cultural dimension to the coastal charm, creating a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.

11. Fittleworth – Countryside Retreat with Village Green Charm:

Fittleworth, surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes, offers a countryside retreat with the charm of a village green. The historic architecture and a sense of tranquility contribute to the timeless allure of this hidden gem.

Fittleworth invites you to escape into the embrace of the Sussex countryside, where rolling hills and quaint cottages create a picturesque retreat. The village green, at the heart of Fittleworth, adds a touch of community spirit to the serene surroundings.

12. Cuckfield – Quintessential English Market Town:

Cuckfield , with its historic market town charm, unfolds amidst the picturesque Sussex countryside. The village green, framed by historic buildings, invites leisurely strolls, creating a delightful destination for those seeking quintessential English charm.

Cuckfield opens its doors to a quintessential English experience, where the market town charm blends seamlessly with the lush landscapes. The village green, surrounded by centuries-old architecture, offers a glimpse into the heart of Sussex’s historic legacy.

13. Jevington – Nestled in the South Downs:

Tucked away in the South Downs, Jevington is a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The village’s thatched cottages and scenic walks make it an ideal retreat for nature lovers seeking a tranquil escape.

Jevington reveals itself as a haven within the South Downs, where thatched cottages and scenic paths invite visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. The village emanates a sense of peace and serenity, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking harmony with nature.

14. Hurstpierpoint – Village Charm with Victorian Elegance:

Hurstpierpoint , known for its Victorian architecture and village charm, is surrounded by the stunning Sussex countryside. Explore the historic High Street, visit local shops, and immerse yourself in the elegance of this quaint village.

Hurstpierpoint unfolds as a village where Victorian elegance meets village charm, creating a timeless atmosphere. The historic High Street, adorned with local shops, showcases the heart of the community and adds a touch of sophistication to the village’s picturesque setting.

15. Hartfield – Enchanting Countryside and Literary Legacy:

Hartfield, surrounded by enchanting countryside, is known for its literary legacy as the hometown of A.A. Milne , the creator of Winnie the Pooh. Explore the village and its scenic surroundings, drawing inspiration from its tranquil beauty.

Hartfield opens a chapter of enchantment, where the village’s countryside setting becomes a canvas for literary inspiration. The legacy of A.A. Milne adds a whimsical touch to the village, making it a destination that captivates both literary enthusiasts and nature lovers.

16. Mayfield – Tudor Architecture in the Heart of the High Weald:

Mayfield , situated in the High Weald, showcases Tudor architecture amidst rolling hills and lush landscapes. The village’s historic buildings and scenic views make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Mayfield unveils itself as a Tudor treasure amidst the natural splendor of the High Weald. The historic buildings, set against the backdrop of rolling hills, create a scene that transports visitors to a bygone era, where each structure tells a story of the village’s rich history.

17. Fletching – Historic Beauty in the Ashdown Forest:

Fletching , nestled in the Ashdown Forest, offers historic beauty surrounded by woodlands and countryside. The village’s medieval church and charming cottages contribute to its timeless allure.

Fletching invites you to step into a world of historic beauty, where the village becomes a seamless part of the enchanting Ashdown Forest. The medieval church and charming cottages add a touch of authenticity, creating a scene that resonates with the village’s rich history.

18. Bosham – Coastal Charm on Chichester Harbour:

Bosham, situated on the shores of Chichester Harbour, exudes coastal charm with its waterfront setting and historic buildings. Explore the quayside, visit the ancient church, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this picturesque village.

Bosham unfolds as a coastal masterpiece , where the quayside and ancient church become integral parts of the village’s charm. The waterfront setting, combined with historic buildings, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Bosham.

19. Hellingly – Rural Serenity with Village Green Tranquility:

Hellingly , surrounded by rural landscapes, offers a tranquil escape with village green charm. The village’s historic architecture and serene surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking peace and quiet.

Hellingly beckons those in search of rural serenity, where the village green becomes a focal point of tranquility. The historic architecture and lush landscapes create a peaceful retreat, inviting visitors to experience the idyllic charm of Sussex’s countryside.

20. Rottingdean – Coastal Beauty and Artistic Heritage:

Perched on the Sussex coast, Rottingdean combines coastal beauty with artistic heritage. The village’s historic buildings, art galleries, and seafront promenade create a captivating atmosphere for visitors.

Rottingdean unveils itself as a coastal canvas, where the seafront promenade and historic buildings invite leisurely exploration. The village’s artistic heritage adds a cultural dimension, creating an atmosphere that resonates with both history and creativity.

Conclusion:

Sussex, with its top 20 beautiful towns and villages, reveals itself as a diverse tapestry of landscapes, history, and charm. Whether you find solace in the tranquility of rural retreats, immerse yourself in the history of medieval towns, or embrace the coastal allure, each destination offers a unique experience. Sussex invites you to wander through its picturesque streets, soak in its natural beauty, and discover the timeless charm that makes each town and village a gem in the heart of England.

12 thoughts on “ 20 Most Scenic Pretty Towns and Villages in Sussex ”

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• Pingback: Exploring Rye: A Quintessential English Town in Sussex - Sussex Adventures
• Pingback: Discover Lewes: The Heart of Sussex - Sussex Adventures
• Pingback: Discovering Arundel: A Gem in the Heart of Sussex - Sussex Adventures
• Pingback: Petworth, Sussex: An English Town Full of Charm and History - Sussex Adventures - Explore, Dream, Discover Sussex!
• Pingback: Steyning, Sussex: A Village Steeped in History and Natural Beauty - Sussex Adventures - Explore, Dream, Discover Sussex!
• Pingback: Winchelsea, Sussex: A Historic Gem Amidst Natural Splendor - Sussex Adventures - Explore, Dream, Discover Sussex!
• Pingback: Cuckfield, Sussex: An English Village with Timeless Charm - Sussex Adventures - Explore, Dream, Discover Sussex!
• Pingback: Mayfield, Sussex: A Village Steeped in History - Sussex Adventures - Explore, Dream, Discover Sussex!
• Pingback: Hellingly, Sussex: A Serene Village with a Rich Tapestry of History - Sussex Adventures - Explore, Dream, Discover Sussex!
• Pingback: Hartfield, Sussex: Where Enchantment Meets Tranquility - Sussex Adventures
• Pingback: Chichester, Sussex: A Timeless Journey Through History and Culture - Sussex Adventures

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