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When people think of idyllic English countryside, chances are they’re picturing the Cotswolds – an area famed for its rolling hills, sweeping vistas and plenty of amazing things to do.
This beautiful corner of England has been brought to life on canvas by artists such as Gainsborough, Constable, and Turner, provided a backdrop for the fictional worlds of The Brontë Sisters and Jane Austen and even inspired the great poet, William Blake.
Little wonder, then, that it is home to some of the prettiest towns and villages in the UK. Whether you’re simply passing through or enjoying a holiday here, don’t miss out on visiting some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds.
Bourton-on-the-Water
Frequently ranked as one of the prettiest villages in the whole of the UK, Bourton-on-the-Water is frequently referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ due to the patchwork of attractive little bridges that criss-cross the River Windrush that flows through its centre.
Burford
Back in 2009, Forbes included Burford on its list of the most idyllic places to live in Europe. It isn’t hard to see why—the medieval village, often described as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds,” mingles river views, charming antique shops, and a tranquil pace of life.
Cirencester
Among the most buzzing market towns in the Cotswolds, Cirencester’s history dates all the way back to Roman times, when it was known as Corinium. Today, this ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’ is a destination for its Roman amphitheatre, lovely Cirencester Park, and historic church of St. John the Baptist.
Castle Combe
Castle Combe is pretty enough to be a movie set— in fact, it has had a starring role in a number of films and television shows, from War Horse to Doctor Dolittle. Visit to discover Castle Combe’s picture-perfect scenery beyond the silver screen, from its centuries-old limestone cottages to its vast stately homes.
Chipping Campden
During the medieval era, Chipping Campden was at the centre of Britain’s wool industry. Today, this quaint market town in the Cotswolds is a much more pleasant place to visit than its industrial past would suggest, and it has the 2nd highest density of listed buildings in the country.
Blockley
If Chipping Campden was famous for its wool, then Blockley came to be known as a centre for silk production in the 18th and 19th centuries. Nowadays, most of the historic mills have been converted into housing, making for one of Cotswold’s most charming villages.
Stow-on-the-Wold
The hilltop market town of Stow-on-the-Wold was once the site of an Iron Age fort, but things are considerably more peaceful here these days. In the centre of town, you’ll find a number of galleries and antique shops packed with treasures, while the region’s verdant hills are close at hand.
Stanton
Beautifully scenic Stanton is, in many ways, a perfect distillation of the Cotswolds’ charms. Famous for its honey-hued limestone buildings, the village is home to several historically significant churches, and offers prime access to local walking trails. Go for a long ramble, and reward yourself with a refreshment in the beloved Mount Inn afterwards.
Tetbury
The southern gateway to the Cotswolds, Tetbury is a cheery market town with history —drop by its sunny-coloured, Grade I-listed historic market hall for a glimpse at its past. Once you’ve gone for a stroll through town, preferably on a trading day, explore the surrounding area: the National Arboretum at Westonbirt and Chavenage House are both located nearby.
Painswick
When visiting the beautiful village of Painswick, begin your tour at St. Mary’s Parish Church. Not only is the Grade I-listed landmark’s spire visible from miles around, but its churchyard is famous for its 99 ancient yew trees. From there, a trip to the local Rococo Garden, and a wander past the town’s 14th-century buildings, is in order.
Want to see more of this lovely part of the world? Our tour of Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds takes in the beautiful town of Bampton – the real-life filming location of the Downton Abbey TV series – the stately Blenheim Palace and stunning panoramic views of the beautiful English countryside.
