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The Cotswolds by no means fails to amaze me. Each time I go to, I discover one thing new to like about this stunning nook of England. From rolling hills to quaint villages, it’s a spot that feels each timeless and lively.
On this record, I’m sharing my high picks for the ten prettiest villages within the Cotswolds. These aren’t simply locations I’ve visited a couple of times – they’re spots I return to time and again, every time discovering one thing new.
I’ve included my private suggestions and favourite spots, together with sensible data that will help you plan your go to. Belief me, by the top of this, you’ll be itching to pack your baggage and see these locations for your self!
1. Bibury
Bibury is commonly referred to as essentially the most stunning village within the Cotswolds and a true UK gem. Once you go to, it’s simple to see why. The village’s stone cottages, significantly these on Arlington Row, are immediately recognizable. They’re iconic and sometimes featured in postcards and calendars.
Strolling alongside the River Coln, you get this sense of peace that’s arduous to return by. The water flows quietly, virtually prefer it’s in no rush to get wherever. I like to recommend spending a while sitting by the river, watching the geese paddle by.
If you happen to ask me, the perfect time to go to Bibury is early within the morning. The village is virtually yours, and there’s a stillness that makes all the things really feel extra actual.
The native pub, The Swan, is value a go to too. It’s acquired this cozy, no-nonsense vibe that makes it simple to settle in for a pint or two. The meals is stable, and you’ll inform it’s made with care. Bibury doesn’t attempt to be something it’s not, and that’s precisely why I find it irresistible.
2. Bourton-on-the-Water
I’ve at all times considered Bourton-on-the-Water because the Venice of the Cotswolds. The River Windrush flows proper by means of the guts of the village, with charming low bridges crossing it. It’s a sight that by no means will get previous for me!
Considered one of my favourite spots right here is the Mannequin Village. It’s a miniature reproduction of Bourton itself, and I discover it fascinating. Strolling by means of it looks like being a large in a tiny world. Youngsters find it irresistible too, however I’ll admit I get pleasure from it simply as a lot as an grownup.
For a singular expertise, I like to recommend the Cotswold Motoring Museum. Even if you happen to’re not large on automobiles, the gathering of classic automobiles and memorabilia is fairly cool. Plus, it’s a fantastic place to duck into if the climate turns – which occurs extra typically than I’d like within the Cotswolds!
3. Citadel Combe
I bear in mind my first journey to Citadel Combe – it felt like stepping right into a postcard. This village is commonly referred to as the prettiest in England, and I can see why. The streets are lined with Cotswold stone cottages that appear like they haven’t modified in centuries.
My favourite spot is the Market Cross within the village middle. I wish to seize a espresso from an area store and simply sit there, soaking within the ambiance. It’s peaceable, particularly early within the morning earlier than different guests arrive.
If you happen to get pleasure from strolling, there’s a pleasant path that loops across the village. It takes you previous St. Andrew’s Church, which is value a glance inside. I at all times find yourself on the bridge over the Bybrook River – it’s a fantastic photograph spot. Simply bear in mind to carry good sneakers; the paths can get muddy!
4. Winchcombe
Winchcombe holds a particular place in my coronary heart. It’s not as well-known as another Cotswold villages, which I believe provides to its attraction. The streets are lined with timbered homes and native retailers that give it an actual neighborhood really feel.
I at all times make time to go to Sudeley Citadel after I’m right here. It holds unbelievable historical past – Catherine Parr, Henry VIII’s final spouse, is buried within the chapel. The gardens are stunning too. I like to recommend packing a picnic and spending a day exploring the grounds.
For meals, I like to recommend trying out The Lion Inn. They serve nice meals, and the ambiance is at all times welcoming. After a meal, take into account strolling it off alongside the Cotswold Method, which passes proper by means of Winchcombe. The views of the encircling countryside are beautiful!
5. Burford
Burford really earns its title as one of many prettiest Cotswold villages, and the Excessive Road here’s a actual gem. It slopes right down to the River Windrush, lined with buildings that appear like they’re straight out of a historical past e book. It’s arduous to not be impressed by the combo of medieval and Tudor types.
St. John the Baptist church is a must-see in Europe. If you happen to’re up for a little bit of train, climb the tower. The view from up there may be wonderful – you’ll be able to see the countryside for miles. The church itself is fairly attention-grabbing too, with types from totally different time durations all blended collectively.
Burford was an enormous deal within the wool commerce, and you’ll inform from the flowery buildings. The Tolsey constructing is now a museum if you wish to be taught extra. Once you want a break, attempt Huffkins Tea Room. It’s a fantastic place to recharge and their treats are scrumptious!
6. Stow-on-the-Wold
Perched atop a hill at 800 ft, Stow-on-the-Wold provides a few of the greatest views within the Cotswolds. The market sq. is the guts of the place, surrounded by townhouses and retailers which have been there for hundreds of years. It’s full of life, particularly on market days.
St. Edward’s Church is value a glance. There’s a pair of previous yew bushes flanking the north door – they make for a fantastic photograph. Inside, you’ll discover some attention-grabbing memorials and stained glass.
Vintage lovers may have a area day right here. The village is stuffed with retailers promoting all the things from furnishings to knick-knacks. After shopping, I like to recommend stopping at The Porch Home. It claims to be England’s oldest inn, and whether or not that’s true or not, it’s a fantastic spot for a meal or a drink. The meals is nice and the ambiance is difficult to beat.
7. Higher and Decrease Slaughter
Higher and Decrease Slaughter would possibly sound ominous, however these twin villages are literally a few of the most peaceable spots within the Cotswolds. Linked by a delicate mile-long stroll alongside the River Eye, these two little gems within the Cotswolds supply an ideal escape from the busier vacationer locations.
Higher Slaughter is the quieter of the pair. It’s acquired a captivating ford the place the river crosses the street – youngsters love splashing round right here on scorching days. The Manor Home, now a luxurious lodge, is value a glance even if you happen to’re not staying there.
Decrease Slaughter tends to attract extra guests, but it surely’s nonetheless fairly laid-back. The Outdated Mill is a well-liked spot, with its water wheel and little museum. There’s a pleasant cafe right here too, nice for a fast chew. Don’t miss the church – it’s acquired some attention-grabbing options and a stunning churchyard.
The stroll between the 2 villages is a spotlight. It’s simple, scenic, and offers you an actual really feel for the Cotswold countryside. Deliver a digicam – you’ll wish to bear in mind this place.
8. Broadway
Simply 22 miles southeast of Worcester, Broadway actually lives as much as its “Jewel of the Cotswolds” nickname. The second you step onto the Excessive Road, you’ll see why. It’s extremely huge and lined with a few of the prettiest buildings within the Cotswolds.
I at all times advocate taking your time on the Excessive Road. There are such a lot of attention-grabbing retailers and galleries to peek into. Plus, the buildings themselves are like a showcase of Cotswold structure. You possibly can spend hours simply admiring the main points!
Broadway Tower is a little bit of a stroll from the village, but it surely’s value it. The views from up there are wonderful. It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic if the climate’s good.
If you happen to’re into design or historical past, don’t miss the Gordon Russell Design Museum. It’s not as well-known as another sights, but it surely’s actually attention-grabbing.
My tip? Attempt to go to in spring or fall if you happen to can. It’s much less crowded than summer time, and the village appears stunning in these seasons.
9. Painswick
Painswick, typically within the operating for the title of prettiest village within the Cotswolds, is an actual stunner. It’s about 6 miles southeast of Gloucester, perched on a hilltop with views that’ll make you wish to keep without end.
The village is thought for its parish church of St. Mary’s, surrounded by 99 yew bushes. There’s a enjoyable native legend that the satan received’t let the one centesimal tree develop. I at all times get pleasure from strolling by means of the churchyard, it’s peaceable and a bit mysterious.
Painswick Rococo Backyard is a must-visit throughout your keep in England. It’s the one full surviving rococo backyard within the UK. Even if you happen to’re not large on gardens, this place is particular. The quirky follies and winding paths make it really feel such as you’re exploring a hidden world.
For the perfect Instagram-worthy views of the village, head as much as Painswick Beacon. The stroll isn’t too powerful, and the panorama on the high is value each step. On a transparent day, you’ll be able to see all the way in which to Wales!
10. Moreton-in-Marsh
Moreton-in-Marsh may not be as well-known as a few of its neighbors, but it surely’s a hidden treasure that’s nicely value exploring. Positioned about 35 miles southeast of Birmingham, it’s simply accessible by prepare, which is an enormous plus in my e book.
The Excessive Road is the guts of the village, and it’s a magnificence. It’s huge and lined with charming Cotswold stone buildings. Market day (each Tuesday) is when the village actually comes alive. The stalls promote all the things from native produce to antiques – it’s a fantastic place to choose up distinctive souvenirs.
Don’t miss the Curfew Tower, an iconic landmark that dates again to the sixteenth century. It’s proper within the middle of city and makes for a fantastic photograph op. The close by Redesdale Corridor is one other architectural gem that catches the attention.
For a little bit of nature, head to Batsford Arboretum simply exterior the village, a must-see amongst issues to do within the Cotswolds. It’s stunning year-round, however particularly beautiful in autumn when the colours change.
Moreton-in-Marsh would possibly fly underneath the radar generally, however for anybody visiting Europe, it undoubtedly deserves a spot on any record of the perfect villages within the Cotswolds.
Regularly Requested Questions (FAQs) in regards to the Prettiest Villages within the Cotswolds
Questioning which Cotswold village is essentially the most picturesque? Or perhaps you’re attempting to resolve the place to remain on your journey? This FAQ part will show you how to discover the proper spot to discover this charming area within the English Countryside.
What’s the prettiest village in Cotswold?
That’s a tricky one! If I needed to choose the prettiest village within the Cotswolds, I’d say Bibury. Its iconic Arlington Row, with its thatched cottages and picturesque stream, is a sight to behold.
Which is the perfect Cotswold village to remain in?
The most effective village to remain within the Cotswolds will depend on what you’re on the lookout for. If you need a full of life ambiance with loads of retailers and distinctive eating places, Bourton-on-the-Water is a superb selection. If you happen to want one thing quieter and extra peaceable, Painswick is likely to be extra your model.
Which Cotswold villages are least touristy?
Whereas the Cotswolds is mostly fashionable with vacationers, there are nonetheless a number of villages that stay comparatively off the overwhelmed path. Broadway and Chipping Campden are each stunning and fewer crowded than a few of the extra fashionable villages within the Cotswolds.
Is North or South Cotswolds higher?
I personally want the North Cotswolds. Its rolling hills, quaint villages, and unspoiled countryside supply a extra genuine and peaceable expertise. Locations like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water really feel much less touristy and extra genuinely Cotswold to me. Nonetheless, the South Cotswolds has its personal enchantment, too. It’s a bit extra developed, with bigger cities and extra sights. If you happen to’re on the lookout for a busier ambiance with extra facilities, you would possibly want the South.
