Discover the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds with this guide. Here you will find the prettiest places in the Cotswolds that you should not miss on your next visit to this quintessential English region.
The Cotswolds is a picturesque region in the English countryside that attracts visitors looking for that chocolate box village charm. Known for its rolling hills and lush greenery, this area spans several counties, offering the perfect escape from the world.
Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds National Landscape has breathtaking scenery and beautifully preserved nature.
It’s a place where time seems to slow down, inviting travelers to explore its scenic walking paths, ancient woodlands, and peaceful waterways.
But it’s the quaint villages in the Cotswolds that are the highlight of this beautiful region, each boasting unique character and historic beauty.
From honey-colored stone cottages, thatched roofs and cute gardens, to National Trust stately homes, these villages offer a glimpse into a centuries-old lifestyle that continues till today.
Visitors often find themselves meandering through narrow lanes, discovering artisanal shops, cozy cafes, and friendly local pubs that add to the region’s charm.
Exploring the Cotswolds is like stepping into a living picture-perfect postcard, vibrant and vivid in its depiction of rural English beauty.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in the countryside or eager to dive into the history and culture of traditional English villages, the Cotswolds offers a dreamy experience.
It’s the perfect destination for both a short or long break for everyone – photographers, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. So let’s delve deeper and uncover the charm of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds.
Where to stay in the Cotswolds
With so many charming villages in the Cotswolds, picking just one spot can be a bit of a challenge. Luckily, Classic Cottages has a great selection of traditional and modern cottages for you to pick from.
In order to make the most of your time, my recommendation would be to stay somewhere in the middle of the region. This is a great strategy because it puts you in a prime spot to easily explore the different corners of the Cotswolds.
The Apartment, Broadway (Sleeps 2)
The Apartment in Broadway is not only stunning and modern inside, but it’s also smack in the middle of Broadway, easily one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds, and the perfect base to explore the rest of the region.
Imagine stepping out your door to a vibrant High Street, shaded with horse chestnut trees and lined with beautiful period homes and those classic honey-colored stone cottages the area is famous for.
Plus, with a great choice of shops and eateries just a stone’s throw away, you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips.
> Book The Apartment in Broadway here
The Summer House, Chipping Campden (Sleeps 6)
Nestled among the orchards of a stunning Cotswold Manor House, The Summer House is a slice of rural England at its finest.
This Grade II Listed property captures the quintessential charm of the Cotswolds, set against the backdrop of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – now referred to as National Landscapes.
It’s all about the classic touches here, from the roaring open fire in the sitting-room to the grand dining table where you can enjoy meals with family and friends.
Staying at The Summer House means soaking up the comfort and elegance of a truly traditional country home. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or enjoying a lively dinner, you’ll feel right at home in this idyllic retreat.
> Book The Summer House in Chipping Campden here
The Farthings, Moreton-in-Marsh (Sleeps 4)
The Farthings is the perfect spot for a cozy Cotswold getaway. This charming terraced cottage is tucked away just on the outskirts of the bustling village of Blockley.
You’ll find it nestled among a picturesque row of terraces, all accessible via a shared gravel driveway that opens up to a lovely communal lawned area. It’s a real treat if you’re after that quintessential English village vibe!
> Book The Farthings in Moreton-in-Marsh here
Evenlode, Stow-on-the-Wold (Sleeps 2)
Located in the heart of the bustling Cotswold town of Stow-on-the-Wold, Evenlode is the perfect cozy spot for a romantic escape or a fun-filled exploration of all the Cotswolds have to offer.
Spread out over three floors, this charming cottage has been beautifully revamped to meet the needs of even the most discerning guests, blending comfort with a touch of luxury for your stay.
> Book Evenlode in Stow-on-the-Wold here
The most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds
Castle Combe
Just like Rye in Sussex, Castle Combe is the poster child for the Cotswolds. Castle Combe is the quintessential Cotswold village, complete with a charming little stream and a picturesque bridge that leads into a cozy cluster of classic cottages.
Castle Come is the perfect snapshot of old-world charm and rural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring this part of England.
Right in the heart of the town, the stunning St. Andrew’s Church is definitely worth a visit. Around the village, you’ll find homes selling jams, homemade treats and local produce in little honesty boxes – this just adds to that warm, village vibe. It’s like stepping into a fairytale.
Then there’s the Manor House, a grand old estate draped in ivy that blushes bright red come fall. Now a hotel, it offers a delightful afternoon tea. It’s worth a little wander through the house and the gardens to soak up some of that old-world charm while you’re in Castle Combe.
Bourton-On-The-Water
Whether you are spending a whole week or just three days in the Cotswolds, Bourton-On-The-Water is a must visit. Affectionately dubbed the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, it is one of the most beautiful villages in the region.
The picturesque River Windrush, which gracefully flows through the heart of Bourton, is framed by beautiful stone bridges and bustling with cozy tea rooms and quaint shops. It’s the perfect setting for a stroll.
As you wander, you’ll discover Bourton’s unique charm, with its array of antique stores and artisan boutiques along narrow streets lined with classic Cotswold stone houses. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the local architecture and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir.
There is a Model Village in town, a fascinating one-ninth scale replica of Bourton itself, built back in the 1930s.
This miniature marvel captures the essence of the village as it was nearly a century ago, complete with tiny houses, churches, and bridges, all meticulously crafted. It’s a delightful way to glimpse into the past and appreciate the incredible attention to detail.
Upper and Lower Slaughter
Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter are two charming little villages just a stone’s throw from Bourton-on-the-Water, and they’re the epitome of everyday charm of the Cotswolds.
Despite their somewhat startling names, they actually derive from the Old English word ‘slohtre,’ which simply means ‘wet land.’
These villages are picture-perfect, with the River Eye meandering gently through them, enhancing the peaceful vibe.
You’ll find an Old Mill and rows of traditional Cotswold stone houses, glowing golden in the sun and often adorned with vibrant flowers in spring and summer, or festive decorations during the holiday season.
Broadway
Broadway, often hailed as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds,’ is every bit as enchanting as its nickname suggests. This village is a treasure trove of unique independent shops, stunning traditional honey-colored stone buildings, and breathtaking countryside views.
It’s bustling, yet retains a charming, quaint atmosphere that’s perfect for any visitor looking to soak up some local culture and history.
Strolling down Broadway’s High Street, you’ll be treated to a delightful array of boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops.
It’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely morning exploring and shopping, all while admiring the gorgeous architecture that gives the village its distinct character.
Not to be missed is the impressive Broadway Tower, perched on a hill and offering expansive views of the valley below.
Designed by Capability Brown and completed in 1798, this historic tower was a beloved retreat for famed artists and writers like William Morris. A hike to the tower is well worth the effort for the stunning panoramic views.
Additionally, the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway adds a touch of nostalgia, with its heritage railway line stretching from Broadway to Cheltenham Racecourse through the picturesque Cotswold’s green hills.
The station itself has been beautifully restored, complete with vintage signage and traditional features, making it a picturesque step back in time.
Chipping Campden
Chipping Campden is truly one of the region’s shining stars, often cited as one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds.
This charming spot is famed for its quaint, well-preserved limestone buildings that line the old High Street, glowing a warm honey color in the sunlight.
What really sets Chipping Campden apart is its remarkably preserved history mixed with vibrant local culture. The Market Hall, dating back to the 17th century, stands as a proud reminder of the town’s heritage as a wool trading center back in the middle ages.
Walking through the village, you’ll be enveloped by an atmosphere of timeless charm, lush gardens and the scenic countryside that surrounds the small village.
Chipping Campden’s ancient churches, local artisan shops, and its peaceful rural ambiance, offer a picturesque slice of Cotswold life that’s hard to beat.
Bibury
Bibury is another of the prettiest Cotswolds villages, with its roots stretching back to the Saxon era. It even gets a mention in the Domesday Book of 1086.
The star of the show in Bibury is definitely Arlington Row, a line of ancient cottages with steep, picturesque roofs that have come to symbolize the classic Cotswold style with their postcard-perfect charm. These cottages date back to the 14th century.
This village isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a muse for the creative. The famed artist William Morris was so taken by Bibury’s timeless beauty that he declared it “the most beautiful village in England.”
It’s easy to see why artists and writers find inspiration here, with its tranquil scenery and historic buildings creating an idyllic countryside retreat.
England’s oldest working farm trout, Bibury Trout Farm, can also be found here.
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stow-on-the-Wold stands out as one of the Cotswolds’ prettiest villages, largely because of its rich blend of history and charm. Perched high on an 800-foot hill, Stow offers sweeping views of the surrounding Cotswold landscape, which are simply breathtaking.
The village is framed by old, traditional warm Cotswolds stone buildings that line its spacious market square, historically known as a meeting place for the region’s sheep farmers. These buildings now house a delightful mix of quaint shops, traditional tea rooms, and cosy pubs.
The village’s picturesque streets and tucked-away alleys add to its scenic beauty, inviting visitors to explore more. Each corner and courtyard tells a story, echoing the village’s past as a major trading center.
Stow-on-the-Wold also boasts some of the region’s most beautiful doors and porches, adorned with intricate carvings that reflect its prosperous medieval wool industry. This combination of natural beauty and historical depth truly makes Stow one of the gems of the Cotswolds.
Cirencester
Not quite a village but rather a bustling market town, Cirencester, is often known as the “Capital of the Cotswolds”. This charming town offers a glimpse into England’s rich past with its impressive Roman history, including one of the largest amphitheaters in Britain from Roman times.
The streets of Cirencester are a delightful mix of traditional Cotswold stone architecture and vibrant market town energy, with the beautifully maintained Church of St. John the Baptist adding a medieval flair that anchors the town center.
Wandering through Cirencester, you’ll find quaint boutiques, antique shops, and local eateries that spill into picturesque courtyards and alleys, making every stroll an adventure. The town’s well-preserved parks and gardens provide a peaceful escape, adding to its scenic charm.
Would you add to this list of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds?
Let me know in the comments!
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Disclosure: This post has been created as a partnership with Classic Cottages. As always, all views are my own.