When it comes to pretty villages and towns, the Cotswolds will have you spoilt for choice. Whether you want a bustling market town or a chocolate box village, the Cotswolds has plenty of places renowned for their exquisite beauty. Visit one, or visit them all, here are the most beautiful towns in Cotswolds and the stunning villages that you must see when you visit.
Here are the 10 most beautiful villages and small towns in the Cotswolds that are worth visiting when you first discover the Cotswolds.
1. Bourton on the Water
Known at the Venice of the Cotswolds, this stunning village is situated on The River Windrush. A firm favourite with tourists who flock to picnic by the river explore the plentiful attractions including; museums, restaurants and shops dotted around the village high street. A visit to Bourton-on the-Water simply cannot be missed if you are visiting the Cotswold district. The most popular attractions include; The Cotswold Motoring Museum, Birdland Park and Wildlife Gardens, The Model Village, The Model Railway and The Dragonfly Maze.
2. Stow-On-The-Wold
The gorgeous market town is perhaps one of the most famous in the Cotswolds. Offering something for everyone with boutique shops and independent restaurants to beautiful countryside and a generous selection of pubs. Famous for its part in the historic wool trade, on which the Cotswolds economy was founded, Stow on the Wold also boasts one of the most unique and pretty Church doors, flanked by a pair of Yew trees, it is said to have inspired a gateway in J.R.R Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings book it’s a must-see.
3. Cirencester
Known as the Capital of the Cotswolds, this market town is perfect for anyone who likes the rural life but also wants the option of being able to go shopping and out for dinner and drinks. Explore its markets and cobbled streets, enjoy a walk around one of its many parks and relax in its independent cafes and restaurants. Cirencester is not to be missed.
4. Lower Slaughter
One of the most instagrammable towns in The Cotswolds, Lower Slaughter’s Copse Hill Road won the title of “Most Romantic Street in Britain” 2011 and it is easy to see why. The stunning village is only small, but it certainly won’t disappoint. The old mill and water wheel, located at the end of the village make for the perfect photo opportunity and is a must-see, plus a visit to the riverside pub; The Slaughters Country Inn, for a drink in the beer garden on a gorgeous sunny day shouldn’t be missed.
5. Bibury
The picturesque village of Bibury is like something out of a fairy tale. The crowds flock to see the famous Arlington Row, one of the most photographed landmarks in Britain, the street of weaver houses that famously featured in the film Stardust. Numerous pubs and restaurants serve hungry tourists each day, so planning your trip over a mealtime can make for an added treat.
6. Chipping Campden
In the North of the Cotswolds, Chipping Campden is an old Cotswold gem, the Cotswold Way starts or ends here so it’s great for walkers. Perfect for a weekend break or even a longer holiday, the beautiful town will not disappoint. Architecturally stunning, Chipping Campden boasts some of the district’s most beautiful cottages, thatched properties and traditional countryside charm.
7. Burford
Known for its glorious high street on a hill, Burford is not one to miss. The town boasts many gorgeous stone, Tudor and Georgian properties as well as the famous three-arched bridge crossing The River Windrush. Charming shops and cottages adorn the village’s high street, perfect for picking up those local products and gifts.
8. Broadway
This gorgeous village is in the north Cotswold and is picture-postcard perfect. It’s popular with tourists, the village makes for the perfect location to relax, escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a scenic Cotswold walk up to Broadway Tower, or relax at one of the beautiful hotels along Broadway’s stunning highstreet.
9. Snowshill
The gorgeous village of Snowshill is not one to miss in the Cotswolds. The village is full of the most charming Cotswold stone cottages – you may recognise some of them from Bridget Jones Diary the village was covered in artificial snow for the scene where Bridget visits her parents at Christmas. Snowshill is also well known for Cotswold Lavender a fun day out and a popular photo attraction for visitors.
10. Stanton
This village set on the side of the Cotswold Hills is one for those who are fans of traditional Cotswold houses. The town boasts many thatched cottages and a multitude of beautiful period properties, constructed during the village’s long history, dating back as far as 1577. Surrounded by the rolling Cotswold countryside, it’s the perfect day out for explorers and those up for an adventure.
Which are the most beautiful Cotswold villages and towns that you’ve visited? Let us know your suggestions with an email.
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