The Cotswolds, nestled in the heart of England, feature charming villages and towns that feel straight out of a fairytale.
The Cotswolds villages have long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking a quintessentially English experience. They’re famous for the honey-hued Cotswold stone cottages and winding cobbled streets. It’s no wonder the Cotswolds National Landscape has been declared one of the United Kingdom’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Explore country estates and historic churches throughout the Cotswolds villages. Take a leisurely stroll through some of England’s most stunning countryside. Each village has its own unique character and charm, and offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history and heritage.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
Bibury
Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bibury is famous for its idyllic setting along the River Coln. It’s also best known for its rows of charming stone cottages.
One of the most iconic sights in Bibury, and possibly in the entire Cotswolds region, is Arlington Row. These charming cottages, with steeply pitched roofs and honey-colored stone walls, began as a monastic wool storehouse in the 14th century. The 17th century saw their conversion into weavers’ cottages.
Arlington row is so beautiful that the cottages have been featured on the inside cover of the British passport. Today the cottages are Grade II listed buildings, owned by the National Trust and let out to private tenants. One cottage is also available as a very popular vacation rental.
Another enjoyable sight in Bibury is the Bibury Trout Farm, one of England’s oldest working trout farms.
The farm’s crystal-clear waters are supplied by a natural spring that rises nearby and flows into the River Coln. Take some time to feed the fish and learn about the history of trout farming in the area. If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, you can buy fresh trout from the farm shop to prepare for dinner.
Bibury is also home to the lovely St Mary’s Church. The Norman church building was established in the 12th century. But a Saxon gravestone embedded in the wall indicates that the site was used for worship even earlier.
The Grade I listed building features a stunning medieval stained-glass window. The unique oak timber roof dates to the 15th century. St Mary’s is surrounded by a peaceful churchyard that provides the perfect spot for a few moments of quiet reflection.
The village’s setting, surrounded by rolling hills and fields, makes it popular with walkers and hikers. There are numerous walking trails leading through the surrounding countryside.
One popular walk is the Coln Valley circular walk. It’s a 6-mile route that takes in some of the most beautiful scenery in the Cotswolds. Views include Bibury and nearby villages such as Coln, St Aldwyns, and Quenington.
Take some time to enjoy a meal at one of the Cotswold village’s local restaurants or tea rooms. They serve up delicious meals, freshly baked scones, cream teas, and locally sourced trout.
If you’d like to stay in Bibury, consider the Swan Hotel. The historic 17th-century inn located in the heart of the village. The inn offers a range of rooms and suites, each individually decorated, with traditional Cotswold furnishings and a cozy atmosphere.
Bourton-on-the-Water
Bourton-on-the-Water, in the heart of the Cotswolds, is also referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds.” This is due to the number of bridges crisscrossing the River Windrush, which flows through the center of the village.
The Cotswolds village of Bourton-on-the-Water dates back to the Saxon period when the area was first settled. It was originally known as “Burgeton,” meaning “the town by the fortified enclosure.” It was later mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Over the centuries, Bourton-on-the-Water grew to become a thriving market town. Industries like wool and silk production contributing to its prosperity.
One of Bourton-on-the-Water’s most popular sights is the Model Village, a 1/9th scale replica of the Cotswolds village that was built in the 1930s. The Model Village features exquisite attention to detail, with miniature stone buildings, tiny trees, choirs singing in the churches, and even a tiny working model of the Model Village itself.
The Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection features a collection of classic cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, as well as a display of vintage toys and memorabilia. While you’re there you can learn about the history of motoring in the Cotswolds and see some of the most iconic vehicles of the 20th century.
Bourton-on-the-Water has a beautiful high street lined with shops, tea rooms, and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll along the river, walk the many bridges that crisscross the river, and enjoy the beautiful, tranquil scenery.
Broadway
Broadway dates back to the 11th century, when the Cotswolds village was granted to the abbey of Pershore. By the 16th century Broadway had become a major stop on the coaching route from Worcester to London, with numerous inns and coaching houses catering to travelers.
The Cotswold town continued to prosper through the 19th century, becoming a popular destination for artists like William Morris, as well as author J.M. Barrie, who wrote Peter Pan.
For some of the best views in the Cotswolds, if not all of England, climb to the top of Broadway Tower. An 18th century folly built by the Earl of Coventry, the 65-foot-tall Broadway Tower has panoramic views of up to 16 counties on a clear day.
Broadway is also home to several picturesque gardens, including the famous National Trust property, Snowshill Manor and Garden. Snowshill Manor features a collection of over 22,000 items, including musical instruments, costumes, and toys, while the garden boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
For those who enjoy walking, Broadway is situated on the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile-long trail that runs from Chipping Campden to Bath. If you’re not up for the full journey you can walk just a section of the Cotswolds Way. The village also has a number of shorter walks that take visitors through the surrounding countryside and villages.
Take some time to visit the range of shops, galleries, and restaurants that offer a taste of the Cotswolds. Sample local produce, such as cheeses and meats, or enjoy a traditional cream tea in one of the village’s tea rooms.
Broadway is an excellent base for a longer Cotswolds stay. For a classic stay in the center of town I’d recommend the Lygon Arms. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit different, check out The Fish Hotel. Their chalets and luxury Cotswold tree houses are sure to delight the entire family!
Castle Combe
Castle Combe is often listed as the prettiest Cotswolds village, as well as the most beautiful village in England. The small village dates back to the 12th century, when it was known for its wool production and thriving market.
The village grew in prosperity over the centuries, with the construction of its medieval castle and the establishment of a thriving weaving industry. Today the village is a well-preserved example of traditional English village life, with many of its historic buildings, stone cottages and streetscapes remaining intact.
Castle Combe has served as a popular filming location for movies and TV. One of the most well-known films shot in Castle Combe is the 1967 movie “Doctor Dolittle,” starring Rex Harrison. The village was transformed into the fictional Puddleby-on-the-Marsh, with its picturesque cottages and winding streets serving as the backdrop for many scenes.
More recently Castle Combe has been used as a filming location for “Downton Abbey.” The village was featured in the show’s fourth season as the location of the Crawley family’s visit to the fictional village of Yew Tree Farm.
The show’s producers praised Castle Combe for its “timeless quality” and said it was the perfect location to capture the essence of traditional English village life.
Other films shot in Castle Combe include “The Wolfman,” starring Benicio Del Toro and Anthony Hopkins, and “Stardust,” starring Claire Danes and Robert De Niro. The village’s picturesque streets and historic buildings have made it a popular choice for filmmakers looking to capture the essence of traditional English village life.
Visitors to Castle Combe can take a guided walking tour of the village to learn more about its history as a filming location and see some of the sites used in popular movies and TV shows. These tours offer a unique perspective on the village’s rich history and cultural significance, and are a must-do for film buffs and history enthusiasts alike.
If you’d like to stay in Castle Combe, I highly recommend The Manor House. Dinner at Bybrook, their Michelin-star restaurant, is also a great experience.
Chipping Campden
Chipping Campden is a delightful market town in the north Cotswolds. Its name, “Chipping,” comes from the Old English word “ceapen,” meaning market or trade, and reflects the town’s history as a thriving center of trade in the Middle Ages.
The town dates to the 14th century, when it was a major center for the wool trade. Builders constructed many of the Cotswolds villages most beautiful buildings, including St. James’ Church with its 120-foot spire, between the 14th and 17th centuries.
The 17th-century Market Hall has served as a hub of trade and commerce for centuries. The National Trust now owns the building, hosting events like markets and craft fairs. It remains one of the village’s most iconic landmarks.
The 102-mile Cotswold Way runs through Chipping Campden, connecting the village to Bath via the scenic Cotswold hills. There are multiple shorter walks through the countryside as well, including a walk up Dover’s Hill, which rewards you at the top with breathtaking views over the Cotswolds countryside.
Hidcote Manor Garden, located just outside of Chipping Campden, is one of the most beautiful and well-known gardens in the Cotswolds.
American horticulturist Lawrence Johnston designed the garden in the early 20th century, earning renown for its stunning layout. It incorporates a series of interconnected outdoor rooms, each with its own unique character and style.
Stroll through the garden’s many paths and discover a wealth of beautiful plants, flowers, and trees, all arranged in intricate patterns and designs. Some of the highlights of the garden include the vibrant red borders, the tranquil pool garden, and the fragrant rose garden, which features more than 900 different varieties of roses.
Lower Slaughter
Lower Slaughter’s name comes from the Old English word “slough,” meaning “wet land,” which reflects the village’s location in a valley that is prone to flooding.
The beautiful Cotswold village dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086, which records it as a prosperous settlement with an old mill and a church. The village continued to prosper through the Middle Ages, with agriculture and wool production being the main sources of income.
While you’re there you can visit the Old Mill, a picturesque watermill that dates back to the 16th century. Also make a stop at the historic St. Mary’s church, with its beautiful stained glass windows.
The Cotswolds villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter are only a mile apart, with a walking trail connecting them. This makes them perfect for grouping together into a single day.
If you’d like to have more time to explore Lower Slaughter, Upper Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water, book a stay at the Slaughters Manor House in Lower Slaughter.
Painswick
Considered by many to be the prettiest of the Cotswolds villages, Painswick first appears in historical records in the Doomsday Book of 1086 as Wiche, meaning “dairy-farm.”
The wool trade and agricultural industry fueled the town’s growth throughout the Middle Ages. Painswick is known for its well-preserved Medieval and Georgian architecture.
Painswick’s beautiful churchyard features a stunning collection of yew trees that date back to the 18th century. The trees are planted in the shape of a labyrinth. The churchyard also features a range of historic monuments and tombs, including the tomb of Captain John Stuart, a local hero who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.
The stunning countryside around the town offers a range of hiking and walking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Cotswolds. The nearby Painswick Beacon, a hill that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Painswick offers a range of museums and galleries that showcase the village’s rich heritage. The Painswick Rococo Garden, a restored 18th-century garden with rare plants and flowers, is a must-visit for historic garden enthusiasts.
Stow-on-the-Wold
The picturesque village of Stow-on-the-Wold is a charming market known for its lovely streets, historic buildings, and bustling markets. It was once a settlement along the Fosse Way, a major Roman road connecting the cities of Exeter and Lincoln.
In the 11th century the village was an important center for the wool trade. Over the centuries, the town grew in prosperity. Its location at the junction of several important trade routes making it a hub of commerce and culture.
Today Stow-on-the-Wold is renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture, with many medieval and Tudor buildings and cottages.
The market square dates back to the 12th century. The square is home to a range of shops, restaurants, and pubs. It’s also home to the town’s monthly market, which takes place on the second Thursday. At the market you can browse local produce, crafts, and other goods. Or you can simply soak up the lively atmosphere of this historic market town.
If you enjoy the outdoors, Stow-on-the-Wold offers a range of walking and hiking trails that showcase the town’s natural beauty. The Cotswold Way passes through Stow-on-the-Wold and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
J.R.R. Tolkien drew inspiration from Stow-on-the-Wold’s historic architecture for The Lord of the Rings. The tree-flanked door of St. Edward’s Church reportedly inspired Tolkien’s depiction of the Doors of Moria.
Tolkien also found inspiration in the nearby Rollright Stones, a prehistoric stone circle located just outside Stow-on-the-Wold.
Explore the town’s rich history and learn more about its connections to Tolkien and other notable figures. Stroll through its historic streets and absorb the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.
If you’re planning to stay a few nights in one of the Cotswolds villages, Stow-on-the-Wold is a great choice. There are several small hotels and pubs with rooms to choose from, including The Porch House. It’s one of my favorites for meals as well.
Tetbury
The charming village of Tetbury dates back to the 11th century, when it served as a small market town for the wool trade. Tetbury is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, featuring buildings from the medieval and Georgian periods.
Built in 1655, the village’s market hall features three rows of stone pillars that support a covered market below. How perfect given the English weather! Today the market hall still hosts farmers markets and other events.
If you enjoy spending a morning or afternoon browsing in an antique shop, Tetbury is the village for you. This Cotswolds village boasts the most antique shops in the area, making it a top spot for treasure hunting.
Just outside of Tetbury you’ll find Highgrove House and Gardens, the private residence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The estate opens its beautiful gardens to the public at select times.
The gardens feature a range of rare plants, flowers and trees, as well as sculptures and other art installations.
Tetbury is also home to one of the Cotswolds villages’ more unusual cultural events. The town’s annual Woolsack Races, held every May, feature locals racing up and down a steep hill while carrying a sack of wool on their back.
Upper Slaughter
The Cotswold village of Upper Slaughter mainly dates to the 11th century. There is some evidence of earlier settlement during the Roman era.
Located near Bourton-on-the-Water and Lower Slaughter (just a mile away), Upper Slaughter is a bit quieter than some of the more visited Cotswolds villages. The three villages are close together enough that you can walk between them. It makes a lovely full day of exploring some of the best villages in the Cotswolds.
If you decide to walk between the three villages I recommend parking in Bourton-on-the-Water since it’s a larger Cotswolds village than the other two.
Upper Slaughter doesn’t have a lot of must-see sights, but St. Peter’s Church is worth a visit. The interior is lovely, and the Norman building dates back to the 12th century.
Located just a short distance from the heart of the village, Eyford House is a prime example of an idyllic English country house, complete with breathtaking gardens.
The grounds are only occasionally open to the public, but it’s certainly worth planning a visit when they are. Country Life named Eyford House England’s best country home, and it’s easy to see why.
With its picturesque setting and stunning views, a trip to Eyford House is a true delight for anyone looking to experience the quintessential beauty of the English countryside.
Upper Slaughter doesn’t have much in the way of “must-see” attractions. The true attraction of the village lies in embracing a slower pace and soaking in the beauty of the Cotswolds.
The bottom line: The prettiest Cotswolds villages
From the charming streets of Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold to the idyllic scenery of Lower Slaughter and Castle Combe, each Cotswolds village has its own unique charm.
Explore the Cotswolds’ rich history and heritage through its landmarks and historic sites. Enjoy its natural beauty and traditional hospitality as you travel through the beautiful English countryside.
If you enjoyed this post you can find all of my Cotswolds England blog posts here.
The Cotswolds, nestled in the heart of England, feature charming villages and towns that feel straight out of a fairytale.
The Cotswolds villages have long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking a quintessentially English experience. They’re famous for the honey-hued Cotswold stone cottages and winding cobbled streets. It’s no wonder the Cotswolds National Landscape has been declared one of the United Kingdom’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Explore country estates and historic churches throughout the Cotswolds villages. Take a leisurely stroll through some of England’s most stunning countryside. Each village has its own unique character and charm, and offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history and heritage.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
Bibury
Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bibury is famous for its idyllic setting along the River Coln. It’s also best known for its rows of charming stone cottages.
One of the most iconic sights in Bibury, and possibly in the entire Cotswolds region, is Arlington Row. These charming cottages, with steeply pitched roofs and honey-colored stone walls, began as a monastic wool storehouse in the 14th century. The 17th century saw their conversion into weavers’ cottages.
Arlington row is so beautiful that the cottages have been featured on the inside cover of the British passport. Today the cottages are Grade II listed buildings, owned by the National Trust and let out to private tenants. One cottage is also available as a very popular vacation rental.
Another enjoyable sight in Bibury is the Bibury Trout Farm, one of England’s oldest working trout farms.
The farm’s crystal-clear waters are supplied by a natural spring that rises nearby and flows into the River Coln. Take some time to feed the fish and learn about the history of trout farming in the area. If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, you can buy fresh trout from the farm shop to prepare for dinner.
Bibury is also home to the lovely St Mary’s Church. The Norman church building was established in the 12th century. But a Saxon gravestone embedded in the wall indicates that the site was used for worship even earlier.
The Grade I listed building features a stunning medieval stained-glass window. The unique oak timber roof dates to the 15th century. St Mary’s is surrounded by a peaceful churchyard that provides the perfect spot for a few moments of quiet reflection.
The village’s setting, surrounded by rolling hills and fields, makes it popular with walkers and hikers. There are numerous walking trails leading through the surrounding countryside.
One popular walk is the Coln Valley circular walk. It’s a 6-mile route that takes in some of the most beautiful scenery in the Cotswolds. Views include Bibury and nearby villages such as Coln, St Aldwyns, and Quenington.
Take some time to enjoy a meal at one of the Cotswold village’s local restaurants or tea rooms. They serve up delicious meals, freshly baked scones, cream teas, and locally sourced trout.
If you’d like to stay in Bibury, consider the Swan Hotel. The historic 17th-century inn located in the heart of the village. The inn offers a range of rooms and suites, each individually decorated, with traditional Cotswold furnishings and a cozy atmosphere.
Bourton-on-the-Water
Bourton-on-the-Water, in the heart of the Cotswolds, is also referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds.” This is due to the number of bridges crisscrossing the River Windrush, which flows through the center of the village.
The Cotswolds village of Bourton-on-the-Water dates back to the Saxon period when the area was first settled. It was originally known as “Burgeton,” meaning “the town by the fortified enclosure.” It was later mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Over the centuries, Bourton-on-the-Water grew to become a thriving market town. Industries like wool and silk production contributing to its prosperity.
One of Bourton-on-the-Water’s most popular sights is the Model Village, a 1/9th scale replica of the Cotswolds village that was built in the 1930s. The Model Village features exquisite attention to detail, with miniature stone buildings, tiny trees, choirs singing in the churches, and even a tiny working model of the Model Village itself.
The Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection features a collection of classic cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, as well as a display of vintage toys and memorabilia. While you’re there you can learn about the history of motoring in the Cotswolds and see some of the most iconic vehicles of the 20th century.
Bourton-on-the-Water has a beautiful high street lined with shops, tea rooms, and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll along the river, walk the many bridges that crisscross the river, and enjoy the beautiful, tranquil scenery.
Broadway
Broadway dates back to the 11th century, when the Cotswolds village was granted to the abbey of Pershore. By the 16th century Broadway had become a major stop on the coaching route from Worcester to London, with numerous inns and coaching houses catering to travelers.
The Cotswold town continued to prosper through the 19th century, becoming a popular destination for artists like William Morris, as well as author J.M. Barrie, who wrote Peter Pan.
For some of the best views in the Cotswolds, if not all of England, climb to the top of Broadway Tower. An 18th century folly built by the Earl of Coventry, the 65-foot-tall Broadway Tower has panoramic views of up to 16 counties on a clear day.
Broadway is also home to several picturesque gardens, including the famous National Trust property, Snowshill Manor and Garden. Snowshill Manor features a collection of over 22,000 items, including musical instruments, costumes, and toys, while the garden boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
For those who enjoy walking, Broadway is situated on the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile-long trail that runs from Chipping Campden to Bath. If you’re not up for the full journey you can walk just a section of the Cotswolds Way. The village also has a number of shorter walks that take visitors through the surrounding countryside and villages.
Take some time to visit the range of shops, galleries, and restaurants that offer a taste of the Cotswolds. Sample local produce, such as cheeses and meats, or enjoy a traditional cream tea in one of the village’s tea rooms.
Broadway is an excellent base for a longer Cotswolds stay. For a classic stay in the center of town I’d recommend the Lygon Arms. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit different, check out The Fish Hotel. Their chalets and luxury Cotswold tree houses are sure to delight the entire family!
Castle Combe
Castle Combe is often listed as the prettiest Cotswolds village, as well as the most beautiful village in England. The small village dates back to the 12th century, when it was known for its wool production and thriving market.
The village grew in prosperity over the centuries, with the construction of its medieval castle and the establishment of a thriving weaving industry. Today the village is a well-preserved example of traditional English village life, with many of its historic buildings, stone cottages and streetscapes remaining intact.
Castle Combe has served as a popular filming location for movies and TV. One of the most well-known films shot in Castle Combe is the 1967 movie “Doctor Dolittle,” starring Rex Harrison. The village was transformed into the fictional Puddleby-on-the-Marsh, with its picturesque cottages and winding streets serving as the backdrop for many scenes.
More recently Castle Combe has been used as a filming location for “Downton Abbey.” The village was featured in the show’s fourth season as the location of the Crawley family’s visit to the fictional village of Yew Tree Farm.
The show’s producers praised Castle Combe for its “timeless quality” and said it was the perfect location to capture the essence of traditional English village life.
Other films shot in Castle Combe include “The Wolfman,” starring Benicio Del Toro and Anthony Hopkins, and “Stardust,” starring Claire Danes and Robert De Niro. The village’s picturesque streets and historic buildings have made it a popular choice for filmmakers looking to capture the essence of traditional English village life.
Visitors to Castle Combe can take a guided walking tour of the village to learn more about its history as a filming location and see some of the sites used in popular movies and TV shows. These tours offer a unique perspective on the village’s rich history and cultural significance, and are a must-do for film buffs and history enthusiasts alike.
If you’d like to stay in Castle Combe, I highly recommend The Manor House. Dinner at Bybrook, their Michelin-star restaurant, is also a great experience.
Chipping Campden
Chipping Campden is a delightful market town in the north Cotswolds. Its name, “Chipping,” comes from the Old English word “ceapen,” meaning market or trade, and reflects the town’s history as a thriving center of trade in the Middle Ages.
The town dates to the 14th century, when it was a major center for the wool trade. Builders constructed many of the Cotswolds villages most beautiful buildings, including St. James’ Church with its 120-foot spire, between the 14th and 17th centuries.
The 17th-century Market Hall has served as a hub of trade and commerce for centuries. The National Trust now owns the building, hosting events like markets and craft fairs. It remains one of the village’s most iconic landmarks.
The 102-mile Cotswold Way runs through Chipping Campden, connecting the village to Bath via the scenic Cotswold hills. There are multiple shorter walks through the countryside as well, including a walk up Dover’s Hill, which rewards you at the top with breathtaking views over the Cotswolds countryside.
Hidcote Manor Garden, located just outside of Chipping Campden, is one of the most beautiful and well-known gardens in the Cotswolds.
American horticulturist Lawrence Johnston designed the garden in the early 20th century, earning renown for its stunning layout. It incorporates a series of interconnected outdoor rooms, each with its own unique character and style.
Stroll through the garden’s many paths and discover a wealth of beautiful plants, flowers, and trees, all arranged in intricate patterns and designs. Some of the highlights of the garden include the vibrant red borders, the tranquil pool garden, and the fragrant rose garden, which features more than 900 different varieties of roses.
Lower Slaughter
Lower Slaughter’s name comes from the Old English word “slough,” meaning “wet land,” which reflects the village’s location in a valley that is prone to flooding.
The beautiful Cotswold village dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086, which records it as a prosperous settlement with an old mill and a church. The village continued to prosper through the Middle Ages, with agriculture and wool production being the main sources of income.
While you’re there you can visit the Old Mill, a picturesque watermill that dates back to the 16th century. Also make a stop at the historic St. Mary’s church, with its beautiful stained glass windows.
The Cotswolds villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter are only a mile apart, with a walking trail connecting them. This makes them perfect for grouping together into a single day.
If you’d like to have more time to explore Lower Slaughter, Upper Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water, book a stay at the Slaughters Manor House in Lower Slaughter.
Painswick
Considered by many to be the prettiest of the Cotswolds villages, Painswick first appears in historical records in the Doomsday Book of 1086 as Wiche, meaning “dairy-farm.”
The wool trade and agricultural industry fueled the town’s growth throughout the Middle Ages. Painswick is known for its well-preserved Medieval and Georgian architecture.
Painswick’s beautiful churchyard features a stunning collection of yew trees that date back to the 18th century. The trees are planted in the shape of a labyrinth. The churchyard also features a range of historic monuments and tombs, including the tomb of Captain John Stuart, a local hero who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.
The stunning countryside around the town offers a range of hiking and walking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Cotswolds. The nearby Painswick Beacon, a hill that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Painswick offers a range of museums and galleries that showcase the village’s rich heritage. The Painswick Rococo Garden, a restored 18th-century garden with rare plants and flowers, is a must-visit for historic garden enthusiasts.
Stow-on-the-Wold
The picturesque village of Stow-on-the-Wold is a charming market known for its lovely streets, historic buildings, and bustling markets. It was once a settlement along the Fosse Way, a major Roman road connecting the cities of Exeter and Lincoln.
In the 11th century the village was an important center for the wool trade. Over the centuries, the town grew in prosperity. Its location at the junction of several important trade routes making it a hub of commerce and culture.
Today Stow-on-the-Wold is renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture, with many medieval and Tudor buildings and cottages.
The market square dates back to the 12th century. The square is home to a range of shops, restaurants, and pubs. It’s also home to the town’s monthly market, which takes place on the second Thursday. At the market you can browse local produce, crafts, and other goods. Or you can simply soak up the lively atmosphere of this historic market town.
If you enjoy the outdoors, Stow-on-the-Wold offers a range of walking and hiking trails that showcase the town’s natural beauty. The Cotswold Way passes through Stow-on-the-Wold and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
J.R.R. Tolkien drew inspiration from Stow-on-the-Wold’s historic architecture for The Lord of the Rings. The tree-flanked door of St. Edward’s Church reportedly inspired Tolkien’s depiction of the Doors of Moria.
Tolkien also found inspiration in the nearby Rollright Stones, a prehistoric stone circle located just outside Stow-on-the-Wold.
Explore the town’s rich history and learn more about its connections to Tolkien and other notable figures. Stroll through its historic streets and absorb the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.
If you’re planning to stay a few nights in one of the Cotswolds villages, Stow-on-the-Wold is a great choice. There are several small hotels and pubs with rooms to choose from, including The Porch House. It’s one of my favorites for meals as well.
Tetbury
The charming village of Tetbury dates back to the 11th century, when it served as a small market town for the wool trade. Tetbury is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, featuring buildings from the medieval and Georgian periods.
Built in 1655, the village’s market hall features three rows of stone pillars that support a covered market below. How perfect given the English weather! Today the market hall still hosts farmers markets and other events.
If you enjoy spending a morning or afternoon browsing in an antique shop, Tetbury is the village for you. This Cotswolds village boasts the most antique shops in the area, making it a top spot for treasure hunting.
Just outside of Tetbury you’ll find Highgrove House and Gardens, the private residence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The estate opens its beautiful gardens to the public at select times.
The gardens feature a range of rare plants, flowers and trees, as well as sculptures and other art installations.
Tetbury is also home to one of the Cotswolds villages’ more unusual cultural events. The town’s annual Woolsack Races, held every May, feature locals racing up and down a steep hill while carrying a sack of wool on their back.
Upper Slaughter
The Cotswold village of Upper Slaughter mainly dates to the 11th century. There is some evidence of earlier settlement during the Roman era.
Located near Bourton-on-the-Water and Lower Slaughter (just a mile away), Upper Slaughter is a bit quieter than some of the more visited Cotswolds villages. The three villages are close together enough that you can walk between them. It makes a lovely full day of exploring some of the best villages in the Cotswolds.
If you decide to walk between the three villages I recommend parking in Bourton-on-the-Water since it’s a larger Cotswolds village than the other two.
Upper Slaughter doesn’t have a lot of must-see sights, but St. Peter’s Church is worth a visit. The interior is lovely, and the Norman building dates back to the 12th century.
Located just a short distance from the heart of the village, Eyford House is a prime example of an idyllic English country house, complete with breathtaking gardens.
The grounds are only occasionally open to the public, but it’s certainly worth planning a visit when they are. Country Life named Eyford House England’s best country home, and it’s easy to see why.
With its picturesque setting and stunning views, a trip to Eyford House is a true delight for anyone looking to experience the quintessential beauty of the English countryside.
Upper Slaughter doesn’t have much in the way of “must-see” attractions. The true attraction of the village lies in embracing a slower pace and soaking in the beauty of the Cotswolds.
The bottom line: The prettiest Cotswolds villages
From the charming streets of Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold to the idyllic scenery of Lower Slaughter and Castle Combe, each Cotswolds village has its own unique charm.
Explore the Cotswolds’ rich history and heritage through its landmarks and historic sites. Enjoy its natural beauty and traditional hospitality as you travel through the beautiful English countryside.
If you enjoyed this post you can find all of my Cotswolds England blog posts here.
