Discover the Most Beautiful Villages in the Cotswolds
A Quintessential English Escape for International Travellers
Winding lanes, honey-coloured stone cottages, and charming market towns—the Cotswolds are what English countryside dreams are made of. Wherever you are visiting from, these postcard-perfect villages offer a chance to step back in time, sip cream tea in the sun, and explore landscapes that have inspired painters, poets and filmmakers for centuries.
Just a short journey from London, the Cotswolds make for an unforgettable day trip or a longer escape into nature and heritage. Here are five of the most enchanting villages that feel lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale.
Cirencester: A Cultural Escape to the Capital of the Cotswolds
Need a break from London’s hustle? Step into Cirencester—a former Roman stronghold turned honey-stone haven, where ancient history, elegant architecture, and local charm come together in one perfect countryside escape.
Known as the “Capital of the Cotswolds”, Cirencester offers a refreshing change of pace from city life without sacrificing culture, cuisine, or character. Think bustling markets, timeless townhouses, scenic parks, and a warm local welcome that’ll make you want to linger.
Step Back in Time at the Corinium Museum
Cirencester’s roots run deep—all the way to Roman Britain. In fact, it was once the second-largest town in Roman England, after Londinium (London).
Begin your journey at the Corinium Museum, where beautifully curated exhibits bring the town’s ancient past to life. From stunning mosaics and coins to tools and personal artefacts, it’s a captivating way to see just how sophisticated Roman Cirencester (then called Corinium) truly was.
Wander Through the Historic Town Centre
No visit to Cirencester is complete without a stroll around the Market Place and the magnificent Church of St. John the Baptist. With its towering perpendicular Gothic spire and intricate stonework, it’s one of the largest parish churches in England—and often mistaken for a cathedral.
The surrounding streets are a delight to explore. You’ll find a mix of boutique shops, independent cafés, bookshops, and artisan producers that make this town feel as stylish as it is storied.
Don’t miss the view of the church from Coxwell Street—one of the town’s most photogenic spots.
Where to Eat in Cirencester
Cirencester’s food scene is thriving, blending traditional Cotswold fare with modern British dining. Here are a few favourites:
- Made by Bob – A chic deli/restaurant serving seasonal dishes and locally sourced ingredients inside the Corn Hall.
- Jesse’s Bistro – A long-standing favourite offering modern British plates with a rustic twist.
- The Kings Head Hotel – Great for cream tea, cocktails, or a hearty Sunday roast in a stylish setting.
- Baker’s Cafe – Cosy and casual, perfect for a slice of cake and a cup of locally roasted coffee.
And yes—there’s no shortage of freshly baked scones and clotted cream.
Markets, Makers & Hidden Gems
Cirencester is still very much a market town, with weekly markets held every Monday and Friday in the town centre. Browse handmade crafts, vintage finds, farm-fresh produce, and seasonal treats.
For something a little off the radar:
- Abbey Grounds Park – Tucked behind the church, this peaceful green space features the remains of an Augustinian monastery and medieval fishponds.
- New Brewery Arts – A creative hub for local makers with workshops, exhibitions, and a lovely café.
- Cirencester Antiques Centre – A treasure trove for collectors and curious browsers.
Fun fact: Cirencester’s historic streetscapes and charming façades have made it a go-to filming location for period dramas and indie films.
How to Get There from London
Cirencester is around 90–120 minutes from London, depending on your mode of travel.
- By Train: Take a direct train from London Paddington to Kemble Station (about 1 hour 10 mins), then a short 10-minute taxi ride into town.
- By Car: Drive west via the M4 and A419—great for scenic views if you plan to explore the surrounding countryside.
- By Tour: Consider joining a guided Cotswold day tour if you prefer not to drive.
Cirencester delivers that perfect Cotswold balance of peaceful countryside, rich history, and modern charm. Whether you’re here for Roman ruins, market day magic, or just a quiet stroll followed by tea and cake, it’s a destination that feels both timeless and completely alive.
If this is your first time to the Cotswolds, I would take a long weekend trip and based in Cirencester as it has so much to offer. You can get on a bus or hire a private car to take you to nearby villages such as Bilbury (only 10mins.) and Stow-on-the-Wold (20mins).
Bourton-on-the-Water: The Venice of the Cotswolds!
Craving a countryside escape with just the right splash of charm? Say hello to Bourton-on-the-Water, where little stone bridges gracefully skip over the River Windrush and ducks have right of way. This postcard-perfect village is made for strolls, riverside picnics, and browsing tearooms like it’s a competitive sport. It’s a dream for families, first-timers, and anyone who fancies a slower pace with a serious view. Think Venice… but swap the canals for cream teas and the crowds for Cotswold calm.
What to Do in Bourton-on-the-Water
You don’t need an itinerary here—just a comfy pair of shoes and an appetite for simple pleasures. That said, there are a few must-sees that bring the charm full circle:
The Model Village
A 1:9 scale replica of Bourton itself, this delightful miniature is crafted from local Cotswold stone and set in the heart of the village. It’s a quirky, nostalgic favourite for all ages—and yes, you can spot a tiny version of the model village inside the model village.
Cotswolds Motoring Museum
More than just vintage cars—this museum is a trip through 20th-century British life, with toys, memorabilia, and the beloved children’s TV character Brum. Great for families and retro enthusiasts alike.
Birdland Park & Gardens
A short stroll from the village centre, Birdland is home to over 500 birds including flamingos, owls, and even a dinosaur-themed trail. A perfect stop if you’re travelling with kids—or just love a good nature walk.
Riverside Relaxation & Hidden Corners
Bourton is made for lazy strolls and picnics by the river. With five stone bridges arching gently over the River Windrush, you’ll find endless photo opportunities and tranquil spots for a sit-down and a sandwich.
Where to Eat in Bourton-on-the-Water
Food here is all about comforting classics done well—with a few surprises along the way:
- Bakery on the Water – Known for its riverside garden, artisan bakes, and cream teas served with proper Cotswold flair.
- Smiths of Bourton – A modern burger joint with great cocktails and stylish interiors. A little unexpected, very welcome.
- The Rose Tree – A charming spot for a traditional British lunch or dinner, with riverside views that add serious ambience.
- The Croft – Cosy and reliable for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty afternoon stop.
And of course, no trip is complete without a classic cream tea—bonus points if you enjoy it while duck-watching from a sunny bench.
Shopping & Local Finds
Bourton is dotted with independent gift shops, book nooks, and places to pick up handmade candles, preserves, and artsy homewares. If you’re after a non-touristy souvenir, try The Cotswold Pottery, tucked away off Victoria Street.
How to Get There
From London:
- By Tour: Several operators offer day trips from London or Oxford combining Bourton with other favourites like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bibury.
- By Train: Take a train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh (~1 hour 40 mins), then a short 20-minute taxi or bus to Bourton.
- By Car: About 2 hours drive via the M40 and A429—ideal if you want to explore other Cotswold villages en route.
Bourton-on-the-Water is proof that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the best: a walk by the river, a fresh scone, a curious duck, and the sound of old stone under your feet. It’s a gentle escape that stays with you long after the cream tea is gone.
Time Travel & Hobbit Doors? Only in Stow-on-the-Wold
Perched high on a hill with views as grand as its past, Stow-on-the-Wold is the kind of place where history lingers in the air—and quite possibly behind every antique shop. Wander cobbled streets once trod by wool merchants, sip something strong at a 10th-century pub, and don’t miss St. Edward’s Church, where a magical yew-framed doorway is rumoured to have sparked Tolkien’s imagination.
Once a thriving wool town, Stow hosted some of the region’s largest sheep fairs in its market square—a tradition that echoes today through the town’s bustling atmosphere and vibrant shops.
The expansive Market Square remains the beating heart of the town. Surrounded by limestone buildings with gabled roofs and quirky façades, it’s a great place to grab a coffee, browse a bookshop, or strike up a chat with a local.
Yes, Stow has hobbit-door energy and a timeless charm that’s impossible to rush through.
Discover St. Edward’s Church (and That Famous Door)
Just off the square lies St. Edward’s Church, a place of quiet beauty and fascinating legend. While the church itself dates back to the 11th century, its most famous feature is the North Door, flanked by ancient yew trees growing tightly against the stonework.
Literary lore: It’s widely rumoured that this mystical doorway inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Doors of Durin in The Lord of the Rings. Whether or not it’s true, there’s no denying the Tolkien-esque vibe—it’s pure Middle-earth magic.
Where to Eat & Drink in Stow
Stow-on-the-Wold may be steeped in history, but its food scene is refreshingly current. Whether you’re after traditional pub fare or farm-to-table finesse, there’s something to please every palate.
Top Picks:
- The Porch House – Possibly England’s oldest inn (dating back to AD 947), this cosy spot serves modern British dishes in a beautifully restored setting.
- The Old Butchers – A local favourite, serving seasonal dishes with an emphasis on quality ingredients. Despite the name, it’s also great for seafood.
- Cotswold Co. Café – Ideal for coffee and cake with a side of rustic interior design shopping.
- The Cotswold Farmshop – Homemade soup, cheese toasties, simple lunches plus great farm shop produce, perhaps to pick up some cheese.
- The Hive – A stylish brunch and lunch café with locally sourced ingredients and a light, airy vibe.
Don’t forget to treat yourself to a classic cream tea—when in the Cotswolds!
Shops, Antiques & Hidden Corners
Stow is a dream for antique hunters, with shops offering everything from vintage maps to rare books and handcrafted curiosities. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth a browse—every corner reveals a story.
Wander down side lanes like Sheep Street and Digbeth Street, where old inns, stone cottages, and ivy-draped windows offer some of the most atmospheric views in town.
Hidden Gem: Check out Fosse Gallery for contemporary art in a traditional Cotswold setting—one of the most respected commercial galleries outside of London.
How to Get to Stow-on-the-Wold
From London:
- By Train: Take a train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh (~1h30). From there, Stow is a 15-minute taxi ride or short bus trip away.
- By Car: Around 2 hours via the M40 and A429. Parking is available in and around the town centre.
We would recommend to combine your visit with nearby Bourton-on-the-Water, Lower Slaughter, or Bibury for a perfect day of Cotswold village-hopping.
Stow-on-the-Wold isn’t just a place to tick off your list—it’s a place to feel. Its crooked charm, Tolkien-esque doorways, and rich history make it one of the most atmospheric villages in the Cotswolds. Here, time slows down, stories linger in the walls, and every winding lane invites you to wander just a little further.
Lower Slaughter: Muddy by Name, Dreamy by Nature
Don’t let the name fool you—Lower Slaughter is all about beauty, not battles.
Tucked away in the heart of the Cotswolds’ rolling hills, this picture-perfect village is a haven of peace, history, and timeless English charm. With its golden limestone cottages, flourishing cottage gardens, and a gentle stream winding past ancient mills, Lower Slaughter feels like something straight out of a fairytale.
Its name, derived from the Old English “Slohtre” (meaning muddy place), might not sound inviting—but trust us, it’s anything but. In fact, it’s often named among the most beautiful villages in England. And best of all? It’s still blissfully under the radar compared to its busier neighbours.
A Village That Time Forgot
Lower Slaughter has been lovingly preserved for centuries. There are no modern buildings, no chain stores, and barely any traffic—just the soothing sound of the River Eye as it glides past mossy bridges and ancient waterwheels.
It’s a village best explored on foot, where every corner reveals another postcard moment: a rose climbing up a stone wall, a row of lavender beside a weathered gate, a heron standing in the shallows.
The River Eye & The Old Mill
The River Eye is the lifeblood of Lower Slaughter, winding gracefully through the village and under pretty footbridges. Along its banks, you’ll find the iconic Old Mill, dating back to the 19th century.
Today, the mill houses a small museum, artisan gift shop, and a quaint riverside café—perfect for a cream tea with a view. The original waterwheel still turns, and the red-brick mill tower is one of the village’s most photographed landmarks.
Scenic Strolls & Cotswolds Calm
Lower Slaughter may be tiny, but its surroundings are vast and ideal for walkers. One of the best walking routes in the area is the Lower Slaughter to Upper Slaughter circular walk—a flat, scenic 1-mile route connecting the two villages via countryside paths and dry stone walls.
Feeling more adventurous? Continue on foot to Bourton-on-the-Water (approximately 1.5 miles) for a longer ramble through fields and kissing gates.
Foodie Finds
Lower Slaughter keeps it local and charming. While there aren’t dozens of dining options, the ones you’ll find are worth lingering for:
- The Slaughters Manor House – Fine dining in an elegant 17th-century manor, offering seasonal dishes and afternoon tea with garden views.
- The Slaughters Country Inn – A welcoming spot for hearty lunches, pub classics, and a riverside pint.
- Old Mill Café – Light lunches, coffee, and cakes with the best seat in the village (right beside the waterwheel).
Make a reservation if you’re visiting during summer or weekends—it’s a hidden gem, but not that hidden!
Fun Facts & Village Lore
- The name “Slaughter” has nothing to do with violence—it’s a medieval term meaning “muddy place.” But don’t worry, it’s more cobbled charm than soggy paths these days.
- The village has barely changed in over a century, thanks to strict conservation rules and proud local stewardship.
- Film crews love it, but locals keep it quiet—Lower Slaughter has appeared in everything from period dramas to romantic documentaries.
How to Get to Lower Slaughter
From London:
- By Train: Take a train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh (approx. 1h30). From there, it’s a 20-minute taxi ride.
- By Car: About 2 hours’ drive from London. Parking is limited in the village—arrive early or park in Bourton-on-the-Water and walk.
Lower Slaughter is the Cotswolds at its most magical—serene, storybook-like, and steeped in natural beauty. It’s a place where time slows down, the air smells of lavender and woodsmoke, and every path leads to another picture-perfect scene.
So go ahead—get a little “muddy,” wander the riverbank, sip a cream tea or drink a pint in the pub, and discover why this tiny village leaves such a big impression.
Bibury: England’s Prettiest Village (And It Knows It)
If villages could blush, Bibury would be doing just that. Often dubbed the most beautiful village in England, this Cotswold gem is pure postcard perfection—just 10Km or 6 miles from Cirencester and a world away from the everyday. Wander past 17th-century weavers’ cottages, sip tea in a garden café, take pictures of Arlington Row and soak up scenes so charming they practically beg to be painted. No filter needed. Bibury is a favourite for photographers, poets, and anyone partial to a countryside daydream.
Picture-Perfect: What to See in Bibury
Arlington Row
You can’t visit Bibury without admiring Arlington Row, a line of chocolate-box cottages that dates back to the 1380s. Originally a monastic wool store, it was converted into weavers’ cottages in the 17th century—and has since become one of the most photographed spots in England. It even appears inside UK passports!
Best Photo Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to catch the cottages in soft light and avoid heavy foot traffic.
The River Coln
Bibury is bisected by the gentle River Coln, which runs alongside Arlington Row and meanders through the village, home to ducks, trout, and plenty of peaceful riverbank views.
Hidden gem: There’s a lovely stone bridge near the Swan Hotel that’s perfect for those romantic countryside snaps.
Where to Eat & Drink
Whether you’re after a leisurely lunch or a quick tea break, Bibury delivers:
- The Swan Hotel – A charming riverside hotel with a bistro-style restaurant, traditional pub, and afternoon tea on the terrace. The gardens in summer are glorious.
- Bibury Trout Farm Café – Casual and family-friendly with light lunches and local trout on the menu.
- William Morris Tea Room – Named after the famed designer who once called Bibury “the most beautiful village in England,” this spot is great for classic cream teas in a pretty setting.
Visit Bibury Trout Farm
Established in 1902, Bibury Trout Farm is one of the oldest working trout farms in the UK. Visitors can feed the fish, catch their own trout, or enjoy a walk around the grounds. There’s also a well-stocked shop with local produce and gourmet treats—perfect for a picnic or souvenir.
Literary & Artistic Connections
Bibury has long been a muse for creatives. William Morris, the 19th-century designer and poet, fell in love with it. Artists, authors, and photographers continue to be drawn to its peaceful rhythms and gentle light.
Film fans might also recognise Bibury from productions like Stardust and travel documentaries that feature it as the quintessential English village.
Walking & Exploring
Bibury is ideal for slow travel. Short circular walks offer panoramic countryside views and peaceful woodland paths. A popular route connects Bibury to nearby Coln St. Aldwyns—another quiet, pretty village that’s worth the walk. Spring and autumn are especially lovely, when wildflowers and golden leaves enhance the already idyllic views.
How to Get to Bibury
From London:
- By Train: Take a train from London Paddington to Kemble Station (about 1h15). From Kemble, it’s a 20-minute taxi to Bibury.
- By Car: Approximately 2 hours from London via the M4 and A429. Free parking is available in the village, but it fills quickly in peak season.
Highly recommend to combine Bibury with nearby Cirencester or Bourton-on-the-Water for a full Cotswolds day trip.
Bibury is more than just a pretty village—it’s an experience. It’s where pastoral peace meets perfect design, where history lives on in every stone cottage, and where modern life seems to pause for tea. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or as a romantic getaway, this little corner of the Cotswolds promises that unforgettable fairytale moment—preferably with tea and scones.
Other Useful Links to the Cotswolds
Here are more links to support your visit to the Cotswolds. These are services we have actually used with good reliable service. Some are our affiliate partners where we may receive commission but it will be at no extra cost to you.
- Plan your trip to the Cotswold: Visit Cotswolds
- Planning short trips from London to the rest of the country: Book Your Train Tickets at Trainline.com
- Stay in a beautiful Country hotel with their own kitchen garden and tranquil garden: The Pig
- Best value budget hotel at great locations: Premier Inn for London and UK
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