The village dates back to at least the 1100s when a wooden castle was built on a nearby hill, giving Castle Combe its ultimate name
If you’re dreaming of a perfect escape to a storybook village, look no further than Castle Combe in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Nestled in the Wiltshire countryside, this charming village offers a perfect blend of history, beauty, and tranquillity. Castle Combe is one of those rare spots in the UK that has managed to preserve its character for centuries. The village has been largely untouched by modern developments, with no new houses built in over 400 years.
This means there are no satellite dishes, modern hotels, or sprawling car parks to break the timeless atmosphere. Instead, you’ll be greeted with stone cottages, winding lanes to make you feel like you’ve gone back in time. The village dates back to at least the 1100s when a wooden castle was built on a nearby hill, giving Castle Combe its name. Though the castle is long gone, its legacy lives on.
A visit here feels like taking a step into the past, from the medieval market cross at the heart of the village to the 12th-century St Andrew’s Church. Inside the church, you’ll find one of the oldest working clocks in England, famously faceless. If you’re in the mood for a traditional pub experience, both The Castle Inn and The White Hart are perfect choices, both serving British classics to locally brewed ales.
If you are looking for something fancier, you can head to the Michelin-starred Bybrook restaurant at The Manor House Hotel. Offering a seasonal menu made with locally sourced ingredients. The beauty of Castle Combe lies in the village itself, stroll through its cobbled streets. The iconic stone bridge crossing the Bybrook River is one of the most photographed spots.
The surrounding Cotswold countryside offers plenty of peaceful trails, with a particular favourite being the 3-mile circular walk from Castle Combe to Nettleton Shrub. For those seeking something a bit more exciting, Castle Combe Circuit offers the thrill of motorsport action. Just a short drive from the village, the circuit hosts a variety of events, from classic car races to rally days, and offers visitors the chance to get behind the wheel of a supercar.
When it’s time for a break, treat yourself to a classic English afternoon tea at The Old Rectory Tearoom or grab a picnic from the Little Picnic Shop, perfect for enjoying by the river or in one of the village’s many green spaces.