Tucked away in a leafy valley in the Cotswolds, Castle Combe is frequently dubbed the “prettiest village in England” – and one look at it will tell you just why
An idyllic English village, untouched by any construction post-1600s, offers a pristine glimpse into medieval life and design. Nestled in a leafy Cotswolds valley, Castle Combe has earned the title of “prettiest village in England”.
A visitor’s guide from The Crown Inn, situated in this historic hamlet, sheds light on its unique charm. Originating from a 12th-century castle built atop a nearby hill, the village’s name has stood the test of time. During the Middle Ages, Castle Combe thrived on the wool trade, much like the rest of the Cotswolds.
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Nowadays, it serves as a picturesque backdrop for films such as Stardust, The Wolf Man, and Steven Spielberg’s War Horse. The village is renowned for its weavers’ cottages, constructed from local stone, with their golden hues remaining a standout feature.
Castle Combe was once famed for producing ‘Castlecombe’, a red and white cloth that was in high demand in markets from Bristol to London and beyond.
In 1440, King Henry VI bestowed upon the village the privilege of hosting a weekly market, a tradition marked by the still-standing Market Cross.
One of Castle Combe’s most fascinating traits is its strict prohibition of modern fixtures like satellite dishes and external wiring on house exteriors, a policy crucial to maintaining its authentic historical look.
The church is home to a faceless clock, reputedly one of the oldest functioning clocks in the country, reports the Express.
Additionally, the village boasts pubs and a luxury hotel complete with a golf course for both locals and visitors to enjoy.