Nestled in the Cotswolds is a little-known village filled with stone cottages, cobbled streets, and lush greenery that resembles a scene from a fairytale
This little Wiltshire village is a well-loved celebrity hotspot and sits in the shadows of two more popular destinations.
It is located only five miles northwest of Chippenham and 10 miles from Bath, but this quaint village is like no other. Castle Combe is the perfect destination for adventurers and history lovers alike, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the UK’s rich history. Renowned for its beauty, Castle Combe is often dubbed the “prettiest village in England” and it’s not hard to see why. It is lined with classic stone cottages, cobbled streets, and picturesque views.
Castle Combe is also rich in history. It was once an active British hill fort from the Roman era. The remains of the castle are situated above the village. The fort’s closeness to the Fosse Way (a Roman road constructed in Britain during the first and second centuries AD) resulted in Roman occupation. Shortly after their departure in the 5th century, the Normans arrived and transformed the fort into a castle.
By the Middle Ages, the little valley village had become the epicentre of the wool industry. Spinsters and weavers occupied many of the cottages, and the nearby river powered the local mills. However, in more recent times, the village has gained fame as a filming location for blockbuster movies, including Doctor Dolittle, War Horse, and Stardust, which features Michelle Pfeiffer.
Castle Combe is a recognised wildlife sanctuary. It has been strategically designated as a conservation area in order to safeguard its rich history and natural beauty. The village’s houses exemplify the Cotswold style. They are constructed from local stone and feature thick walls and roofs of natural stone tiles. The majority of these properties date back several hundred years and are classified as ancient monuments. Therefore, strict regulations are in place to preserve Castle Combe’s beauty and character for future generations to enjoy.
Located on the southern edge of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe isn’t too far from the Georgian city of Bath. The village is also near several historic sites, including Avebury, Stonehenge, and the Wiltshire White Horses, making it the ideal destination for a history-packed getaway.
While a walk around Castle Combe would not be complete without a visit to St Andrew’s Church, an essential attraction dating back to the 13th century. The church features one of the country’s oldest working clocks, which is full of history given its lack of a face. Meanwhile, Castle Combe’s historic jewel, The Market Cross, also dates back to the 14th century and remains a magnet for visitors.
The Cotswolds is a beloved travel destination for celebrities like David and Victoria Beckham, Elizabeth Hurley, Kate Moss, and Simon Cowell. Princess Beatrice lives there, and A-listers from abroad, such as Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, have also moved to the area. So when planning your next staycation, consider this historic and star-studded village!