Castle Combe in Wiltshire has been named one of the most beautiful villages in the UK, and anyone visiting the fairytale setting will see why it has received so many accolades
With summer upon us, Brits are eagerly scratching that holiday itch, and you don’t even need a passport for a slice of the extraordinary within our isles. Hailed as one of the most picturesque spots on the globe, let alone Britain, Castle Combe in Wiltshire is an essential stop for anyone venturing into the Cotswolds.
This storybook village, with its medieval stone cottages and timeless lanes, remains untouched by the march of time, offering sightseers an authentically charming experience. Encircled by the sublime Cotswold scenery, visitors to Castle Combe are treated to nearby woodlands, undulating hills, and verdant landscapes that accentuate the village’s alluring ambience.
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Described by Country Living as houses “so pretty they should be on a postcard” due to their “ancient, honey-hued” charm, it’s no wonder it’s counted among the world’s loveliest villages by travel experts.
CN Traveller said: “Castle Combe is a quintessentially English village located in the southwest county of Wiltshire. No new houses have been built here since the 1600s, so the town is a well-preserved stretch of Cotswold stone cottages and old pubs and churches.”
This idyllic village is a dream destination for photography enthusiasts, with the old bridge crossing the River Bybrook being the most iconic spot to capture due to its breathtaking location.
History buffs will be drawn to Castle Combe for its plethora of medieval structures, including the stunning St Andrew’s church, established in the 13th century, reports the Express.
The church houses the tomb of Sir Walter de Dunstanville, Baron of Castle Combe, a crusader who passed away in 1270, and also boasts a quaint shop renowned for its charming postcards.
Film aficionados will find it an exciting visit as Castle Combe has been featured in numerous iconic films such as the 1960s Doctor Dolittle, and more recently, the 2007 fantasy blockbuster Stardust and Steven Spielberg’s 2011 film War Horse.
Castle Combe is perfect for those seeking a leisurely holiday, offering opportunities for nature walks, historical site visits, and relaxing evenings at the local pub.
For those planning a nature walk, the village’s famous Little Picnic Shop provides everything needed for a delightful summer picnic.
However, for a quintessential English countryside experience, a visit to The Old Rectory Pop-up Tearoom is a must, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea complete with homemade cakes, sandwiches, and a cuppa served in traditional china.
The quaint village also boasts The Old Stables, a snug and informal coffee shop ideal for enjoying a bacon sarnie or your favourite hot drink.
As you wander through Castle Combe, you’ll find charming homes adorned with little stalls offering a delightful selection of local and homemade treats like jams, cakes, or sweets.
Travel aficionado Jamie, the mastermind behind ‘Explore with Ed,’ reckons now is the prime time to visit Castle Combe, citing mid-summer as the period when the village’s charm truly flourishes.
He commented: “The prettiness of Castle Combe is perhaps at its peak in the height of summer when the honey-coloured cottages are graced with colourful climbing plants and overflowing window baskets.”