6 Fairytale Villages in England You Must Visit

England’s countryside is filled with charming villages that look like scenes from a fairytale. These villages feature historic stone cottages, scenic rivers, ancient churches, and lush landscapes that transport you to another time. Here’s a guide to six of the most enchanting villages in England that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

1. Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Often referred to as “the prettiest village in England,” Castle Combe is a small, secluded village in the Cotswolds that feels frozen in time. The village has been preserved with almost no modern alterations, and its stone cottages, narrow streets, and the iconic bridge over Bybrook River make it an idyllic spot. Castle Combe has served as a filming location for movies like War Horse and Stardust.

Highlights:

St. Andrew’s Church: This historic church dates back to the 13th century and houses one of the oldest working clocks in England.
The Manor House: Now a luxury hotel, this 14th-century building is surrounded by beautiful gardens and makes for an elegant afternoon tea spot.
The Market Cross: In the village center, you’ll find this historic structure from the medieval era, symbolizing Castle Combe’s long history as a market town.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer, when the gardens are in full bloom.

Where to stay in Castle Combe

2. Malmesbury, Wiltshire

Malmesbury is one of England’s oldest boroughs, dating back over 1,000 years. With its rich history, stunning views, and charming streets, Malmesbury has a magical quality that feels like stepping back into medieval England. This Wiltshire village, perched on a hill above the Avon River, is best known for its stunning abbey and historic architecture.

Highlights:

Malmesbury Abbey: Founded in the 7th century, the abbey features a stunning Norman architecture and a beautiful garden. It’s also the burial place of the philosopher Thomas Hobbes.
Abbey House Gardens: These gardens, located near the abbey, are famous for their colorful displays of roses, and you can stroll through paths of lush greenery and ancient trees.
The Old Bell Hotel: Known as England’s oldest hotel, this 13th-century inn has a cozy charm and serves delicious English teas.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring, when the abbey gardens are at their most vibrant.

Best accommodation in Malmesbury

3. Wroxton, Oxfordshire

Wroxton is a quaint Oxfordshire village with a unique charm, known for its thatched-roof cottages and the impressive Wroxton Abbey. Nestled in a picturesque valley, Wroxton feels like a hidden gem with its cozy cottages, quiet lanes, and breathtaking views. Wroxton is less crowded than other popular villages, making it a peaceful escape.

Highlights:

Wroxton Abbey: This 17th-century Jacobean mansion, now part of Wroxton College, features sprawling gardens, serene lakes, and unique Gothic architecture.
Thatched-Roof Cottages: Wroxton’s charming cottages are the epitome of an English village, with roses climbing up the walls and neat gardens in front.
Wroxton Lake: This tranquil lake near the abbey offers beautiful views, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

Best Time to Visit: Fall, when the gardens around Wroxton Abbey are filled with autumn colors.

Where to stay in Wroxton

4. Broadway, Worcestershire

Broadway, known as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” is a quintessential English village famous for its honey-colored stone buildings and vibrant high street. Located in Worcestershire, Broadway has long been an inspiration for artists and writers and is one of the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds. With art galleries, tea rooms, and boutique shops, Broadway is a delightful blend of history and modern charm.

Highlights:

Broadway Tower: At the top of the hill above the village, this 18th-century folly provides panoramic views of the countryside.
Gordon Russell Design Museum: This museum honors the craftsmanship and design legacy of Gordon Russell, an influential English furniture designer.
Broadway High Street: The village’s main street is lined with beautiful buildings, shops, and traditional English pubs, ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

Best Time to Visit: Summer, when the village is bustling with activity, and the flower boxes along the high street are in full bloom.

Accommodation in Broadway

5. Miserden, Gloucestershire

Miserden is a lesser-known village in the Cotswolds, nestled within a stunning valley and surrounded by woodlands. Its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and unspoiled landscapes make it feel like a hidden fairytale. Miserden is an ideal destination for nature lovers, with scenic trails, lush gardens, and views of the countryside that stretch for miles.

Highlights:

Miserden Estate Gardens: This garden offers stunning views over the valley, with a mixture of ancient trees, terraces, and colorful flower beds.
Walking Trails: Miserden is surrounded by woodlands and scenic trails, perfect for nature walks and exploring the Cotswold countryside.
Miserden Village Center: The village itself is quaint and peaceful, with stone cottages, a cozy pub, and friendly locals who are happy to share the village’s history.

Best Time to Visit: Spring, when the estate gardens burst into bloom, or autumn for colorful foliage.

Accommodation in Miserden

6. Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire

Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water is famous for its charming stone bridges that span the shallow River Windrush. This Gloucestershire village attracts many visitors for its storybook charm, lovely riverfront, and family-friendly attractions. It’s an excellent spot for leisurely strolls and riverside picnics, offering plenty of activities for all ages.

Highlights:

Model Village: A miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water, this model village is a popular attraction that lets you explore a tiny version of the village.
Cotswold Motoring Museum: This museum showcases classic cars, vintage motorcycles, and other motoring memorabilia, offering a nostalgic look at transportation history.
Birdland Park and Gardens: With over 500 species of birds, Birdland is a fantastic place for families and nature lovers to explore.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early summer, when the riverfront is lush, and the village is alive with color.

Where to stay in Bourton-on-the-Water

England’s countryside is dotted with enchanting villages that transport visitors to a world of storybook charm and historic beauty. From Castle Combe’s unspoiled streets to the tranquil woodlands of Miserden, each of these six villages offers a unique glimpse into England’s past and the magic of its landscapes. Whether you’re strolling along the bridges of Bourton-on-the-Water or exploring the ancient abbey in Malmesbury, these villages provide a fairytale experience that captures the essence of England’s rustic beauty.

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