Nothing says you are in the beautiful English countryside than a visit to the Cotswolds! The Cotswolds is in the central-southwest of England and is famous for its idyllic villages, built from a very distinct golden yellow colored limestone. This area was named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1966, a title given to areas in the countryside of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, that have been designated for conservation due to its significant landscape value. This post covers 3 Must Visit Villages in the Cotswolds.
Bibury
First up on this 3 must visit villages in the Cotswolds is Bibury. This village is known for its famous row of stoned houses, called Arligngton Row. Arlington Row was built in 1380 as a wool store for a monastery and later converted into weavers’ cottages. Today, it’s filled with people trying to capture its beauty. However, Arlington row is not the only pretty place in Bibury! From its little stream flowing through to its homes with beautiful English gardens, there is beauty everywhere in this village!
Burford
Burford is referred to as the ‘gateway’ to the Cotswold and is probably a little bigger than a village but is charming nevertheless. It has all the elements of a true Cotswold experience including buildings and houses made out of the golden yellow colored limestone that the Cotswold is known for. The main street in Burford is lined with charming little shops and restuarants. This is a good place to grab something to eat or have a spot of tea!
Castle Combe
Castle Combe has been called ‘The Prettiest Village in England’ and has been used as a location for many films. This village had a castle back in the day but has since been destroyed. There is also evidence of Roman occupation of this area. Interestingly, no new houses have been added to Castle Combe since the 1600s! The village is made up of an upper and lower section with the lower section being the more notable of the two. Especially the area with the bridge!
John Menard from Phoenix, USA – Looking up Water Street from the Brook – Castle Combe, England Uploaded by PDTillman
Bonus – Brampton
Although this post is about 3 must visit villages in the Cotswolds, I always love a good bonus! This one is especially for fans of the popular British drama series, Downton Abbey. You may recognize this charming little village from the show. Brampton was used to film many scenes from Downton Abbey, including the exterior of Isabel Crawley’s house, ‘Downton’ hospital, and the village church that was used for weddings, funerals, and christenings.
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Love the little village feel? Check out another one of my favorite little villages in Europe HERE or below!
