Cotswold villages are renowned for their tranquility and natural beauty. A few have captured the spotlight, yet there are many other charmers to be discovered.
This guide shares the best Cotswolds Villages to explore, each having its own personality.
The Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty since 1966, covers an area of nearly 800 square miles. Located in south-west England, the limestone escarpment passes through five counties.
Ticking all the prerequisites for a quintessential English village, they share many attributes. Honey-coloured stone cottages, dry stone walls, rolling hills, antique shops and quaint tea rooms.
Yet not every charming Cotswold village is equal.
Some come laden with history of by-gone eras. Others wilt slightly under the immense limelight of well meaning visitors. While a few, enjoy their “under the radar” tranquility, tucked away from notoriety.
Our list of the best villages in the Cotswolds to explore, includes some stand-out favourites and some hidden beauties.
10 BEST COTSWOLDS VILLAGES TO VISIT
1 | BROADWAY
Best Cotswolds Village for art galleries, antique shops and an impressive tower
Sitting at the Western gateway to the Cotswolds, Broadway is dominated by a wide horse-chestnut tree lines High Street.
There is a scent of tasteful opulence in the air, helped in part, by the plentiful antique shops. Lured by the pretty sweet honey stone cottages, and high-end boutique shops, the village is extremely popular.
A walk down the picturesque High Street, makes for a perfect sojourn. Antique shop windows displaying unique one-off pieces, entice you over the threshold, for further exploration.
The local deli’s fantastic range of delicacies make your mouth water. While the range of higher end restaurants, make them perfect for innovative treats.
On the top of Fish Hill, on the western Cotswold escarpment, sits the historic folly of Broadway Tower. Dating back to the 1700’s, it is an alluring sight, glimpsed from the High Street.
The brainchild of Capability Brown, it was completed in 1798, for the 6th Earl of Coventry.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
The outstanding panoramic views of sweeping Cotswold ountryside from the top of Broadway Tower.
2 | CHIPPING CAMPDEN
Best Cotswolds Village for history, contemporary crafts, and the start of the Cotswold Way
Prosperity gained from the wool trade, is evident in Chipping Campden’s glorious high street. An important trading route in the 12th century, the wide flowing main street belies some stylish, notable buildings.
This is a place to breathe in both architecture and history. The striking 17th century Market Hall, built to sell cheese, butter and poultry, still emits a palatial air.
Decorated with arches and columns, it sits proudly next to the marker indicating the start of the Cotswold Way.
Stroll down High Street exploring the “upper-end” independent shops, cafes, boutique hotels and architectural treasures.
Buildings of note, include 14th century Woolstaplers Hall, Town Hall, and Grevel House, former home of a prominent wool merchant. From 1900, the arts and crafts movement saw artists and designers, making the town their home.
Today, Chipping Campden is brimming with galleries, jewellery, silver, printing and furniture shops.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
A gentle hike to nearby Dover’s Hill, for great panoramic views over the vale of Evesham.
3 | STOW ON THE WOLD
Best Cotswolds Village for antique shops and medieval market cross
Exposed at 800 ft. atop Snow Hill on the Fosse Way, Stow On The Wold, is the highest Cotswold village.
A medieval market cross holds a prominent position in the vast, impressive market square. Surrounded by picturesque mellow honey stone built town houses, inns and shops, it is a homely place to explore.
Tearooms are abundant, while a treasure trove of antique shops, lure avid collectors in search of unique pieces.
From 1330, the square accommodated up to 20,000 sheep, for sale at weekly fairs. They were controlled and counted, as they were horded along narrow, winding passages or “tures”. These can be seen around the square.
History abounds in the architectural old stocks on the green, Porch House, and 11th century St. Edward Church.
The Royalist Hotel (987AD) has a medieval fireplace showing “witch’s marks”, while the Kings Arms hosted King Charles I in 1645.
While strictly speaking a market town, Stow exudes a warm, hospitable charm, while packing a punch on the historical front.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
St. Edward’s “Tolkienesque” north church door, flanked by yew trees, growing like an old friend. A truly beautiful sight.
4 | UPPER & LOWER SLAUGHTER
Best Cotswolds Village for quaint cottages, a Ford and tiny River Eye
The petite villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter, encapsulate the beauty of the Cotswolds. Overflowing with natural charm and honey-coloured stone cottages, the peaceful demeanor is their appeal.
Sitting a mere mile apart, they are intrinsicly linked, by the tiny slow winding River Eye. Aestetically they have remained untouched for over 100 years.
Devoid of shops and building works, they are a hidden oasis of calm. Follow the easy meandering river path linking the villages, and explore each in turn.
Lower Slaughter is home to 13th century St. Mary’s Church, footbridges, and a 19th century water mill with museum. Equally attractive, Upper Slaughter, should not be overlooked. A scenic Ford makes for a great paddle, and at the top of the hill sit gorgeous medieval almshouses and a stunning Manor.
The attractiveness of both villages does not go unmissed by enthusiastic artists, capturing their ethereal beauty on canvas.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
Afternoon tea at historic Lords of The Manor Hotel. You won’t be disappointed.
5 | BOURTON ON THE WATER
Best Cotswolds Village for a gentle running river, attractive low bridges and tea rooms
Fondly known as “Venice of the Cotswolds”, Bourton-On-The-Water can be packed to the rafters on sunny weekends.
The village’s most charming feature, is the clear tranquil River Windrush, meandering through the centre. It flows sedately, through 5 quaint low arched stone bridges, the oldest built in 1654.
With attractive overhanging trees, an inviting bank of green grass to share with dozing ducks, it certainly has a unique appeal.
Saunter past trendy cafes and tea rooms. Find a gift in the many independent shops, or simply enjoy an ice-cream while people-watching.
You can even check out a one-ninth scale replica of the village, behind the Old New Inn. A labour of love by local craftsmen, it even has a flowing river!
NOT TO BE MISSED |
The smell of delicious croissants and freshly brewed coffee from family run artisan “Bakery On The Water“. It’s a great way to start your morning.
6 | MINSTER LOVELL
Best Cotswolds Village for ethereal medieval ruins and ideal picnic setting
The tiny yet pretty village of Minster Lovell, holds an enviable position along the River Windrush.
Arrive down a narrow road, past welcoming playing fields, equipped with an immaculate cricket pitch. Small but perfectly formed, this charming village, comes with a stylish hotel, inviting Inn and classic rural setting.
The main street is lined on both sides, with beautiful thatched stone cottages. Trailing plants spill from window boxes, in an explosion of colour. Picturesque as these yellow-stoned cottages are, the main event is yet to be seen.
Resting like an old friend, between the river and St. Kenelm’s Church, lie the incredible ruins of Minster Lovell Hall. With a romantic setting, the ruins of the 15th century manor house, hold tales of mystery and legend.
Explore the extensive grounds, before visiting the church next door.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
Order a picnic box from the Old Swan Inn, choose a spot on the grassy bank, and soak up the peaceful riverside atmosphere.
7 | PAINSWICK
Best Cotswolds Village for preserved architecture and splendid churchyard
Sitting regally in hilltop splendour, Painswick’s High Street, alludes to a prosperous past. A flourishing wool and cloth trade, is reflected in many beautifully styled buildings.
Exploring the narrow cobbled streets, unveils a history dating back to the 15th century. Lined by mellow Cotswold stone buildings, quarried from Painswick Beacon, it is easy to unearth galleries, shops, cafes and hidden gems.
Several Tudor houses dating from 1429, line New Street. The striking 17th century spire of St. Mary’s Church, stands like a beacon down the hill. Mostly built in the 15th century, the church has seen many changes.
However, it’s crowning glory, is the immaculately kept churchyard. Historic tombs are surrounded by perfectly clipped and shaped yew trees.
Set back from the traffic, it is a serene place for a saunter. Numbering just over a hundred, they form avenues from the Lychgate, depicting the hope of resurrection.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
Discovering decadent Painswick Rococo Gardens, built in a hidden valley, and a mere 5 minute drive up the road.
8 | MINCHINHAMPTON
Best Cotswolds Village for 17th century cottages and panoramic Common views
This delightful small market town’s charm, is its unassuming position, away from the regular tourist trail. Sitting quietly, on a hilltop on the edge of Minchinhampton Common, it lists the Princess Royal as a local resident.
Buttery yellow Cotswold stone cottages dating back to the 17th century, border the unaltered narrow streets, which culminate at the old Market Square.
Its flourishing wool trading past, is symbolised by a pillared Market House. The 17th century building, features prominent stone columns and is home to a bustling weekly market.
Overlooking the square at a comfortable distance, is 12th century Holy Trinity Church. Cruciform, with a distinctive truncated spire, it is well worth exploring.
The charming 600 acres of common land surrounding the village, is a haven for rare fauna and flora. An ancient upheld tradition, gives cattle “commoners” grazing rights. It’s quite charming watching Longhorns and Herefords roaming freely while also trimming the grass.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
A hearty breakfast at The Kitchen, sitting in the bay window. Locals are so friendly, you’ll feel like you live here.
9 | CASTLE COMBE
Best Cotswolds Village for old weavers cottages, surrounded by lush green landscape
Little has changed here architecturally, since the 15th century. With a no car policy for visitors, lack of TV aerials and street lights, the tiny village of Castle Combe, is unspoilt and peaceful.
Nestled in a valley surrounded by lush verdant woods, the village’s prosperity came from sheep and wool. At its heart, stands the 14th century Market Cross.
A medieval working faceless clock seeks sanctuary in 12th century St Andrews Church, along with the tomb of a Norman knight.
A gentle sloping road lined either side with honey-toned cottages, leads to a quaint bridge. Bubbling Bybrook River meanders at its own pace underfoot.
Completing the idyllic scene, are a row of old weavers cottages, a tribute to the village’s weaving past. It is easy to see why Castle Combe was used as a backdrop, for films such as War Horse among others.
Castle Combe is a great base to visit the iconic city of Bath for the day.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
The classic view from the bridge, looking back up the road to the Market Cross.
10 | LACOCK
Best Cotswolds Village for fantastic film-set location
Though only bordering on the Cotswolds, Lacock is a picturesque village well worth a detour.
Dating back to the 13th century, Lacock was a thriving wool village. Outwardly, its square grid of four streets remain unaltered, blissfully preserved.
Since 1944, management and ownership has been under the mantle of the National Trust. Askew streets are crammed with half-timbered stone cottages, with dishevelved stone-tiled rooftops.
Its charm and authenticity make it a popular choice for film and TV producers.
A quaint antique shop, is a treasure-trove of gorgeous textile fabric, while hiding behind a gable door, is an apothecary for the senses.
Discover old Inns with beams, low ceilings, and crooked walls. The village is timeless.
Impressive Lacock Abbey sits at the heart of this wonderful village. Founded by Ela, Countess of Salisbury, in 1232, it has several unique architectural styles.
A delightful stable courtyard, has a bakehouse, clockhouse and brewery. Vaulted rooms including the chapter house and sacristy, remain largely intact.
NOT TO BE MISSED |
A visit to the Fox Talbot Museum, named after the pioneer of Victorian photography.
MAP OF COTSWOLDS VILLAGES
Why not save this map and take it with you on your trip? You can then easily navigate between the villages. To do this, simply log into your Google Maps account :
- Click on the star in the Title bar (next to GlobalGadding)
- Open up your Google Maps App
- Go to SAVED at the bottom of your menu bar (bookmark icon)
- Go to MAPS and click on the 10 Best Cotswolds Villages
WHERE TO NEXT?
While you are in the area, why not visit Bath on a day trip. It is a great city, packed with wonderful architecture, museums and of course the Roman Baths.
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