The most beautiful villages in the UK | A complete guide to the Cotswolds, Bibury/Bourton-on-the-Water/Burford/Bampton...

The Cotswolds region is one of the most beautiful rural areas in the UK, attracting many visitors with its charming stone villages, green hilly landscapes and rich historical buildings. In this idyllic area, you can explore winding country lanes, visit ancient churches and enjoy traditional English tea rooms.

Robingo has compiled the top 10 villages and attractions in the Cotswolds for you to visit, so you can easily find the must-visit places, the most authentic restaurants and hidden treasures to help you plan a perfect trip to the Cotswolds. Whether it is photography, history, or leisure travel, there is a wonderful experience for you here!

Bibury
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://www.bibury.com/

Bibury is a fairytale English village located on the banks of the Colne River. The famous British artist William Morris once praised Bibury as "the most beautiful village in England". Here, the beeswax-colored stone houses are scattered in an orderly manner, decorated with various colorful flowers, and the narrow and winding streets seem to invite people to walk into this picturesque oil painting world. The village houses on the riverside are exquisite and charming, standing quietly by the flowing water, creating a peaceful and distant atmosphere.

How to visit : One of the most famous attractions in Bibury is the Arlington House, a stone house built in 1380. These ancient buildings attract countless tourists with their elegant style and long history. Strolling in the village and along the winding paths, you can also visit St. Mary's Church, which is famous for its exquisite Gothic architectural style and solemn atmosphere. Walking along the banks of the Colne River and admiring the natural beauty and ancient cottages along the way will make you feel the unique charm of the British countryside.

Recommended duration : 1h

Bourton-on-the-Water
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://bourtoninfo.com/

Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds, famous for its honey-colored stone buildings and idyllic scenery. The River Windrush flows slowly through the center of the village, and several beautiful bridges cross the river, adding a touch of romance and tranquility to the whole village. This charming village is a must-see for tourists, who can enjoy both natural beauty and rich cultural atmosphere.

How to Play : In Bourton-on-the-Water, you can take a leisurely stroll along the river bank and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful environment. There are many cafes, restaurants and gift shops in the village, which are suitable for tasting food and picking souvenirs. In addition, you can also visit the model village and the car museum to learn about the local history and culture.

Recommended duration : 1 hour

Upper and Lower Slaughter
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://www.cotswolds.com/plan-your-trip/towns-and-villages/the-slaughters-p675043

Upper and Lower Straw are two sister villages in the Cotswolds, famous for their well-preserved country cottages and charming natural scenery. The upper and lower villages are separated by a stream, and the bridges and streams set off the quaint stone houses, as if taking you back to the ancient England era. In sunny weather, walking between the villages is a great way to experience the quiet country life.

How to play : Starting from Bourton-on-the-Water and heading north, you can enjoy the pastoral scenery along the way and enjoy the tranquility of nature. On the way, you can visit the Old Mill Museum in Lower Strout Village to learn about the history and operation of the waterwheel mill.

Recommended duration : 0.5 hours

Cotswold Lavender
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Official website: Click here

At the Cotswolds Lavender Farm, you can experience the purple romance in the British summer. The farm is open from mid-June to early August every year. The fields of lavender sparkle in the sun, making it an ideal place for photography and relaxation. The rich fragrance and gorgeous sea of ​​flowers at the farm make people feel like they are in Provence, France.

(Image source: official website)

Address : Hill Barn Farm, Snowshill, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7JY, UK
Tickets : Adults £5.5-7.5, Children (5-15 years old) £2.75-£3.25
Opening hours : Open from June to August every year, Monday to Sunday 10:00-17:00
Recommended duration : 1-2 hours

(Image source: official website)

Broadway Tower
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://broadwaytower.co.uk/

Broadway Tower is a 19th-century Gothic tower that is a great place to enjoy the panoramic view of the Cotswolds. From the top of the tower, you can see the beautiful surrounding countryside. It is also the highest castle in the Cotswolds. In addition to climbing the tower to enjoy the view, you can also visit the museum in the tower to learn about its history and architectural features, or watch wildlife in the nearby deer park. Broadway Tower is a perfect place for the whole family to have a picnic and enjoy nature.

Address : Middle Hill, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7LB, UK
Tickets : Adults £14, Children £3-6
Opening hours : Monday to Sunday 10:00-17:00

Recommended duration : 1-2 hours

Chipping Campden
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://www.chippingcampdenonline.org/

Chipping Campden is a town full of history, famous for its ancient main street and honey-colored stone buildings on both sides. Most of these buildings were built between the 15th and 17th centuries, with a history of 400 years. The town is like a witness of time. The most distinctive landscape of Chipping Campden is its thatched houses, which are known as "British national treasures" and are strictly protected by the state, reflecting the unique charm of traditional British architecture.

How to visit : In Chipping Campden, the town's Ancient Market Hall and St. James' Church are historical attractions that cannot be missed. In addition, you can also go to Little Oak Vineyard to experience the local wine culture. Walking among these historical buildings is like walking at the intersection of the past and the present.

Recommended duration : 1 hour

Stow-on-the-Wold
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://www.cotswolds.com/plan-your-trip/towns-and-villages/stow-on-the-wold

Stow on the Wold is one of the oldest market towns in the Cotswolds, famous for its stone buildings and historic market square. The town attracts countless tourists with its rich cultural history and unique charm, and is an ideal place to experience English rural life. The ancient square is surrounded by traditional antique shops and specialty shops, attracting tourists who love collections and nostalgia.

How to visit : Stroll through the ancient market square of Stow-on-the-Wold and feel the long history and unique atmosphere of this small town. You can visit the antique shops and specialty stores here to find unique souvenirs and gifts, or enjoy an authentic English afternoon tea in the cafe on the square.

Recommended duration : 1 hour

Burford
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://www.cotswolds.com/plan-your-trip/towns-and-villages/burford

Burford is a historic town, famous for its status as a shopping paradise, especially for antique lovers. The streets here are lined with a variety of restaurants, bars and teahouses, making it a very suitable place to relax. In Burford, you can stroll along the ancient high street, admire the rows of ancient houses and shops, and experience the unique charm of this small town.

(Image source: official website)

How to visit : Stroll along Burford's ancient High Street, which leads down to the River Windrush. There is an old three-arched medieval bridge over the river, and an impressive church nearby. Wander along the street, explore the various shops and historic buildings, and experience the unique atmosphere of a small town in England.

Recommended duration : 1 hour

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk/

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is a fun-filled family destination that is home to a wide variety of animals, including giraffes, penguins and more, making it a great weekend getaway or family trip. Not only does the park offer an opportunity to get up close and personal with the animals, but it also has beautiful gardens that make it a great place to relax.

Address : Bradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4JP, UK
Tickets : Adults £17.5-£19, Children (3-16 years old) £12.5-£13.5, Free for children under 3 years old
Opening hours : Monday to Sunday 10:00-18:00 (summer), 10:00-16:30 (winter)
Recommended duration : 2 hours

Bampton
Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐

Official website: https://www.cotswolds.com/plan-your-trip/towns-and-villages/bampton-p2081963

Bampton is one of the main filming locations for Downton Abbey and is known for its beautiful village scenery and peaceful atmosphere. The small village has several famous historical buildings, including St. John the Baptist Church, which has appeared many times in the popular series. Walking through the streets of Bampton, you feel like you are in an old English town, peaceful and charming.

(Image source: official website)

How to visit : Wander around Bampton and admire the old buildings and historic streets. Visit St. John the Baptist Church and the local library to experience the unique history and cultural atmosphere of this small town. You can also relax in local restaurants and cafes and taste traditional British cuisine.
Recommended duration : 1 hour