The most charming Cotswolds villages, from pretty cottages to cosy pubs

The Cotswolds is easily one of the best places to visit in the UK — and once you’ve been, you’ll get why. Think rolling hills, golden-stone cottages, and villages that somehow manage to feel both picture-perfect and completely lived-in.

I first visited during my first year living in the UK, and it instantly became one of my favourite escapes. Every trip since has turned up something new — from sleepy hamlets and hidden gardens to grand estates and proper country pubs. If you’re planning a trip, this guide covers some of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds: the most beautiful villages, scenic walks, historic houses, and all the little spots that make this part of England feel so special.

The Cotswolds tends to be at the top of the list for visitors to the UK, as will as Brits themselves, and its charm definitely deserves the hype. There’s a lot to do in the Cotswolds, and could keep one busy for a week, but is also doable in a weekend. Here’s my roundup of the best things to do in the Cotswolds to help you decide how to plan your visit. I’ve split the guide up between villages, historic sites, gardens, and walks.

The prettiest villages to visit in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is known for its ridiculously pretty villages — all honey-coloured stone, climbing roses, and crooked lanes. Some are polished and popular, others feel quieter and a bit more lived-in, but all of them have that unmistakable charm that makes the region so irresistible.

Historically, the area grew wealthy from the medieval wool trade, and that prosperity is still visible in the architecture with its grand churches, sturdy cottages, and market squares that haven’t changed much in centuries. Many of the villages feel frozen in time, though they’re very much alive with cosy pubs, tea rooms, and the odd antique shop or art gallery.

It can be hard to choose where to go, especially if it’s your first visit, so here are some of the most popular Cotswolds villages, as well as my personal thoughts on my favourites.

Bourton on the Water

Bourton is filled with charming low bridges that cross the River Windrush, making it a sweet village to visit especially for first-time visitors to the Cotswolds. I think this might be my favourite of all the villages, as it has such a idyllic look especially on a sunny day with people gathering on the green lawns on either side of the river.

There’s a good mix of things to do here too. The Model Village — a one-ninth scale replica of Bourton itself — is a proper delight. I walked past it on several visits before finally going in, and honestly, I’m still kicking myself. It’s charming, slightly surreal, and so carefully done. Nearby, you’ll also find the Cotswold Motoring Museum, which is great if you’re into vintage cars and 20th-century nostalgia. The village is also complete with a Christmas shop and plenty of pubs and tea rooms (my favourite is Bakery on the Water).

Bourton can get busy in peak season, but if you arrive early or stay overnight, you can enjoy the village when it’s a little quieter — and that’s when its charm really shines.

A charming hotel I’d recommend here is The Dial House.

Stow on the Wold

Stow-on-the-Wold sits on one of the highest points in the Cotswolds, and it has a slightly different feel to the more riverside villages nearby. There’s a sense of space here — a big market square framed by old stone buildings, antique shops, and cosy pubs, with wide streets that hint at its medieval past as a major wool trading hub.

It’s one of the oldest towns in the area, and you can still get a sense of its long history in the details. The narrow alleys leading off the square were designed for herding sheep in and out of market, and Stow played a role in the English Civil War too — the final battle was fought nearby in 1646.

I always enjoy wandering around here. It’s a great place for a bit of browsing, especially if you like antiques or independent bookshops. You’ll also find one of the most photographed doors in the Cotswolds at St Edward’s Church between two ancient yew trees, it’s said to have inspired Tolkien’s vision of the Doors of Durin in The Lord of the Rings.

Stow is a good base if you're looking to explore more of the region too — it’s well connected and a short drive from several other popular villages.

Broadway

Broadway is one of the larger villages in the Cotswolds, and it’s got a slightly grander feel to it — the wide High Street is lined with honey-coloured stone buildings that glow in the late afternoon light, especially on a clear day.

There’s a great mix of things to explore here: independent boutiques, antique shops, and a few surprisingly good art galleries that make it feel a bit more creative than some other villages. I always seem to find something I didn’t expect — a ceramics exhibition in a gallery, or a great vintage find tucked into a side street.

Just outside the village, Broadway Tower is a must-see. It’s a short uphill walk or drive, and totally worth it for the views — on a clear day, you can see across 16 counties from the top. The tower itself is a quirky 18th-century folly, once used as a retreat by artists and thinkers including William Morris.

And the food... The Swan Inn has hands down one of the best Sunday roasts I’ve had in the Cotswolds (and I’ve tried a fair few). Cosy interiors, proper roast potatoes, and that satisfying post-lunch feeling that makes you want to sit there all afternoon.

Broadway is one of the villages that is especially charming at Christmas as well.

Castle Combe

With its honey-coloured cottages, sloping lanes, and a stream running through the centre, Castle Combe feels almost too perfect. This is probably the most iconic village in the Cotswolds — the view from the bridge looking toward the old weavers’ cottages is one you’ll have seen all over Instagram, but it still feels magical in person.

There isn’t a long list of things to do here, and that’s part of the charm. You can wander slowly through the village, peek into the 13th-century church, and spot the many honesty boxes selling homemade bakes and jam. On a quiet morning, it feels like time stands still.

The Manor House is a stunning hotel just beside the village, and while I’ve never stayed overnight (yet), I always make time to slip into the grounds via the churchyard. The stone staircase leading down to the manor is beautiful, and the building itself is something special.

Snowshill

Snowshill is one of my absolute favourites — it’s small, peaceful, and just a little bit eccentric in the best way. Perched on the slopes of the Cotswold Hills, the village has beautiful views over the surrounding countryside, especially if you wander up the hill behind the church. I remember driving to Snowshill for the first time, which was in the month of May. We wound our way through the green hills filled with prancing lambs and white blossoms, and it seemed like the perfect representation of the English countryside.

Next door is Snowshill Manor, one of my favourite National Trust properties. It’s not your typical stately home — it’s filled with an eclectic collection of objects gathered by the eccentric Charles Wade, who lived here in the early 20th century. The gardens are gorgeous too, especially in spring and summer.

Lower and Upper Slaughter

Lower and Upper Slaughter are two of the most idyllic villages in the Cotswolds, and they’re only about a mile apart, making it easy to visit both in one go. These villages are known for their peaceful setting along the River Eye, with charming stone cottages and lush greenery surrounding the tranquil waters.

Lower Slaughter, pictured during Christmas in the Cotswolds

A stroll around these villages is the perfect way to unwind. You can wander along the riverbanks, soaking in the calm atmosphere, or pop by the historic water mill in Lower Slaughter. It’s a lovely spot, and in the warmer months, you can treat yourself to an ice cream from the little stall by the mill — it’s a simple pleasure that feels just right in this picture-perfect village.

Both villages have that classic, timeless Cotswolds charm, and whether you’re relaxing by the river or snapping photos of the beautiful stone bridges, it’s easy to see why they’re some of the most beloved spots in the region.

Bibury

Bibury is one of the most photographed villages in the Cotswolds, and for good reason. The iconic Arlington Row, a row of charming weavers’ cottages, is often featured on postcards and travel guides, capturing the essence of the region's historic beauty. It’s hard to resist snapping a photo here, but be warned — the village can get crowded, especially when tour buses swing by.

Despite its small size, Bibury has a lot to offer. The Swan Hotel is a perfect spot to unwind. The hotel has a quaint little area with lounge chairs set on a peaceful islet, where you can sit back and watch the ducks and swans pass by on the river. It’s one of those places that perfectly encapsulates the Cotswold’s serene charm.

Bibury is definitely one of the tiniest villages in the area, and I’d recommend avoiding it during peak times if you want to experience it at its best. Tour buses can flood Arlington Row, making it feel a bit less tranquil. If you can, visit early in the morning or late afternoon to escape the crowds. The off-season is also a great time to see the village when it's quieter, allowing you to truly appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.

Tetbury

Tetbury is a lovely, calm village close to Highgrove, the private residence of Prince Charles. The village is an ideal place for anyone looking to explore the quieter side of the Cotswolds, without missing out on the quintessential charm. The Close Hotel is a pretty hotel with that classic Cotswolds charm.

There are lots of sweet cafes and shops lining the streets of this small village. One of my favourite spots is the Tetbury Goods Shed, a former railway station now transformed into a vibrant space for local food, art, and culture. If you’re in town for a leisurely afternoon, this is the perfect place to wander and enjoy a tea and cake.

Don’t miss St. Mary’s Church or Chavenage House, a stately home that often hosts tours and events, adding a touch of aristocratic history to the village.

Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is often considered the jewel of the North Cotswolds, and it’s easy to see why. The High Street is a sight to behold, lined with striking, honey-hued buildings and charming shops that feel almost frozen in time. One of the highlights is the Market Hall, dating back to 1627, and preserved by the National Trust.

For history buffs, St. James’ Church is worth a visit, with its beautiful 15th-century architecture and impressive tower. If you’re into walking, The Cotswold Way, which passes through the village, offers some of the most scenic views in the region. The village is also home to some fantastic eateries, whether you're in the mood for a cosy pub lunch or a more refined dining experience. The Red Lion is a great place for pub grub.

Painswick

Painswick is a small village with an enormous amount of charm. Tucked between rolling hills, this village is full of character and is particularly famous for its Rococo Garden, a quirky, beautifully restored garden that was created in the 18th century.

The village is also home to the stunning St. Mary’s Church, which boasts 99 ancient yew trees in its churchyard, creating a striking and somewhat mystical scene. There’s a curious legend behind them—supposedly the Devil would never allow a 100th to grow. Despite attempts to plant one, a tree fell in 2007, reviving the tale.

There’s also a great selection of local cafes and shops where you can enjoy a more relaxed pace of life. Juniper is a lovely stop for coffee.

Burford

Burford is one of the most iconic and beautiful villages in the region. The main street is lined with old stone buildings, quirky shops, and lovely little cafes, all leading up to the stunning St. John the Baptist Church, a striking example of medieval architecture with a tower that dominates the village’s skyline.

The village has a lovely, relaxed pace, and it’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, especially if you enjoy popping in and out of independent boutiques and antique shops. The High Street has a real Austen-esque feel to it, and I can imagine historic life here perfectly.

If you’re into history, don’t miss the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, just outside of the village, where you can wander through lush gardens and see a variety of animals.

If you’re anywhere near Burford and the timing works out, Asthall Manor is well worth seeking out. This privately-owned Jacobean manor opens its gardens to the public a few times a year and hosts the brilliant on form sculpture exhibition every other summer. The house itself has literary connections too — it was once home to the Mitford sisters — but it’s the peaceful gardens and thoughtful contemporary sculpture that make it feel like a real hidden gem. It’s not widely advertised, so definitely check ahead for dates.

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There’s something incredibly calming about spending time in these smaller Cotswold villages. They might not have the big-ticket attractions or long lists of things to do, but that’s kind of the point. You go for the slow pace, the quiet lanes, the sense that life hasn’t really changed all that much. That said, the better-known villages — places like Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water or Castle Combe — are popular for a reason. They’re postcard-pretty and genuinely lovely, especially if you can catch them early in the day or outside peak season.

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