Posted on January 16, 2025
If you're considering a move to The Cotswolds from London, or another major city, chances are you're craving a slower pace of life, a rural outlook, and a strong community feel. The great news is that The Cotswolds offers all of this in abundance. Even better, you can enjoy all of this without compromising on access to amenities, transport links, and a touch of urban buzz. Here are some of our top village locations that are picturesque and tranquil while offering fantastic access to The Cotswolds' best towns and conveniences:
Guiting Power
Picturesque and full of character, Guiting Power is a quintessential Cotswolds village with its russet-coloured houses clustered around a green in the centre. The post office here offers a selection of locally made goods, adding to the charm of the community. Nearby, Adam Henson’s Farm Park is a popular destination for families, and you’re also close to the antique shops of Stow-on-the-Wold and the charming canals of Bourton-on-the-Water.
Blockley
Close to Broadway (read our full Area Guide here), Blockley is an idyllic village that consistently charms buyers. This pretty spot is a hive of community spirit, with a delightful café at its heart. It’s also perfectly positioned for weekend outings to Snowshill and the renowned Broadway town. The surrounding area is filled with even more picturesque villages, making it a favourite for those seeking beauty and connection.
Barnsley
On the outskirts of Cirencester lies Barnsley, an attractive village steeped in charm. It’s home to The Pig, a recently opened boutique hotel that has already gained quite the buzz. With its refined yet laid-back atmosphere, The Pig adds a great dining and hospitality option to the area. Barnsley is also perfectly situated for exploring Cirencester, the “Capital of the Cotswolds.” For more ideas on what to enjoy nearby, check out our Cirencester Area Guide.
Southrop
Southrop has gained popularity as a village location with buyers in recent years, thanks in part to the Thyme Hotel (pictured above). A 'village within a village', the cluster of 17th-century cottages and refined rooms are dotted throughout Southrop Manor’s 150-acre estate, with an on-site farm and kitchen garden, spa and even village pub. The hotel’s cookery school has an excellent reputation amongst local foodies, too. The characterful town of Burford is close by, with easy access to Oxford and Cheltenham further afield.
Chipping Campden
An old wool merchant town, Chipping Campden is the perfect location if you want to experience quintessential, idyllic Cotswolds' life - yet still want access to the best market towns and historic cities of the surrounding shire counties of Oxfordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire. From Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds to the south, to Worcester and the Malverns to the west plus Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick (with the best medieval castle in Europe) all within an hour's journey.
Kingham
Nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds, Kingham is a treasure trove of countryside appeal and modern-day convenience. Its close proximity to Daylesford Organic Farm ensures it has everything for lovers of high-quality, local food and charming farm-shop vibes. Kingham is home to The Wild Rabbit, a stylish pub known for its excellent food and inviting atmosphere. For broader appeal, the thriving market town of Chipping Norton is just a short distance away and offers a bustling hub of activity for shopping, dining, and community connections.
Frampton Mansell
Frampton Mansell is a hidden gem of The Cotswolds—a picture-postcard village surrounded by lush landscapes. The Crown pub is a key highlight, celebrated for its food, welcoming ambiance, and stunning views. Just up the road, The Jolly Nice Farm Shop is a foodie’s dream, stocking a variety of locally-grown produce and offering cosy spaces to enjoy gorgeous treats. Frampton Mansell strikes the perfect balance between tranquility and accessibility, with Stroud and Cirencester nearby as the primary hubs for the surrounding area.