The best villages in The Cotswolds to visit and call home

Broadway

Discover the quintessential Cotswold charm in Broadway, often hailed as the 'Jewel of the Cotswolds.' This idyllic village is not just a pretty face with its grand tree-lined avenues, it's a vibrant hub of culture and community. Nestled beneath Fish Hill on the western edge of the Cotswold escarpment, in Worcestershire, and brushing the border of Gloucestershire, Broadway strikes the perfect balance between rural beauty and accessibility.

In the heart of this enchanting village, you'll find a treasure trove of independent shops, delectable restaurants, cosy hotels, and not one, but two exceptional museums. Take a journey through history and art within these cultural havens. For a panoramic experience, ascend the renowned Broadway Tower, where the view spans across 16 counties, reaching towards the distant Black Mountains.

Just 2-hours from the bustle of central London, Broadway lies conveniently on the map, close to noted destinations like Stratford, Warwick, Cheltenham, Oxford, and Bath. Will Broadway be the place you choose to call home? Read our area guide to discover more about Broadway.

Bibury

Nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds lies the enchanting village of Bibury. Celebrated for its remarkable beauty, it even captivated the heart of William Morris, leading him to declare it ‘the most beautiful village in England’. There's no doubting Bibury's status as a jewel among the Cotswold villages and a contender for one of the UK’s most captivating spots.

At the centre of Bibury's charm is the iconic Arlington Row, a sight so quintessential that, even if the name doesn't ring a bell, the images surely will. The Arlington Row cottages, famed for their postcard perfection, are some of the country’s most photographed dwellings. Dating back to 1380 as a monastic wool store, they were transformed in the 17th century into the enchanting row of weavers' cottages we adore today.

Bibury isn't just about breathtaking views; it's also wonderfully connected. Situated only 6 miles from Cirencester, residents benefit from excellent transport links and a variety of outstanding educational options, as recognised by Ofsted. Those with an eye for both beauty and a smart investment will want to keep an eye out in our weekly newsletter and properties section for the chance to embrace Bibury living.

Bourton-On-The-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water, affectionately dubbed the 'Venice of the Cotswolds,' is a picturesque treasure situated approximately four miles south of Stow-on-the-Wold and sixteen miles north of Cirencester. This delightful village draws admirers from far and wide, thanks to the serene River Windrush that meanders gracefully through its heart, flanked by charming bridges that invite leisurely strolls.

The village brims with attractions that cater to every interest. Bird enthusiasts can revel in the exotic avian world at Birdland Park and Gardens, home to a vast collection of species including charismatic penguins, vibrant flamingos, and chattering macaws. Those with an appreciation for craftsmanship will be enchanted by The Model Village, which meticulously replicates Bourton-on-the-Water in miniature at a 1/9th scale that astounds visitors with its precision. For car aficionados, the Cotswold Motoring Museum is a trove of motoring nostalgia, featuring vintage cars and a delightful toy collection across seven galleries, supplemented by ever-changing exhibitions.

More than just a tourist haven, Bourton-on-the-Water offers a warm embrace with its excellent amenities, a lively and pride-filled local community, and a high street bustling with independent charm—ensuring that all your needs are met without ever needing to start your car. Families will find educational excellence here, with one of the nation's top state schools nestled within the village.

Castle Combe

Enveloped in the lush Wiltshire countryside, Castle Combe is a village steeped in beauty and history, just 5 miles northwest of Chippenham. Its title as 'The Prettiest Village in England' is no mere hyperbole; for over a century, the timeless allure of the Market Cross leading down to the By Brook has captured the hearts of visitors. The iconic view of the bridge beckoning toward the high street is quintessential Cotswolds—a snapshot that embodies the region's pastoral charm.

Castle Combe whispers tales of its layered past: from its origins as a British hill fort to Roman occupation, courtesy of the nearby Fosse Way, and later the transformation under the Normans who erected the castle that would lend the village its name. In more modern narratives, Castle Combe has served as the picturesque backdrop for cinematic magic, most notably the classic ‘Doctor Dolittle’ filmed in 1966.

Those enchanted enough to consider calling Castle Combe home will find it a premium location. Although property values reflect the desirability of the area, the advantages are compelling. Nestled conveniently between the thriving hubs of Chippenham and Bath, with Chippenham railway station offering swift commutes to London in just over an hour, connectivity is a significant perk.

The village itself is a tapestry of charm with a smattering of cosy coffee shops, quaint cafes, and the historic White Hart pub—a 14th-century establishment that pulses at the heart of the community. For educational excellence, nearby Bath presents some of the finest options. Celebrated institutions like King Edward's School offer day schooling, while Kingswood School provides esteemed day and boarding options for secondary education.

Investing in Castle Combe is not just a financial decision but a lifestyle choice, promising a tranquil existence where quality of life measures immeasurably high in a setting that feels untouched by time.

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