The Cotswolds has a certain charm you can’t find anywhere else in the UK. From its rolling countryside and idyllic villages and hamlets, to its unmistakeable honey coloured Cotswold stone high streets and cottages, it truly seems picture perfect.
It’s said that the area served as the inspiration for The Shire in Tolkien’s Lord of The Rings, and it’s not hard to see why. This is simple country living at its finest, backed up by its ever growing popularity with tourists, influencers, and professionals seeking the ideal weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of London, just an hour and a half train ride away.
Let’s take a look at 5 of the most beautiful towns and villages the North Cotswolds has to offer.
Chipping Campden
Chipping Campden’s history can be traced back to the 12th century when it was a bustling market town. It has held on to that middle-age feel with its stunning architecture, including the historic market hall – which still stands today as a testament to its trading past.
The High Street of Chipping Campden is often regarded as one of the most beautiful in all of England. Lined with ancient limestone buildings, this charming street offers a captivating journey through time.
With its fair share of cosy Olde English pubs to choose from, as well as some lovely restaurants and classic English tea rooms, you’ll have plenty of options for some refreshment.
The town still upholds tradition, with the annual Robert Dover’s Games taking place in June, which includes the famous Shin Kicking contest up on Dover’s Hill – not for the faint hearted!
Snowshill
Nestled high in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, the charming village of Snowshill seems like a place frozen in time. With its quintessential Cotswold stone cottages and breath-taking countryside views, Snowshill is a hidden gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the enchanting past of rural England.
Snowshill revolves around a beautiful old church in its centre, and The Snowshill Arms – a real classic country pub with a fantastic beer garden perfect for summer afternoons – ever popular with visitors and locals alike. It is also home to Snowshill Manor Gardens, a National Trust property with an impressive manor house, exquisite gardens and a model village.
If you venture slightly outside the village you can visit the Snowshill Lavender farm – those purple fields are a sight to behold on a summers day!
Bourton-on-the-Water
The beauty of Bourton-on-the-Water cannot be understated. It is known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” and it’s easy to see why – the River Windrush flows through the centre of the town, dissected by low stone bridges, perfect spots for that Instagram moment!
A lovely place to amble around amongst the cozy cafes, antique shops and riverside pubs bursting with character – I highly recommend Sunday lunch at The Willow!
With some other unique attractions such as the Cotswold Motor Museum and the Model Village (they do love a model village in the Cotswolds!) Bourton-on-the-Water is a must visit on any North Cotswolds tour – and in my opinion makes the top ten most beautiful towns in the whole of England.
Broadway
Broadway is home to a classic Cotswolds high street, gorgeous and so well kept – be sure to also visit in the winter months where the Christmas lights make it even more spellbinding!
There are some great little shops, with lots of authentic Cotswolds clothing, furniture and souvenirs on offer – and a couple of cracking delis with plenty of locally sourced delicacies to be enjoyed.
Sometimes described as “The Jewel of the Cotswolds”, Broadway’s biggest and brightest attraction is undoubtably Broadway Tower – one of the most iconic sights in all of the Cotswolds. Situated at the top of Fish Hill just a short drive from the town centre, this striking old lookout tower designed by Capability Brown simply can’t be missed if you’re in this neck of the woods.
Chipping Norton
Recently made famous by the brilliant TV show Clarkson’s Farm, Chipping Norton has a unique feel even amongst other Cotswolds towns and villages.
The town hosts a weekly market, where residents and visitors can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and a friendly atmosphere that captures the essence of community spirit. The Chipping Norton Theatre, a beloved local venue, offers a diverse range of shows from drama to live music, making it a real cultural hub for the community.
If you’re looking to join the “boojie” crowd emerging in the Cotswolds nowadays, then look no further than the renowned Soho Farmhouse just outside the main town – where you can enjoy the cozy lounges and bars, or get a nice spa treatment whilst rubbing shoulders with some celebs!
Conclusion
The North Cotswolds is the idyllic dream of British country living – although there may be a touch of bias as I was born and raised in the area! A stunning, laidback corner of the world where time seems to stand still, it might just have you pondering a change of lifestyle yourself and upping sticks to join the happy “shire folk”!