When most international travellers think of the UK, a few classic images immediately come to mind: the red buses of London, the iconic Big Ben, or the towering walls of Edinburgh Castle. While these landmarks are undeniably worth seeing, there’s another side of Britain that feels straight out of a fairytale—the countryside.
Beyond the bustling cities lies a collection of villages so picturesque that they look like they’ve been plucked from a storybook. With cobbled lanes, thatched cottages, timeless architecture, and landscapes that inspired poets and painters, these villages offer a slower, more enchanting glimpse of British life. For travellers eager to step away from crowded tourist hubs and experience something more authentic, here are six beautiful British villages that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
1. Castle Combe, Wiltshire – “The Prettiest Village in England”
If you’ve ever watched a period drama set in the English countryside, chances are you’ve already seen Castle Combe on screen. Frequently called “the prettiest village in England”, Castle Combe is the epitome of English charm. Honey-coloured stone cottages line narrow streets, a babbling brook flows past the old stone bridge, and the historic market cross still stands proudly in the village square.
Hollywood has long adored Castle Combe, with films like War Horse and Stardust shot here. But beyond its cinematic fame, the village is ideal for visitors looking to soak in authentic English countryside life.
Why international travellers love it:
- It’s just two hours from London by train or car, making it an easy day trip.
- The walking trails surrounding the village provide postcard-perfect views of the Cotswolds.
- Local tearooms serve classic cream teas, giving visitors a taste of British tradition.
Travel Tip: Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the quiet lanes before day-trippers arrive, and if possible, stay overnight at a traditional inn to see the village transform under golden evening light.
2. Portmeirion, Wales – A Village Like No Other
At first glance, Portmeirion doesn’t even look like it belongs in Britain. With pastel-coloured facades, domed roofs, piazzas, and coastal gardens, it feels more Mediterranean than Welsh. That’s because this unique village was designed by visionary architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, who spent decades bringing his dream to life.
Portmeirion is whimsical, bold, and utterly unique. Unlike the stone-clad villages of England, this village is a kaleidoscope of colours, attracting travellers who want something out of the ordinary.
Why international travellers love it:
- Visitors can stay in boutique hotels inside the village itself.
- Its coastal setting offers walking paths, subtropical gardens, and sweeping estuary views.
- Pop culture fans may recognise Portmeirion as the filming location for the cult 1960s TV series The Prisoner.
Travel Tip: Spend at least half a day wandering through its squares and gardens. Staying overnight gives you the chance to enjoy the village without day crowds and experience its magical atmosphere under the stars.
3. Rye, East Sussex – Cobblestones and Smuggler Tales
Few places capture England’s medieval charm quite like Rye. Perched on a hilltop near the coast, Rye looks much as it did centuries ago—with winding cobbled streets, crooked houses, and an old-world atmosphere.
The most famous street, Mermaid Street, is one of the most photographed in the UK. Its timber-framed houses lean at odd angles, and ivy tumbles across doorways, making it look like a scene from a historical novel. Rye was once a hotbed for smuggling, and today visitors can explore pubs and inns that were once used by rum smugglers bringing contraband ashore.
Why international travellers love it:
- It’s just over an hour by train from London, making it a perfect day trip.
- The town is filled with cosy tearooms, antique shops, and traditional pubs.
- History lovers can explore Rye Castle Museum and St. Mary’s Church with its panoramic tower views.
Travel Tip: Pair your trip to Rye with a visit to the nearby Camber Sands beach for golden dunes and refreshing sea air.
4. Bibury, Gloucestershire – William Morris’s “Most Beautiful Village”
When famed British artist William Morris called Bibury “the most beautiful village in England,” he wasn’t exaggerating. Nestled in the Cotswolds, Bibury is home to Arlington Row, a set of 17th-century weavers’ cottages that are so iconic they even feature inside British passports.
Bibury’s rustic charm, trout-filled River Coln, and lush meadows make it a favourite among photographers and nature lovers alike. While it can get busy with tourists, a quiet morning stroll along the river is pure magic.
Why international travellers love it:
- Arlington Row offers one of the most Instagram-worthy backdrops in the UK.
- It’s close to other Cotswold gems like Burford and Cirencester, making it easy to explore more villages in a single trip.
- The surrounding countryside is ideal for leisurely walks and cycling.
Travel Tip: Visit in spring or autumn for fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colours. Early mornings are the best time for unobstructed views of Arlington Row.
5. Clovelly, Devon – A Step Back in Time
Clovelly isn’t just a village—it’s a time capsule. Built into a steep hillside that tumbles down to the sea, this fishing village is famously car-free. Its narrow cobbled main street is so steep that goods were once transported by donkeys. Today, sledges are used instead.
Whitewashed cottages with flower-filled windows overlook the Bristol Channel, and the harbour is still home to traditional fishing boats. Walking through Clovelly feels like stepping into the 19th century, with its craft shops, museums, and old-world atmosphere.
Why international travellers love it:
- The absence of cars makes it a truly peaceful and unique experience.
- Views from the harbour are spectacular, especially at sunset.
- Visitors can explore the Clovelly Court Gardens and learn about the village’s fascinating history.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—Clovelly’s cobbled streets are steep and can be slippery. Stay overnight if you want to enjoy the village after most visitors leave.
6. Lacock, Wiltshire – A Village Frozen in Time
Owned almost entirely by the National Trust, Lacock is one of the best-preserved villages in England. Walking through its streets feels like travelling back to the 18th century. With its stone cottages, medieval abbey, and absence of modern billboards, Lacock has become a favourite filming location.
Fans of Downton Abbey, Pride and Prejudice, and Harry Potter may already recognise it. In fact, parts of Lacock Abbey doubled as Hogwarts in the early Harry Potter films.
Why international travellers love it:
- It’s one of the most authentic villages in England, untouched by modern development.
- The abbey and its cloisters are rich in history and architecture.
- Its central location makes it easy to combine with visits to Bath and Stonehenge.
Travel Tip: Film buffs should plan ahead and check for walking tours highlighting Lacock’s screen appearances.
Why These Villages Belong on Your UK Itinerary
While London, Edinburgh, and Manchester will always be popular stops, it’s the villages that give travellers a deeper connection to Britain’s history and culture. Each of these destinations offers something unique: the cinematic perfection of Castle Combe, the whimsical colours of Portmeirion, the medieval tales of Rye, the postcard beauty of Bibury, the timeless charm of Clovelly, and the historic aura of Lacock.
Visiting these places allows travellers to:
- Escape crowded tourist attractions.
- Experience authentic British culture and traditions.
- Discover hidden gems and lesser-known stories.
- Capture incredible photography opportunities.
Final Thoughts
For international travellers, Britain’s villages are the real treasure. They embody everything that makes the UK magical—history, beauty, and a sense of stepping into another time. Whether you’re chasing cobblestones, cottages, or cinematic settings, these six pretty British villages are guaranteed to leave you enchanted.
So next time you plan your UK itinerary, don’t just stop at London or Edinburgh. Wander into the countryside, and let these villages remind you why Britain’s charm lies not only in its cities but also in its storybook landscapes.
