Discover England's Most Charming Villages
England is synonymous with charming villages, offering a quintessential experience of the country's beauty and heritage.
![Chilham village](/media/england-prettiest-villages-intro-paragraph-chilham-kent.jpg)
From the idyllic Cotswolds to the lush Kent countryside, and from the historic Yorkshire to the rugged Peak District, these villages are perfect for experiencing the essence of England.
Visitors can enjoy cozy accommodations, local cuisine, and the slow pace of village life, making for perfect romantic getaways or family outings. For inspiration, check out our list of England's prettiest villages.
1. Castle Combe, Wiltshire
![Castle Combe](/media/england-prettiest-villages-castle-combe-wiltshire.jpg)
Castle Combe in the Cotswolds is often hailed as England's prettiest village, with its thatched cottages and historic market square. It's a place to wander and enjoy afternoon tea, free from the clutter of modern tourism. Consider staying at The Manor House hotel for a luxurious experience.
2. Chilham, Kent
![Chilham Castle Gatehouse](/media/england-prettiest-villages-chilham-kent-chilham-castle-gatehouse.jpg)
Chilham, a short distance from Canterbury, boasts a charming village center known as The Square, with timber-framed houses and the impressive St. Mary's Church. Don't miss the chance to tour Chilham Castle.
3. Bolton Percy, North Yorkshire
![All Saints Church in Bolton Percy](/media/england-prettiest-villages-bolton-percy-north-yorkshire.jpg)
Bolton Percy, a tranquil village near York, is home to the historic All Saints Church and the picturesque Cemetery Garden. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at D'Oylys Tearoom.
4. Castleton, Derbyshire
![Path in Castleton](/media/england-prettiest-villages-castleton-derbyshire.jpg)
Castleton in the Peak District is a haven for tourists seeking a rural escape. Stay locally to fully appreciate the village and explore natural wonders like Peak Cavern and Cave Dale.
5. East Dean, East Sussex
![East Dean](/media/england-prettiest-villages-east-dean-east-sussex.jpg)
East Dean, near the Seven Sisters cliffs, offers a quaint village green and the historic Tiger Inn. It's an ideal base for exploring the stunning local coastline.
6. Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire
![Bourton-on the-Water](/media/england-prettiest-villages-bourton-on-the-water-gloucestershire.jpg)
Bourton-on-the-Water, the "Venice of the Cotswolds," is famous for its picturesque river and bridges. Enjoy riverside walks, cafes, and family attractions like the Dragonfly Maze.
7. Rievaulx, North Yorkshire
![Abbey ruins in Rievaulx](/media/england-prettiest-villages-rievaulx-north-yorkshire.jpg)
Rievaulx, set in the North York Moors, is known for its stunning abbey ruins and the historic Swiss Cottage. With only about 100 residents, it's a peaceful retreat.
8. Bodiam, East Sussex
![Bodiam Castle](/media/england-prettiest-villages-bodiam-east-sussex-castle.jpg)
Bodiam is home to the iconic Bodiam Castle and offers a scenic countryside setting. Enjoy a steam train ride to Tenterden from the local station.
9. Pagham, West Sussex
![Pagham](/media/england-prettiest-villages-pagham-west-sussex.jpg)
Pagham boasts one of Sussex's best beaches and interesting historical landmarks like the Church of St. Thomas a'Becket. It's also a hotspot for birdwatching.
10. Old Byland, North Yorkshire
![Old Byland](/media/england-prettiest-villages-old-byland-north-yorkshire.jpg)
Old Byland, with its rich history and scenic stone cottages, is a picturesque and tranquil village set in the North York Moors.
11. Uplyme, Devon
![Uplyme and Lyme Regis](/media/england-prettiest-villages-uplyme-devon-river-lim-path.jpg)
Uplyme is a walker's paradise, located at the source of the River Lym and leading to the sea at Lyme Regis. The River Lim Path is a scenic trail enjoyed by many.
12. Lamberhurst, Kent
![Scotney Castle](/media/england-prettiest-villages-lamberhurst-kent.jpg)
Lamberhurst is known for Scotney Castle, a National Trust property with stunning gardens, and the historic High Street with its timber-framed houses.
13. Charmouth, Devon
![Charmouth West Beach](/media/england-prettiest-villages-charmouth-devon-charmouth-west-beach.jpg)
Charmouth, a seaside village in Dorset, is famous for its beaches and the Charmouth Heritage Centre, which highlights the Jurassic Coast's significance.
14. Beaulieu, Hampshire
![Beaulieu village](/media/england-prettiest-villages-beaulieu-hampshire.jpg)
Beaulieu offers a picturesque waterfront and proximity to the New Forest National Park and the British National Motor Museum.