The 16 Most Beautiful Towns and Villages In England

Despite being inflicted with British weather, Whitstable somehow manages to retain an air of sunshine throughout the year. This may of course be due to the pretty houses and shops painted in pastel colours, but alternatively, the amount of oysters consumed there could be entirely responsible. Whilst holidaymakers may flock to the beach, they cannot fail to be entranced by this lovely gem of a town. Pretty and picturesque, it also has an interesting and somewhat seedy history of smugglers, helped in part by Whitstable’s plethora of alleys and shortcuts often leading to the unexpected. With names such as ‘Squeeze Gut Alley’ — they are all worthy of exploration — their quirkiness helps this seaside town stand out from the crowd.

Set in North Oxford, Woodstock is locally beloved for its association with the fictional character Inspector Morse. More famously perhaps, it is where Blenheim Palace is situated, one of the most beautiful estates in Britain and birthplace of Winston Churchill. The town is full of history, Thomas Cromwell and Thomas Chaucer (son of Geoffrey) resided in the town centre (although privately owned, their houses can be viewed externally) and a visit would not be complete without a stroll past the Five-Hole Stocks that gave the town its name. For art-lovers, Woodstock is one of the best destinations in Oxfordshire for galleries and antiques. It is a beautiful and calming place to shop or relax in one of its many bars, restaurants and cafes.

Renowned for its architecture and Tea Rooms, Harrogate is one of the prettiest towns in the north of England and a popular tourist destination. In keeping with its tradition as a spa town, Harrogate is proud to play host to one of the most beautiful Turkish baths in the country. For the more adventurous, it is still possible to drink the sulphurous spring water in the Pump Rooms, but understandably not as desirable as a day at the baths. With beautiful buildings throughout the town, one need hardly look further afield than the town centre; however, with RHS Garden Harlow Carr nearby and the Yorkshire Dales on its doorstep, Harrogate is definitely worth visiting as part of an extended tour of the area. Be sure to book ahead for the best tours in Harrogate.

A beautiful and luxurious market town, Marlborough has the second widest high street in Britain, giving it a wonderful sense of grandeur. The period properties lend themselves to the variety of independent shops found on the high street and the wonderful places to stop for refreshments, including tea rooms, cafés and traditional pubs. Marlborough College, situated at the west end of the high street, boasts stunning grounds and a spectacular chapel. The college regularly hosts events open to the public allowing closer inspection of its historic buildings. Notable alumni from the college include William Morris, Siegfried Sassoon and more recently The Duchess of Cambridge. The Preshute or White Horse is clearly visible from the Bath Road, and with Avebury Stone Circle minutes away, this is definitely a part of Wiltshire worth exploring.

Although not technically a town, Castle Combe is, however, arguably the prettiest village in England and well worthy of a visit. The village is a favourite with TV and Film Producers; the epitome of Cotswold perfection and there is not one corner of it that doesn’t delight the eye. The river Bybrook runs through its centre and the village is surrounded by delightful countryside, perfect for a stroll. Wandering the streets, it is not unusual to see horses tethered to the market cross, also known as ‘Buttercross’ in the heart of the village. For a fine dining experience the Manor House to the east of the village offers an array of food options, lovely relaxing bars and lounges and wonderful grounds nestled attractively within Castle Combe.

A small market town in South Oxfordshire filled with listed buildings, Thame hosts a cattle market every Tuesday and is home to many long-standing families from the area. The majority of businesses on the high street are unique and offer exceptional craftsmanship; traditional butchers, bakers, blacksmiths, bookbinders, leather workers and carpenters are just a few of the artisans to be discovered. The blacksmiths have also been known to make candlesticks ensuring that all bases are well and truly covered. Picturesque, quaint and friendly, it is a sought after place to live; Boris Johnson, Tony Hadley and Kim Wilde are just a few of the well-known locals who frequent the high street. The Prebendal, situated by St Mary’s Church, was once home to the late Robin Gibb. With parts of the building dating back to 1138 AD, it is worth wandering down Priest End to marvel at its beautiful gatehouse.

Every list of towns should contain at least one that boasts a castle and for the purpose of our list, we have chosen Ludlow. Whilst having a castle may not on its own guarantee a place on this list, the impressive Tudor buildings that line the streets of Ludlow definitely do. Historical and intricately designed, they lend themselves to the very individual style of this town, making it the perfect backdrop for the many events and festivals that take place here throughout the year. Despite having more than its fair share of beauty in the streets alone, at the heart of the town stands St Laurence Church. A Norman church over 500 years old, it is a perfect example of exceptional craftsmanship and skill; carvings, sculptures and vast stained-glass windows lure visitors in to marvel and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

The final town on our list is Padstow, although often dubbed ‘Padstein’ in honour of its most famous resident, Rick Stein. Previously a typical Cornish harbour town, Stein has certainly played a part in putting Padstow on the map and promoting a more upmarket feel. With colourful shop fronts and plenty on offer by way of gift emporiums, patisseries and delis, it is now one of the most visited seaside towns in the area. It is hard not to be enchanted by the prettiness of Padstow Harbour and in order to appreciate it at its best, we recommend a trip on the Padstow to Rock Ferry – this crosses the harbour every 20 minutes throughout the day. The town is also home to Prideaux Place, an Elizabethan residence and one of the oldest houses in Cornwall. The beautiful gardens and tea rooms can be visited from May to October and are exceedingly popular.

Built into a valley leading down to a beautiful bay, Polperro is the archetypal Cornish seaside village. The coastal location has contributed to a colourful history throughout the late 18th century. While it was a humble village with pilchard fishing as the main trade during the day, by night it was a smuggling hotspot where contraband goods sneakily made their way across the English Channel to Guernsey. Today, the spot is considerably less seedy: you’ll find charming shops selling handcrafted items and confectionery. Once you’re done browsing, make sure you try the seafood – perfect whether it’s a meal in a romantic restaurant, or a packet of fish and chips on the beach. You’re also spoilt for choice when it comes to places to stay, thanks to the wealth of luxury hotels all over the county. Recommended by Helen Armitage.

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Lake District, Hawkshead has picturesque cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages and a rich backstory. The ruins of the 15th-century Hawkshead Hall Gatehouse mark the medieval history, and Hawkshead Grammar School was where poet William Wordsworth spent his boyhood years. The National Trust-run Beatrix Potter Gallery celebrates the art of the British author and illustrator, who dearly loved the Lake District. Flanked by Coniston Water and Windermere, Hawkshead is an ideal stop-off for thirsty ramblers in need of refreshment at the pub. Also, there are no shortage of romantic hotels nearby if you’re looking for an idyllic retreat. Be sure to book ahead for the best tours in and around Hawkshead. Recommended by Helen Armitage.

Not too far from Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon, Broadway is the ultimate chocolate-box Cotswolds village, packed with traditional pubs and tearooms. King Charles I fought the English Civil War from here – you can still sleep in his room in the Lygon Arms – while Oliver Cromwell later stayed at the hotel before the Battle of Worcester. Climb Broadway Tower to try and glimpse 16 counties from the top. Recommended by Matilda Egere Cooper.

Nine miles from bustling Ipswich, picture-perfect Woodbridge is a paradise for devoted shoppers and foodies thanks to its independent boutiques, thriving markets and charming riverside cafés. Try a cruise down the River Deben (watch for passing seals), step back in time at the Tide Mill Living Museum or visit the extraordinary Anglo-Saxon burial site at Sutton Hoo. Recommended by Matilda Egere Cooper.

Cricket fans, wine lovers and history buffs should make a beeline for Hambledon, home to both the UK’s oldest commercial vineyard and one of the world’s oldest cricket clubs. Easily reached from Portsmouth, the idyllic countryside village in the heart of the South Downs dates back 3,000 years and still features Roman remains, a Saxon church and Norman buildings. Recommended by Matilda Egere Cooper.

With its rushing river, stone bridges and car-free streets, Wycoller is a tranquil hamlet where it is believed people have settled since the Stone Age. One 1,000-year old bridge is even officially listed as an Ancient Monument. Often visited by the Brontës, Wycoller Hall – now an eerie ruin – is considered to have been the inspiration for the manor house in Jane Eyre. Recommended by Matilda Egere Cooper.

Travel back in time in this unspoilt Wiltshire village, which is owned by the National Trust. The village’s narrow streets and traditional stone cottages look exactly as they would have 200 years ago when the town thrived in the wool trade, while the abbey dates back to the 13th century. Eagle-eyed Harry Potter and Downton Abbey fans may also recognise it as a filming location. There are plenty of great tours to choose from in Lacock, be sure to book ahead. Recommended by Matilda Egere Cooper.

Literary lovers will be enchanted by this blissful rural hamlet in Dorset where author Thomas Hardy was born and raised. Visit the thatched cottage where Hardy lived then wander through the ancient Thorncombe Woods that inspired several of his novels. Pass an original Roman road, wild heathlands and the serene Rushy Pond, where you might spot resident Dartmoor ponies grazing. Recommended by Matilda Egere Cooper.