The Cosiest Villages to Visit in England

A country steeped in history and charm, England is a realm of picturesque landscapes, quaint villages and vibrant urban areas. From rolling green hills and natural wonders, to iconic landmarks and famed streets, England offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. In this guide, you’ll be invited to curl up with a book at the birthplace of the Brontë sisters, take some picture-perfect snaps within the world-famous scenery of the Cotswolds, and watch in awe as sailboats glide in and out of the spectacular harbours of Cornwall- amongst a whole host of other opportunities! We’ll also helpfully break each area down region by region, so you can plan your route with ease and make the most of your travels.

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With its rich cultural heritage, world-renowned sights and warm hospitality, England is a destination that captivates the hearts of travellers from around the globe. Whether you're exploring the cobblestone streets of a medieval village or sipping tea in a traditional tearoom, this country’s originality and welcoming atmosphere is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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1. The Cotswolds

Famous around the globe for its breath-taking views and natural beauty, The Cotswolds is a true jewel within the English crown. Home to countless hiking trails, iconic landmarks and ancient legends, a journey to this area of outstanding scenery in the unspoilt English countryside is definitely a must for anybody who appreciates the wonder of history, architecture and nature. It’s also a great way to support local economies as many of the independent businesses, museums, boutiques and eateries rely either partially or solely on support from the patronage of tourists. You can find out more about the following villages and others within this area in our Ultimate Guide to the Cotswolds.

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Bibury

One of the most iconic sights in Bibury is Arlington Row. Commonly referred to as ‘the most beautiful street in England’, it’s even depicted on the inside cover of all UK passports. This line of adorable cottages along the River Coln were originally built in the 14th century as a monastic wool store, but were later converted into weavers' homes in the 17th century. Today, they are privately owned and maintained by the National Trust, and have been featured in major motion pictures such as Stardust and Bridget Jones’ Diary!

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The village is also home to the Bibury Trout Farm, where visitors can learn about trout farming and even try their own hand at fishing. The village is one of the most aesthetically impressive places within The Cotswolds- perhaps even throughout the whole of the country.

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Castle Combe

This fairy-tale village is a perfectly preserved model of what houses looked like back in the 1600s, with no new buildings or installations being erected here ever since these days of yore. You may even recognise its quaint cottages, winding paths and babbling river, as the village has been the set for iconic movies and television shows such as Bridgerton, The Wolf Man, Stardust, War Horse and the original Dr Doolittle film.

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The Market Cross is a key landmark which is great for setting a meeting point, taking some photos or simply just stopping for a moment to catch your breath. It’s unusual due to the fact that it has a roof above it- but at least it provides some cover from any typical bouts of English rain! It’s also pleasant to walk along the length of the By Brook waterway whilst exploring Castle Combe. The most popular stop along its course is the stone bridge, which is a fabulous place to take some picture-perfect holiday snaps.

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The Slaughters

Connected by the tiny trickle of the River Eye stream, The Slaughters is actually made up of two villages: Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter. The famous novelist J. B. Priestley wrote of it in 1933, ‘This lovely trick is at the very heart of the Cotswold mystery’, as he wandered amongst the weeping willows, wildflowers and sleepy stone cottages at dusk. The Slaughters are home to Copse Hill Road, nationally declared as the ‘most romantic street in Britain’, as well as the magnificent Upper Slaughter Manor and the delightful Old Mill Museum.

Be sure to enjoy The Slaughters’ lovely tea rooms, where you can kick back with a cup of coffee and a delicious piece of homemade cake. Don’t miss out either on the local organic ice cream, it’s famous around these parts.

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2. Yorkshire

Yorkshire is a historic northern county, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Boasting the title of the largest county in England, it offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors. From the rolling hills of Yorkshire Dales National Park, to the many bustling cities and quaint villages scattered across its vast expanse, there is most definitely something for everyone here. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Yorkshire has it all. Travel through some of its highlights with this 3 day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Tour from Manchester.

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Robin Hood’s Bay

Built on the steep cliff edges dropping from the grassy moor tops into the North Sea, Robin Hood’s Bay is famed for its narrow winding streets, which were once used by smugglers to evade the customs and excise offices. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination which offers visitors a chance to explore its quaint shops, sandy beach and spectacular scenery. There are also many paths to take for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

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Due to its rather hidden location and lack of commercialisation, this peaceful fishing village has remained unchanged and unspoiled over time. Find out more about Robin Hood’s Bay and other idyllic seaside spots with our guide to the prettiest, lesser-known beaches in England.

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Haworth

Haworth is a charming village most commonly recognised for being the home of the renowned 19th century authors, the Brontë sisters. Nestled in the beautiful countryside of the Pennines and offering picturesque views with a tranquil atmosphere, Haworth is also known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, with many of its buildings dating back to the 19th century.

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Visitors can explore the Brontë Parsonage Museum, which showcases the lives and works of the famous sisters, as well as enjoy walks along the nearby moorland and visit the quaint shops and tea rooms in the village. Explore the original home of the Brontë sisters and witness some of the places that inspired their writings with this insightful tour.

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Grassington

Located in the beating heart of the Yorkshire Dales, Grassington features grand stone buildings, cobbled streets and magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. The village is a popular destination for tourists, offering a range of shops, cafés and traditional pubs. Grassington also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Grassington Festival, which showcases music, arts, and culture.

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The village is a great base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with plenty of walking and cycling routes nearby. You may even recognise it from the 2020 British TV series, All Creatures Great and Small, as it was used as the setting for the fictional town of Darrowby.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Old Silent Inn

The Old Silent Inn in Haworth features a garden, shared lounge, restaurant and bar. At the inn, each room includes a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels. Guests can enjoy a continental or a full English/ Irish breakfast.

Mid Range - The Old White Lion Hotel

Situated in Haworth, The Old White Lion Hotel features accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar. This 4-star inn offers free WiFi, with rooms including a wardrobe and a flat-screen TV. The private bathrooms are fitted with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. A Full English/ Irish, vegetarian or vegan breakfast is available each morning.

Luxury - Bronte Railway Cottage

With free Wifi and a terrace, this 2-bedroom holiday home features a living room with a flat-screen TV and streaming services, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are also available.

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3. Sussex

Sussex is a county located in the south-east of England. It’s divided into two parts, East Sussex and West Sussex, and is known for its luscious countryside, adorable villages and captivating coastline. Sussex is also home to several historic sites, including the famous Brighton Pier and the iconic white cliffs of Beachy Head. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. Sussex is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous art galleries, museums, and theatres to explore. Why not make the most of your time here with this opportunity to hire an e-Bike? It’s a fun and easy way to plan your own route and get around.

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Alfriston

Alfriston is located in East Sussex, to the west of the River Cuckmere. It features impressive medieval architecture, including the 14th century St. Andrew's Church and the historic Alfriston Clergy House- which was the first property acquired by the National Trust. The village is surrounded by stunning countryside and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. It also has a vibrant arts scene, with several galleries and craft shops showcasing local talent.

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Alfriston is a delightful place which offers the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. If you’re looking for a day trip with a difference, why not try this Sussex Villages and White Cliffs Guided Tour? Alfriston is one of the many stops included!

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Amberley

Located in West Sussex at the foot of the South Downs, Amberley is a village and civil parish primarily noted for its cosy thatched houses. To the north of the village is the tidal plain of the River Arun, known as Amberley Wild Brooks. This wetland is a Site of Special Scientific Interest known for its wildfowl- so birdwatchers, this one’s for you!

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We would definitely recommend Amberley Museum for a fun-filled day out. This open-air industrial heritage museum was founded in 1978 and has previously been known as Amberley Working Museum, Amberley Chalk Pits Museum, and Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre. The site hosts a range of exhibitions including but not limited to an extensive bus and railway collection, cobbler and wheelwright’s shops and a fire station.

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4. Devon

Located in the southwest of England, Devon is celebrated for its coastal views, beaches and countryside. The county is home to the Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, which offer striking landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Devon also has a rich history, with numerous historic sites and landmarks, including medieval castles, ancient ruins, and charming villages. It’s famous for its cream teas, which consist of scones, clotted cream, and jam, and are a must-try when visiting. Devon is also known for its traditional cider production and delicious seafood, particularly its fresh fish and chips!

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Lustleigh

Situated within the Dartmoor National Park, the village of Lustleigh has a rich heritage and is home to several historic landmarks. These include the Church of St. John the Baptist, which was built in the 13th century, and Datuidoc’s Stone, an ancient monument dating from around 550-600 AD. Lustleigh is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, as it offers stunning views and a variety of walking trails.

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A great time to visit is during the May Day celebrations. It’s the biggest event of the year for Lustleigh and involves maypole dancing, a carnival procession and the traditional crowning of the May Queen. Alternatively, a visit during August Bank Holiday Monday will grant you the chance to get involved in the annual Village Show and Dance. On this day you can expect to find various stalls and activities, a charity run, dog racing, a horse show, displays from local charities and sheep-shearing demonstrations.

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Clovelly

This privately owned harbour village has been in the same family for over 400 years! It’s a tourist hotspot which attracts visitors with its cosy cottages, cobbled streets and rich maritime history. There’s also an annual Lobster and Crab festival that is always guaranteed to pull in the crowds. Due to its location at the top of a steep gradient, donkeys and sledges have traditionally been used to move goods and cargo to and from the bay. You can still see them as they make their way up and down the sloping main street.

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Do note that tourists entering via the visitor centre must pay an entrance fee. Fortunately however, this covers parking, entrance to Clovelly Court Gardens and two museums, as well as an audiovisual history guide!

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Lynmouth

Situated on the northern edge of Exmoor National Park, at the confluence of the East Lyn River and the West Lyn River, lies the sleepy village of Lynmouth. It’s popular with tourists due to its natural beauty, with access to scenic walks and hikes aplenty in the surrounding area.

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The village made national news back in 1952, after a storm of tropical intensity broke over southwest England. The resulting flood resulted in the loss of several lives and significant damage to the village. A memorial hall dedicated to the disaster is on the front toward the harbour; it contains photographs, newspaper reports and a scale model of the village which depicts how the village looked before the storm. There’s also a photograph and information display that can be viewed inside the local parish church.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The West Country Inn

This award-winning property in Clovelly is a former 16th century Coaching Inn, and is full of character and warmth. It offers a gym, a Spa hot tub, free Wi-Fi and free parking. The Inn boasts a wealth of original features, open fireplaces and stunning views over the beautiful surrounding countryside. There’s a Carvery/Function Room, Games Room, restaurant, lounge and bar.

Mid Range - The New Inn Clovelly

The New Inn Clovelly provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. With free WiFi, this 3-star hotel also features a restaurant and a bar. All units are equipped with a flat-screen TV, and certain rooms have a patio. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a Full English/ Irish breakfast.

Luxury - Red Lion Hotel

The Red Lion Hotel in Clovelly features rooms with striking sea/ harbour views. Guests can make use of free private parking, land rover service and WiFi, as well as entry to Clovelly Village and Gardens. All rooms have a TV and a private bathroom with a bath. Some also feature a seating area. The Red Lion’s restaurant serves fish which is caught each day. The harbour bar serves snacks and drinks, and looks out across the quay and the cottages.

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5. Buckinghamshire

Located in southeast England, Buckinghamshire is known for its beautiful countryside, historic houses and charming villages. The county town is Aylesbury, and other notable towns include High Wycombe, Milton Keynes, and Buckingham. Buckinghamshire is also home to the famous Bletchley Park, where codebreakers worked during World War II. The Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are also located in Buckinghamshire, offering stunning landscapes and walking trails. There’s definitely plenty to explore and enjoy across the whole region.

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Turville

Turville’s name is Anglo-Saxon in origin and means ‘dry field’. The village has been featured in several films and TV shows, including The Vicar of Dibley, Midsomer Murders and Killing Eve. It also made a name for itself back in the 1800s, when Ellen Sadler, aged 11, purportedly fell asleep and didn’t wake up until 9 years later! This bizarre case attracted international attention from newspapers, medical professionals and the wider general public.

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Turville is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the quintessential English village atmosphere, with its traditional cottages, local pub and general homely ambience. Just be advised that there are currently no public transport routes which serve the village, so you’ll have to make your own way there.

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West Wycombe

This National Trust property is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, known for its picture-perfect setting and illustrious buildings. One of the main attractions is the West Wycombe Park, a Palladian mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens. There’s also a renowned landmark called the Hellfire Caves, which were excavated in the 18th century and were used by the famous Hellfire Club for their meetings. Additionally, the Mausoleum and Golden Ball above the village are impressive structures from which you can get a fantastic view of the surrounding local landscape.

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To this day, West Wycombe has retained much of its historical charm. The High Street has a number of old fashioned shops and pubs, as well as a well-used village hall, so you can really immerse yourself in its timeless appeal.

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6. Cornwall

Located in the southwest of England, Cornwall is an area of breath-taking coastline, postcard-worthy villages and bountiful heritage. It’s highly celebrated for its beautiful beaches, such as St Ives Bay and Fistral Beach, which attract tourists from all over the world. The county is also home to iconic landmarks like the Tintagel Castle, which is associated with the thrilling legends of King Arthur. Cornwall has a distinct culture and identity, with its own language, Cornish, and traditional festivals such as the Obby Oss. It’s also a popular choice for outdoor escapades such as surfing, hiking, and beachcombing.

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Polperro

This small fishing village located on the south coast of Cornwall is packed with narrow streets, colourful cottages and a lively harbour. Once used as a spot for smuggling, you can still see remnants of its past in the form of old tunnels and secret hiding places.

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Polperro is a popular place due to its pleasant coastal walks, boat trips, and its variety of shops, cafés and restaurants. It’s accessible by air via Plymouth or Newquay, by train via Looe railway station, by road and by boat. Just be aware that if you’re coming to Polperro in the car, you’ll have to leave it in the Crumplehorn car park. It’s about half a mile to the harbour, so you can walk, take a horse and cart ride, or travel via milk float- which is disguised as a tram!

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Mousehole

With its charming harbour and traditional granite cottages, this adorable little village has a rich maritime history and is a popular tourist destination, especially during the holiday season when it’s decorated to the nines with twinkling Christmas lights!

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Mousehole also has a strong artistic community and is home to several galleries and craft shops. The village also offers brilliant coastal walks, making it a great place to go for a stroll while you take in the fresh sea air.

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Port Isaac

Travelling up now to the north coast of Cornwall, we move on to the delightful Port Isaac. It’s easily recognisable, with its narrow streets lined with whitewashed cottages. This maritime village was once a busy port for the export of local goods such as slate, coal, and pilchards.

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Today, it’s a popular tourist destination and has gained national fame as the main filming location for the television series, Doc Martin. If you’re a fan, you can take a guided tour of its shooting spots here! The village also hosts an annual sea shanty festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world.

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Where to Stay

Budget - West Looe Downs

Located in Looe, 2.6 miles from Polperro, this pleasant accommodation features a terrace. It also has a garden, inner courtyard views and free WiFi throughout the property. The homestay is fitted with a flat-screen TV and towels and bed linen are available.

Mid Range - Port Gaverne Hotel

In the idyllic secluded cove of Port Gaverne, Port Isaac, this charming 17th-century inn has light, airy rooms with free WiFi throughout. The hotel restaurant uses seasonal produce including fresh fish caught locally. With antique furniture and other traditional features, no 2 bedrooms at the Port Gaverne Hotel are the same. Features in each room include a satellite TV, radio, private bathroom and complimentary Cornish biscuits.

Luxury - The Slipway

This Grade II listed building dates back to 1527 and is located opposite Port Isaac harbour. It features adult-only B&B accommodation with a restaurant and bar on the ground floor and an outdoor terrace. All of the bedrooms have small en-suite bathrooms and some have panoramic sea views. The loft suite features a king-size bed, a small living area and a bathroom with a bathtub. The restaurant specialises in local seafood. It also serves Cornish cream teas and a range of scones, cakes and homemade sandwiches.

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7. Kent

Kent has a thriving agriculture industry, which visitors are sure to appreciate when travelling by the numerous apple and cherry farms that cover this (pun intended) fruitful region. The county features a diverse range of landscapes, including grassy hills, urban areas and coastal zones. Kent is also often referred to as the ‘Garden of England’ due to its abundance of orchards, fields and vineyards. It’s a popular point of interest for tourists as it offers a diverse mix of opportunities for all to enjoy. Prominent landmarks include Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle and the White Cliffs of Dover.

Lamberhurst

Surrounded by rolling hills and home to several historic buildings and landmarks, Lamberhurst is a quiet village located in the heart of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. One notable landmark in Lamberhurst is Scotney Castle, a 14th century moated castle that is now owned by the National Trust. The castle and its gardens are open to the public and offer a glimpse into the area's rich history.

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Lamberhurst is also known for its vineyards and is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. The village has a small but vibrant community and offers a peaceful setting for residents and visitors alike.

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Aylesford

Situated on the River Medway, Aylesford is a pleasant little village which offers tourists a quiet escape from the busier parts of Kent county. Aylesford Priory, a former Augustinian priory, is a notable landmark here. It dates all the way back to the 13th century and is home to a community of Carmelite friars, who first settled in the village in 1242.

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Aylesford has a bustling high street with a variety of shops, pubs, and restaurants. The village is also surrounded by scenic countryside, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling.

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Chilham

Chilham is best known for its well-preserved architecture, boasting various medieval buildings such as Chilham Castle and the Church of St. Mary. The village’s intriguing history is vast, with evidence of human habitation dating all the way back to the Stone Age! It offers visitors a truly fascinating glimpse into England's past.

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Chilham was one of the locations used for much of Powell and Pressburger's 1944 film, A Canterbury Tale. It was also used in 1965 for part of the filming of The Amorous Adventures of Moll Flanders, and in 2009 for the BBC’s adaptation of Jane Austen's, Emma. The village and the castle also made an appearance as a winter wonderland in a Christmas special episode of Agatha Christie's Poirot.

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