Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
The 10 Most Picturesque Villages in the UK
The United Kingdom is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and charming villages that seem to have stepped straight out of a storybook. Scattered across its rolling hills, lush meadows, and rugged coastlines are picturesque villages that look as though they’ve been plucked straight from a storybook. From rolling green hills to cobblestone streets lined with quaint cottages, these picturesque villages offer a glimpse into the timeless beauty and culture of rural Britain. Whether nestled in the lush countryside or perched along rugged coastlines, each village boasts its own unique charm and character. Let’s see the 10 most picturesque villages in the UK.
1. Bibury, Gloucestershire
The Charm:
Dubbed the “most beautiful village in England” by William Morris, Bibury is renowned for its idyllic honey-colored cottages, particularly Arlington Row. These 14th-century weaver’s cottages sit along the tranquil River Coln, offering a postcard-perfect view.
Attractions:
- Arlington Row cottages
- The Bibury Trout Farm
- St. Mary’s Church
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Bibury Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 85 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: Take a train from London Paddington to Kemble (£35-£45, 1.5 hours) and a taxi or bus to Bibury.
- Bus: National Express to Cirencester, then local bus (£20-£30).
- Discounts: Railcards (16-25, Senior, etc.) offer up to 1/3 off fares.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for lush greenery.
2. Castle Combe, Wiltshire
The Charm:
Often referred to as “the prettiest village in England,” Castle Combe boasts medieval cottages, a charming market square, and a serene riverside setting. It has also been a filming location for movies like War Horse.
Attractions:
- St. Andrew’s Church
- Market Cross
- Castle Combe Circuit for motorsport enthusiasts
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Castle Combe Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 100 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London Paddington to Chippenham (£30-£45, 1.5 hours) and a short taxi ride.
- Bus: National Express to Chippenham, then local transport (£25).
- Discounts: Group and family travel passes available.
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn for vibrant foliage.
3. Port Isaac, Cornwall
The Charm:
Perched on the rugged Cornish coast, Port Isaac is famous for its whitewashed cottages, narrow lanes, and breathtaking sea views. It’s also known as the filming location for Doc Martin.
Attractions:
- Picturesque harbor
- South West Coast Path
- Seafood restaurants
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Port Isaac Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 220 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London Paddington to Bodmin Parkway (£50-£60, 4 hours) and a taxi or bus.
- Bus: National Express to Wadebridge, then local bus (£40).
- Discounts: Book tickets in advance for lower fares.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for clear skies and vibrant seas.
4. Rye, East Sussex
The Charm:
Rye is a historic gem with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and a wealth of antique shops. Mermaid Street is particularly photogenic.
Attractions:
- Mermaid Inn
- St. Mary’s Church
- Rye Castle Museum
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Rye Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 65 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London St. Pancras to Rye via Ashford International (£25-£40, 1.5 hours).
- Bus: National Express to Hastings, then a local bus (£20).
- Discounts: Oyster cards not valid; check rail discounts.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for mild weather and blooming flowers.
5. Haworth, West Yorkshire
The Charm:
Set in the heart of Brontë country, Haworth combines literary history with scenic beauty. It’s surrounded by moorlands that inspired the Brontë sisters.
Attractions:
- Brontë Parsonage Museum
- Haworth Main Street
- Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Haworth Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 200 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London Kings Cross to Leeds, then a local train and bus (£60-£70, 3.5 hours).
- Bus: National Express to Leeds, then local transport (£50).
- Discounts: National Rail family and senior passes available.
- Best Time to Visit: Early summer for pleasant weather and greenery.
6. Polperro, Cornwall
The Charm:
Polperro is a quaint fishing village with narrow lanes, colorful boats, and charming cottages cascading down to the harbor.
Attractions:
- Polperro Heritage Museum
- Coastal walks
- Local art galleries
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Polperro Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 230 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London Paddington to Liskeard, then a bus (£55-£65, 4.5 hours).
- Bus: National Express to Looe, then a local bus (£45).
- Discounts: Advance train tickets for savings.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring for fewer crowds.
7. Clovelly, Devon
The Charm:
Clovelly’s traffic-free streets, steep cobbled paths, and harbor views make it a magical destination. The village is privately owned, preserving its historic charm.
Attractions:
- Donkey rides
- Fisherman’s Cottage
- Clovelly Court Gardens
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Clovelly Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 210 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London Paddington to Barnstaple, then a bus (£60-£70, 4.5 hours).
- Bus: National Express to Bideford, then a local bus (£50).
- Discounts: Group discounts available for buses.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for outdoor activities.
8. Plockton, Scottish Highlands
The Charm:
Plockton is a picturesque Highland village with colorful cottages lining the harbor and stunning views of Loch Carron.
Attractions:
- Boat trips
- Plockton Seal Tours
- Highland scenery
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Plockton Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 550 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London Euston to Inverness, then local transport (£90-£120, 8 hours).
- Bus: Long-distance coach to Inverness, then local bus (£75).
- Discounts: Railcards and early bookings.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn.
9. Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire
The Charm:
This historic fishing village offers steep streets, cozy cottages, and dramatic coastal views. It’s a great spot for fossil hunting and coastal walks.
Attractions:
- Robin Hood’s Bay Museum
- Cleveland Way trail
- Beach combing
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Robin Hood’s Bay Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 250 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London Kings Cross to Scarborough, then a local bus (£50-£60, 4 hours).
- Bus: National Express to Whitby, then a local bus (£45).
- Discounts: Railcards for reduced fares.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for coastal activities.
10. Llanberis, Snowdonia
The Charm:
Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, Llanberis offers stunning mountain views, lakeside walks, and a gateway to Wales’ highest peak, Mount Snowdon.
Attractions:
- Snowdon Mountain Railway
- Llanberis Lake Railway
- Padarn Country Park
How to Reach:
- Google Map Location: Llanberis Map
- Distance from London: Approximately 230 miles
- Travel Options:
- Train: London Euston to Bangor, then a bus (£60-£70, 4.5 hours).
- Bus: National Express to Bangor, then local transport (£50).
- Discounts: Rail passes for group travel.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for hiking.
My Final Thoughts on the Villages in the UK
The UK’s picturesque villages offer a glimpse into its rich heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering through cobbled streets, admiring coastal views, or soaking in the tranquility of the countryside, these villages promise unforgettable experiences. Plan your journey today and uncover the hidden gems that make the UK truly special.
Please read my other blogs…
