Top Ten Prettiest Villages & Towns in the Cotswolds
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When you think of the Cotswolds, you may be reminded of a handful of celebrities who have made the area fashionable. But the Cotswolds are so much more than a home to the rich and famous. The region is home lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages, rambling rivers, religious landmarks, medieval wool markets, bustling towns, gorgeous manor homes, and more. Check out our slideshow of the top ten prettiest villages & towns in the Cotswolds, and get a glimpse of what this region, spread across five west-central counties, has to offer.
Stow on the Wold
The Slaughters
The twin villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter lie along the banks of the River Eye, just a few miles north of Bourton-on-the-Water. Lovely cottages, a stone bridge, and historic water mill make Lower Slaughter special, while Upper Slaughter offers a tranquil setting to view its historic buildings and the same river trickle by.
Wynchecombe
Winchcombe
The larger market town of Winchcombe is not to be missed. Situated on the River Isbourne, near the western edge of the Cotswolds. the historic town offers visitors a chance to explore Sudely Castle, the Victorian Town Hall Museum, lovely churches, and historic townhouses. Stop and enjoy a cup of tea at a cafe in one of the stone or half-timbered buildings.
The Slaughters
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stow-on-the-Wold is famous for its hilltop views, antique shops, medieval Market Square, and the iconic “Tolkien door” at St. Edward’s Church. It’s a perfect stop if you love charming English towns with deep history, great pubs, and easy access to surrounding villages.
Bibury
Bibury
Visiting Bibury is like stepping into a classic English painting. Often called the "Prettiest Village in England" Bibury boasts lovely stone cottages, narrow lanes, and gentle surrounding countryside. Don't miss the historic Arlington Row- a line of 14th-century weavers' cottages before stopping for a cream tea at a local tea room or a pint at a cozy inn.
Chipping Norton
Chipping Norton
Chipping Norton is one of the Cotswolds’ most characterful market towns—full of history, independent shops, countryside walks, and a famously lively local culture. If you enjoy charming English towns with real personality (not just postcard prettiness), this one is absolutely worth a stop.
Chipping Camden
Chipping Camden
Chipping Campden is one of the most beautiful and best‑preserved towns in the entire Cotswolds, famous for its golden‑stone High Street, historic Market Hall, Arts & Crafts heritage, and easy access to world‑class gardens. If you’re looking for a quintessential English market town with real depth and charm, this is one of the top choices in the region
Painswick
Painswick
Visiting Painswick offers a quieter, more refined Cotswolds experience - perfect if you enjoy beauty without heavy crowds. Known as “The Queen of the Cotswolds” - the town is worth visiting for its historic charm, iconic yew‑tree churchyard, Rococo Garden, and superb walking countryside.
Burford
Burford
Burford is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Cotswolds." This charming town features a high street lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes. It's a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside and offers beautiful views of the River Windrush
