cottages

Castle Combe in Wiltshire is often called “the prettiest village in England” – a title it has held onto for decades thanks to its honey-coloured cottages, winding streets and setting beside the By Brook

A Wiltshire village is frequently dubbed “the prettiest village in England” – a accolade it has maintained for generations thanks to its golden-hued cottages, twisting lanes and location alongside the By Brook.

Castle Combe, roughly 10 miles north-east of Bath, appears precisely as one might envision a quintessential English hamlet to look.

It boasts a population of merely 356, according to the 2021 census, and astonishingly, no fresh properties have been constructed in the historic heart since approximately 1600.

Consequently, the street scene today remains virtually identical to how it appeared centuries ago.

Two further factors – or more accurately, their lack – contribute to maintaining that fantasy, reports the Express.

In Castle Combe there are no TV aerials and no street lights.

These absent features might seem trivial, but without contemporary mess cluttering rooftops and no glaring illumination disturbing the darkness, the location preserves an appearance that could effortlessly belong to a different era.

The settlement derives its name from the 12th-century castle that formerly dominated the north.

Only earthworks survive, but during medieval times Castle Combe developed into a thriving community.

The wool industry proved crucial, and by the 14th century a market was operating here – the 14th-century Market Cross still stands where the village’s three main streets meet. Just a stone’s throw away is St Andrew’s Church, with parts dating back to the 13th century.

Inside, visitors can marvel at one of the country’s oldest working clocks, believed to have been crafted in the 15th century. This unique timepiece lacks a face and instead marks the hours with a bell.

The unspoilt charm of Castle Combe has made it a darling of film and telly producers over the years. Its first brush with Hollywood came in 1967 when crews descended on the village to film the musical Doctor Dolittle.

Despite weather-related delays and local objections to set changes, the film firmly established Castle Combe as a prime filming location.

Since then, directors have flocked back repeatedly. In 2007, Matthew Vaughn’s fantasy flick Stardust transformed the quaint village into the fictional town of Wall.

The charming streets served as the backdrop for the start of the magical journey featuring Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer and Robert De Niro.

In 2010, the village made its way onto the silver screen again in The Wolfman, a gothic horror starring Benicio Del Toro and Anthony Hopkins. The medieval character and narrow lanes of Castle Combe perfectly complemented the film’s 19th-century setting.

Perhaps its most notable appearance was in 2011 when Steven Spielberg selected Castle Combe for pivotal scenes in War Horse. The World War I drama, adapted from Michael Morpurgo’s novel, used the picturesque village to depict early-20th-century Devon.

More recently, Castle Combe has appeared in the Apple TV+ espionage thriller Slow Horses, with producers rechristening the village “Upshott” for the Gary Oldman-starring series.

Despite its tranquil facade, Castle Combe is also the location of one of the West Country’s most celebrated motorsport destinations. Castle Combe Circuit, constructed on the grounds of a former RAF base, has been welcoming racers and spectators since 1950.

The circuit now plays host to a diverse range of activities from motor and motorcycle competitions to rally championships and driving experiences, drawing enthusiasts from throughout the UK.

Most visitors start their journey at the hilltop car park before making their way down into the settlement. The bridge spanning the By Brook provides the quintessential picture-perfect vista – terraced stone dwellings cascading towards the water’s edge, framed by forested slopes in the distance.

This remains amongst the most captured locations throughout the Cotswolds.

At the heart of the village stands the Market Cross, St Andrew’s Church and two traditional drinking establishments. The Manor House Hotel, an impressive countryside estate boasting 365 acres of grounds and an 18-hole course, provides upmarket accommodation for overnight guests.

Castle Combe remains compact, with much of its appeal stemming from its resistance to commercial development. High street brands and major tourist shops are nowhere to be found.

Rather, villagers occasionally offer homemade treats, blooms and confectionery from their doorsteps, relying on trust-based payment systems. The village’s reputation as the “prettiest in England” is supported by numerous reviews from visitors.

One tourist described it as “a place that feels as though it has stepped straight out of a postcard,” whilst another said: “Every corner looks like it’s waiting for a film crew.”

The market town of Minchinhampton is a hidden gem in the Cotswolds, with its pretty cottages, country market and ‘breathtaking’ views making it a must-visit for those exploring the area

The Cotswolds, renowned for its charm, is home to a lesser-known gem that you might not have considered visiting but is definitely worth exploring.

Tucked away on the edge of Stroud and Nailsworth, just south of the Cotswolds, lies the small yet delightful market town of Minchinhampton. Much like its neighbours, this charming town boasts an array of picturesque cottages and buildings that seem straight out of a storybook.

History

The architecture of Minchinhampton tells a tale of times gone by, with many buildings dating back to the 17th century and the mediaeval wool trade. Interestingly, much of the town’s history is steeped in beer, specifically, West Country Ales.

Several of the town’s notable pubs proudly display a plaque reading ‘West Country Ales – Best in the West – 1760’, a nod to their connection with the Stroud Brewery. These plaques can be spotted outside establishments such as The Crown and the Market Place, as well as other pubs that have since shut up shop, reports the Express.

Views

What draws visitors to Minchinhampton from all corners of the globe are the awe-inspiring views of the Stroud Valleys surrounding the Common. The vistas are wide-ranging and often described as ‘breathtaking’, with the west side offering views over the Severn estuary into Wales and the east overlooking the Golden Valley and the rest of the Cotswolds.

The area is recognised as a significant archaeological landscape, meticulously managed under the National Trust. When motoring across the common, visitors should keep their eyes peeled for cows, and they can also anticipate spotting free-roaming horses, rare orchids, and stunning butterflies.

Market

One of Minchinhampton’s key attractions is its wholesome weekly country market, complemented by an excellent array of local cafes and farm shops. The market hall, a quaint 17th-century building adored by locals, serves the community from the town centre.

Minchinhampton Market operates every Wednesday from 8.30am to 11.30am, according to a local events forum. Here, you’ll discover stalls selling cakes, plants, preserves, and seasonal fruit and vegetables, along with a broad selection of glassware, pottery and other crafts.

Thanks to its idyllic setting, the town served as the backdrop for a BBC TV adaptation of J. K. Rowling’s Casual Vacancy. Much like its Cotswolds counterparts, plenty of filming took place in and around the town.

Other activities in Minchinhampton include numerous walking routes, horse-riding, golfing and even paragliding from the common for the more adventurous. The town famously hosts an annual circus known as Giffords Circus throughout the summer, so for those seeking a unique experience, it might be worth visiting during this time of year.

Ever dreamt of stepping foot inside some of the incredible houses won through the Omaze prize draws? Well, now you can, as a couple of them are available to book

Winning one of the stunning Omaze houses in the competition’s monthly prize draws might be a dream for many, but now you can get a taste of what it’s like to live in some of them, as two Omaze mansions are now available for holidaymakers to book via Sykes Cottages.

As, if you’re the lucky Omaze winner, the house is yours to do with as you please, whether that’s live in it, sell it or rent it out, we assume that the winners of these two properties chose to do the latter.

One in the Lake District and one just outside Bath, these two properties allows you to get a taste of how the other half lives, even if just for a week or long weekend. And they’re perfectly properties for a luxury stay with family of friends – and they’re clearly proving popular, as available dates are going fast.

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Deer Close is a modern build on the shores of Conisiton Water in the Lake District that sleeps 10, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, balconies with beautiful views over the lake, and even its own wellness suite.

The next available dates to book are in January, when a three-night stay costs £2,500 – split between 10 people, that’s £83 per person per night.

In completely contrasting style, Batheaston House, a few miles from Bath, looks like something straight out of Bridgerton, a Georgian country pile that retains plenty of period features and considered decor. With six bedrooms and four bathrooms, Batheaston House sleeps 12 people and pets are allowed.

There aren’t really any bookable dates left at this property in September so you’d need to be looking at October onwards; a three-night stay from 17-20 October is currently discounted from £6,060 to £2,798, working out at, if you fill each bed, around £77 per person per night.

Of course, these are at the grander end of the many holiday cottages that Sykes offers. For something smaller (and cheaper) in the Lake District, we like the look of the historic Courtyard cottage in Cumbria, whereas this four-floor townhouse in Bath gets our vote too (but there’s loads to choose from on the website).

Other sites to browse for similar UK self-catering holiday lets include Holiday Cottages (this Cartmel cottage looks very cute), and Rural Retreats, which has over 900 countryside cottages across the country.

Castle Combe in Wiltshire, England, is a popular tourist destination thanks to its stunning medieval stone cottages, winding streets and surrounding natural beauty

With summer upon us, many are planning their getaways, yet there’s no need to jet off abroad when the UK boasts some truly stunning destinations. Castle Combe in Wiltshire is often lauded as one of the prettiest villages not only in Britain but across the globe, making it an ideal spot for those exploring the Cotswolds.

Visitors to this picturesque village might feel as though they’ve wandered into a storybook, with its ancient stone cottages and charming, twisty lanes remaining untouched by modernity – a dream for anyone keen on sightseeing. But Castle Combe’s allure isn’t just architectural; it’s also cradled by the natural splendour of the Cotswolds.

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Travellers will find themselves amidst enchanting woodlands, undulating hills, and verdant countryside, all contributing to the village’s magical vibe.

Described by Country Living as having houses “so pretty they should be on a postcard” due to its “ancient, honey-hued” cottages, Castle Combe has also earned a spot on Condé Nast Traveller’s list of “most beautiful villages in the world“.

CN Traveller praised the village, saying: “Castle Combe is a quintessentially English village located in the southwest county of Wiltshire. No new houses have been built here since the 1600s, so the town is a well-preserved stretch of Cotswold stone cottages and old pubs and churches.”

This idyllic village is the ultimate destination for photography enthusiasts, with the historic village bridge crossing the River Bybrook being a particularly picturesque spot to capture.

History buffs will be drawn to Castle Combe for its plethora of medieval structures, including the stunning St Andrew’s church, established in the 13th century, reports the Express.

The church houses the tomb of Sir Walter de Dunstanville, Baron of Castle Combe and a crusader who passed away in 1270. It also boasts a quaint shop renowned for its charming postcards.

Film aficionados will find Castle Combe intriguing as it has served as the backdrop for numerous iconic films, from the 1960s Doctor Dolittle to the more recent Stardust in 2007 and Steven Spielberg’s War Horse in 2011.

Castle Combe offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a leisurely holiday, providing opportunities for nature walks, historical exploration, and cosy evenings at the local pub.

For those embarking on a nature walk, the village’s famed Little Picnic Shop provides everything needed for a delightful summer picnic.

However, for an authentic English countryside experience, a visit to The Old Rectory Pop-up Tearoom is a must. Here, guests can indulge in a traditional afternoon tea complete with homemade cakes, sandwiches, and a cuppa served in fine china.

The Old Stables offers a more laid-back yet snug setting for a coffee shop in the village, where patrons can indulge in a bacon sarnie or their hot drink of choice.

Castle Combe’s residences often feature quaint stalls outside, vending local and homemade delights like jams, bakes, or sweets – ideal for picking up as you wander through the village.

Travel aficionado Jamie, the brains behind Explore with Ed, suggests that those keen on visiting Castle Combe should do so promptly, especially as the village is at its most charming in midsummer.

He commented: “The prettiness of Castle Combe is perhaps at its peak in the height of summer when the honey-coloured cottages are graced with colourful climbing plants and overflowing window baskets.”

As we step into summer, Sykes Holiday Cottages is giving away this fantastic prize to one lucky winner who will get to splurge on a fabulous cottage holiday of their choice

Sykes Holiday Cottages is offering one lucky winner the chance to enjoy a UK staycation worth £1,000.

The giveaway comes as new research reveals that food is now a key driver behind where Brits choose to holiday. According to the holiday home agency’s latest Staycation Index report, more than a third of Brits now choose their UK holiday destinations based on food.

In a poll of 2,000 UK adults commissioned for the report, one in five also said that the meals they eat on holiday significantly impact how much they enjoy the overall trip. The research revealed the top 10 foodie towns Brits most want to visit in 2025, with Cornwall dominating the list. The Cornish town of St Ives took first place, closely followed by Padstow and Falmouth in third. Other popular spots named in the list include Brixham on Devon’s south coast, northern favourite Blackpool and Great Yarmouth in Norfolk.

As we head into summer we’ve got a fantastic prize up for grabs for anyone who’s dreaming of a staycation. To be in with a chance of winning a £1,000 Sykes holiday voucher, entrants simply need to provide their details using the form below. The winner will receive their voucher via email, to be redeemed against a cottage holiday of their choice. Click here if you cannot view the entry form.

Sykes research also revealed that for those seeking out food-inspired breaks, the biggest motivation was trying a local delicacy, followed by visiting a specific restaurant, and purchasing regional ingredients.

Dining experiences aren’t just shaping where people go – they’re also encouraging them to return. The report found that one in 10 travellers have rebooked a destination just to revisit a favourite restaurant, while many are willing to travel up to 70 miles for a specific culinary experience – with one in 10 prepared to travel more than 150 miles.

When it comes to eating out during their stay, traditional British pubs remain the top choice for travellers (58%), followed by independent local restaurants (52%) and fish and chip shops (51%).

James Shaw, Managing Director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: “Food is an essential part of the staycation experience, whether that’s indulging in fresh seafood at the coast, browsing local farmers’ markets, or seeking out a pub lunch. People are increasingly planning their holidays with their palates in mind – and that’s great for local businesses across the UK.

“We’re seeing more and more holidaymakers prioritise local experiences over abroad escapes, and with so many flavour-packed places to visit in this country, it’s no surprise that foodie travel is on the rise.”

The Index notes that almost two-thirds (63%) of Brits plan to take a UK-based holiday this year, increasing to 71% of Gen Z travellers – suggesting the younger generation is leading the charge when it comes to staycations. On average, Brits are expected to take three domestic breaks in 2025, each lasting around six days.

Spending is on the rise too, with travellers expecting to spend £1,292 on their main UK holiday – up from £1,070 in 2024 – contributing to a projected £24 billion boost to the domestic tourism economy this summer.

While average booking times have shortened to 105 days (compared with 114 in 2024), foodie hotspots like Cornwall and Cumbria are still being snapped up six months in advance, on average. Meanwhile, 24% of holidays are now booked within a month of travel, highlighting a growing trend for more spontaneous getaways.

This competition closes at 23:45 on 31st July 2025.

This Norfolk village is ideal for avid walkers and wildlife enthusiasts, with close proximity to the largest seal colony in England and a National Trust Nature Reserve

One north Norfolk village has been named among the best seaside spots in England in a guide created by travel experts. The guide was created by Condé Nast Traveller and is considered “the essential summer-holiday guide to England’s best seaside towns”.

It is no surprise that Blakeney made the list. The village is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and makes for an ideal base to explore the north Norfolk Coast. Though, according to Condé Nast Traveller, calling the area between Blakeney and its neighbour Cley ‘seaside’ is somewhat of a stretch.

That’s because, today, Blakeney and nearby Cley have marshland where the sea used to be. Still, the village is home to an impressive nature reserve filled with local wildlife and migratory birds as well as impressive views of uninterrupted coastline.

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A bustling commercial port for several centuries, Blakeney imported a wide range of goods, including timber and coal, and exported corn and wool. Today, the quay is mostly used for leisure activities, including walking, sailing, and birdwatching.

The Blakeney National Trust Nature Reserve at Blakeney Point is accessible by boat trip and is a great place for walking and spotting seals and diverse birdlife. Blakeney Point is a breeding site for seals and their pups, born during November to early January, It is also home to the largest seal colony in England with thousands of seal pups born annually.

The Point is the result of a longshore drift across the River Glaven and is continuously evolving with the tides. These conditions are evidently perfect for the growth of samphire – a sea vegetable with a salty flavour – that is a local delicacy.

If you want to avoid a boat trip, the Point can also be accessed on foot from Cley-next-the-Sea, but visitors are encouraged to check seasonal restrictions (in place to protect nesting birds and fragile habitats). There are typically restrictions on accessing the Point by foot in the summer.

As an alternative, travellers can watch the seals by boat from Morston Quay. Avid hikers and birdwatchers will find endless sources of intrigue and the secluded atmosphere creates an enhanced sense of escapism. Keep an eye out for ringed plovers, oystercatchers, brent geese and common teal.

That said, those keen on getting closer to the water shouldn’t be discouraged by the abundant marshland. To the west of the village in Holkham, travellers will find a “superb beach” and Wells-next-the-Sea has a “bucket-and-spade strip”.

For more adventurous beachseekers, Cley and Salthouse have pebbled shores that stretch for a few miles. Wells is home to a line of beach huts and also joins the expansive strand of Holkham to create one of the UK’s finest beaches. According to Condé Nast Traveller, the coast “fell asleep a couple of centuries ago and is just beginning to wake up” – which is the main reason for its appeal.

In the village, travellers will come across quaint flint cottages, traditionally the home of local fishermen. In addition to reflecting the area’s fishing heritage, they add a distinct charm to the community.

While Blakeney is less commercialised than other ‘seaside’ destinations, there are still plenty of places to eat and stay as well as pubs and art galleries to explore. The Blakeney Hotel has been a fixture of the village since opening in 1923 and Morston Hall, Cley Windmill and The Wiveton Bell are other great accommodation options.

On the outskirts of the village, travellers will find the historic St Nicolas Church – built sometime between the 13th and 15th century. The bus stop at St. Nicolas Church also happens to be the starting point of the Blakeney Freshes Coastal Walk.