The National Trust

This village in the Cotswolds has been named the world’s most beautiful village in a Forbes-featured ranking, with its honey-slicked cottages and River Coln setting beating Mediterranean destinations

Travel lovers have awarded this charming village with cobbled streets a top spot as the most picturesque village on the planet.

Now a thriving tourist destination, Forbes crowned the Cotswolds settlement as the most beautiful village in the world, giving Mediterranean coastal hotspots a real run for their money.

While England has no shortage of stunning landscapes, from the rugged beauty of the Lake District to the sweeping coastlines of Cornwall, the Cotswolds continues to attract visitors from across the globe with its fairytale villages and quintessentially English charm.

Yet it’s one particular village that has truly made a name for itself. Forbes, in partnership with Unforgettable Travel Company, revealed the 50 most stunning villages in the world — and placed Bibury firmly at the top.

The publication wrote: “Bibury unfurls like a watercolour dream-where honey-slicked cottages line Arlington Row; their mossy roofs whispering tales of 14th-century weavers. The River Coln murmurs gently here-weaving through golden buttercups and forget-me-nots, while plump ducks paddle lazily beneath canopies of willow.”

Visitors travel from all corners of the globe to admire these honey-coloured cottages and sweeping willow trees, located just a 15-minute drive outside of Cirencester. However, locals are increasingly vocal about the issue of overtourism, as thousands descend upon the tiny village during peak season.

Residents are calling for greater action to preserve the peaceful and intimate atmosphere that makes the area so beloved in the first place. Nestled on the banks of the River Coln, Bibury is steeped in history and natural beauty, with the cottages on Arlington Row dating back as far as 1380.

Today, the village’s character is safeguarded by the National Trust, who own most of the properties along the row, except for two that are now operated as holiday lets.

The historic row was subsequently transformed into weavers’ cottages during the 17th century and has remained unchanged ever since. Their characteristics appear to be straight from a storybook, and their location beside the meadow, which is inhabited by water-loving plants and birds, feels like something from a fantasy novel.

One visitor shared their thoughts on Tripadvisor, saying: “Quintessential English rural scene. Okay, we were one of the many tourists doing the same thing in admiring the buildings, but it didn’t spoil our time.

“We managed to park nearby for free, and the walk by the beautiful clear river is all part of the experience. Worth a visit.”

With nature forming the essence of this small village, many choose to visit England’s oldest trout farm, Bibury Trout Farm, where they can wander the grounds and observe vibrant wildlife. Tucked away within the village, this is a destination where you can catch a fish, hire a barbecue, enjoy a round of Crazy Golf, or simply relax in the welcoming onsite cafe.

One visitor who made the trip to the farm wrote: “We had such a fun trip at Bibury Trout Farm! The grounds were beautifully maintained, everything was clean, and the trout fishing and BBQ experience were fantastic.

“The staff were incredibly friendly, and we really appreciated the effort they made to make our visit enjoyable. Highly recommend it!”.

Should you be considering a day out to Bibury, it’s worth planning your parking arrangements ahead of time to avoid causing unnecessary disruption to the village. Where possible, experts advise visiting during the off-peak season and mid-week to ensure a more relaxed experience.

A hiker has shared a video of herself exploring a stunning coastal town which is just over an hour’s train journey from London and offers visitors the luxury of a hidden beach with its own shipwreck

A hiker has highlighted a breathtaking town which boasts a secluded beach complete with its own shipwreck. Zoe Tehrani, who is based in the London, posted footage of herself climbing down a rusty ladder onto the shingle beach before setting off on a winding trail across the cliff face.

“There might also be a creepy tunnel that used to be a smuggling route,” she enthused in a TikTok video. Zoe went on to describe her journey, explaining she boarded the train at London St. Pancras and travelled for 66 minutes.

The town she visited is Dover, which has a railway station located just a 10-minute walk from the coastline. “It’s not the most scenic to get there, but at least there’s a mist tunnel along the way,” Zoe continued.

“I followed signs for the White Cliffs of Dover, passed colourful houses, headed up the chunky hill then at the top the trail levelled out nicely.”

Zoe then aimed her camera down towards the beach, and headed off once more on another winding trail, making a steady descent. She warned that inside the smugglers’ tunnel there are no lights, which is “a little bit creepy”.

“There’s a few things you need to know about this beach,” she added. “It’s underwater at high tide, so it needs to be out a bit – and you don’t want to sit [directly] below the cliffs because they are crumbling.”

Zoe decided to take a swim in the Channel, which meant carefully picking her way through seaweed to reach the water.

“You definitely want sea shoes for this one,” she suggested. “And it’s much nicer to get in when the tide is a little higher, so I chilled for a bit, had some lunch and then it was perfect.”

The White Cliffs of Dover paths are managed by the National Trust, which advises online: “There is a wheelchair-friendly footpath that leads to a viewing point, ideal if you just want a short route to see the famous cliffs.

“This all-weather path is built with a staggered incline, which allows for a few breathers on the way up. At the top is one of the best views of the cliffs, with the rolling green landscape and sheer chalk edge, dropping to the sea below.”

Venturing further along gives walkers a choice of routes, which are steeper closest to the cliff edge and more gentle further inland.

“These will take you to Fan Bay Deep Shelter and South Foreland Lighthouse,” the National Trust continues. “Beyond the lighthouse, you can continue walking the coast path to St Margaret’s, Kingsdown, or even Walmer or Deal.

“The ground can be uneven and the weather unpredictable, so please wear stout shoes and dress appropriately.”

Responding to Zoe’s clip, one TikTok user commented: “[I] went. Worth it for the views and the challenge but the beach/water is pretty bad. And the ladder was so scary, almost vertical.”

While a second person praised: “Stunning area.”

The UK has an incredible range of places to camp, from national parks to unspoilt coastline, so where should you pitch your tent or drive your motorhome this summer? Research has shown the ultimate spot to enjoy the great outdoors

A ‘Summer on a Shoestring Index’ has been created to show the best-value money places to camp in the upcoming months, and the winning destination has some of the country’s best beaches as well as inexpensive spots to pitch up.

Devon beat competition from Cornwall, the Scottish Highlands, and many other beautiful UK regions to be named the UK’s best-value destination for a campervan staycation this summer.

The index, put together by Camplify UK, took into account factors including the price per day for a caravan pitch, tourist board ratings, nearby activities, and the proximity of inexpensive places to eat. Devon also topped the list thanks to its number of National Trust Properties, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and National Parks, all of which offer inexpensive days out for families.

Camping pitches in Devon can be found for as little as £14 a night, and according to Camplify 85% of campsites in the county offer stays for under £20 a night while still maintaining a rating of at least 8.5. For rural escapes, Dartmoor National Park is an incredible choice, offering untamed open moorland and deep river valleys where wild ponies roam.

Devon destinations include the beach towns of Woolacombe and Croyde, and National Trust sites such as Baggy Point and Lydford Gorge make for inexpensive days out. There’s also the North Devon National Landscape to explore, an area of outstanding natural beauty that includes rocky coves, waterfalls, and soft sand dunes.

A recent ranking of the Best Beaches in Europe for 2026 included three in Devon. These included Woolacombe Beach at number 8, which beat beaches in the Canaries and Portugal to get a top ten ranking. Trebarwith Beach came in at number 17, while Bigbury Beach in South Devon ranked at 23.

Coming second on Camplify’s list was neighbouring county Cornwall, which also has lots of free and inexpensive days out for families. Like Devon, its also known for its spectacular beaches, with some compared to the Caribbean. Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula, as its turquoise waters and white sands could easily be found on a far-flung island.

For outdoorsy breaks, Cornwall is famous for surfing, especially towns such as Newquay whose beaches are considered some of the best in the UK in which to catch a wave.

Rounding off the top three was the Scottish Highlands, the perfect spot for camping among wild scenery, and waking up to views of mountains and glacial valleys. You’ll find plenty of well-equipped campsites in the region, although unlike England, wild camping is legal in Scotland if you’re in a small tent and ensure you leave no trace when you pack up the next day.

Those camping in motorhomes or bringing caravans still need to ensure they book a pitch at a campsite or other designated area. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) offer a stay the night scheme, where self-contained campers can park cheaply overnight in their car parks, with spaces on a first come, first served basis..

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The lake boasts a sandy shoreline and designated wild swimming areas, making it a brilliant spot for a summer day out — just remember to arrive early as it gets very busy

A stunning wild swimming spot nestled amid vibrant heathland offers the perfect escape for a refreshing dip.

Frensham Great Pond is a National Trust-managed lake boasting a genuine sandy beach, allowing visitors to relax on the shore after a bracing swim — all without being anywhere near the coast.

Located a few miles south of Farnham and roughly ten miles west of Godalming in Surrey, Frensham Great Pond features two designated swimming zones marked out by buoys, alongside an on-site café and toilet facilities, making it an ideal destination for a full day out.

The pond was first established in the 13th century to provide fish for the Bishop of Winchester and his entourage during visits to Farnham Castle. Nowadays, the pond and its surroundings serve as a haven for wildlife. Frensham holds international significance due to the array of rare and threatened species that flourish on the heath, earning it recognition as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area and a Special Area of Conservation.

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The heathland encircling the pond presents a striking tapestry of purple heathers, vibrant yellow gorse and lush green bracken.

“Are you someone who delights in basking under the sun at the beach? It may come as a surprise that even in landlocked Surrey, a beach can be found. Frensham Great Pond boasts a sandy shoreline, offering a unique beach experience. While it may not offer the expansive ocean vistas typically associated with beaches, it does provide a splendid view across the lake,” writes Swim Guard.

There are a few things to bear in mind if you’re planning a visit to Frensham Great Pond. It draws enormous crowds during fine weather, with the car park typically full by 10am. Get there early to avoid disappointment, Waverley Borough Council warns, urging visitors to steer clear on scorching days as “the site will be too crowded.”

Dogs are prohibited on both the beach and barrow areas, and BBQs and bonfires are strictly banned.

If that’s given you second thoughts, don’t worry. Surrey has no shortage of other stunning spots offering fantastic wild swimming opportunities. Including:

• Buckland Park Lake, managed by the Surrey Hills Adventure Company, is spring-fed and open year-round. Swimmers do a 400-metre loop around the lake with views of white cliffs and wildlife, with a max depth of 3 metres and a gradual entry point on one side.
• Godstone Divers Cove is a picturesque 7.3-acre reservoir, once a sand extraction site, now a popular managed wild swimming venue. Post-swim, you can even get artisan pizzas on selected sessions.
• The River Mole is a sleepy tributary of the Thames winds through the leafy Surrey countryside and is considered one of England’s most biodiverse rivers, home to barbel, trout, lamprey and eel.

If you’re planning a dip during the warm weather, it’s vital to take the proper precautions. During the recent mini-heatwave, six people have tragically lost their lives in UK waters. On Wednesday, police confirmed that a body discovered during the search for a 12-year-old boy who went missing while swimming in a river in Lancashire is that of the child.

The UK is home to more than half of the world’s bluebell population and spring is the best time to see them

The UK boasts countless stunning locations to discover – and amongst England’s most iconic sights are the bluebell forests. Now is the ideal moment to venture out and witness these delightful blue flowers in full bloom.

The UK is home to over half of the world’s bluebell population, with the Lake District ranking amongst the finest places to spot them. Experts at Sally’s Cottages have put together five of the top locations to explore for your best opportunity of seeing the gorgeous British blooms this spring. These five Lake District spots make for an ideal weekend escape.

Buttermere to Rannerdale

One of England’s finest bluebell displays can be discovered at the Rannerdale Knotts near Buttermere.

Legend has it that the bluebells growing here emerged from blood shed during a Norman war. The flowers here flourish on a hillside, rather than within woodland, reports the Express.

To view the stunning bluebells, you can tackle the three-mile circular route from Buttermere, which takes you past the flowers while offering breath taking views across the lake.

Skelghyll Woods and Jenkins Crag

This picturesque spot is home to some of England’s tallest trees and an abundance of spectacular views.

You can reach Waterhead Pier by boat before wandering the Champion Tree Trail, which meanders through ancient woodland. Towering fir trees rise above while the ground is blanketed with bluebells.

Rydal Water

This walk is stunning at any time of year, but come May it transforms into something truly breathtaking, thanks to the vast carpets of bluebells in full bloom.

Begin your walk at White Moss Common, a woodland draped in bluebells throughout spring, before setting off on the three-mile circuit around the lake.

Brandelhow Park

This park holds the distinction of being the first piece of land in the Lake District to be acquired by the National Trust back in 1902, and each May it bursts into a sea of bluebells.

Accessible by boat, if you disembark at Hawes End Jetty, you can follow the Octavia Hill Walk along the banks of Derwentwater all the way to the park.

Tarn Hows

Once owned by Beatrix Potter and left to the National Trust upon her death, Tarn Hows ranks among the most breathtaking spots in the Lake District, boasting sweeping views of the Langdale Pikes, Old Man of Coniston and Helvellyn.

A gentle two-mile trail winds its way around Tarn Hows, where the ground is awash with bluebells. Keep your eyes peeled for rare red squirrels and cattle along the way.

The fort was built in the 1890s as part of a series of facilities set up to keep a potential invasion from London. One historian revealed the incredible story behind the site

The UK is full of stunning places to visit, but one particular spot combines breathtaking scenery with a captivating glimpse into the past. A military historian recently explored the location and revealed the remarkable story behind its construction.

Military history specialist Dr Jen Howe shared the tale of Reigate Fort on Instagram. Now under the ownership of the National Trust, the fort was constructed on top of Reigate Hill in Surrey in 1898. And the purpose behind its creation is extraordinary.

According to the National Trust, which manages the site today, the fort was erected to fend off a possible French invasion as part of the London Defence scheme. This comprised a 72-mile network of defences consisting of 13 military installations intended to safeguard the capital. Beyond storing equipment and ammunition, there were also proposals to excavate enormous trenches to keep invading armies at bay from London.

Beginning her Instagram slideshow, Dr Howe remarked: “POV: You stumble into a world of forgotten military history just 30 mins from London.” Detailing the history of Reigate Fort, she continued: “Built in the late 1890s to defend London from a French invasion that never actually came. These buildings held shovels and guns, ready to build one huge trench around London…”

The National Trust notes that, by 1906, it was decided the British Navy possessed sufficient strength to repel any prospective invasion, and Reigate Fort was decommissioned. It was sold the following year. In 1972, it and the other mobilisation centres were designated as Scheduled Ancient Monuments by English Heritage in recognition of their significance to British military history. The site welcomes visitors every day, reports Surrey Live.

Those who visit can view two sets of gates – the first are steel and spiked, while the second are heavier and bulletproof. The tool store and the magazine – where munitions and explosives were once kept – are also on display, along with the underground casemates, which would have served both as storage facilities and as shelter from enemy bombardment.

Dr Howe also drew attention to a nearby memorial dedicated to nine US airmen, who died when the B-17 Flying Fortress they were aboard came down on Reigate Hill in March 1945. “A few metres on and you’ll find a tragic site,” she said.

“On March 19, 1945, nine US airmen were coming home from Germany when their plane went down in a thick cloud. None of them made it.

“They had an average age of 21. The oak wing tips laid out are the exact distance of the aircraft’s tips, and a haunting reminder of what fell here.”

According to the National Trust, the memorial sculpture was crafted by Surrey artist Roger Day, and was unveiled on the 70th anniversary of the crash. Both elements of the memorial are carved from ancient Surrey oak, positioned the same distance apart as the aircraft’s wingtips, with metal salvaged from the crash site incorporated within the sculpture.

Dr Howe also drew attention to another nearby structure. “Just beyond and you’ll find a mysterious WW2 structure,” she said. “Even historians aren’t too sure what it was used for.”

In the caption accompanying her post, she wrote: “40 minutes from London there’s a stretch of the North Downs where, in the space of a single walk, you pass a Victorian fort built to protect London from a French invasion that never came, a mysterious WW2 structure, a clearing where a US bomber crew were killed on their 13th mission together, and a WW2 training ground.

“Reigate is a genuinely beautiful walk, with wide open chalk downland, extraordinary views, ancient woodland. But the hidden military history adds so much to this place. You may not even notice these things if you didn’t know where to look!”