Explore six quaint British villages offering an authentic experience and breathtaking landscapes for your escape
Discovering England's Hidden Gems: Picturesque Villages Within Reach of London
Explore the charm and tranquillity of England's most beautiful villages, all within a 5-hour drive or train journey from London. From the Cotswolds to the countryside of Kent, these idyllic locations offer a unique blend of historic architecture, natural beauty, and peaceful village life.
Snowshill, Gloucestershire
Nestled in the Cotswold Hills, Snowshill is a village that exudes peace and quiet. Snowshill Manor, a museum filled with eclectic curiosities collected by Charles Wade, is a must-visit. In winter, the village is often wrapped in mist and frost, while in summer, its gardens flutter with butterflies.
Broadway, Worcestershire
Known as the 'gateway to the Cotswolds', Broadway is one of southern England's most refined and elegant villages. Its high street is lined with golden-hued Georgian buildings, offering artisan shops, cosy tearooms, and discreet art galleries. Broadway Tower, an 18th-century folly, provides panoramic views across no fewer than sixteen English counties.
Woburn, Bedfordshire
Northwest of St Albans, Woburn offers a picturesque rural English village atmosphere. The historic Woburn Abbey, its gardens, a deer sanctuary, and a safari park make it a popular destination for visitors.
Buckland, Oxfordshire
With Anglo-Saxon roots, Buckland is a tranquil village with honey-coloured stone homes, some thatched roofs, and historic buildings influenced by the Rothschild family. St Mary’s Church here is Grade I listed, with medieval glass and parts dating back to the 12th century.
Villages in the Cotswolds
Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Castle Combe, Malmesbury, Burford, and Broadway are some of the Cotswolds' famous villages. Known for their quintessential English charm, historic stone cottages, lovely rivers, quaint pubs, and scenic walks, they offer a step back into the past.
Deal, Kent
Although a town, Deal has a village-like coastal charm. Located about 1 hour 10 minutes from London by train, it offers a stylish seaside atmosphere with historic streets and a nice promenade.
Tyntesfield, Somerset
Tyntesfield House, a neo-Gothic masterpiece, is set within lush, expansive gardens. Managed by the National Trust, it offers an enchanting glimpse into Victorian England. The surrounding areas offer walking paths that wind through woodland, meadows, and quiet, authentic hamlets.
These beautiful villages and towns offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of London, providing a combination of historic architecture, beautiful natural surroundings, and peaceful English village life. Whether you're seeking a day trip or a longer stay, these hidden gems are sure to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Engage in the enchantment of English countryside lifestyle, as you visit home-and-garden gems like Snowshill Manor in Snowshill, Gloucestershire, and Tyntesfield House in Somerset, both offering a step back into Victorian England. For travelers seeking picturesque rural vibes, consider home-bases in villages such as Broadway in Worcestershire, Woburn in Bedfordshire, Buckland in Oxfordshire, or even the coastal village-like town of Deal in Kent. These idyllic locations, including a range from the Cotswolds to the countryside of Kent, provide captivating experiences with historic architecture, tranquil village life, and scenic beauty, making them the perfect home-and-garden escapes from the en-vols of London's hustle and bustle.
