The UK is blessed with an abundance of picturesque villages that seem to have leapt straight from the pages of a novel or a film set. If you’re fortunate enough to reside in one of these idyllic spots, consider yourself truly lucky.
Whether nestled amidst rolling countryside, perched on a rugged coastline, or brimming with charming stone cottages, quaint cobbled streets and historic pubs, these are the types of communities many of us fantasise about calling home.
I’ve sought the opinions of writers across the UK to compile a list of the most stunning villages our country has to offer. From the highlands of Scotland to the beaches of Cornwall, and from the valleys of Wales to the gardens of Kent, we’ve left no stone unturned.
So, if you’re seeking inspiration for your next home (or perhaps just a delightful destination for a day trip or weekend getaway), these beautiful villages should provide ample ideas.
Do let us know in the comments section if you’re one of the lucky ones who calls one of these places home, or if there are any hidden gems we’ve overlooked.
1. Castleton, Derbyshire
As you navigate the dramatic limestone gorge of Winnats Pass, it becomes immediately apparent that something extraordinary awaits. Nestled within this steep-sided ravine lies Castleton, one of the Peak District’s most beloved and scenic villages.
It boasts a network of caves, including four show caverns open to the public, as well as the imposing ruins of Peveril Castle, constructed by the illegitimate son of William the Conqueror.
The charming village centre boasts a plethora of pubs, eateries, gift shops and jewellers selling the rare Blue John gemstone, found and mined exclusively in this area. Overlooking the village is Mam Tor, one of the most renowned hiking spots in the national park.
The beauty of the place is so overwhelming that locals are finding it hard to cope.
(Image: Getty)
2. Chilham, Kent
Chilham appears as though time has stood still with its medieval architecture and picturesque countryside, making it a favourite location for film and TV crews.
Situated along the serene Great Stour River, just nine miles from the historic city of Canterbury, Chilham resembles more of a medieval hamlet than a 2025 village. Its allure lies in its well-preserved old-style wooden beam buildings, topped with striking orange triangular roofs.
It has been the setting for numerous films and TV series, including Jane Austen’s Emma, Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple, Poirot, A Canterbury Tale and even Top Gear.
(Image: Getty)
3. Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend
This hamlet is tucked away in the south Wales countryside and boasts a collection of perfect thatched cottages alongside a 19th century stone church with a graveyard almost entirely blanketed in bluebells and snowdrops during spring.
It’s enchanting, like travelling back in time by at least several decades.
However, one particularly distinctive feature of the village is that all properties are leased through the Merthyr Mawr Estate, meaning they will never come onto the market.
Additionally, all thatched buildings are listed, preventing significant alterations.
(Image: Rob Browne)
4. Bibury, Gloucestershire
Victorian poet William Morris called Bibury “the most beautiful place in England” and it’s not difficult to see why. This village’s beauty has also inspired numerous paintings, with Arlington Row (pictured above) being the most iconic spot. This historic area features ancient cottages scattered along the river and winding street, often adorned with lush greenery and vibrant flowers.
However, this beauty comes at a price and the people who live there say they are now at “tipping point” because of the numbers of people descending on the village (reportedly as many as 20,000 in a single weekend). Villagers are now exploring ways to mitigate the impact on the village, which contains numerous listed buildings. Councillor Michelle Holt, of Bibury Parish Council, said: “The sheer volume is just overwhelming for the local community and we just don’t have the infrastructure to cope.”
When I visited, one thing put me off immediately.
(Image: Getty)