Hidden gem village is completely unspoilt and boasts a little-known claim to fame
- UK Hidden Gems
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
This Cotswold village is every bit as charming as its leafy neighbours, has its own unique look and a surprising claim to fame that many people do not know about.
Often overlooked in favour of the more famous nearby spots, it is actually one of the larger villages in the area, yet it still feels completely unspoilt, making it a true hidden gem.
Its honey-coloured cottages and twisting streets tell the story of its long link with the silk industry, which flourished here during the 18th and 19th centuries.
But this is only a small part of what makes the village so interesting.
Behind its peaceful appearance lies a rich industrial past, a lively community, and a rather unexpected connection to television.
Powered by the brook that winds through it, Blockley's old mills once bustled with workers producing fine silk that was sent all over the country, reports Gloucestershire Live.
These days, the village is better known for something quite different. It doubles as the main filming location for the BBC’s Father Brown series, which follows a Roman Catholic priest who solves crimes in the fictional village of Kembleford in the early 1950s.
Fans of the show will instantly recognise the Church of St Peter and St Paul, which appears as St Mary’s Church on screen, while the vicarage beside it becomes Father Brown’s home.
The village streets often appear in scenes too, lending their timeless charm to the detective adventures.
But Blockley is far more than a film backdrop. It is home to around 2,000 people and has a friendly, welcoming feel.
The Blockley Café sits at the heart of the village, serving tasty, locally sourced dishes, while Mr Watson’s Café, with its perfect 5.0 Tripadvisor score, is a hit with both locals and visitors.
If you are after a traditional countryside pub, The Great Western Arms offers hearty British favourites in a cosy setting.
For those staying longer, the Crown Hotel and the delightful Snugborough Mill B&B make excellent bases for exploring this lovely corner of the Cotswolds.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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