The UK’s most beautiful village where no new homes have been built for 400 years
- UK Hidden Gems
- Nov 11, 2025
- 2 min read
Hidden in the heart of Wiltshire, within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, lies this village, which is often described as one of the prettiest places in the UK.
Frequently called a classic “chocolate box” village, it looks just like the scenes that once graced the lids of traditional sweet tins.
As well as being beautiful, this place has a fascinating history that locals have worked hard to protect.
No new houses have been built in the centre since the 1600s, meaning every home you see is more than 400 years old.
While the village is now carefully preserved, that wasn’t always the case, the castle that once stood nearby, which gave the village its name, has long since disappeared.
The surrounding area has been settled since Roman times, with archaeologists uncovering the remains of a Roman villa just three miles away from the village.
Castle Combe itself was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, but the castle wasn’t built until the 12th century. Over the years, it was destroyed, and today only traces of its old stonework and earth foundations remain.
Visitors often say a trip to Castle Combe feels like stepping back in time.
One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: “One of my favourite villages, it feels completely untouched by time. It’s peaceful and so pretty. I’d love to come back and stay longer next time.”
Another added: “Castle Combe looks like something from a postcard. The golden stone cottages and narrow lanes shine in the sunlight, creating a charm that stays with you long after you leave.”
A third review read: “Time has stood still in this lovely little place. It’s without doubt the most picturesque village in England. It felt like walking into a Jane Austen novel – I half expected Mr Darcy to ride past on horseback.”
It’s no surprise that Castle Combe’s timeless beauty has made it a favourite filming location for both movies and TV shows.
The village has appeared in several well-known productions, including the 2007 fantasy film Stardust, Steven Spielberg’s 2011 war epic War Horse, and the 1980s TV series Robin of Sherwood, among many others.
With its unspoilt streets, honey-coloured cottages and peaceful atmosphere, Castle Combe truly lives up to its reputation as the prettiest village in England.
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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