Castle Combe, often called the ‘prettiest village in the Cotswolds’, is an idyllic destination in Wiltshire. With honey-coloured stone cottages, a medieval market cross, 13th-century St Andrew’s Church and a charming 14th-century bridge over the Bybrook River, it exudes timeless beauty. The village, frequently featured in films – think Stephen Spielberg’s War Horse and the original Dr Doolittle film, offers a tranquil escape with cozy tearooms, scenic walks and a glimpse into England’s rich history.

The rather bizarrely named twin villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter, whose name from Old English means ‘muddy place’, are linked by the duck-filled River Eye. Lower Slaughter’s mill, recorded in 1086, is most photogenic and well worth a short stop to meander. Upper Slaughter is one of 14 “doubly sainted” or “thankful” villages with no WWI or WWII losses. Park your car in Bourton-on-the-Water and enjoy a scenic walk between the villages.

Artist-writer William Morris declared picturesque Bibury, with its string of stone cottages – Arlington Row, “the most beautiful village in England”. Hugging the River Coln, the houses, now owned by the National Trust, were built as monastic wool stores, but later converted to weavers’ cottages. You can catch your own trout at the Bibury Trout Farm, or better still, buy the makings for a picnic and enjoy the tranquil space. But go early, parking is always at a premium.

Known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, Bourton-on-Water charms with its stone bridges over the River Windrush. You can explore the Model Village, Cotswold Motoring Museum and Birdland Park and enjoy cream teas in quaint cafés or scenic riverside walks. Check out hand-crafted scents such as English Rose and Amber Noir at Cotswolds Perfumery in its 300-year-old shop. The countryside surrounding Bourton is a rambler’s paradise with numerous footpaths crisscrossing the gentle landscape.

The very central 17th Century Market House is a lovely backdrop for the thriving market town of Tetbury selling local produce, meat, fish and plants on Wednesdays, bric-a-brac and books on Saturdays. Main Long Street features beautiful architecture from the 16th and 17th Centuries that houses boutiques, providores and design galleries, including the Highgrove Shop of gifts and homewares, inspired by King Charles III’s Highgrove Garden nearby. It’s a great place to buy your Cotswolds’ souvenirs – profits supporting the King’s Foundation that creates sustainable communities.

A real hidden gem, this picturesque village is famous for the romantic ruins of Minster Lovell Hall, a 15th-century manor beside the River Windrush. You can explore the ruins, enjoy peaceful riverside walks, ponder the still turning waterwheel or admire myriad thatched cottages. The village is ideal for countryside strolls and picnics. Stop by the historic Old Swan pub for a traditional meal in a cozy setting.

Deemed the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’, this historic market town stretches uphill with its photograph-worthy string of beautiful stone buildings and independent shops. Stroll along the picturesque High Street, visit St. John the Baptist Church and discover local history at the Tolsey Museum. Look for Manfred Schotten’s 15th century antiques shop specialising in antique sporting gear and memorabilia; his collection is considered the best in the world.

Charming Stow-on-the-Wold is a market town renowned for its dozens of antique shops, charming stone buildings, and rich history. Perched on a hill, it boasts a lively atmosphere with cozy tea rooms, historic village stocks and the oldest inn in England which dates from 947. Christopher Clark Antiques fascinates with its fabulous 18th, 19th and 20th Century campaign furniture, reputedly the largest collection in the world.

Known as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” Broadway features beautiful stone buildings, houses with thatched roofs, boutique shops and galleries, cozy pubs and charming cafés. Both King Charles I and Oliver Cromwell are reputed to have patronised the historic Lygon Arms hotel that continues to offer excellent accommodation and country squire hospitality. Climb Broadway Tower for stunning views over the countryside.