England is famous for its rural villages that look like they are frozen in time. Strolling through a traditional village with rural charm is an ideal way to escape the city and is a must-see if you are visiting Blighty (British slang for England) from abroad. Here is a list of 10 of the most picturesque locations that will get you packing your bags for a countryside journey.
1. Bibury, Gloucestershire
This picture perfect Cotswold village is filled with countryside scenes worth visiting. Arlington Row with typical stone cottages is a notable sight to see. Nearby there are remains of a hillside fort, which overlook the village. There are also teahouses and protected buildings, such as the Jacobean style Bibury Court, which are popular sights. The town is split in two by the River Coln, filled with trout and wildlife.
2. Ambleside, Lade District, Cumbria
This village is located within the Lake District National Park. Flowing under the well known Bridge House is the River Rothay, which feeds into 12 local watermills. The village has a considerable amount of pubs for its size, frequented by tourists and students from the local University of Cumbria. For more beautiful scenery, you can visit nearby Stock Ghyll Force, a 21-meter (69-foot) waterfall.
3. Lamberhurst, Kent
This quaint Kentish village is home to several historic houses, such as the Victorian Ladham Houses and the Georgian Finchcock House. Explore the rural Bedgebury Natural Pinetum and Forest or enjoy wine at Lamberhurst vineyard. The area also boasts the Sprivers Horsmonden garden and the romantic Scotney Castle, complete with a moat and formal gardens.
4. Castleton, Peak District National Park
This village is known as the Gem of the Peaks and is a popular tourist destination in the summer months. There are many attractions to keep you busy and the town has several holiday cottages for an extended stay. If you are not exploring the many walking paths that surround the hill-hugged town, you can visit the Peveril Castle or the Odin Mine. There are also four Castleton underground caves worth visiting.
5. Polperro, Cornwall
This scenic harbor village is a delightful choice for seeing the Cornish coast. No cars are allowed into the village, but you can walk or take a horse and cart ride. Explore the town’s local shops and homes, or walk along the river estuary. You can take a boat trip to a nearby island, where dolphins and seals can often be spotted. There is also a heritage museum where you can learn about the village’s fishing and smuggling history.