Things to do in Castle Combe: England’s Prettiest Village

Welcome to Castle Combe, a village often called the ‘Prettiest Village in England‘. Nestled in the Cotswolds, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Castle Combe is more than just a destination; it’s an experience steeped in history, beauty, and charm.

Discovering Castle Combe

Picture this: You’re wandering through Castle Combe, a village where time seems to have paused in the medieval era. It’s like stepping into a storybook, with each Cotswold stone building and narrow lane whispering tales from the 12th century. The centrepiece of this historical tapestry is the Market Cross, harking back to the village’s market town days. Nearby, St. Andrew’s Church stands regal, its ancient clock ticking through centuries. This serene village, shielded from the modern rush, is more than just a picturesque spot; it’s a creative muse, having charmed filmmakers who chose it as a backdrop for their cinematic tales. Despite its size, the community’s vibrancy shines through in local eateries serving hearty English fare and unique traditions like the honesty stall. Castle Combe isn’t just a visit; it’s an enchanting journey back in time, a chance to walk through living history and experience a tranquillity that’s rare in our fast-paced world.

About the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are like stepping into a storybook where every twist and turn in the road takes you to another picturesque scene. Imagine rolling hills that stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with sheep and framed by ancient hedgerows. That’s the Cotswolds for you, a slice of quintessentially English countryside that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

This area, known for its outstanding natural beauty, spans several counties including Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, and is famous for its distinctive golden-yellow limestone. This limestone, used in buildings throughout the area, gives the towns and villages a warm, honey-coloured glow, especially enchanting during sunset.

Speaking of towns, the Cotswolds is peppered with the most charming little villages and market towns. Places like Cirencester, Tetbury, and Burford aren’t just postcard-pretty; they’re steeped in history. You’ll find medieval churches, quaint thatched cottages, and old market squares that tell tales of a bygone era when the wool trade was the region’s lifeblood.

In short, the Cotswolds is more than just a region; it’s an experience. It’s the England of storybooks, where you can relax, unwind, and be swept away by its rustic charm and timeless beauty.

Filming in Castle Combe: A Cinematic Dream

Castle Combe is not just a feast for the eyes but also a darling of the film industry! This charming village has seen its fair share of Hollywood glamour. Let’s delve into some of the cinematic gems that have brought this quaint village to life on the big screen.

1. “Doctor Dolittle” (1967): The quirky tale of a vet who converses with animals, right here in the heart of Castle Combe. The 1967 classic ‘Doctor Dolittle’ turned the village into a movie set, imprinting its whimsical story on the cobbled streets and ancient structures.

2. “War Horse” (2011): Enter the world of Steven Spielberg’s ‘War Horse’, where Castle Combe’s rustic charm perfectly complemented the poignant narrative of this war drama.

3. “The Wolfman” (2010): Now, let’s add a dash of gothic to our village’s portfolio. ‘The Wolfman’, set in the Victorian era, used Castle Combe’s historical backdrop to create a hauntingly beautiful setting for this horror flick.

4. “Stardust” (2007): For those who love a sprinkle of magic and fantasy, ‘Stardust’ found its dreamy landscape in Castle Combe. The village’s enchanting aura was a perfect fit for this adventure film.

But that’s not all. Castle Combe has also played host to scenes from iconic TV shows like “Poirot” and “Robin of Sherwood”. Walking through the village, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped onto a film set, where every corner whispers a story from a bygone era or a fantasy tale.

How Long to Spend in Castle Combe?

While gorgeous, Castle Combe is tiny, and you only need to spend a few hours here to see everything. I’d recommend combining your visit with nearby magical places such as Bath or Lacock (where Harry Potter was filmed!) to make the most of your day.

If you want to spend more time relaxing in the countryside, I’d recommend staying at the Manor House Hotel (pictured above). It’s something out of a fairytale with 50 individually designed bedrooms and a stunning restaurant and grounds to explore, it’ll definitely elevate your quintessential English Countryside experience!

How to Get to Castle Combe?

1. Driving: If you’ve got a car, it’s a breeze. Castle Combe is about 5 miles from Chippenham and roughly 12 miles from Bath. Just hop on the M4, and you’re on your way. It’s a lovely drive, especially as you get closer and the countryside unfolds around you.
2. Train Journey: For those who prefer to leave the driving to someone else, catch a train to Chippenham. From London Paddington, it’s about an hour on the train. Once you’re in Chippenham, you can grab a taxi to Castle Combe. It’s about a 15-minute drive, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic views.
3. Bus Adventure: Buses aren’t as frequent, but they’re an option to save a bit of cash on taxis. Check the latest schedule for buses heading from Chippenham to Castle Combe. It’s a more laid-back way to travel, and you’ll see more of the local area.
4. Biking or Hiking: If you’re feeling energetic, why not bike or even walk from nearby towns? It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the stunning Cotswolds scenery. Just make sure you’re prepared for British weather!
5. Join a Tour: Not keen on sorting out the travel details? Plenty of guided tours from places like London, Bath, and Bristol include Castle Combe. It’s stress-free and often includes some extra information about the area you might not discover on your own.

Things to do in Castle Combe

1. Explore Historical Buildings: With its history dating back to the 12th century, Castle Combe is home to many historical buildings. Almost every structure here is protected and graded, giving you a glimpse into the past. The houses, predominantly thatched or made of caramel Cotswolds stone, appear as if you’re walking through a painting.
2. The Market Cross: Located in the village centre, the medieval Market Cross, dating back to the 14th century, is a unique architectural piece. It’s a great spot for homemade jams, pies, and local crafts when the market is held in the village hall.
3. St. Andrew’s Church: This beautiful parish church, originating from the 13th century, is a must-visit. Its faceless clock, built in the late 15th century, is considered one of the UK’s oldest working clocks.
4. Castle Combe Circuit: For those seeking a thrill, the Castle Combe Circuit offers an exciting mix of motor racing events and driving experiences. This 3 km-long circuit, once an airfield during WWII, is a hub for club-level car and motorbike races.
5. Walking Trails: The village is a starting point for various walking trails. These range from a peaceful stroll to Ford Village to more challenging trails like the Macmillan and Palladian Way. The surrounding countryside, rich in wildlife and botanically diverse meadows, is perfect for nature lovers.
6. Photography Opportunities: The village’s stunning architecture and natural scenery is a photographer’s dream. The iconic spot would be the old stone bridge and the view from By Brook, offering quintessential English village scenes.
7. Honesty Stall: Experience the unique honesty stall near the Market Cross, where you can help yourself to cakes and teas, paying whatever amount you feel appropriate.
8. Nearby Places: Don’t miss out on other stunning places nearby, such as Lacock Abbey and Dyrham Park, within a short drive from Castle Combe and offering rich historical insights.

Where to Eat in Castle Combe

• The Castle Inn: Here, you can enjoy traditional British fare in a pub that’s as full of stories as it is of flavour.
• The Manor House: For a more upscale experience, the Michelin-starred restaurant at The Manor House offers exquisite dishes in a stunning setting.
• The Old Stables Tea Room: This is the place to be for those afternoons when only a cup of tea will do. Their homemade cakes are a must-try!

So, there you have it – a sneak peek into the charming world of Castle Combe. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, a historical adventure, or simply a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy some fine food, Castle Combe is the perfect getaway. Pack your bags and set your sights on this Cotswold beauty for an unforgettable experience.