Forget about Santorini in Greece, Positano in Italy or Banff in Canada – they haven’t got anything on the UK's most picturesque villages.
OK, so we may be biased – but whether they’re lined with quaint chocolate-box cottages or backed by spectacular forests, UK villages can be truly stunning. From the Peak District to the Isle of Mull in Scotland, discover our top ten most picturesque villages in the UK below and plan a visit to one of these enchanting locations.
In this guide to pretty villages in the UK, we've included our top ten destinations plus a charming cottage in each location we think you'll love. For even more holiday inspiration, click the button below to see our full collection of cottages.
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Bibury, Cotswolds
Bibury was once described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England” and it’s easy to see why. The typical Cotswolds village is home to Arlington Row, one of the most photographed locations in the country, if not the world. This area was also featured on a Christmas postage stamp set by Royal Mail, a testament to its ‘picture-postcard’ appeal.
Where to stay?
Earl Grey Cottage, Bibury
Sleeps 2 + 1 dog
Set in the heart of the Coln Valley with views across the rolling countryside, Earl Grey Cottage is perfect for a romantic escape to explore some of the area’s quintessential Cotswold villages.
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Top places to stay in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is renowned for its quaint, fairy-tale towns and villages, all showcasing the region's classic honey-hued stone, making it one of the UK's prettiest places for a UK staycation. Discover ten of the best places to stay in the Cotswolds with our guide.
Best places to stay in the Cotswolds
Polperro, Cornwall
Polperro is one of the prettiest fishing villages in Cornwall, with a charming harbour and sparkling crystal water. Adorned with lovely cottages and with its prime location by the sea, it’s easy to see why Polperro is so special. Enjoy wandering through the winding traffic-free streets, explore the village’s former smuggling history or simply soak up the unbeatable views of the Cornish coastline.
Where to stay?
Four Seasons, Polperro
Sleeps 4
This stylish and spacious barn conversion is situated on a tranquil farm close to Polperro. With on-site leisure facilities and a children’s playground, Four Seasons is a superb choice for families.
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The best destinations in Cornwall
Beautiful Cornwall has always been such a popular place for a UK holiday – and it's no surprise as the county is bursting with stunning fishing villages, market towns and impressive sandy beaches. Explore our favourite Cornish destinations in our guide below.
Top places to stay in Cornwall
Burnsall, Yorkshire
Burnsall is a pretty village in Lower Wharfedale, near Grassington in the Yorkshire Dales. Set beside an ancient packhorse bridge over the windy River Wharfe, and with a spectacular fellside backdrop, Burnsall is a truly picturesque village. The 84-mile Dales Way passes through the village centre, making it a destination for walkers from around the world.
Where to stay?
The Old Post Office Burnsall, Burnsall
Sleeps 8 + 2 dogs
Nestled in a tranquil countryside setting, this traditional farmhouse cottage boasts lovely character features, a honey-coloured stone facade, and wonderful Dales views all around. Relax surrounded by elegant interiors or soak up the sunshine in the conservatory during your stay at The Old Post Office Burnsall.
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Where to stay in beautiful Yorkshire
Escape to Yorkshire's impressive countryside or its coast for an eclectic mix of charming market towns and red-roofed seaside villages to stay in. Just click the button below and discover more of the best places to stay in Yorkshire with our wonderful guide.
Best places to stay in Yorkshire
Cartmel, Lake District
The unspoilt village of Cartmel is steeped in history, with its most famous landmark being its 12th-century priory. But most tourists head straight to the village shop which has become the spiritual home of the sticky toffee pudding. Cartmel is fast becoming a foodie destination in the Lake District, thanks also to its coffee and award-winning sheep’s cheese.
Where to stay?
Priory Close House, Cartmel
Sleeps 10 + 2 dogs
Located opposite Cartmel’s imposing Norman priory, the five-star Priory Close House offers chic and spacious accommodation for ten guests.
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Fantastic Lake District destinations
From towering fells to vast bodies of water, the Lake District is one of the UK's most sought-after holiday destinations. Check out our favourite places to visit in this magical holiday location in our guide by clicking the button below.
Best places to stay in the Lake District
Clovelly, North Devon
With white cottages lining the cobbled streets, and the only traffic jams coming from donkeys and sledges, the timeless coastal village of Clovelly is truly unique. Take the 400ft cliff path leading down to the sparkling harbour where the fishing industry is still thriving. Surrounded by stunning countryside too, Clovelly is not only one of Devon's most beautiful villages, but one of the UK’s prettiest villages too.
Where to stay?
House Martin At The Retreat, Clovelly
Sleeps 4
One of three converted barns with far-reaching countryside and sea views, House Martin At The Retreat is just 2.5 miles from Clovelly. The private hot tub is the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring the beautiful Devon coastline.
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Lynmouth, Devon
Backed by lush green trees and hills, Lynmouth – along with its twin village Lynton – is often called ‘little Switzerland’ due to its evocative hillside location. Lynmouth is nestled in a deep valley where Exmoor meets the sea and has a rich maritime heritage as well as independent shops and pubs. Its peace and tranquillity truly must be felt to be believed.
Where to stay?
Stone Cottage Lynton, Lynton
Sleeps 5 + 1 dog
Overlooking Lynmouth Bay, Stone Cottage Lynton is just a short stroll from the centre of Lynmouth’s sister village, Lynton. Take the Victorian cliff railway down the hill to explore Lynmouth, then put your feet up beside the warming wood burner and relax when you return.
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Top places to stay in Devon
This huge county is home to a myriad of excellent places to visit with a real mix of landscapes to discover. Go walking on the wild and windswept national parks of Exmoor or Dartmoor or spend lazy days dining and exploring the beaches along either of the two coastlines. Get inspired with our list of ten top places to stay in Devon.
Best places to stay in Devon
Tobermory, Isle of Mull, Scotland
Okay, so it’s technically a town, but Tobermory on the Isle of Mull in Scotland is too pretty not to include. The bustling harbour is dotted with buildings painted every colour under the sun – some of which you may recognise from the children’s programme Balamory. The town is home to eclectic shops and restaurants while the island itself is a prime destination for wildlife watching.
Where to stay?
The Seashell - Acharacle
Sleeps 2
This stylish, circular property with a tufty grass roof is architect-designed to make the most of the stunning views over glistening Loch Sunart. Its curved frontage creates a wonderful, bright living space, and its quirky features make it an unusual and endearing place to stay. Head 10.5 miles down the road to Kilchoan to hop on the ferry to Tobermory - a pleasant 35-minute trip.
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Wonderful places to stay in Scotland
With epic and impressive landscapes all across the country, Scotland is bursting with places to stay for every kind of holiday. Whether you're looking for a city break, a walking adventure or a beach holiday, you'll find it in our guide to the best places to stay in Scotland.
Best places to stay in Scotland
Stromness, Orkney, Scotland
The charming old stone town of Stromness can be found on The Mainland in the Orkney archipelago. While the seaport has been unchanged for centuries, the town is refreshingly cosmopolitan. Artists and writers have long found inspiration in the narrow streets and the town’s abundance of crafts, textiles, jewellery and galleries a testament to their creativity.
Where to stay?
Neuketineuks, Orkney
Sleeps 2
Situated in the heart of Kirkwall (13.5 miles from Stromness), Neuketineuks is a wonderful choice for those looking to experience the tranquillity of the Orkney Islands. The colourful harbour is just a short stroll away where you can hop aboard an array of boat trips or dine at a waterfront restaurant.
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Top things to see in Scotland
From the Highlands to the Borders, Scotland's remarkable landscape is bursting with ancient heritage sites, sparkling lochs and magical beauty spots – it can be hard to know where to begin when planning your holiday itinerary. We've put together a list of what we think are the most inspiring things to see in Scotland to get you started.
Best things to see in Scotland
Plockton, Scotland
Often called the ‘jewel of the Highlands’, Plockton has a spectacular waterfront setting overlooking the glistening Loch Carron. Within a sheltered bay lined by charming white cottages, the village has a dramatic backdrop provided by the distinctive craggy hills of the Highlands.
Where to stay in Plockton?
New Lodge, Strathcarron
Sleeps 18 + 2 dogs
The ideal location for a celebratory getaway with outdoorsy family and friends, this huge lodge comes with two all-weather tennis courts and a fabulous barn which features snooker and pool, table football and table tennis. Take in the outstanding views, and revel in the abundance of features that include wood burners, a home-cinema system and a large lawned garden. At 14.5 miles from Plockton, a day trip is definitely on the cards.
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Portmeirion, Wales
The quirky and enchanting private village of Portmeirion was created by the architect Clough Williams-Ellis in the style of an Italian village, with the aim of demonstrating how a natural site can be developed without destroying it. Safe to say, its abundance of natural beauty and sympathetically developed architecture makes Portmeirion in Wales a unique and beautiful place to visit.
Where to stay in Portmeirion?
Bryncir House, near Porthmadog
Sleeps 2 + 1 dog
This traditional Welsh terraced cottage boasts far-reaching views towards the mountains of Snowdonia/Eryri from its elevated position. Bryncir House is just 2 miles from Portmeirion and is a romantic setting for a getaway with your loved one. Sit out on the decking or head down to the sunken garden to enjoy a glass of fizz as the sun sets.
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Our favourite places to stay in Wales
If you've set your sights on beautiful Wales for a holiday, we've dedicated an entire guide to top destinations across the country. From cities to fishing villages, discover ten more of the best places to stay in Wales with our guide.
Places to stay in Wales
Stay in a holiday cottage in the UK
If you're looking for even more inspiration for where to go on your next UK holiday, click the button below to browse our full collection of holiday cottages in the UK. You'll find everything from cosy retreats for couples to fun-filled homes for the whole family.
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