British culture is famous around the world. With iconic TV shows like Poldark, the Tudors and Downton Abbey showing off Britain’s best cultural aspects to international audiences, more and more visitors are coming to the UK to experience traditional heritage. And what better way to get a feel for it than exploring some of the UK’s prettiest villages.
Every location on this list is amongst the most rustic, picturesque places to visit in the whole of the British Isles. Explore traditional houses and beautiful features like castles, windmills, and bridges as you soak in the vibes of quiet country life.
Let’s explore some of the most beautiful towns and villages the UK has to offer.
Shaftsbury, Dorset
Made famous as a starring location in BBC’s new Poldark series, this gorgeous little hamlet nestled on a hillside near Salisbury has one of the most beautiful and iconic streets in all of the UK. Gold Hill is famous for its rambling cobbled slopes and thatched houses. Make sure you bring a camera!
Clovelly, Devon
This tiny fishing village is a real hidden gem. Perched on the side of a cliff, looking almost like it will topple into the Irish Sea at any minute, Clovelly is a unique, memorable location that leaves visitors with a sense of romance.
Castle Combe, Wiltshire
The Cotswolds is one of Britain’s most beautiful rural areas. So when we say Castle Combe is one of the prettiest villages in the district, we hope you’ll understand our meaning; its stone houses and bridges are the very definitions of quaint.
Portmeirion, Gwynedd
Portmeirion is unlike any other place you could visit in the UK. Designed by a visionary architect to look like an Italian Village, it’s a special place full of color and imagination. It’s also famous for its connection to The Beatles, who used to rent out the whole village to host parties here.
Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire
Just over the hillside from it’s more famous big brother – Whitby – Robin Hood’s bay is a rustic seaside town with stunning views of the Yorkshire coastline. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to do some long, relaxing country walks before coming home for a warm meal and a pint.
Conwy, County Borough
Overlooked by the immaculate Conwy Castle, this sizeable Welsh village is a treasure trove of fascinating traditional architecture and natural beauty. Make sure to visit the nearby Bodnant Gardens and Conwy Nature Reserve.
Portree, Isle of Skye
The brightly colored quayside houses of this minute hamlet are some of the most photographed in Britain. Portree is one of the most beautiful places to have as a base to explore the natural wonders of the Isle of Skye.
Port Sunlight, Merseyside
Even the name of this lovely village is quaint. Its red-brick buildings and iconic bridge reflect a depth of architectural and historical interest that will keep visitors amused for days.
Chilham, Kent
Famous for its Tudor cottages and stunning canals, Chilham is also home to a beautiful country estate to rival even Downton Abbey’s fantastic sets.
If you’d like some more advice on the best rural spots to visit in the UK, get in touch with us here at Evan Evans via our contact page. We’re always excited to help you get the most out of your visit.
