25 of the Prettiest Villages in the UK
The UK is home to some of the most picturesque villages and towns, each bursting with charm and history. Whether you’re after scenic walks, cosy cafes, or historical sites, these villages provide the perfect escape. Here’s a guide to some of the prettiest villages and towns across the UK that you won't want to miss, along with convenient camping options nearby.
Discover the prettiest villages in England | Wales | Scotland and Northern Ireland.
1. Castle Combe, Wiltshire
When people think of gorgeous villages in the UK, Castle Combe is usually the first village that springs to mind. Castle Combe features idyllic Cotswold stone cottages and a stunning rural backdrop. Its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a favourite for photographers and film productions.
If you’re exploring the gorgeous scenery surrounding Castle Combe, camping is a great option to fully make the best of the great outdoors. Our Devizes Club Site, only a 32-minute drive away, is a charming secluded campsite by the Avon and Kennet Canal.
2. Beaulieu, Hampshire
Nestled in the New Forest, Beaulieu is known for its charming streets, historic houses, and the famous Beaulieu Palace House. The village's peaceful surroundings and beautiful river views create a serene atmosphere perfect for leisurely exploration. If you want to be close to the stunning southern coast, our Verwood Club Site acts as the perfect place for exploration.
3. Hawkshead, Cumbria
Hawkshead is a charming village located in the Lake District. Known for its picturesque streets and historic buildings, Hawkshead is steeped in literary history, having been home to famous poets like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter: You can explore Wordsworth’s cottage and the World of Beatrix attraction to explore the fascinating history of the area.
4. Tenby, Pembrokeshire
With its colourful houses lining the harbour and beautiful sandy beaches, Tenby is a popular seaside destination. The village's medieval walls and cobbled streets add to its charm, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. There are dozens of camping options nearby that give you the chance to explore the stunning coastal views.
5. Hayfield, Derbyshire
In the Peak District, Hayfield offers stunning landscapes and charming village life. Nestled at the foot of Kinder Scout, it’s a great base for exploring hiking trails and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Our Hayfield Club Site is located in this village, making it the perfect place to stay to explore the surrounding area.
6. Alfriston, East Sussex
Nestled in the South Downs National Park, Alfriston is known for its charming streets and historic buildings, including the famous Clergy House. One of its most notable landmarks is the 14th-century St. Andrew's Church, famous for its striking wooden bell tower. If you want to camp nearby, our Norman’s Bay Club Site is conveniently located just 23 minutes away by car.
7. Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire
With its narrow, winding streets and dramatic cliffs, Robin Hood’s Bay is a charming fishing village that once served as a haven for secret trade along the Yorkshire coast. Today, its stunning coastal views and rich history invite dozens of visitors to explore this village. Our Scarborough Club Site is a suitable camping option for those who want to stay nearby as it’s only 30 minutes away by car.
8. Haworth, Yorkshire
Located in West Yorkshire, this village is famous for its connection to the Brontë sisters, Haworth is a charming village with cobbled streets and a rich literary history. Visitors can explore the Brontë Parsonage Museum and enjoy scenic walks on the moors. Our Clitheroe Club Site is the closest campsite to this location.
9. Bakewell, Derbyshire
Famous for its delicious Bakewell pudding, this charming town is located in the heart of the Peak District. With its beautiful riverside setting, quaint shops, and scenic walks, Bakewell is a delightful place to explore. Stay at our Bakewell Club Site for easy access to this village.
10. East Linton, East Lothian
East Linton is a charming village known for its historical buildings and beautiful countryside. One notable feature of East Linton is the stunning nearby John Muir Way, a long-distance walking route that offers breathtaking views and connects various landscapes, so make sure to take your walking boots! The nearby River Tyne adds to its scenic charm, making it an ideal spot for a quiet getaway. Our Dunbar campsite is just a stone’s throw away from this village – just a short 12-minute drive away.
11. Malpas, Cheshire
Malpas is an endearing village with quaint streets, historic buildings, and beautiful countryside. Its charming shops and welcoming atmosphere make it a lovely place to visit. The village features a mix of historic buildings, including the impressive St. Oswald’s Church, which dates back to the 12th century. Closely located to the iconic Delamere Forest, our Delamere Forest Club Site acts as a good base to explore the dreamy surroundings.
12. Bibury, Cotswolds
Bibury is a picturesque village located in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, often celebrated as one of England’s most beautiful villages. Known for its charming stone cottages, particularly the iconic Arlington Row, Bibury features delightful honey-coloured buildings that date back to the 14th century. This iconic village has been featured in classics such as ‘Bridget Jones’ Diary’, so if you somehow haven’t already, you need to visit this village. Our Chipping Norton Club Site is a perfect choice nearby if you want to stay in the area.
13. Hambledon, Buckinghamshire
Nestled in the rolling Surrey Hills National Landscape, Hambledon features a mix of historic buildings, including traditional cottages and a lovely church, St. Peter's, which dates back to the 12th century.
14. Lavenham, Suffolk
Lavenham is renowned for its medieval architecture and picturesque streets. Lavenham is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in the country and features charming timber-framed houses, many dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. If you’re looking for a spot to relax after exploring the village, Tatum’s Teahouse is a great choice offering delightful homemade cakes and beverages.
15. Lacock, Wiltshire
Lacock is famous for its well-preserved historical buildings and charming streets. Lacock has served as a popular filming location for various films and television series, including the ‘Harry Potter’ films and the BBC's adaptation of ‘Pride and Prejudice.’ Located in Wiltshire, there are plenty of camping options nearby, with our Devizes Club Site just a 10-minute drive away.
16. Clovelly, Devon
Clovelly is a unique, car-free fishing village with steep cobbled streets leading to a picturesque harbour. Its unspoiled beauty and breathtaking coastal views make it a must-visit destination. If you want a break from exploring, it’s worth visiting a charming little cafe like the Clovelly Village Tea Rooms.
17. Helmsley, Yorkshire
Helmsley is a delightful market town with a stunning castle, quaint shops, and beautiful gardens. Surrounded by the North York Moors, it’s an ideal base for hiking and exploring the beautiful countryside, making it a prime location for campers. Our Slingsby Club Site is just a short 15-minute drive away.
18. Upper and Lower Slaughter, Cotswolds
While the Cotswolds are famous for their quaint villages, these are certainly hidden gems. These twin villages are known for their idyllic beauty, featuring picturesque stone cottages and scenic riverside walks. They’re perfect for a leisurely day of exploration and relaxation and possibly enjoy a peaceful picnic.
19. Whitby, North Yorkshire
Whitby is famous for its dramatic cliffs, historic abbey, and charming harbour. This coastal town has a rich maritime history and offers visitors a delightful mix of culture, history, and stunning seaside views. Our Scarborough Club Site is a fantastic option if you want to stay nearby, ideal for exploring Yorkshire’s dramatic coastline and untamed moors.
20. Lustleigh, Devon
If you love charming traditional Cottages, Lustleigh, Often referred to as a ‘chocolate box’ village due to its thatched cottages, has to be on your itinerary. This picturesque village in Devon features traditional cottages and beautiful countryside views, so camping is a good way to make the most of the natural beauty.
21. Stow-on-the-Wold, Cotswolds
Featuring another location in the Cotswolds, Stow-on-the-Wold is a quintessential Cotswold village known for its historic market square and traditional stone buildings. Visitors can enjoy unique shops, cosy tea rooms, and lovely countryside walks in this picturesque setting. Chipping Norton campsite is a short 16-minute drive away from this location.
22. Portmeirion, Gwynedd
This colourful, Italianate village is famous for its whimsical architecture and stunning coastal views. Portmeirion is a unique destination where visitors can explore beautiful gardens, charming shops, and breathtaking scenery. There’s plenty to do and see, so it’s worth checking out our handy guide to visiting Portmeirion. If you want to stay nearby, our Llanystumdwy Club Site is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and is a 20-minute drive away from Portmeirion.
23. Beddgelert, Snowdonia
This enchanting village in Snowdonia is known for its picturesque setting, nestled among stunning mountains and rivers. Did you know Beddgelert is named after a legendary dog, Gelert, known for his loyalty? Beddgelert is a gateway to beautiful hiking trails and offers a charming atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Our Llanystumdwy Club Site is 25 minutes away from this charming village.
24. Glencoe Village, Argyll and Bute
Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is steeped in natural beauty. The Glencoe and North Lorn Folk Museum is worth visiting if you want to learn about the the history of Glencoe. Outdoor lovers often flock to Glencoe Village for its proximity to excellent hiking, climbing, and skiing opportunities. The location of our Glencoe Club Site makes it an ideal base for exploring the area, which is also renowned for birdwatching.
25. Strangford, Northern Ireland
Strangford is a well-known village due to its proximity to Strangford Lough, one of the prettiest lakes in the UK. Its historical ferry crossing to Portaferry and its popularity as a base for exploring the surrounding natural areas. Strangford Lough area is a popular destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those looking to experience the beauty of the area. Our Delamount Country Park campsite is only an 18-minute drive away.
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