When visitors think of the Cotswolds, they often head to bustling hotspots like Bourton-on-the-Water or Stow-on-the-Wold, or perhaps explore Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm near Chipping Norton. Yet, just a few miles away lies Oddington: a lesser-known village consistently dubbed one of the UK’s poshest, despite its humble size and scarce amenities.
Nestled three miles from Stow-on-the-Wold and close to Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm and Hawkstone Brewery, Oddington also benefits from proximity to Daylesford Organic farm shop—a magnet for celebrities such as Eddie Redmayne, Ellie Goulding, and Princess Beatrice.
Oddington actually comprises two small adjoining villages, Upper and Lower Oddington. The population was recorded as 412 in the 2021 census, with estimates suggesting a slight decline to 378 in 2024. The village is so small that it does not have a traditional shop; its amenities include a single pub, The Fox at Oddington, a historic 12th-century Grade I-listed St Nicholas Church, and a village hall that offers post office services twice a week for limited hours.
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The postcard-perfect charm of Oddington explains its reputation as Gloucestershire’s poshest village, repeatedly recognized by outlets such as The Telegraph. But unlike more frequented neighbours, Oddington offers quiet rather than crowds. Locals suggest that its “posh” title largely stems from its location near Daylesford Organic and Soho Farmhouse, along with the presence of wealthy homeowners and celebrity visitors.
Longtime resident Carol Thin, 75, reflects on the village’s appeal: “It’s the Daylesford connection that puts us on the map. The village is busy because of that, but it’s not a thoroughfare. The Fox and the church are the main attractions here.” Carol notes the mix of residents, emphasizing that while property prices are high, the community includes people from many backgrounds and is welcoming.
Anne Every, 80, who was born in Oddington, recalls a quieter past: “When I was young, you could sit in the road and not see a car. Now it feels more like a racetrack with tourists and Airbnbs. Wealthy newcomers often renovate properties as weekend homes, attracting celebrities. Despite changes, it remains a lovely peaceful place with friendly neighbours.”
Erika Cook, who moved here two years ago, echoes this sentiment. “Oddington is posh, yes, but people are very friendly and down-to-earth. The expectation of celebrity sightings is overblown. Most residents blend in wearing similar countryside attire,” she says. Erika, who rents her home, expresses frustration over soaring house prices, some reaching £600k to £700k for former council properties, yet admits she wouldn’t move away—even if she won the lottery.
Currently, just five properties are listed for sale in Oddington, ranging from £450,000 for a two-bedroom home to over £2 million for a large cottage. Neighbour Neil Orton, who has lived in upper Oddington for a few years, appreciates the village’s beauty but questions its “posh” label given the lack of amenities. “There’s no shop, no curry delivery on a quiet night, and even the road doesn’t have a name. For bigger shopping trips, you’re driving 45 minutes or more,” Neil says humorously.
Another neighbour values the peacefulness despite the distance from larger towns, emphasizing community efforts to maintain village spirit. “It’s peaceful, pretty, and well connected to London via Kingham Station. People here work hard to keep a close-knit community,” they share.
Beyond the hype, Oddington offers a rare glimpse of tranquil village life in the Cotswolds. For those passing through on their way to Daylesford, the chance to stroll past honey-hued stone cottages, visit the historic St Nicholas Church, and enjoy a pint at The Fox provides a charming detour from the usual crowded spots. Oddington may be small and understated, but it holds a unique place in the heart of the Cotswolds.