The Cotswolds is celebrated as one of the UK’s most picturesque regions, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Known for its charming villages, honey-colored stone cottages, and rolling countryside, it’s no wonder so many people love to visit and live here. While iconic villages such as Castle Combe, Broadway, and Bibury have long been regarded as the epitome of Cotswold beauty, a new contender has emerged to claim the spotlight.
Journalists Alice Reynolds and Amelia Neath, writing in The Independent, have crowned Kingham as the most beautiful village in the Cotswolds. Nestled southwest of Chipping Norton and southeast of Stow-on-the-Wold, Kingham charms visitors with its thatched cottages, peaceful village green, and historic Norman parish church. Despite its small size, the village boasts excellent amenities, including two acclaimed pubs: The Kingham Plough and The Wild Rabbit.
Reynolds and Neath highlight Kingham’s appeal as a serene retreat with “pickings of excellent food and drink,” making it a delightful destination for those seeking both beauty and hospitality. The Wild Rabbit, in particular, offers a unique experience as an 18th-century inn turned stylish hotel and restaurant.
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Kingham’s allure is not new. Lifestyle magazine Muddy Stilettos notes that the village “ticks all the boxes” with its pubs, local shop, quality schools, and a rare train station with a direct line to London. The village is also popular among celebrities, especially during the annual Big Feastival hosted by Blur’s Alex James, drawing stars from across the country.
Following Kingham in the ranking is Snowshill, a village praised for its idyllic and tranquil charm. Known for its celebrity connections, including the ownership of Snowshill Manor by King Henry VIII and visits from writers such as J.B. Priestley and Virginia Woolf, Snowshill stands out for its historical significance and serene landscape.
Broadway completes the top three, often called the “Jewel of the Cotswolds.” Renowned for its array of gift shops, galleries, museums, and restaurants, Broadway is a vibrant destination. Located about 50 miles from Silverstone, Britain’s motorsport hub, it also hosts a restaurant by celebrity chef James Martin. Visitors like Reach reporter Christopher Sharp have found Broadway lively and welcoming, especially on clear days when the village buzzes with tourists and locals alike.
Together, these villages showcase the timeless allure of the Cotswolds, with Kingham now taking its place as the most beautiful village in this stunning English region.