When your travel plans keep you close to home, some of the finest treasures can be found right in England’s backyard. The Cotswolds, renowned for its honey-hued stone cottages, winding country lanes, and rolling hills dotted with grazing sheep, has long been a favorite staycation destination.
This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides an idyllic refuge from city life and the screen-obsessed world. Yet, famous villages like Castle Combe, Bibury, and Bourton-on-the-Water have grown busy with visitors, sometimes detracting from the peaceful countryside charm.
If you’re after a quieter, more genuine Cotswolds experience, the charming village of Stanton on the edge of the Cotswold hills in Gloucestershire is waiting to welcome you. Often described as “outstandingly beautiful,” Stanton’s golden stone houses have changed little over centuries, evoking the sense of stepping back in time.
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Unlike crowded tourist hubs, Stanton offers serene seclusion with only occasional local traffic, a few friendly faces, and the gentle company of farm animals. Imagine savoring a cup of tea or a pint by a roaring fire in a cozy village pub—this timeless atmosphere is exactly what Stanton promises.
A highlight is the historic St Michael and All Angels church, home to remarkable medieval wall paintings dating from the early 14th century. The pews bear the marks of generations of shepherds who once tethered their dogs there, adding layers to the village’s rich heritage.
Surrounding Stanton are breathtaking countryside walks that reveal the Cotswolds’ natural beauty. The village also makes an ideal base for day trips to larger towns with more attractions.
After exploring, the local Mount Inn beckons from a hilltop just outside the village centre. This inviting pub serves regional specialties and craft beers with stunning views overlooking Stanton below. Nearby, The Queens Head in Sedgeberrow and the bustling food scene in Broadway offer additional dining choices, from tea and cake to an evening pint.
Families and couples will find plenty of welcoming bed and breakfasts and holiday rentals in Stanton, perfect for a weekend getaway or longer retreat. Despite its small size, Stanton has earned high praise, featuring on lists of England’s most picturesque villages by the Daily Telegraph, the Huffington Post, and even crowned England’s most beautiful village by Sykes Cottages.
For those seeking the quintessential Cotswolds charm, Stanton offers a quieter, timeless alternative where history, nature, and local hospitality combine to create a truly unforgettable experience.