When overseas travel plans fall through, the best discoveries often lie closer to home. In recent years, staycations have surged in popularity, and few places in England are as captivating as the Cotswolds.
Renowned for its honey-hued stone cottages, meandering country lanes, and rolling hills dotted with grazing sheep, the Cotswolds is officially designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This idyllic region provides a perfect escape from urban bustle and the relentless digital pace of modern life.
While famous villages like Castle Combe, Bibury, and Bourton-on-the-Water draw large crowds, there is one serene village that offers a genuinely authentic Cotswold experience—Stanton. Nestled on the edge of the Cotswold hills in Gloucestershire, Stanton retains a timeless charm that feels like stepping back centuries.
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Often described as “outstandingly beautiful,” Stanton is a village crafted almost entirely from golden Cotswold stone, with homes and architecture that have changed little over hundreds of years. Absent are touristy shops and busy streets; instead, visitors find peaceful seclusion, where the company of locals, farm animals, and the occasional passing sheep create a slow, harmonious rhythm.
The village’s historic St Michael and All Angels Church is home to extraordinary medieval wall paintings dating to the early 14th century—a rare glimpse into the area’s rich past. Each wooden pew bears the marks of generations of shepherds who once used the church as a familiar resting spot, tethering their dogs nearby.
Surrounding Stanton is an expanse of beautiful countryside perfect for scenic walks, making it an ideal base for exploring larger nearby towns. After a day of hiking, the village invites visitors to unwind at The Mount Inn, a hilltop pub offering delicious local dishes, craft beers, and panoramic views over Stanton’s rooftops.
For those seeking other dining experiences, the nearby Queens Head in Sedgeberrow and the vibrant eateries in the town of Broadway provide excellent alternatives—from casual tea and cakes to hearty pints.
Accommodation options in Stanton are plentiful despite its quaint size, with a welcoming range of family-run bed and breakfasts and private holiday lets. Its charm has earned Stanton accolades from prestigious sources such as The Daily Telegraph, The Huffington Post, and Sykes Cottages, which named it England’s most beautiful village.
For visitors longing for a peaceful, picturesque slice of the Cotswolds, Stanton promises an unforgettable journey back to simpler times, wrapped in natural splendor and warm hospitality.