Discovering the Best UK Villages: Hidden Gems Await

Updated On: February 27, 2024 by   Aya Radwan

Are you planning a secret escapade? What better than the heart-filling English countryside to extract you from reality and dive deep into legends of beauty and courage? Our guide to the best UK villages to visit, focusing on the crisp seasons of spring and autumn, will take you from the darling dales of the Cotswolds to the coastal charm of Cornwall.

So, allow us to guide you through these quintessentially charming destinations!

Best UK Villages to Visit: Blooming Spring and Autumn Foliage

Our trip to the English countryside will take us around the country to explore beautiful seaside villages. We take that roundabout and head to some of the island’s enchanting enclosed villages. There will be castles, cathedrals, historic markets, honourary landmarks, sumptuous local food and perhaps a pint or two!

Tenby, Pembrokeshire

Tenby is a beautiful UK village located in Pembrokeshire, Wales. A poem from the 9^th century is the earliest historical reference to the village. A naturally protected fishing harbour, the village has a history of fishing and mercantile. The village’s most renowned walls are 13th-century defensive walls to protect the village after several attacks that caused its destruction and ransacking.

When you visit Tenby, we recommend you check Tenby Castle, the possibly 12th-century mighty fort. Only a single stone structure stands today and is dated back to the 13th century. You should check the Tenby town walls, a testimony of the village’s struggle against invasion. One incredible still-standing structure is the Five Arches Gate, a barbican-style gatehouse. Several historical 13th-century landmarks still standing today include St Mary’s Church buildings and the Tudor’s Merchant House.

Head to Tenby South Beach for a great time by the sea, enjoying water sports or relaxing under the mild spring sun. For a thrilling and memorable experience, especially if you’re travelling with kids, head to the Dinosaur Park Tenby, which is set to reopen on 16 March 2024. You must be famished after such exciting adventures; the food at Plantagenet House and Stables Restaurant is worth a try.

Helmsley, Yorkshire

On the banks of the River Rye, Helmsley is one of the best UK villages to include on your English countryside itinerary. The village has preserved its medieval heart while new buildings are located more to the north and south of the village’s central market. Its unique charm earned it several gold medals in the Yorkshire in Bloom event for three years.

Our Helmsley guide includes visiting the ruinous Rievaulx Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey that is one of the best-preserved medieval ruins in England. Helmsley Castle, a potentially 12th-century fort, was once a majestic fort looming over the village but lays in ruins today. The land onto which the castle stands was granted to the abbey despite the significant distance between them.

This magnificent UK village offers a great opportunity to bask in nature’s beauty. You can head to Helmsley Walled Garden for a relaxing walk or picnic to admire the intriguing world of birds of prey at the National Centre for Birds of Prey, where more than 100 eagle owls, hawks and worldwide preying birds call this place home. There’s a café at the centre where you can enjoy a cup while bird-watching. The North York Moors National Park is nearby, where you can go hiking or cycling on the many trails, take a scenic drive through the countryside, or visit one of the charming villages within the park.

Head to the village’s Brewing Company, Helmsley Brewing Company, for a taste of different beers alongside snacks for a refreshing stop during the day. To satisfy your famished soul after a day of exploration, there’s a wide variety of light meals, local dishes and treats at Mannion & Co. and La Trattoria is a marvellous Italian bistro with yummy pizza and Italian dishes.

Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

We first heard of Robin Hood’s Bay by the mid-13^th century, where Flemish fishermen were allegedly captured in the coastal town. Do we know if this quaint UK village’s name is related to Robin Hood? History says it’s unlikely, but what we’re certain of is that your time here will be memorable, just like the urban legend’s heroic deeds.

The Old Coastguard Station in this charming UK village is one of its highlights, where you can learn about the village’s history with interesting exhibitions. The nearby Old St Stephen’s Church in Fylingdales is a closed early 19^th-century church that depicts simplicity in gothic revival architectural style.

Collect your belongings and head to Robin Hood Bay’s Beach for a great day by the sand and rock beach; furry friends are also welcome. One of the village’s best destinations is Berties of Bay, for authentic and local clothing lasting for years. Muir Lea Stores are great general stores in the village where you can buy everything, including charming souvenirs to take home. For a filling bite, we recommend paying Brambles Bistro or The Cove-Cafe Bar Venue a visit.

Haworth, Yorkshire

Haworth is a historical UK village known for its rich history and literary connections. The village is most famous as the Brontë sisters’ hometown. The famous sisters wrote classic novels such as Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. Several landmarks in the village carry the sisters’ names, such as the Brontë Parsonage Museum, which showcases their lives and works.

The local Keighley&Worth Valley Railway is a 19th-century historic railway that radiates the same Hogwarts Express vibes. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, embark on a small walk and hike to the nearby Brontë Waterfall. For a leisurely time, head to the village’s Central Park and spend a few hours conversing with nature.

On the village’s main street is a historic art gallery, Wuthering Arts, for a soulful art journey and perhaps picking a nice piece to take home. Our recommendations for the village’s culinary scene include the Black Bull Inn and Pub, The Fleece Inn, Pavé and The Hawthorn.

East Linton, East Lothian

East Linton in East Lothian is a charming village that offers a peaceful retreat for travellers. The once police burgh has an ancient history extending to the Bronze Age, as evidenced by cemeteries and cremation burials. The unique UK village’s historical landmarks give a sneak peek into its roots.

Locations such as Prestonkirk Parish Church, an 18^th-century parish church standing on the location of an older 6th-century church. The nearby Hailes Castle, a 14th-century stone castle, has a wondrous riverside setting; the castle stands on the river’s side, one of the few in the country. Close to the River Tyne stands a historic awkward-shaped structure: the Phantassie Doocot, a 16th-century beehive-looking doocot in Phantassie village.

While you can enjoy scenic walks and quiet times alongside the River Rye, you can also hike the nearby hill, Traprain Law, for a new perspective over the surrounding villages. If you want places to enjoy a hearty meal in this unique UK village, head to Linton Hotel and Steakhouse or The Crown & Kitchen for the best seasonal Scottish food.

Braemar, Cairngorms

Braemar, located in the Cairngorms National Park, is a beautiful UK village with a delightful atmosphere, interesting history, and friendly locals. Its proximity to the River Dee adds an exciting element to the village. Braemar has numerous must-visit landmarks, from castles to art galleries and mountain peaks.

When you’re in this enchanting UK village, visit the British royal family’s residence in town, also called Balmoral Castle, a mid-19^th century castle. The castle, which bears the village’s name, Braemar Castle, is normally open to the public but is currently undergoing renovations. Kindrochit Castle, on the other hand, is a ruinous one from the 14^th century and strategically located on the Culnie Water, one of the River Dee’s tributaries.

Since 1991, the Braemar Art Gallery has been promoting Scottish art and organising music shows to promote local Scottish musicians. We recommend attending the best Highland Games at the historic Braemar Highland Games Centre if you happen to visit in September. We recommend a fine dining experience at the Culnie Dining Room or a casual and heart-filling culinary experience at Gordon’s Tearoom and Restaurant.

Godalming, Surrey

The charming UK village, Godalming, has been inhabited since the Paleolithic period, while the nearby Charterhouse Wey floodplain shows evidence of human activity in the middle Iron Age. This southwest Surrey village is a hidden gem with historic buildings, parks and art galleries, offering something for everyone.

Godalming Museum is the best place to learn about the village’s history, with many exhibitions, from pottery, paintings, and ceramics to architectural designs. The village’s church, the 12th-century Church of St Peter and St Paul, has the oldest standing buildings in town. The Winkworth Arboretum is a magnificent natural wonder that allows you to explore the colours of each season.

You can walk along the town’s beautifully manicured streets, with ancient buildings still wearing their finest architectural designs or enjoy a tranquil riverside walk along the River Wey. Immersing yourself in this UK village’s local culture by visiting independent shops, cafés, and restaurants is a rich cultural experience. Inn on The Lake Godalming boasts a cosy atmosphere and fine breakfast. You can head to Prezzo Italian Restaurant for delicious Italian food or Côte Godalming for an enjoyable French culinary experience.

Betws-y-Coed, Conwy County Borough

Betws-y-Coed is a stunning village located in Conwy County Borough, Wales. It is surrounded by the beautiful Snowdonia National Park, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The village is famous for its 19th-century shops, buildings, and picturesque landscapes, with lush green forests and magical waterfalls that create a serene atmosphere.

A nearby 13th-century fortification, Conwy Castle, withstood several wars, and its defensive walls were still standing, but many of its buildings lay in ruins. There are also ancient churches and charming stone cottages that add to the village’s historic charm. This UK village’s ancient religious buildings include the active 19^th-century St Mary’s Church and the 14^th-century St Michael’s Old Church, the village’s oldest building.

Since Betws-y-Coed is in the heart of Snowdonia, there should be nature activities to enjoy. You can try one of Zip World’s activities, which range between Fforest Coaster and Zip Safari. Afterwards, you can head to one of the village’s best eateries, such as Llugwy River Restaurant, or enjoy some delicious pizza at Hangin’ Pizzeria.

Broadway, Worcestershire

Broadway is the heart of the Cotswolds, frequently referred to as the area’s jewel. This picturesque UK village is surrounded by breathtaking beauty and offers a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings. Despite historical evidence indicating human activity in the village since the Mesolithic period, the village’s origins remain unknown.

Learning about the village’s rich artistic and cultural history is a few feet away at the Broadway Museum and Art Gallery. At the same time, the Snowhill Manor and Garden are a beautifully-reserved 16th-century country house. One of the village’s most remarkable landmarks is the folly 18th-century Broadway Tower of limestone ashlar, which offers panoramic views of the area and connects us to famous figures like William Morris.

If you’re seeking tranquillity, what’s better than the lovely Cotswold Lavender, opening in June each year, where you can enjoy a unique picnic amongst blooming lavenders? If you’re still famished, dine at Russell’s of Broadway with some unusual dishes, or head to The Swan Inn Broadway or the Tattersall’s Brasserie in the Broadway Hotel. This village’s timeless charm and natural beauty make it an enchanting destination that should not be missed when exploring the best villages in England.

Grasmere, Cumbria

Grasmere, a UK village in Cumbria, is at the heart of the Lake District. The beautiful village takes its name from Grasmere Lake to the village’s south. The village boasts breathtaking views and serene surroundings. You can visit one of the village’s most notable landmarks, Wordsworth Grasmere, also known as Dove Cottage, poet William Wordsworth’s home. The famous poet drew inspiration from the village’s picturesque landscape and natural beauty.

Wordsworth’s grave is at St Oswald’s Church, which you can visit. It is the village’s 14^th-century active Anglican church. Additionally, there are quaint shops, like the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop, selling local products like gingerbread and art galleries showcasing local artists’ works. Our culinary recommendations in this charming UK village include Baldry’s Tea Room, a lovely café, and Greens Cafe & Bistro for a lovely healthy bite and freshly brewed coffee.

Plockton, The Highlands

Plockton, located in the Scottish Highlands, is a mesmerising village that offers a soulful and memorable experience. This UK village overlooks Loch Carron, alongside other charming neighbouring villages. While you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the loch’s bank, you can take a boat to the nearby ruinous Strome Castle, a magnificent 15th-century castle that was reduced to ruins at the beginning of the 17th century.

Lilias’s Garden is a wonderful project garden with lovely ponds, paths and seating that give a magnificent view of Plockton. You can observe wonderful wildlife in the garden, such as birds, pine martins and otters. The village’s fresh local produce is a rich culinary experience. So, head to The Shores Plockton or Plockton Inn Seafood Restaurant for an enjoyable meal.

With the end of this guide, we’ve concluded our best UK village guides. The Best UK villages to visit in winter and summer, alongside this one, offer a complete year-round itinerary through the English countryside.