National Geographic didn’t lie to me, it’s the most beautiful ancient village in Europe
Lin Yutang once said: "The ideal life of world peace is to live in a house in the British countryside, use American water, electricity, gas and other equipment, hire a Chinese cook, marry a Japanese wife, and have a French lover." Undoubtedly, the British countryside is a place that many people dream of.
Of course, that includes me. During the two years I studied and lived in the UK, I traveled all over the country.
I have been to nearly a hundred towns and villages, but no village can replace my love for Castle Combe. It is the best-preserved medieval village in the UK and the most beautiful ancient village in Europe.
The whole village has no more than 100 households
The house looks shabby and looks simple, warm and elegant inside
During the week I stayed in Castle Combe, I seemed to have returned to my true self.
There is no mobile network here, nothing related to the fast-paced life
Here we can enjoy the relaxation and comfort of the English countryside
Transportation Tips
Depart from London Paddington Station and get off at Chippeham Station. Then take bus 95/95A in front of the station and tell the driver to go to Castle Combe. It is a round trip of 4. Please note that the bus service is very limited, with only four buses a day.
If you are not driving, be sure to pay attention to the first and last bus times. There are no buses on Sundays.
The best time to visit is in Beiziyang, Dingba, Chongshan, and Ppenal. Get off and take bus 95/95A in front of the station. Tell the driver to go to Castle Combe. Please note that there are very few buses, only four a day.
If you are not driving, be sure to pay attention to the first and last bus times. There are no buses on Sundays.
Best play time
You can go back and forth from London on the same day. It is recommended to check the shuttle bus time. The village is not big and you can have a thorough visit in two hours.
If you want to experience the simplicity and leisure of the English countryside, it is recommended to stay in the village for a night. In the evening, the smoke from cooking is lingering. At that moment, it really feels like time has gone back to the Middle Ages. The Manor House can be booked for accommodation. The stone house in the manor is very cozy and also very photogenic.
Bybrook, a Michelin-nominated restaurant, is also good, with an average price of £35 per person
Best photo location
Castle Combe - Over the Bridge on Water Lane 2The Manor House 3 The Market Cross 4 The Castle Inn
5Upper Castle Combe Racecourse If you have enough time
It is recommended to rent a car and drive from London to Bourton on the Water, Bourton on the hill, Broadway Tower, Bibury and Castle Combe. This way you can visit the five most beautiful villages in Cotswold at one time.