Visiting the Fairytale Cotswold Village of Castle Combe
Many well-preserved medieval towns and villages hold a special place in English heritage and Castle Combe’s fairytale-like setting is one of the best examples. As you walk through the village, passing by its 14th-century market cross where the village’s three streets join, be prepared to be transported back in time.
It’s no wonder Castle Combe is said to be “England’s most beautiful village.” Nestled in the southern tip of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe is 2 hours from London and just 12 miles from the Georgian city of Bath. Because this idyllic village is so quaint, it’s the perfect place to visit on a day trip.
Related Reading: How to Spend a Day in Bath
Similar to many other villages in the Cotswolds, the sheep and wool trade thrived in Castle Combe. The 14th-century market cross was established for the weekly markets that were once held there. Now, here’s a little lesson for anyone else like me who was born outside of Europe and might not be familiar with the terms ‘market cross’ or ‘market town,’ which you will see regularly throughout the United Kingdom:
A market town is a town that, during the Middle Ages, obtained the right to host markets. The markets back then were generally open-air and held in the “market square” around the “market cross.” These market towns were the heart of the local community and many still are today.
Given the name of the village, you’d think there must be a castle. Once a British hill fort occupied by the Romans, it was later built into a castle by the Normans in the 12th century. However, you won’t find it here any longer I’m afraid.
One thing worth mentioning is that Castle Combe is much smaller than I had expected. Having already visited towns and villages such as Lacock and Bradford-on-Avon, I was surprised to find out that most of Castle Combe could be walked in about 15 minutes.
What to See
Feel free to wander through the town on your own and see where the path leads you. If you want to be sure not to miss anything of significance, read on!
By Brook and the Bridge
The well-known picturesque bridge with a gorgeous view of the town behind it waits for you just a couple of minutes down the hill in the southern edge of the village. Sit on one of the benches and appreciate the weavers’ cottages by the water (By Brook) and the beauty of the surrounding woodland.
Afternoon Tea
One of my favorite ways to spend time in England is enjoying a lovely cream tea, or if I’m feeling indulgent and have a little extra time, I’ll stop for afternoon tea. Luckily, Castle Combe offers a couple different options for afternoon tea.
If you’re traveling as a party of two (or a party of four or more on weekends) book in for afternoon tea at the Old Rectory Tea Room. The tea room is part of a family home that dates back to 1490! Reservations are always required.
If you’re looking for something a little fancy, afternoon tea for two at The Manor House is another option. Again, be sure to place a booking in advance.
Stop for a Pint
There are two cosy pubs to choose from in Castle Combe and both are located right in the market square —The White Hart and the Castle Inn.
The Castle Inn has a great menu in case you’d like a full English breakfast or Sunday roast. Otherwise, just stop in for a local pint. If beer isn’t your thing, the cider in this part of England (especially from neighboring Somerset) is some of the best you’ll ever have. I love the ambience of The Castle Inn and on a nice day, their outdoor seating will be calling your name.
Buy a Treat from an Honesty Box
As seen in many villages and market towns, you’ll find honesty boxes sitting outside some of the cottages. This is the perfect opportunity for a homemade snack. All you have to do is pay using the ‘honesty box’ left outside. I love that residents do this for visitors :)
St. Andrew’s Church
This church was originally founded in the 13th century, though much of the building was built in the 15th century. The faceless clock is one of the oldest working clocks in the world. Go for a walk around the church where the grounds are nicely shaded by trees in the warmer months.
Getting There
Castle Combe is easily accessible by car and also public transportation (which is what I used). If you’re taking public transportation, Chippenham is the closest train station and then you can take a quick bus from there which will drop you off right in front of St. Andrew’s.
The bus you’ll want to catch from the Chippenham Rail Station is the Faresaver 35 bus. However, be advised that buses operate on a limited schedule on Saturdays and don’t run on Sundays. A taxi is always an option as well. If you drive, you’ll need to park on the street before you get into the center of town. Parking rules are quite strict here so do pay attention to the signs.
A trip to Castle Combe is one that I think should be on everyone’s bucket list. This quintessential English village is beautifully preserved and gives you such a lovely peek into what it might have been like to live in a medieval market town. You’ll be surrounded by natural and built heritage and have some of the best views no matter the season.
Lastly, as with all historic places, treat Castle Combe with the extra love and respect that it deserves and be mindful that people live here.
For more on travelling throughout the UK, come follow along on Instagram @ChelseaDinen.
