As soon as you enter Castle Combe, you feel as though you have been transported back in time or into a book. Castle Combe is ranked as one of the best villages in the Cotswolds and is overflowing with charm thanks to its immaculately preserved houses built of honey-colored Cotswold stone and its winding lanes dotted with new blossoms.

This old village is full of beauty at every corner. There is never a lack of beautiful things to take pictures of, from the historic water pump in the town center hidden under blooming flowers to the stone market cross and the renowned walls of St. Andrew's Church. The famous medieval Castle Combe Clock is also located inside the church. In this picture-perfect setting, don't expect to come across big-box stores, billboards, or tourist attractions. Its beauty mostly comes from the absence of obvious commercialism, making it one of the best small towns in England. Be sure to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, or baked products from the makeshift markets put up outside people's houses while you stroll around this tiny paradise. Don't forget to eat at one of the town's eateries as well.

If you ever wished to experience fairytale life, consider Painswick. Even the most cynical man will be surprised after visiting St. Mary's churchyard. The grounds will lull you to sleep with their 99 beautiful yew trees. For good cause, it has been dubbed the "Queen of the Cotswolds".

Run through the tree tunnel, marvel at the tabletop tombs, and look in the church tower for Civil War artifacts. The tombs are from the seventeenth century. The locals are welcoming and inviting, and they often have great stories (and perhaps tea and biscuits) to share if you happen to arrive on time for a service. Then, get lost in the meandering streets dotted with traditional English houses. The houses here are constructed of Cotswold stone, similar to Castle Combe. You can still see remnants of Painswick's past as a wool town, such as donkey doors on Bisley Street if you search hard enough. Don't miss Rococo Gardens, which in addition to its magnificent gardens also gives breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Even though it's a bit outside of town, it's definitely worth a visit.

It's difficult to get bored of strolling down cobblestone streets, especially when they are surrounded by endearingly crooked houses. Rye is tranquil and beautiful, and it's an hour and a half west of Brighton's top tourist destinations. Everyone who visits this fortified hilltop village is treated to breathtaking views of the countryside and river. It is simple to understand why this charming village is at the top of our list of the greatest small towns in England.

Take in the timber-framed homes from the 15th century as you begin your sightseeing tour on Mermaid Street. The Mermaid Inn is one of the oldest inns in England, one of the best hotels in Rye, and the most well-known historic structure on the street. This unique building, which dates back 600 years, was renovated in 1420 and has a welcoming restaurant, there are also modern amenities there. You should then visit the shops. Despite having a few chain stores, Rye is best recognized for its unique and vintage shops that sell everything from books to antiques.

Although it gained further recognition as the location of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal wedding (and the setting for their first photo with baby Archie), Windsor has always been a well-liked vacation spot. What draws so many visitors to this prestigious English small town is Westminster Abbey. This is the biggest occupied castle in the world and the Queen uses it for weekends and holidays.

The renowned St. George's chapel is located inside this royal house, which is perched on a hill. You must climb a charming, winding street lined with shops to reach it. You can find delicious fudge here, so stop by the shops and try some. When you get to the castle, be ready to wait in line because the check-in and security procedures take some time. England is renowned for its magnificent gardens and Windsor won't let you down. Things to do nearby include Legoland (a popular spot for ride-loving families) and the Ascot racecourse.

This charming small town is incredibly beautiful. White cottages with floral decorations border the cobbled, winding streets. They really exude charm. In North Devon, the village is built into a 400-foot cliff that finishes at an old harbor. The harbor, which dates back to the 14th century, is still in use today.

Visitors to this charming small English town will have to make way for donkeys and sleds instead of cars as there are no roads for automobiles. Those looking to relax must spend the night in this peaceful, calm retreat. Additionally, your small entry fee is typically waived if you stay in the town. Parking, a brief history of the town film, entrance to the Fisherman's Cottage and Kingsley museums, as well as the use of the Clovelly Court Gardens, are all included in the fee. Although some people may struggle with the high ascent required by the streets, the view from the top is worth the somewhat arduous journey.

This stunning coastal town was formerly a small fishing village. But over time, it has earned a reputation for being a well-liked seaside resort. St. Ives has won numerous awards, including "Best Seaside Town", "Best Family Holiday Destination", and one of the "Top 10 European beaches" for its perfect harbor and clean, soft, sandy beaches. The attractiveness is heightened by the small, winding cobble streets, fishermen's cottages, and eclectic shops.

This Cornwall hotspot is ideal for people who enjoy the water and the sun because it has sheltered coves with shallow water. At Porthmeor Beach, grab a surfboard and ride the waves. You may also rent a windsurfer or try water skiing. Or you can take a stroll down the shore. A stunning art gallery with views of the Atlantic Ocean is the Tate St. Ives; set aside some time to explore. Be sure to reserve a hotel well in advance, especially if you intend to travel during the busier summer months. St. Ives is a popular British vacation destination.

In this charming town close to the River Avon, history is all around. Start by taking a tour of Charlecote Park, the Lucy family's elegant Victorian mansion. Spend some time exploring the public areas of the large grounds in addition to strolling the grounds; a favorite is a library. Then, make time to visit Warwick Castle, which is a depiction of what might happen if Disney and the Knights of the Roundtable had a baby.

The castle is exceptionally well preserved and exudes the same perfect charm as all English castles. A princess tower, a castle dungeon, and the famous Falconer's Quest, an amazing birds of prey show, are also located on these amusing grounds. Another significant location is the Lord Leycester Hospital. This beautiful building is a living museum (the name is taken from "hospitality," not "hospital") where ex-service personnel/brethren serve as guides. It has a tearoom with delectable delights and is less expensive than Warwick Castle. Warwick Castle gives guests early access to the castle and evening "knight school". You'll dine in a medieval banqueting hall and sleep in a comfortable bed in a sizable canvas tent.

Lyndhurst, which is tucked away in the New Forest region of England, is unquestionably one of the best small towns in the country. William the Conqueror established it as a royal hunting ground in 1079. Today, it serves as a good starting point for people who want to spend the night in The New Forest without pitching a tent.

No matter if you prefer biking, running, or walking, Lyndhurst offers access to a number of forest trails. Look carefully for wild animals; in this area, horses, cows, and sheep all roam freely. There are lots of charming stores and small restaurants throughout the town. A traditional English experience is offered by the charming Peggy May's café, while Tasty Pastries offers fresh baked goods and Cornish pastries. St. Michael and All Angels, the parish church in Lyndhurst, should not be missed. Although the stained-glass windows are beautiful, most visitors come to the churchyard to look for a grave. Here is the grave of Alice Hargreaves, who is most known for serving as the inspiration for Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland.

Henley on the Thames is one of the most beautiful towns in England, recently voted by The Times as one of the best places to live in the English countryside. This stunning location, which hosts the well-known Henley Royal Regatta (a boat event in early July that draws in thousands of people), was established as a market town in the 12th century.

It is recommended to walk the Thames Path National Trail. It runs from Marsh Lock to Hambleden Lock. To experience Henley's main draw—the water—rent a boat instead. It's always fun to go to Grey's Court. This National Trust house is charming despite its diminutive size, especially in the spring when the wisteria and bluebells in the garden are in blossom. Make time for a break at Chocolate Café, a popular location in the neighborhood famed for chocolate-flavored sweets. You definitely must try the hot chocolate. It tastes best when drank slowly and enjoyed while looking at the river.

Without visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the region's outstanding small towns, no trip to the Cotswolds is complete. It has been referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds" because of the numerous low, arched stone bridges that cross the River Windrush.

There are many unique stores on the main street that sell everything from sportswear to tea cups to antiques. Additionally, it is overflowing with restaurants. Green & Pleasant offers delicious sandwiches, lemon pie, and gluten-free options. For car lovers, the Cotswold Motoring Museum is a must-see. It's a pleasure to learn about vintage cars because of the descriptions, which are clever, clear, and funny. Plan to spend at least an hour (or two) here because it is much larger than it looks from the outside. It's fun to spend an afternoon in the Dragonfly Maze. Find the dragonfly by interpreting the instructions and navigating the maze; don't worry, the lovely lady will help you if you run into trouble. Birdland, this nine-acre property of gardens and woodlands is home to almost 500 winged friends.