England and Scotland are home to some of the prettiest, most charming villages in the UK (if not the world). From the picture-postcard seaports of Cornwall to the chocolate-box villages of the Cotswolds, there are rural idylls aplenty. Cobbled lanes, village greens, country walks and coastal footpaths invite you to experience village life and explore the quintessential stone cottages, quirky eateries, museums, breweries and artisanal stores of rural UK. 

We’ve hand-picked six of our favourite UK villages to escape to for weekend stays and more extended getaways – and to inspire your home decor. Let’s explore. 

1. Bibury, Cotswolds

Once described as “the most beautiful village in England” by poet William Morris, Bibury is a picture-postcard example of English countryside charm. Its 17th century stone cottages along Arlington Row are among the most photographed destinations in the UK and have featured in films such as Bridget Jones’ Diary and Stardust. 

For visitors, you couldn’t get more quintessentially Cotswolds than Bibury. Take a scenic stroll along the Coln River, visit some country pubs and tea rooms, and experience that “country now” feeling we’ve all been craving since lockdown began. 

2. Polperro, Cornwall 

Photogenic Polperro is one of Cornwall’s prettiest villages – a quintessential Cornish coastal gem. Quaint fishermen’s cottages cling to the hills surrounding the harbour, their 18th-century facades hinting at colourful historical tales.

In its bygone years, Polperro was a humble fishing village by day and at night, a hotspot for smugglers. Today, Polperro’s winding streets are home to a jumble of seafood restaurants and quirky shops. Wander the traffic-free lanes or follow the coastal footpaths to discover breathtaking views of the coastline. 

Want to bring thePolperro atmosphere into your home? Our coastal mood board will inspire you.  

3. Cartmel, Lake District 

Steeped in history and culture, Cartmel is as famous for its 12th century Cartmel Priory as it is for its toffee pudding. This foodie village is home to Enclume and its Cumbrian-inspired tasting menus. It’s also a must-visit destination for cottagecore fans, thanks to its coffee and award-winning sheep’s cheese. 

But there are also narrow, winding lanes with quaint breweries, gastropubs and gift shops to explore. Or, head into the Cumbrian Lakelands on horseback for an authentic countryside experience. 

4. Clovelly, North Devon

Once owned by the Queen of England, the timeless village of Clovelly is one-of-a-kind. Its white cottages, cobbled streets, coastal cliffs and countryside make it one of the prettiest villages in the UK. Charles Kingsley lived here, Charles Kingsley Dickens wrote about it, and William Turner painted it. The village has been perfectly preserved to retain its original, authentic atmosphere, and there’s certainly a sense of stepping back in time when you visit. 

Take a stroll along the village’s famous cobbled street, known as “Up-a-long” or “Down-a-long,” explore museums, or dine at the C18th Red Lion on the quay – the village is famous for its lobsters. Boat trips are available to take you along the dramatic coastline. 

5. Stromness, Orkney, Scotland

Nestled in the Orkney archipelago, the charming town of Stromness and its quaint seaport, narrow streets and charming architecture have inspired artists and writers for centuries. Today, Stromness has a timeless but cosmopolitan atmosphere; it’s at the forefront of Orkney's pioneering renewable energy industry and home to some of Orkney’s most famous artists, sculptors and crafters. 

There are delightful shops, galleries, and pubs to be discovered around every corner and diving, fishing, and sailing for outdoors adventures.

6. Whitby, North Yorkshire

Surrounded by the wild and beautiful North York Moors and edged by the highest cliffs in England, Whitby is one of the most popular villages in England. Among its most famous attractions, Whitby Abbey’s ruins served as the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. But there’s more to Whitby than its gothic pedigree. The medieval fishing village is also home to sandy beaches, curious little stores and some of Yorkshire’s best fish and chips. 

Written by Michelle Randall