RANKED: the prettiest village in every English county

Picture-perfect

From ancient Celtic settlements and Roman outposts to Saxon villages, Norman estates and even a few small towns with village-like charm, England boasts a wealth of beautiful communities. But which are the prettiest? Our well-travelled team has ranked the best small town or village in each of England's 47 ceremonial counties (we've excluded the City of London – it’s a city, after all) to inspire your next trip.

Read through this gallery to discover our ranking of the prettiest spot in every English county...

47. Northamptonshire: Stoke Bruerne

The Grand Union Canal winds through the heart of Stoke Bruerne, with historic stone cottages and vibrant narrowboats creating a lively and colourful scene. The remnants of Stoke Bruerne’s boat-building industry is visible in the village’s historic buildings, while a leisurely stroll along the towpath reveals the remarkable 19th-century engineering of Blisworth Tunnel, one of the longest navigable tunnels in Europe.

46. Rutland: Seaton

Seaton is a village full of history, sitting at the gateway to the impressive Welland Viaduct, Britain’s longest masonry viaduct with 82 stone arches stretching across the valley to Harringworth. The village’s watermill and windmill, once essential for grinding grain, are fascinating reminders of its farming past. The surrounding fields, shaped by medieval ridge-and-furrow farming, reflect centuries of agricultural life and overlooking it all is the 12th-century All Hallows Church, a striking piece of architecture that adds to Seaton’s timeless charm.

45. Northumberland: Alnmouth

With its golden sandy beaches, grassy dunes and orange-topped Georgian houses lining the River Aln estuary, a walk through Alnmouth is one bursting with colour. As an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty it remains unspoiled, with conservation efforts protecting its yellow-horned poppies and blue butterflies. For those who prefer their nature tamed, the impressive Alnmouth Village Golf Club, established in 1869 and recognised as the fourth oldest golf club in England, offers manicured beauty.

44. Hampshire: Hurstbourne Tarrant

Hurstbourne Tarrant’s medieval roots are evident in its 12th-century Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, with its Norman design and beautiful stained glass. The village was once home to the Tarrant family’s estate, and while the grand Hurstbourne House is now privately owned, it remains a key landmark. Nestled along the River Test, the village is rich in rural charm, from scenic walking trails to local fresh produce. This heritage comes to life every year at the popular Hurstbourne Tarrant Show.

43. Shropshire: Much Wenlock

Stroll along Much Wenlock’s narrow, cobbled streets and you’ll be greeted by well-preserved Georgian buildings, including the 12th-century Wenlock Priory and 16th-century Tudor Guildhall. Even the charming market square holds a special history, being the site of the 1850 Wenlock Olympian Games – the inspiration behind the modern Olympic Games. The nearby Wenlock Edge offers scenic views of the Shropshire Hills, classified as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to its dramatic ridges, heather-covered moorlands and Iron Age hillforts.

42. Nottinghamshire: Southwell

One Nottinghamshire spot that consistently stands out for its beauty is Southwell, known for its rich history and architectural splendour. The standout feature here is Southwell Minster, a wonderful example of mediaeval architecture. Its awe-inspiring nave and intricate stained glass windows make it a must-see for history enthusiasts. The village is also home to one of England’s best-preserved examples of a Victorian workhouse, the National Trust's Southwell Workhouse.

41. Cambridgeshire: Elton

Elton’s highlight is Elton Hall, a magnificent 15th-century estate that has been home to the Proby family since 1660. The Hall's gorgeously furnished interiors – including a library housing ancient manuscripts – and its serene Victorian gardens make it a historical treasure. If bored of Elton Estate’s 3,800 acres, visitors can meander through woodlands of the Nene Valley, and areas bursting with local biodiversity. Additionally Elton Mill, a three storey watermill on the River Nene, hints at the area's industrial heritage.

40. Warwickshire: Barton-on-the-Heath

Barton-on-the-Heath in Warwickshire exudes character with its honey-toned 17th-century cottages and central green anchored by a 1600s wellhead. Highlights include the 12th-century St. Lawrence Church and Barton House, an Elizabethan manor remodelled by architect Inigo Jones. Set within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, wide-open fields, grazing sheep and sweeping views of limestone hills are soundtracked by the gentle Nethercote Brook running through the village.

39. Bristol: Winterbourne

Winterbourne is a brilliant village with roots in Saxon history. Its name, meaning 'Winter Stream', refers to the seasonal brook that weaves through its landscape. At its heart lies St. Michael’s Church, a 12th-century masterpiece with a fine tower and delicate stone carvings. Once a thriving agricultural hub, Winterbourne’s fertile lands supported generations of farmers, a history celebrated during their Heritage Open Day at the 14th-Century Winterbourne Medieval Barn.

38. Essex: Finchingfield

If you're after a fairytale English village, you’ll want to make your way to Finchingfield in Essex. This delightful spot is known for its pleasant duck pond, thatched-roof cottages and vibrant village green, where you can spot songbirds and local flowers. Dating back to the 18th century, Finchingfield’s arched and curved humpbacked bridge steals the show, adding a touch of whimsy to the village’s traditional windmill and grand 16th-century Guildhall.

37. Merseyside: Port Sunlight

Although Port Sunlight may be optimistically named in terms of its weather, this village has a warm origin story. Established in the late 19th-century by industrialist William Lever to house his soap factory workers, Port Sunlight combines tree-lined avenues, meticulously maintained gardens and green open spaces to create a serene environment. Thirty different architects were employed to design the village – with styles ranging from Arts and Crafts worker’s cottages to Tudor revivalist façades – giving visitors over 900 Grade II-listed buildings to feast their eyes on.

36. Cheshire: Christleton

If walls could talk, Christleton’s historic sandstone cottages would speak of a place of serenity. The village pond – often graced by swans – reflects the peaceful spire of St. James' Church, a beacon of medieval architecture. Christleton has garnered accolades for its meticulous upkeep, earning the title of Cheshire's Best Kept Village. This dedication to preservation is evident in the vibrant gardens and well-maintained public spaces that invite leisurely strolls. The Shropshire Union Canal meanders through the village, with pleasant towpath walks and glimpses of narrowboats quietly gliding by.

35. Leicestershire: Quorn

The village Quorn used to kennel hounds for the famous Quorn Hunt, where horse-backed aristocracy would use the village’s dogs to catch foxes. Now it has a more laid back appeal, illustrated by its bounty of heritage buildings, including the skilfully crafted 12th-century St. Bartholomew's Church and the 18th-century Quorn House, a Georgian architectural gem. And if you’ve had enough of spotting birds by the burbling River Soar, why not spot vintage trains frequently stopping in the well-preserved Quorn & Woodhouse Train Station?

34. Lincolnshire: Tealby

Tealby is renowned for its 12th-century All Saints’ Church – built entirely from local ironstone – and for its array for intricately thatched roofs, the most famous being the 1367 King’s Head, Lincolnshire’s oldest thatched pub. Surrounded by the Lincolnshire Wolds (recognised as an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty), the village is an entrance to the Viking Way, a scenic trail named for the Norse settlers who left their mark in local place names ending in '-by' (meaning village).

33. Bedfordshire: Woburn

Woburn’s name, derived from the Saxon words 'wo' (crooked) and 'burn' (stream) speaks to its ancient centrepiece, a gurgling stream. Now, Woburn boasts a mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture, with red brick townhouses replete with sash windows and decorative mouldings. At the village’s heart lies Woburn Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey transformed into an estate with bountiful gardens. Those with an adventurous spirit can glimpse elephants and tigers up close at the Woburn Safari Park.

32. Surrey: Shere

Stroll through Shere’s winding lanes, flanked by half-timbered cottages dating back to the 15th century, and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a film. With the serene churchyard of the 12th-century St. James’ Church and the vibrant charm of its village green, it’s easy to see why filmmakers chose Shere as the quintessential English setting for movies like The Holiday and Bridget Jones's Diary.

31. Oxfordshire: Faringdon

Standing on Faringdon Hill, crowned by a neo-Gothic folly built in the 1930s (pictured), Faringdon boasts a mix of architectural styles and sweeping views of stunning countryside. A Royalist stronghold during the English Civil War, it withstood Oliver Cromwell’s 1644 assault on Faringdon House, though the town suffered significant damage, including the loss of the steeple of the Gothic All Saints’ Church. Nearby, the 3,000-year-old Uffington White Horse, carved into the chalk hillside, continues to fascinate with its mysterious origins, possibly tied to prehistoric rituals.

30. Buckinghamshire: Turville

Turville, famed for its starring role in BBC sitcom The Vicar of Dibley, is a postcard of English country life. The village green is watched over by the historic Cobstone Windmill, cosmetically restored for its role as Caractacus Potts' workshop in the film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Nature trails lead through beech woodlands and deep into the surrounding Chiltern Hills, a haven for wildlife such as red kites and deer. Locals can sink further into the village life over locally brewed ale at The Bull & Butcher pub.

29. Berkshire: Sonning-on-Thames

Straddling the River Thames, this village is distinguished by the Sonning Bridge – a historical link between Berkshire and Oxfordshire, with warm red brick arches that contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery and shimmering waters. St. Andrew’s Church has stood as a place of worship for over 800 years, its ancient tombstones and a well-kept churchyard marking the village’s evolution from a medieval settlement to a thriving modern community. For a touch of glamour visit the historic Bull Inn Pub, which counts George Clooney as a local.

28. Greater London: Hampstead

While not technically a village, Londoners finding themselves squashed in an underground train at rush hour need only exit at Hampstead Heath for a village experience, with a sprawling haven of wildflower meadows, panoramic city views and iron-rich natural ponds. Wander along cobblestoned streets past a delightful mix of Georgian and Victorian homes to follow in the footsteps of poet John Keats, who wrote some of his most celebrated works at the Regency-styled Keats House.

27. Greater Manchester: Worsley

Worsley is a picturesque village where tranquil waterways and period cottages are beautifully reflected in the calm water, creating a scene of timeless charm. The Worsley Delph monument serves as a reminder of the village's pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution, when one of the first canals was built here to transport coal. Just a short walk away, Worsley Woods offers a natural retreat, particularly enchanting in spring when carpets of bluebells transform the landscape.

26. Herefordshire: Pembridge

Pembridge, one of Herefordshire’s famed 'black and white' villages, is celebrated for its enchanting timber-framed houses, many dating back to medieval times. At its heart is St. Mary’s Church, with stunning stained glass and an impressive bell tower. The village is a highlight on the Herefordshire Trail, a 154-mile (248km) route through ancient orchards and rolling hills.

25. Hertfordshire: Kimpton

Kimpton showcases red late-Victorian villas alongside earlier plain brick cottages, tracing the area’s architectural history. Encircled by 170 acres of woodland, the village comes alive in spring, when bluebells and wood anemones carpet the forest floor in a dazzling display of natural beauty. Adding to its charm is Kimpton’s lively May Day festival, a much-loved annual tradition. Over three days, the village buzzes with activity, culminating in the colourful maypole dancing on the green – a quintessential celebration of English culture.

24. Isle of Wight: Godshill

On the Isle of Wight, Godshill features scenic walking trails, including one leading to the ruins of Appuldurcombe House, a grand mansion surrounded by lush greenery. Highlights include the model village intricately recreating the local area in miniature form, and Godshill Orchard, part of a Nature Reserve where apple blossoms and wildlife delight visitors. Atop a hill, All Saints’ Church stands out with its 14th-century tower, historic wooden screen and stained-glass windows, offering all-encompassing views of the countryside.

23. Worcestershire: Inkberrow

Inkberrow is celebrated for its 'chocolate-box' cottages, with steeply pitched roofs, exposed beams and warm stone walls nestled in manicured gardens. If their quaint, symmetrical design reminds you of a story, you’d be correct: Britain’s longest running radio drama, The Archers, is said to have been inspired by the village. Indeed The Archers’ famous 'Bull' pub bears remarkable resemblance to Inkberrow’s timber-framed Old Bull Pub. Beyond its literary legacy, the bluebells and wild garlic of Gannow Wood or the owls and kingfishers swooping past the River Arrow delight all who visit.

22. Kent: Chiddingstone

Chiddingstone, a perfectly preserved Tudor village in Kent, is a one-street treasure steeped in history. Largely owned by the National Trust, it dates back to at least the 15th century, and its standout feature is the Chiding Stone, a sandstone outcrop thought to have been used for community justice or gatherings. Situated along the Eden Valley Walk, Chiddingstone offers serene trails through meadows and ancient woodlands, with keen-eyed walkers spotting kingfishers, kestrels and buzzards.

21. West Sussex: Amberley

Amberley, nestled in the South Downs National Park, is a village steeped in history and natural beauty. At its heart lies the iconic Amberley Castle, a 900-year-old fortress complete with a medieval portcullis, battlements and landscaped gardens, now transformed into a luxury hotel. The village itself is a picture of rural Sussex charm, with thatched cottages and flint stone buildings reflecting its heritage. Surrounding the village, the park's rich wildlife – from barn owls to otters – and bursts of seasonal wildflowers in the Downs create a stunning contrast to the imposing grandeur of the castle.

20. South Yorkshire: Wentworth

How many villages can boast the glamour of 18th-century aristocracy and 21st-century Hollywood? Beyond its ivy-clad sandstone cottages and historic Holy Trinity Church, Wentworth is home to Wentworth Woodhouse, a grand stately home that depicts English Baroque and Palladian design as well as the longest façade of any country house in England. This impressive estate has made its mark in numerous period dramas and films, including The Darkest Hour, The Crown and Downton Abbey.

19. County Durham: Staindrop

Set in a dazzling patchwork of rolling hills, wildflower meadows and rugged riverbanks, Staindrop is also home to the striking medieval fortress of Raby Castle. Dating back to the 14th century and still home to Lord Baranrd, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into England’s past with its impressive interiors, perfect grounds and an extensive deer park.

18. East Riding of Yorkshire: Thixendale

Tucked away in a quiet valley, Thixendale is a hidden gem in the East Riding of Yorkshire. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush green pastures, this charming village feels like a step back in time, with its traditional stone cottages and peaceful atmosphere. Thixendale is a paradise for walkers, with scenic trails like the Yorkshire Wolds Way passing through, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The nearby chalk valleys, carved by ancient glaciers, add to the area’s unique character.

17. East Sussex: Alfriston

Alfriston traces its roots back one thousand years and features Anglo-Saxon treasures like St. Andrew’s Church. Famously the National Trust’s first property, the Alfriston Clergy House is a fine example of medieval architecture, with original beams and wattle-and-daub construction. The gentle ripples of the ancient Cuckmere River – which played a vital role in local trade and transport – now simply run to the South Downs National Park and its habitats of chalk grasslands, heathlands and river valleys.

16. Somerset: Dunster

Dropped in between the Bristol Channel’s coast and Exmoor National Park woodland, the village of Dunster is a gem. While the High Street is adorned with charming stone cottages and the iconic Yarn Market – a 17th-century octagonal building once a hub for the wool trade – the skyline is dominated by Dunster Castle, formerly a motte and bailey castle with Norman origins, now a lavish country house. The village’s medieval brilliance shines through too, especially during the annual 'Dunster by Candlelight' festival.

15. Cumbria: Grasmere

In the heart of the Lake District, Grasmere attracts more than just nature enthusiasts. The former home of William Wordsworth provides a glimpse into the poet’s life and work, while showcasing the village’s traditional Lakeland stone architecture, built thick to retain warmth and create cosy interiors. While smaller than neighbouring lakes, Grasmere Lake is encircled by a range of iconic fells such as Silver How, Helm Crag and Loughrigg Fell, inspiring visitors for centuries. After all, Wordsworth himself called it 'the loveliest spot that man hath ever found'.

14. Derbyshire: Tideswell

The village of Tideswell is often described as the 'Cathedral of the Peak' thanks to its 14th-century church, an example of perpendicular Gothic architecture with a lofty tower and graceful spire that dominates the surrounding Peak District. Visitors can join locals in ‘well-dressing’, an ancient custom where villagers decorate wells and springs with colourful floral designs. The nearby Monsal Trail will lead you through a disused railway line turned into a traffic-free footpath that runs through tunnels and over viaducts, offering grand views of the much-loved Peak District.

13. Tyne and Wear: Tynemouth

Dramatically perched on the North Sea coast and a key player in a range of historical events, Tynemouth comes in high on our list of prettiest English villages. The Tynemouth Priory dates to the 7th-century and served as both a religious site and strategic civil war fortress. The village’s Victorian architecture – with ornate 19th-century buildings reflecting intricate ironwork, bay windows and decorative stonework – are hallmarks of Tynemouth’s rise as a fashionable seaside destination for Victorian holidaymakers.

12. Dorset: Cerne Abbas

Cerne Abbas is best known for the Cerne Abbas Giant, a 180-foot-high (55m) chalk figure etched into the hillside. Yet there is more to this pretty village than the giant. Cobbled streets prop up listed buildings and a 10th-century abbey, bakeries are loaded to the brim with delicacies like Dorset apple cakes, while the River Cerne offers a scenic addition to the pubs proudly continuing the area's centuries-old brewing tradition.

11. Gloucestershire: Painswick

Nicknamed the 'Queen of the Cotswolds', Painswick enchants visitors with its 17th- and 18th-century stone houses, said to number exactly 99 due to a local legend warning against building a 100th. Following this folklore, St. Mary’s Church is protected by 99 ancient yew trees. Shrouded in morning mist, their twisted forms give a haunting beauty to the village. Nearby, the Rococo Garden bursts into life each spring, offering colourful blooms, annual festivals and a tranquil escape for nature lovers.

10. Lancashire: Downham

Squatting beneath Pendle Hill, the village of Downham has preserved its pristine character with a ban on road signs and overhead wires. Visitors flock to the Pendle Sculpture Trail, and the area’s beauty is tinged with eerie history, tied to the Pendle Witch Trials of 1612. Sites like St. Mary’s Church, with its 'Eye of God' steeple, adds to the village’s haunting allure.

9. Norfolk: Thornham

Don’t be fooled by the traditional Norfolk flint-clad cottages and pan-tile roofs – Thornham was once a bustling port known for its smuggling activities. You can still see the remnants of Thornham’s harbour resting peacefully against a long stretch of sandy beach, which at low tide exposes mudflats that fuel a fascinating ecosystem. The harbour’s iconic Coal Barn is one of the most photographed landmarks on the North Norfolk coast. Beyond expansive salt marshes that change with the tides lies the Drove Orchards, brimming with more than 160 varieties of apples and pears.

8. North Yorkshire: Thornton-le-Dale

Wandering through Thornton-le-Dale, you'll encounter stone houses with pan-tiled roofs, a green adorned with a majestic walnut tree and a meandering beck curving through the village.  A designated Dark Sky Reserve, the village is an ideal spot for marvelling at constellations – meaning Thornton-le-Dale arguably shines most brightly after the sun has set.

7. Suffolk: Lavenham

Often hailed as England's best-preserved medieval village, a stroll along Lavenham’s cobbled streets will reveal over 320 timber-framed buildings adorned in vibrant hues. The iconic Guildhall of Corpus Christi stands proudly in the market square, a sign of the village's affluent past in the wool trade. Lavenham’s distinctiveness is heightened by its famous 'crooked houses', leaning at whimsical angles. Their storybook quality even earned them a place in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

6. West Midlands: Bournville

Bournville is a village that pairs distinctive Arts and Crafts-style architecture with innovative urban planning. Founded by the Cadbury brothers in the late 19th-century, it was designed as a model village for chocolate factory workers, prioritising well-being and community. Like a game of spot-the-difference, each worker’s cottage has unique variations in design while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. Known as a 'factory in a garden', Bournville reflects the Cadburys’ visionary legacy, with Cadbury World offering a fascinating glimpse into its chocolate heritage.

5. West Yorkshire: Haworth

Haworth, forever tied to the Brontë sisters, inspired canonical novels like Jane Eyre and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. The village’s cobbled streets preserve its 19th-century grace while its stone-built houses, often constructed from locally quarried gritstone, give the buildings their distinct earthy hue. The neighbouring South Pennine moors – central to Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights – feature wild moors, which in summer are painted purple and green by blooming heather and bilberry.

4. Cornwall: Mousehole

An oasis of peace bordered by the rugged rocky outcrops of Cornwall coast, Mousehole’s calm turquoise harbour reflects the distinct white-washed granite architecture of the village. Historically, it has been a vital fishing village, and this sumptuous heritage is still visible along the harbour where you can spot traditional boats. Rumoured to be a favourite for smugglers, the tiny alleyways leading to hidden nooks and crannies reveal stone cottages adorned with colourful flower boxes.

3. Wiltshire: Castle Combe

Castle Combe’s beauty is epitomised by the stone bridge spanning the serene Bybrook River. Framed by verdant greenery, the bridge leads to Cotswold stone cottages adorned with climbing roses and wisteria. Free from modern intrusions like street signs, Castle Combe’s medieval market cross would still be recognisable to the crowds of 12th-century traders. Along with its ancient woodlands filled with oak, beech and ash trees, Castle Combe’s beauty demanded immortalisation in the films War Horse and Stardust.

2. Staffordshire: Ilam

If you’re seeking lush English landscape and a dash of alpine flair in Staffordshire, look no further than Ilam. In the 19th century, the owner of Ilam Hall commissioned architect Sir George Gilbert Scott to create a 'cottage orné' estate village inspired by the Swiss Alps. The result? A gobsmacking collection of Swiss-style houses that lend a quirky edge to the Victorian Gothic Ilam Hall and its surrounding Italian gardens.

1. Devon: Clovelly

Our pick for the prettiest village in England is awarded to Clovelly. This picturesque spot features steep cobbled streets that tumble down the cliffside towards the sea, creating an amphitheatre in which a beautiful harbour is the star performer. Clovelly’s steep gradient means the village is car free, and goods are transported the traditional way – on sledges. Explorers can walk the South West Coast Path for views of distant South Wales, or sample fresh seafood indicative of the area’s rich maritime heritage.