15 Most Charming Small Towns In England is renowned worldwide for its resemblance to a scene straight out of a Christmas card or a page from The Hobbit. This perception is not unfounded, as one simply needs to venture beyond the bustling cities and towns to uncover the true essence of the country.
These hidden gems can be found nestled in various picturesque locations such as rugged cliffs, rolling green hills, enchanting forests, serene moorlands, breathtaking beaches, and alongside tranquil rivers. Despite the unpredictable weather, these small towns and villages exude a warmth that is palpable. Even in the absence of bustling crowds, there is an undeniable charm and welcoming atmosphere that defines the quintessential English town.
The sight of a row of picturesque cottages evokes a sense of comfort akin to receiving a warm embrace from the countryside. These towns are steeped in rich history, often dating back centuries, and are adorned with traditional pubs that have stood the test of time. Allow me to present a compilation of the most enchanting small towns in England, each possessing its own unique allure.
Whitby [SEE MAP]
In 656, King Oswy of Northumbria established a monastery, marking the earliest recorded permanent settlement. Today, the renowned Whitby Abbey, built in the 14th century, stands as a captivating ruin. This iconic site served as a significant inspiration for Bram Stoker’s famous novel, Dracula, with parts of the story set in Whitby. Consequently, the town attracts both tourists and goths, with the Whitby Goth Festival being held twice a year. As you gaze out at the sea from the gothic stones of East Cliff, you can reflect on the notable figures who once called this historic fishing port home, such as Captain James Cook and arctic explorer William Scoresby.
Rye
Rye is a picturesque town characterized by its ancient cobbled streets and rows of houses near the sea. It was once a significant member of the Cinque Ports Confederation, a group of five towns that played a crucial role in trade and military activities during the medieval era. Today, Rye stands as a living museum, preserving its historical charm.
One of the notable landmarks in Rye is the Ypres Tower, commonly referred to as Rye Castle. Constructed in 1249 under the reign of Henry III, it served as a defensive structure against frequent French raids. Additionally, the town is graced by the presence of St. Mary’s Church, which dates back even further to the Norman era. This ancient church overlooks the town, adding to its historical allure.
Furthermore, Rye boasts its proximity to Camber Sands, one of England’s renowned beaches. Just a short distance away, this two-mile-long stretch of sandy shoreline attracts kitesurfers and beach enthusiasts alike, providing a delightful playground for leisure activities.
Tintagel
Tintagel Castle, located in this Cornish town, is widely recognized as the (supposed) site of King Arthur’s stronghold. The castle’s remains alone are worth a visit, situated just outside the town on a rugged assortment of typically Cornish cliffs. Exploring this picturesque landscape while contemplating the legend – or perhaps the history? – of King Arthur is truly enchanting.
Ascending the hill within the town, one will come across the renowned Old Post Office, a splendid 14th-century structure. Additionally, there is an abundance of Cornish pasty shops, fish & chip establishments, and pubs in this small town, more than one would expect.
Lynton and Lynmouth
Lynton offers a unique opportunity to experience two attractions in one. From its elevated position, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the picturesque harbour village of Lynmouth. Located in the stunning Exmoor region, this area is also home to the enchanting Valley of the Rocks, a captivating landscape shaped by ancient geological forces.
Additionally, you can explore the magical Glen Lyn Gorge, a slice of nature that feels like stepping into the pages of a fantasy novel. To conveniently travel between these two remarkable sites, you can hop on the Lynmouth Cliff Railway. This water-powered funicular, which has been operating since 1890, provides a fun and memorable way to admire the rugged beauty of the North Devon coastline below.
Shaftesbury
This charming town in Dorset possesses undeniable allure. Gold Hill, a street within the town, gained fame through its appearance in the renowned “Boy on Bike” television advertisement directed by Ridley Scott for Hovis, a well-known bread brand in the United Kingdom. The street’s steep, cobbled path is adorned with quaint cottages, set against the backdrop of the picturesque English countryside.
Renowned as “one of the most enchanting views in England,” this idyllic street is accompanied by the remnants of Shaftesbury Abbey, constructed in 888 AD under the patronage of King Alfred.
Upper and Lower Slaughter
The term “Slohtre” does not imply any form of violence or harm. In fact, it originates from Old English and means “muddy place,” which is quite far from its current connotation. These charming twin towns perfectly embody the picturesque beauty of the Cotswolds, resembling scenes from a delightful chocolate-box. Taking a leisurely walk along the River Eye, which connects these towns, allows one to immerse themselves in idyllic riverside views. Along the way, you will come across a 14th-century structure appropriately named The Old Mill, adding to the historical charm of the area.
St Ives
St Ives, located on the north Cornwall coast, is a captivating town that offers a delightful combination of narrow lanes, delectable seafood, vibrant pubs, traditional Cornish pasties, and indulgent cream tea. These enticing elements make it an irresistible destination for travelers. In addition to leisurely strolls with an ice cream in hand or relaxing on one of the town’s two beautiful beaches, a visit to the renowned Tate St Ives is highly recommended.
This comprehensive art gallery showcases a diverse selection of artwork that appeals to both casual visitors and avid art enthusiasts. The town’s numerous art galleries also contribute significantly to its artistic ambiance, featuring everything from the stunning interiors of historic churches to rooms adorned with centuries-old wooden beams.
Castle Combe
The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is responsible for many stunning English towns, and Castle Combe is certainly one of them. It proudly declares itself as “the prettiest English town,” and its reputation has spread worldwide. This charming town has served as the backdrop for numerous movies and TV series, including Steven Spielberg’s War Horse and the beloved Downton Abbey.
Steeped in history, the magnificent St Andrew’s Church, built in the 15th century, stands as a testament to the Cotswolds’ past prosperity in the textile industry. Additionally, visitors can experience the luxury of staying in the Manor House Hotel, a remarkable five-star accommodation dating back to the 14th century.
Lavenham
Lavenham is a place where medieval structures stand askew, reminiscent of a bygone era. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the town gained renown for its wool industry and became one of the wealthiest settlements in Britain. However, it later experienced a decline due to the availability of cheaper exports from Europe.
Today, Lavenham exudes a fairytale-like ambiance, with numerous half-timbered buildings that narrate its rich history. Alongside these architectural gems, there are modern establishments such as restaurants and accommodations, seamlessly blending the past with the present. For a truly immersive experience, visitors can indulge in a cup of tea at the Tudor tea-room located in the Lavenham Guildhall, which stands as a remarkable testament to the town’s prosperous past.
Beer
Regrettably, in Devon, there exists a town named Beer, which is derived from the Old English word “bearu” meaning grove. Despite this, the town boasts an unusually high number of pubs, all of which serve exceptional local ales and the renowned local delicacy of crab. Immersed in stories of smuggling, embarking on a leisurely hike down Hooken Cliffs to the west of the town allows one to envision themselves as a smuggler from times past.
Located just outside the town are the Beer Quarry Caves, which date back 2,000 years and are renowned for their “beer stone” – a finely-textured limestone that was utilized in the construction of Westminster Abbey, among other notable places. Sitting on Beer’s pebble beach, gazing out at the sea while enjoying an ice cream after a satisfying pub lunch, exemplifies the quintessential English summer holiday experience.
Hawkshead
Hawkshead, renowned for its well-preserved charm, was once the residence of William Wordsworth, who eloquently depicted its beauty in his poem The Prelude. Additionally, Beatrix Potter, the beloved author, also resided in this quaint town. Visitors now have the wonderful opportunity to experience the cozy ambiance of an authentic English cottage by exploring her former abode, which is now open to the public.
Bibury
Bibury epitomizes the quintessential English towns with its idyllic landscapes of charming cottages nestled amidst lush green hills. One cannot help but be captivated by the picturesque Arlington Row, a collection of protected houses that graces the inside cover of every UK passport.
Exploring Bibury and succumbing to its irresistible charm is the primary activity in this town, which serves as a hub for countryside strolls and delightful tearooms. Situated in the Cotswolds, a region celebrated for its enchanting towns and scenic countryside, Bibury truly embodies the essence of tranquil rural England.
Southwold
Southwold, a charming English coastal town, is located within the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is adorned with picturesque village greens, quaint cottages covered in pebbles, and beautiful sandy beaches. The town’s pier, stretching 190 meters (620 feet) and constructed in 1900, stands as a remarkable testament to the golden era of English seaside entertainment. Unlike other piers, Southwold Pier has embraced the nostalgia of the past by introducing retro-style coin machine games, ensuring that the traditional English seaside holiday experience thrives.
As with many English towns, Southwold boasts a rich history. Along the cliff, six 18-pound cannons serve as a reminder of their use during a battle against the Dutch in 1672. Additionally, Southwold was once home to the renowned writer George Orwell during his thirties, a period when he penned the novel “Burmese Days.”
Bakewell
This northern town is adorned with stone buildings that seem to have come straight out of a fairytale. It is widely recognized for its renowned delicacy, Bakewell pudding, which consists of a pastry shell filled with a layer of jam and frangipane. Apart from its culinary fame, the town boasts a rich history dating back to Anglo-Saxon times. The Bakewell Parish Church, a Grade I listed structure, was established in 920 AD. Situated in the picturesque Derbyshire Dales, the area is a haven for avid hikers, offering a plethora of well-established trails to explore.
Berwick-upon-Tweed is one of the 15 Most Charming Small Towns In England
Berwick-upon-Tweed, the town with the most contentious history in Europe, witnessed a staggering 14 changes of ownership between England and Scotland from 1174 to 1482. Eventually, England emerged as the victor in this struggle. Interestingly, despite this outcome, the local dialect still bears resemblances to Scots, and its football team remains the sole English side to participate in the Scottish League.
In the present day, Berwick-upon-Tweed attracts numerous visitors due to its rich and prominent historical landmarks. These include medieval town walls, Elizabethan ramparts, ruins of a 13th-century castle, the renowned 17th-century ‘Old Bridge’, the town hall, Britain’s earliest army barracks, and even England’s northernmost hotel. Undoubtedly, the town’s historical significance is truly remarkable.
