Castle Combe is often hailed as the most beautiful village in England – and it’s easy to see why. As soon as you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a living postcard. The charming cobblestone streets, the warm honey-colored cottages, and the quaint village square with its ancient market cross create a scene that’s straight out of a fairytale. There are no modern streetlights or signs to break the spell, just a timeless atmosphere that feels like it’s been frozen in the Middle Ages. It’s no wonder the village is beloved by visitors and filmmakers alike – you may even recognize it from the big screen.
In this blog, you’ll uncover the highlights of Castle Combe, from its historic landmarks to its iconic filming locations. Read on to learn why this village is one of the most cherished gems of the Cotswolds.
Where is Castle Combe?
Castle Combe is tucked away in the heart of the enchanting Cotswolds, a region in southwest England celebrated for its rolling hills, lush green landscapes, and charming, honey-hued villages. Stretching across several counties, including Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, and Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds have been officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). In other words, no matter where you look, you’re surrounded by stunning, postcard-worthy vistas.
Located in Wiltshire, Castle Combe is just 20 miles (32 kilometers) from the historic city of Bath, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a peaceful retreat to explore the picturesque beauty of the Cotswolds. From Castle Combe, it’s only a 20-minute drive to Lacock, another fairytale village made famous by its appearance in the Harry Potter films. The nearby town of Bradford-on-Avon, with its ancient stone bridges and quaint market square, is just 10 miles (16 kilometers) away. Even UNESCO World Heritage sites like Avebury, renowned for its ancient and mysterious stone circles, and the beautiful abbey town of Malmesbury are only a half-hour drive away, offering even more reasons to explore the region.
Is Castle Combe Worth Visiting?
Castle Combe is everything you dream of in a Cotswold village: winding cobblestone streets, charming honey-hued stone cottages, and an atmosphere that seems to transport you back to the Middle Ages. Though small, the village is packed with character. Every turn, every building is a perfect photo opportunity, and it’s impossible not to be enchanted. It’s the kind of place where you can happily lose yourself—whether that means taking a leisurely stroll, sipping tea in a quaint tearoom, or enjoying a cozy lunch in a traditional pub.
What makes Castle Combe even more magical is how wonderfully preserved it feels. There are no traffic lights, no modern developments—just the serenity of history unfolding before your eyes. This timelessness is exactly why Castle Combe is a favorite location for filmmakers. Movies like War Horse and Stardust have used the village as a backdrop, and it’s easy to see why. With its perfectly preserved medieval charm, it looks like it’s been lifted straight from a period drama.
Whether you’re drawn to architecture, photography, or simply in search of an enchanting English village, Castle Combe promises to exceed your expectations.
Top Things to Do in Castle Combe
#1 The Old village
Castle Combe Village feels like a place where time has come to a standstill—and truly, that’s what makes it so utterly enchanting.
As soon as you step onto the village’s main street, flanked by honey-hued Cotswold stone cottages and window boxes brimming with colorful blooms, it’s easy to see why this village is often hailed as the most beautiful in England. There are no modern road signs, no garish storefronts—just a peaceful, timeless atmosphere that feels like it’s been lifted straight from the pages of a storybook. Castle Combe may be small, but every corner, every facade, is a perfect picture waiting to be captured.
At the heart of the village stands the old market cross, a nod to the time when bustling weekly markets were held right here. Nearby, an ancient water pump adds to the village’s old-world charm, evoking the feeling that at any moment, a villager with a wooden bucket could stroll by. Perhaps the most photographed spot in the entire village is the iconic stone bridge that arches over the Bybrook River. The view from the bridge, with its charming row of cottages nestled along the water, is so idyllic that it’s impossible to resist snapping a photo.
Another standout is St. Andrew’s Church, the village’s spiritual hub since the 13th century. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by soaring arches, exquisite stained-glass windows, and one of the oldest working clocks in England. The surrounding churchyard, with its tilted gravestones and moss creeping over the inscriptions, only adds to the atmosphere, making the scene feel like something out of another era.
#2 Filming Locations in Castle Combe
Castle Combe feels like it was made for the silver screen, and it’s no surprise that filmmakers from around the world have been drawn to this enchanting village. As you wander past the charming cottages, you’ll get the distinct feeling that you’ve seen it before—and chances are, you have.
Steven Spielberg chose Castle Combe as the stunning backdrop for his film War Horse. The cobbled streets and historic buildings created the perfect setting for scenes set during World War I. The village also served as the setting for Stardust, one of my favorite fantasy films, where its magical atmosphere helped bring the fictional village of Wall to life.
Even Hollywood horror films have been captivated by the village’s eerie beauty. In The Wolfman, Castle Combe was transformed into a haunting 19th-century village, shrouded in mist with shadowy figures drifting through the streets. Fans of classic TV dramas will likely recognize the village from episodes of Poirot and Downton Abbey as well.
Spotting the village’s famous film locations is an easy task. The iconic bridge over the Bybrook River and the old market cross appear in several films, as do the picture-perfect cottages, which serve as ideal backdrops. There are even guided walking routes that take you past all the key filming spots. Whether you’re a movie buff or simply looking to enjoy the cinematic setting, Castle Combe has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a storybook world.
#3 Castle Combe Circuit
Just outside the tranquil village, a completely different world awaits: the Castle Combe Circuit. Established in 1950, this historic racing track is considered one of the oldest and most thrilling in the United Kingdom. Spanning 3 kilometers, it attracts both seasoned drivers and excited spectators, offering an adrenaline rush that’s a world apart from the village’s calm and peaceful atmosphere.
Throughout the year, the circuit plays host to a diverse range of races, from classic car rallies to high-speed motorcycle events. But you don’t have to be a professional racer to experience the thrill of the track. On special track days, amateurs are welcome to take their turn, testing their driving skills on the same asphalt as the pros. Alongside the races and track days, the circuit also holds car shows, demonstration events, and driving courses, making it a must-visit destination for motor enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you’re looking to watch the action or be part of it, Castle Combe offers an exciting, fast-paced escape from the village’s peaceful charm.
Practical Information
Castle Combe may be small, but its charm draws plenty of visitors, so a little advance planning will make your trip much smoother. Tucked away in Wiltshire, right in the heart of the Cotswolds, this picturesque village is just 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Bath and 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Chippenham. It’s only a two-hour drive from London, or you can take a train to Chippenham and hop on a short taxi or bus ride to the village.
There’s a large parking lot just outside the village, as the streets are partially car-free, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.
For a bite to eat, you’ll find classic British pubs like The Castle Inn, where you can enjoy traditional dishes like fish and chips or relax with a pint by the warmth of the fire. If you’re in the mood for a proper English tea, there are several delightful tearooms serving freshly baked scones with jam in settings that feel as if they’ve been lifted from the pages of a storybook.
When it comes to where to stay, you can choose a cozy bed and breakfast, like The Castle Inn, or treat yourself to a more luxurious stay at the Manor House Hotel. This historic country house boasts beautiful gardens and a highly praised restaurant. Castle Combe is particularly popular in the spring and summer months, so to avoid disappointment, it’s wise to book your accommodation and dining options in advance, ensuring you make the most of this enchanting destination.
