Goathland railway station serves the village of Goathland in the North York Moors National Park in North Yorkshire, England. The station first opened in 1865 as “Goathland Mill” and was named as such due to its proximity to the watermill on the Murk Esk River adjacent to the station.
With minimal alterations in the last 100 years, the station has managed to survive the changing times and remains this day part of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. If you are eager to go on a train ride, you can check the timetable to book a ticket or simply explore the station without one. After taking pictures and soaking in the atmosphere, I recommend visiting the Goathland Station Café.
This unique, one-of-a-kind tea room is located inside the station and is a converted 1922-style goods shed. The café is walker and dog-friendly, and guests are welcome to sit inside or outside to watch the trains come and go. Passengers are also welcome to take goods purchased onto the trains.
Goathland Station café serves various drinks, savories, cakes, sweet treats, and ice creams. I recommend trying their sandwiches and scones. They also serve some yummy hot chocolate. Opening times vary according to train schedules and are as follows:
Bronze Timetable Dates: 9.30am to 5.00pm Silver Timetable Dates (Sundays): 10.00am to 4.45pm Gold Timetable Dates: 9.30am to 4.45pm
Inside the Goathland Station Café
Film and Television Appearances
Apart from bringing in visitors who appreciate its old charm, the station and its environment have appeared in various TV productions, including:
The Harry Potter films, as Hogsmeade station
Heartbeat, as Aidensfield station
All Creatures Great and Small
Keeping Mum
Carrington
View of Goathland Railway Station from the top of the red bridge
Stay in a Vintage Train Carriage at Goathland Station
Did you know that holiday accommodation is available at Goathland Station? Sitting behind the platform lies a vintage camping coach. The camping carriage includes a living room, a kitchen, a twin bedroom and double bedroom, and a shower room.
The wonderful seaside town of Whitby is situated on the east coast of North Yorkshire, England. Located at the mouth of the River Esk, Whitby has been a bridging point since medieval times as several bridges have spanned the river.
Whitby has been known to be a tourist destination for some time now. The first traces of tourism date to the Georgian period, which developed with the arrival of the railway in 1839. People opt to visit Whitby mainly because of its proximity to the North York Moors National Park and its association with the horror novel “Dracula.” The village has also been featured on British TV shows such as “Heartbeat.”
View of the River Esk from Bridge St
16 Places to See in Whitby, England
When it comes to walks around Whitby, you are totally spoilt for choice—you needn’t worry about ability or experience—with so many options, there is sure to be a walk around that is perfect for you.
The following places are all FREE to visit, except for Whitby Abbey!
Visit the Harbor and Spot the Lighthouses
While many towns center on a market square, Whitby’s heart is its harbor. It all began by the early 1300s, when merchants from all over Northern Europe sailed to Whitby to trade with the wealthy Abbey. The harbor is home to two lighthouses. The taller lighthouse is West Pier Lighthouse, made from local sandstone and built in 1831. The shorter lighthouse is the East Pier Lighthouse, and it was built in 1855. There is also a third lighthouse lying Southwest of Whitby—the Whitby High Lighthouse, which has been in function since 1858.
The West Pier Lighthouse stands to the left, with the East Pier Lighthouse to the right
Walk Around Sandgate Street
Sandgate Street is the perfect place to find a selection of Whitby Jet Shops. Furthermore, the Market Place located at the end of the street has been a trading area since the mid 17th Century and you will still find stalls today.
Wander around Church St
Originally known as Kirkgate, Church Street is home to several shops and restaurants. You will also find cottages and tiny houses dating back to the 15th Century here—although it is thought the Street first had buildings in the late 14th Century. You will find Church Street below the 199 steps leading up to Whitby Abbey. If you are hungry, I recommend stopping by and having dinner at Mister Chips!
Whitby’s yards are rows of 17th and 18th Century cottages tucked behind main streets. You will find the lovely Blackburn’s Yard off Church Street. This yard has been granted several awards such as “Perfect Picture Yard” and “Whitby’s Best Kept Garden” throughout the years. Here, you can visit the Wash House Pottery where they sell beautiful pottery and ceramics.
View of Blackburn’s Yard in early spring
Spot the Crooked Cottage
This 400-year-old cottage is situated next to the 199 steps leading up to Whitby Abbey and St Mary’s Church. People can actually book the cottage and stay here. The building sleeps up to five people and it offers gorgeous views of the harbor from the upstairs rooms. What makes this building fascinating is its colors and quirkiness!
The Crooked Cottage with its beautiful blue-painted windows and door
Wander around Grape Lane
Grape Lane is a quaint pedestrianized lane where you’ll find a surprising selection of retailers including a jet shop, a coffee shop, a gift shop, and the ever popular Captain Cook’s Memorial Museum, in between others.
View of Grape Lane with some of its shops
Walk on Henrietta St
This popular street was once known as ‘Haggerlythe’ (1270) but was later renamed after the wife of Nathaniel Cholmley, Henrietta Cholmley. Nathaniel was a member of the British parliament in the late 1700s. Back in the day, Henrietta Street was considered a desirable place to live (especially by fishermen) because it provided easy access to the sea and offered some of the best views in the village. Today, things are not much different. The view of the harbor and the abbey are simply amazing from this viewpoint!
Whitby’s 199 steps have been recorded since at least 1370 and, up until the 1770s, they were made of wood. Today you will find they are made of stone. The 199 steps are an iconic landmark leading all the way up to Whitby Abbey widely known because of their appearance in the book ‘Dracula’ by Bram Stoker!
View of the coast from the 199 steps
Visit the St Mary’s Church and Churchyard
St Mary’s stands atop Whitby’s East Cliff, between the village and the ruins of Whitby Abbey. You can reach it by climbing the famous 199 steps or taking the Donkey Road. Founded around 1100 AD, St Mary’s is famous for its association with Captain Cook, who worshipped here, and with Bram Stoker’s vampire novel, Dracula. The Churchyard offers a peaceful space to wander around and, from there, you can soak in a one-of-a-kind view of the Abbey.
St Mary’s Church and Churchyard
Visit Whitby Abbey
The ruins of Whitby Abbey are among the most celebrated sights of North Yorkshire. The first monastery to take place in the abbey was founded in about 657. The Abbey has been inspiring visitors for nearly 1500 years with its stories of saints, poets, and Dracula. The site also offers fantastic views of the coast, a fascinating museum, and wide open grounds to roam.
The steep and cobbled Donkey Road parallels the famous 199 steps and leads up to the previously mentioned Whitby Abbey. Historically, it was on this track the beach donkeys walked on their way to perform their arduous beach chores. Nowadays this is not so, as the donkeys are carried to and from their field on the Abbey Plain by small trucks.
Descending from the steep Donkey Road
Walk Along Pier Road
Located in West Whitby, Pier Road leads to the main beach. The road is filled with amusement arcades, ice cream stalls, and fish and chip shops. There is also a fish market here!
Visit the Whitby Whalebone Arch
The original Whalebone Arch was placed on Whitby’s West Cliff in 1853, but was replaced in 1963 with a replica from Norway and then again in 2003. The arch perfectly frames the ruins of Whitby Abbey and makes for a great picture spot. The story of the Whalebone Arch is an exciting one. In the 18th and 19th Centuries, the whaling industry was thriving in Whitby. Many ships sailed to Greenland to hunt these leviathans and then sell their lucrative whale oil. Many of those ships never came back. The Arch stands in place as a reminder of Whitby’s past.
Whitby’s Whalebone Arch. From here, you can see Whitby Abbey standing in the background
Walk on Cliff St
Cliff Street offers some lovely views of the coast and village down below. It is a beautiful street to wander around with many places to rent for the night, such as this cottage. From Cliff Street, you are literally minutes away from the town center, the pier, the beach, and all the other amenities Whitby has to offer.
The cottages of Cliff St
Spot the Robert Lennard House
The Robert Lennard House stands on the narrow Cliff Street. It was apparently built by Robert as the headquarters of his businesses of architect, builder, and antique dealer. Outside of the building, you will find a blue plaque with the date of construction (1888). Stop by and admire the beautiful architecture, especially the details surrounding the bay window across the corner!
The Robert Lennard House with its impressive bay windows
Visit the Alice in Wonderland Garden
Created by the Whitby in Bloom Group, this small but charming garden is located on Cliff Street (next to the car park) and is the perfect spot for both visitors and residents to take a rest and enjoy the view. The Alice-themed garden includes large playing cards inscribed with quotes from the novel, an elegant archway, and a giant ‘stopwatch’ seat. The garden forms part of the White Rabbit Trail in town, which you can purchase in the Tourism Information Center.
Often described as one of the prettiest villages in England, Castle Combe feels like a place untouched by modern life. Tucked away in the southern Cotswolds, this small Wiltshire village is famous for its perfectly preserved stone cottages, quiet lanes, and storybook scenery. Walking its streets feels like stepping back several centuries, where every corner tells a story of medieval England, the wool trade, and generations who lived and worked here. No wonder it is my favorite Cotswolds village!
This guide covers some of the most charming things to do in Castle Combe and helps you plan a memorable visit, whether you are stopping by for a few hours or staying overnight.
8 Charming Things To Do in Castle Combe, Cotswolds
1. Stay at The Old Museum
The Old Museum is a detached holiday home located near the lower entrance of Castle Combe village. It is one of the first historic buildings you will see as you walk toward the village center from the parking lot.
Staying here allows you to experience Castle Combe when the crowds fade, offering peaceful views of the street and immediate access to the heart of the village.
The main approach into Castle Combe is known simply as The Street. Lined with trees, stone cottages, and rolling greenery, this walk sets the tone for the entire visit.
As you stroll downhill toward the village center, you will pass some of the most photographed cottages in England. Be mindful that this is an active road with occasional traffic.
View from “The Street”
3. Visit the Dower House from Doctor Dolittle
The Dower House is one of Castle Combe’s most recognizable buildings. This Grade II listed property famously appeared as the Doctor Dolittle house in the 1967 film.
Painted in soft yellow tones and set along The Street, it is a favorite photo stop and a highlight for film lovers visiting the village.
Dower House, the “Dr. Dolittle House”
4. See the Market Cross
The Market Cross stands at the heart of Castle Combe and marks the location of the village’s medieval market. Built in the fourteenth century, it symbolizes Castle Combe’s importance during the height of the wool and cloth trade.
This historic monument remains one of the most iconic features of the village!
View from the Market Cross
5. Visit St Andrew’s Church
St Andrew’s Church dates back to the thirteenth century and has been expanded and restored over time. Inside, visitors can see the effigy of Sir Walter de Dunstanville, Baron of Castle Combe, who died in 1270. His crossed legs indicate participation in the Crusades, a detail that fascinates many visitors.
The church and surrounding churchyard are open during daylight hours, and offer a peaceful place to pause.
St Andrew’s Church exterior
Statue of Sir Walter de Dunstanville
6. Walk Through Market Place and Admire the Cottages
Market Place is one of the most picturesque areas of Castle Combe. Here, rows of honey colored stone cottages with ivy covered walls and carefully tended gardens create the village’s postcard perfect image.
Tucked among the cottages, you will also find small tea rooms where you can stop for tea, coffee, or freshly baked treats!
View of the cottages on “Market Pl” road
7. Photograph the Bridge over the River Bybrook
The stone bridge over the River Bybrook is the most photographed spot in Castle Combe. From here, you get a perfect view of the cottages reflected in the water.
No new buildings have been constructed in Castle Combe since the seventeenth century, which is why the village feels so remarkably preserved!
Famous view of the bridge over the River Bybrook
8. Sit on Queen Elizabeth’s Bench
Located near the bridge, Queen Elizabeth’s Bench offers one of the best viewpoints in the village. The bench was placed in memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and faces the iconic cottages of Castle Combe. It is a lovely place to sit quietly and take in the scenery.
The inscription on the bench reads “In memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, 1926-2022”
9. Visit Castle Combe Manor
Castle Combe Manor dates back to the fourteenth century and was once home to Sir John Oldcastle. Today, it operates as a luxury hotel and golf estate.
Visitors can enjoy coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner at the manor, even if not staying overnight. The gardens are open to the public unless a private event is taking place.
Castle Combe has appeared in numerous films and television productions due to its untouched medieval appearance. Notable productions include Doctor Dolittle, War Horse, Stardust, and several period dramas. This cinematic history adds another layer of interest for visitors.
Things to Do Near Castle Combe
Castle Combe is well located for exploring other parts of the Cotswolds.
Nearby highlights include Lacock Village, often used as a filming location for Harry Potter, and Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage city. For travelers exploring the northern Cotswolds, villages such as Broadway, Snowshill, and Stow on the Wold can be visited as part of a longer road trip.
Best Time to Visit Castle Combe
Spring and summer are the most popular seasons, thanks to blooming gardens and mild weather. Autumn offers fewer crowds and warm colors, while winter brings a quiet, atmospheric charm.
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to experience Castle Combe without large tour groups.
Perched on one of the highest points in the Cotswolds, Stow on the Wold is a village that feels both timeless and welcoming. Once an important market town, today it draws visitors with its honey colored stone buildings, antique shops, historic inns such as this one, and relaxed village atmosphere.
Walking through Stow on the Wold feels like stepping into a quieter rhythm of life. Cobblestone streets curve gently past centuries old cottages, independent shops, and cozy tearooms. It is a place that encourages slow travel, whether you are browsing antiques, enjoying a long lunch, or simply wandering without a plan.
A cobblestone lane in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold
Exploring the Streets of Stow on the Wold
One of the best things to do in Stow on the Wold is simply to wander. The village center is compact, yet full of character.
The winding streets are lined with antique shops, independent boutiques, cafes, and galleries. Many of these buildings date back several centuries and retain their original stone facades, giving the village its unmistakable Cotswold charm.
Take your time here. This is the kind of place where popping into one shop easily turns into an afternoon of exploring!
The High Street and Market Square form the heart of Stow on the Wold. Historically, this square hosted large sheep markets and fairs that brought traders from across England.
Today, it is surrounded by antique shops, traditional pubs, and tearooms. The atmosphere is lively but never overwhelming. A relaxed afternoon route through the village could include:
Start with brunch or cream tea at Huffkins, a classic Cotswolds institution
Browse nearby shops such as The Curated Store or Fosse Gallery
Explore antique favorites like Durham House Antiques and Tara Antiques
Pick up local cheese from the Cotswold Cheese Company
Finish with coffee or cake at Lucy’s Tearoom or the New England Coffee House.
View of the shops from High Street – Market Square
A fairytale-like corner in the village
Visit St Edward’s Church
St Edward’s Church is one of the most atmospheric churches in the Cotswolds. Its famous north door, framed by ancient yew trees, has become an iconic image of Stow-on-the-Wold and is often likened by Tolkien fans to something from Middle-earth—reminiscent of the hidden doors of Moria watched over by ancient trees!
The church dates back to the eleventh century and features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stonework. The setting feels almost mythical and is frequently linked to inspiration for fantasy literature. Needless to say, this is a must-see stop when visiting the village!
It is widely rumored that the North door to St.Edwards Church inspired Tolkien for the ‘Doors of Durin’, which appear in the Lord of the Rings
Walks and Nature Around Stow on the Wold
Stow on the Wold is surrounded by classic Cotswold countryside. Rolling hills, open fields, and quiet footpaths begin just beyond the village streets.
The Cotswold Way long distance walking trail passes nearby, offering opportunities for short scenic walks or longer countryside hikes. Each season brings a different feel, from spring wildflowers to golden autumn landscapes.
Stow on the Wold offers a wide range of accommodation options, making it a popular place to stay in the Cotswolds. You will find charming bed and breakfasts, historic coaching inns, boutique hotels, and self catering cottages. Many accommodations are within walking distance of shops and restaurants, which makes evenings especially enjoyable.
From London, the drive takes about two hours via the M40 and A424.
From Oxford, the journey is just under one hour.
From Birmingham, allow around one hour and fifteen minutes.
Parking is available in and around the Market Square, though spaces can fill quickly. A free car park near the Tesco on the edge of town is a useful alternative.
The nearest train station is Moreton in Marsh, approximately four miles away.
Direct trains run from London Paddington in about one hour and thirty minutes.
From the station, you can take a taxi or local bus to Stow on the Wold.
By Bus
Local bus services connect Stow on the Wold with Moreton in Marsh, Bourton on the Water, Cheltenham, and other Cotswold towns.
Services are less frequent on Sundays, so checking timetables in advance is recommended.
Visiting Broadway from Stow on the Wold
Broadway is an excellent addition to a Stow on the Wold itinerary. Located to the north, it is known as the Jewel of the Cotswolds and offers a wider High Street, excellent shopping, and access to Broadway Tower.
Many visitors combine Stow on the Wold and Broadway in a single day, either by car or on a guided Cotswolds tour. The village of Broadway also makes a great base if you want to explore Snowshill and the northern Cotswolds.
I wrote an article about the village of Broadway here, and Snowshill here. I highly recommend taking a look and seeing if they are a good fit to add to your itinerary!
Stow on the Wold in Film and Television
Stow on the Wold and the surrounding Cotswolds have been featured in numerous British television shows and films. Nearby villages have appeared in productions such as Downton Abbey, Father Brown, and Bridget Jones’s Diary.
The timeless streets and historic buildings of Stow on the Wold make it a natural fit for period dramas and countryside scenes.
Best Time to Visit Stow on the Wold
Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit, thanks to pleasant weather and blooming gardens. Autumn offers fewer crowds and warm countryside colors, while winter brings festive decorations and cozy pub interiors.
Stow on the Wold is a year round destination, with each season offering a different atmosphere!
Broadway is often called the Jewel of the Cotswolds, and it is easy to see why. Sitting at the northern edge of the Cotswolds, this elegant village combines grand architecture, flower filled gardens, historic inns, and sweeping countryside views.
Unlike smaller villages nearby, Broadway feels lively yet refined. Independent shops, cafes, art galleries, and traditional pubs line its wide High Street, while peaceful footpaths and scenic viewpoints lie just minutes away. It is an ideal stop on any Cotswolds itinerary and a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area!
If you only have a few hours in Broadway, this guide covers the prettiest spots you should make time for. If you want to see Broadway along with other standout Cotswolds villages in a single day, I highly recommend joining a guided tour such as the one offered by Go Cotswolds. I have personally gone on this tour, and it is an excellent way to experience multiple highlights without the stress of planning or driving!
5 Prettiest Spots in Broadway, Cotswolds
1. Broadway High Street
Broadway High Street is one of the widest and most impressive high streets in the Cotswolds. Lined with honey colored stone buildings, boutique shops, historic inns, and colorful flower displays, it feels both grand and welcoming.
Walking along the High Street is one of the best free things to do in Broadway. Take your time browsing independent shops, stopping for tea, and admiring the architecture that dates back several centuries.
This area is especially beautiful in spring and summer when flowers cascade from windows and garden walls.
View of the village from High Street
2. Broadway Village Green
The Village Green sits at the heart of Broadway and plays an important role in local life. It regularly hosts farmers markets, seasonal fairs, and community events.
Surrounded by cafes and pubs, it is a popular spot for picnics and people watching. Benches around the green offer excellent views of the surrounding buildings and countryside beyond.
Families will appreciate the open space, while photographers will enjoy capturing the village atmosphere from this central location.
View of High Street from The Green
View of some of the cottages next to The Green
3. The Lygon Arms
The Lygon Arms is one of the most famous hotels in the Cotswolds and a true Broadway landmark. This historic coaching inn dates back over 600 year s and has hosted royalty, political figures, and writers throughout its long history.
Oliver Cromwell is said to have stayed here during the English Civil War, and the building itself feels like a living museum.
Even if you are not staying overnight, it is worth stepping inside to admire the interiors or enjoying a drink in the bar or courtyard.
The Lygon Arms, a 600-year-old inn
Lygon Arms’ back area
4. The Lygon Arms Garden
Behind the Lygon Arms, accessed via Back Lane, you will find a series of beautifully maintained gardens. These peaceful spaces offer a welcome escape from the busier High Street.
Each garden area has a slightly different design, with manicured lawns, stone paths, and carefully chosen plants. Benches throughout the gardens invite visitors to sit and relax.
This is one of the most underrated spots in Broadway and ideal for a quiet break during your visit.
View of one of the gardens
5. The Bridal Room Square
The Bridal Room boutique is located just off the High Street at 4 Keil Close. The small square surrounding it is one of Broadway’s hidden gems.
With its traditional stone buildings, soft colors, and tucked away feel, it offers a more intimate and less crowded view of the village. It is a lovely place to pause and soak in Broadway’s charm away from the main thoroughfare.
The Bridal Room in The Cotswolds
The charming little square with shops to explore
More Things to Do in and Around Broadway
Visit Broadway Tower
Broadway Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the Cotswolds and sits just outside the village. Built in the eighteenth century, it offers panoramic views across up to sixteen counties on clear days!
You can walk to the tower from Broadway village or drive to the nearby parking area. The surrounding parkland is ideal for walks and picnics. You can also visit while on a tour, such as this one!
Walk the Northern Cotswolds
Broadway is the official starting point of the Cotswold Way, a long distance walking trail that stretches to Bath. Even if you are not tackling the full route, shorter walks around Broadway offer stunning countryside views.
Popular routes include walks to Snowshill, Broadway Tower, and through nearby farmland and woodland.
Explore Nearby Villages
Broadway is perfectly located for visiting other beautiful Cotswold villages. Snowshill is only two miles away and offers a quieter, more secluded atmosphere. Chipping Campden, Winchcombe, and Stanton are also easy to reach by car.
Broadway Filming Locations
Broadway and the surrounding Cotswolds have appeared in numerous film and television productions. The village’s historic inns and streets fit perfectly into period dramas.
Nearby locations have been used in productions such as Downton Abbey, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and Father Brown, making Broadway a great stop for fans of British film and television!
How to Get to Broadway Village
You can reach Broadway from London in several ways.
By car, the journey takes just under two hours, depending on traffic.
By train, travel to Moreton in Marsh station, then take a local bus or taxi to Broadway. Total travel time is approximately three hours.
By coach, you can take a service from London Victoria to Cheltenham and then transfer to a local bus. This is the longest option and can take around five hours.
Where to Stay in Broadway
Broadway offers accommodation for a wide range of budgets and travel styles.
Staying in Broadway is ideal if you want easy access to the North Cotswolds while enjoying a lively village atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Broadway
Spring and summer are the most popular seasons, thanks to blooming flowers and outdoor events. Autumn offers beautiful colors and fewer crowds, while winter brings festive decorations and cozy pub experiences.
Broadway is a year round destination, with each season offering a different perspective on village life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broadway
How many people live in Broadway According to the 2011 census, Broadway had a population of 2,540.
Is there parking in Broadway Yes. There are several car parks in and around the village, all reasonably priced and easy to use.
Can I walk to another village from Broadway Yes. Snowshill is only two miles away and can be reached on foot.
Is Broadway worth visiting Absolutely. Broadway combines history, scenery, shopping, and excellent food, making it one of the best villages to visit in the Cotswolds!
To get a more thorough view of the village, refer to this map for your visit.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.
Snowshill is one of those rare Cotswold villages that feels almost untouched by time. Tucked away in the rolling hills of Gloucestershire, this peaceful village is known for its honey colored cottages, historic manor, lavender fields, and beautiful countryside views. Despite its small size, Snowshill offers visitors an authentic and deeply atmospheric Cotswolds experience.
If you are looking for a quiet village to visit near Broadway, away from the crowds of Bourton on the Water or Bibury, Snowshill is an excellent choice.
Where is Snowshill Located?
Snowshill is a civil parish in Gloucestershire, England, located in the North Cotswolds. It sits within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, one of the most scenic regions in the country.
The village is positioned just a few miles south of Broadway, making it easy to combine Snowshill with visits to other popular Cotswold destinations such as Chipping Campden, Winchcombe, and Stow on the Wold.
How to Get to Snowshill
Snowshill does not have a train station or regular bus service, which helps preserve its quiet charm.
The most convenient way to reach Snowshill is by car. There is a free public car park located just before the Snowshill Manor parking area, within easy walking distance of the village.
If you are traveling without a car, you can take a bus or train to Broadway or Moreton in Marsh and then arrange a taxi in advance. Another popular option is walking from Broadway, which is approximately two miles and offers beautiful countryside views along the way.
Because taxi availability in this area is limited, planning transportation ahead of time is strongly recommended.
Free car park right before the Snowshill Manor parking area
A Brief History of Snowshill
Snowshill was first recorded in the year 821, when King Coenwulf of Mercia gifted Snowshill Manor to Winchcombe Abbey. Many of the village’s charming stone cottages date back to the fifteenth century and were originally home to workers connected to the manor.
Archaeological excavations carried out in the nineteenth century revealed that the area was inhabited much earlier. Evidence of a Bronze Age settlement dating between 2100 and 1600 BC was discovered, with artifacts now held in the British Museum!
Top Things To Do in Snowshill, Cotswolds
Walk Around the Village
One of the best things to do in Snowshill is simply to wander. The village is small enough to explore in fifteen minutes, but you will want to move slowly to appreciate the details.
Expect narrow lanes, traditional limestone cottages, flower filled gardens, and complete tranquility. Early morning and golden hour are particularly magical times to visit.
St Barnabas Church stands at the heart of the village and dates back to 1864. This Victorian church is open to visitors and offers a quiet place to pause and reflect.
Outside the church, you will find one of Snowshill’s most photographed scenes: a classic red telephone box framed by stone walls and countryside views. A nearby bench makes it a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the village atmosphere.
St Barnabas church is at the heart of the village
Eat at The Snowshill Arms
The Snowshill Arms is a beautifully preserved fifteenth century inn and one of the most characterful pubs in the Cotswolds. It serves traditional British dishes and local ales in a cozy, historic setting.
The inn is also a filming location and appeared in the popular British television series Father Brown, adding to its appeal for TV and film fans!
Snowshill Manor is one of the most fascinating National Trust properties in the Cotswolds. Once home to Charles Paget Wade, the manor houses an eclectic collection of objects ranging from samurai armor to vintage bicycles.
Highlights include the meticulously designed gardens, orchards, and the miniature model village known as Wolfs Cove. There is also a café, gift shop, and second hand bookshop on site.
Allow at least two to three hours to fully explore the manor and grounds.
A glimpse of Snowshill Manor and its enchanting garden. Image retrieved from the Snowshill Manor Website
Visit the Cotswold Lavender Fields
Located just outside the village, the Cotswold Lavender fields are one of the most iconic summer attractions in the region. Typically open from June to August, the fields burst into vibrant purple and offer panoramic views over Broadway and the Vale of Evesham.
Tickets are purchased on arrival and card payments only are accepted. Visiting early in the season or early in the day helps avoid crowds.
Snowshill is surrounded by classic Cotswold landscapes, making it an excellent base for walking.
Snowshill Walk One Distance: 2 miles Duration: approximately 1 hour
This circular walk begins in the village and passes Snowshill Manor and gardens, combining woodland, countryside paths, and quiet roads. Views extend across the Severn Valley towards Wales on clear days.
Snowshill Walk Two Distance: 3.75 miles Duration: approximately 2 hours
Starting from the village car park, this longer circuit explores open countryside and woodland, with some steep climbs rewarded by stunning views over the Severn Vale. The route also passes through Snowshill village and the manor grounds.
Things to Do Near Snowshill
Snowshill makes an excellent base for exploring the North Cotswolds.
Nearby highlights include Broadway Tower, one of the best viewpoints in the Cotswolds, Chipping Campden, which marks the start of the Cotswold Way, and Winchcombe, a historic market town close to Sudeley Castle.
Day trips to Bourton on the Water, Stow on the Wold, and Lower Slaughter are also easily achievable by car.
Snowshill Filming Locations and Pop Culture
Snowshill has appeared in several British television productions, most notably Father Brown. Its timeless appearance and lack of modern development make it a popular choice for period dramas and countryside scenes. The area has also been featured in productions such as Downton Abbey and Bridget Jones’s Diary, which adds to the region’s appeal for film and TV enthusiasts.
Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit, particularly during lavender season from June to August. Autumn offers quieter streets and beautiful golden landscapes, while winter brings a cozy charm and occasional snowfall that lives up to the village’s name.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snowshill
How many people live in Snowshill? According to the 2011 census, Snowshill had a population of 164.
When was Snowshill first recorded? The village was first recorded in 821.
Does it snow in Snowshill? Yes. Snowshill often experiences snowfall earlier than surrounding areas due to its elevation!
Is there free parking in Snowshill? Yes. Free parking is available near Snowshill Manor, though spaces are limited.
Is Snowshill worth visiting? Absolutely. Snowshill is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful, authentic Cotswold village with rich history and beautiful scenery.
Architect at Heart 