While Big Ben, Stonehenge, and the Tower of London rightfully attract millions of visitors each year, England's true magic often lies in its lesser-known countryside treasures. For those willing to venture beyond the tourist trails, there's a whole world of charming villages, stunning landscapes, and authentic experiences waiting to be discovered.
At BritExplore, we pride ourselves on showcasing these hidden gems to our clients. Here are ten of our favorite secret spots that showcase the unspoiled beauty and rich history of rural England:
1. Castle Combe, Wiltshire
Often called "the prettiest village in England," Castle Combe looks like it's frozen in the 15th century. Its honey-colored Cotswold stone cottages, ancient market cross, and the gentle River Bybrook create a scene straight from a storybook. What makes it special is how untouched it remains—there are no souvenir shops or modern intrusions to break the spell. Visit early in the morning to experience the village at its most peaceful.
2. Malham Cove, Yorkshire Dales
This natural limestone formation is truly awe-inspiring. The massive curving cliff was formed by a waterfall carrying meltwater during the last ice age. What makes it unique is the limestone pavement at the top—a surreal landscape of flat stones separated by deep crevices known as "clints" and "grykes." Harry Potter fans might recognize it from "The Deathly Hallows." The panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
3. Rye, East Sussex
This medieval gem perched on a hill was once surrounded by sea. Today, Rye's cobbled lanes like Mermaid Street are lined with half-timbered houses, each with its own character and name. The town is steeped in smuggling history, which you can discover at the Ypres Tower and Castle Museum. Don't miss Lamb House, once home to American writer Henry James. End your visit with a climb up the church tower for views extending to France on clear days.
4. Stanton, Gloucestershire
Stanton might be the quintessential Cotswold village that tourists haven't yet discovered en masse. Built almost entirely from warm honey-colored limestone, it has remained remarkably untouched by modern development. The main street gently rises through the village toward the church, offering increasingly beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. For the perfect English experience, finish a country walk at the Mount Inn pub, perched at the top of the village with panoramic views over the Vale of Evesham.
5. Staithes, North Yorkshire
This former fishing village tucked into a narrow cove on the North Yorkshire coast is a maze of winding streets and red-roofed cottages. The steep-sided harbor still hosts a small fleet of fishing boats. Staithes was once one of the largest fishing ports in the northeast, but today it's better known for its artistic heritage. Walk the Cleveland Way for dramatic clifftop views, then explore the tiny streets where you'll find studios and galleries showcasing the work of the Staithes Group of artists, who were drawn here by the unique light and maritime atmosphere.
6. Lavenham, Suffolk
Often described as "England's finest medieval village," Lavenham boasts over 300 listed buildings, many of them half-timbered, leaning houses from the 15th century. Once one of the wealthiest towns in England due to its thriving wool trade, Lavenham's prosperity waned, leaving the town preserved in time. The Guildhall standing proudly in the marketplace tells the story of the town's rich history, while the Church of St Peter and St Paul showcases the wealth this small community once possessed with its impressive stained glass windows and towering spire.
7. Hawes, Yorkshire Dales
This bustling market town in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park is home to the famous Wensleydale Cheese. Visit the Wensleydale Creamery to see how this beloved cheese is made and sample the various varieties. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Hawes offers easy access to spectacular natural attractions like Hardraw Force, England's highest single-drop waterfall. The Dales Countryside Museum brings to life the story of the people who shaped this unique landscape over thousands of years.
8. Polperro, Cornwall
This picturesque fishing village on Cornwall's southeast coast is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets and cottages that tumble down to a tiny harbor. Cars are banned from the village center, preserving its old-world charm. Polperro has a fascinating history of smuggling, which you can learn about at the local Heritage Museum. The South West Coast Path offers stunning walks along the rugged coastline in both directions, while the clear waters of the harbor are perfect for a summer swim or watching the small fishing boats bring in their daily catch.
9. Upper Slaughter, Gloucestershire
The wonderfully named Upper Slaughter (the name comes from "slohtre," meaning "muddy place") is one of the Cotswolds' most serene villages. It's one of the "Thankful Villages" that lost no men in World War I. The River Eye gently flows through the village, crossed by a small ford where children often play in summer. What makes Upper Slaughter special is its untouched quality—there are no shops, cafes, or tourist attractions here, just beautiful Cotswold stone houses arranged around a village square and a small Norman church. It's the perfect example of rural England at its most peaceful.
10. Clovelly, Devon
Clinging to a 400-foot cliff on North Devon's coast, Clovelly is one of England's most unique villages. The steep, cobbled main street is traffic-free (there are no cars in the village), and goods traditionally were transported by donkeys and wooden sledges. Today, visitors pay a small entrance fee to the village, which helps maintain its historical character. The whitewashed cottages adorned with flowers offer a glimpse into a lifestyle unchanged for centuries. The small harbor at the bottom provides shelter for the fishing boats that still bring in daily catches, and the stunning views of Bideford Bay make the steep walk down (and up!) well worth it.
Plan Your Hidden Countryside Adventure
These ten gems are just the beginning of what rural England has to offer. At BritExplore, we specialize in creating personalized itineraries that take you beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the authentic heart of Great Britain.
Our expert guides know the best times to visit these villages (often early morning or late afternoon to avoid any tour groups), the hidden footpaths that offer the most spectacular views, and the local pubs and tea rooms where you can enjoy authentic regional specialties.
Whether you're interested in a tailored driving tour of the Cotswolds, a walking holiday in the Yorkshire Dales, or a coastal adventure in Cornwall, we can help you experience the enchanting English countryside at its most authentic.
Contact us today to start planning your journey to the hidden gems of England's countryside.