Castle Combe

Castle Combe has been called 'The Prettiest Village in England' and with good reason. People have been coming here to enjoy its charms for at least a century, and the small street leading from the Market Cross down to the By Brook is as picturesque today as is ever was. The village Rex Harrison in Doctor Dolittle having been used as a film location for the original version of "Doctor Dolittle with Rex Harrison only served to confirm the charm and appeal of the village.

Its adjacent wooded hill was fortified by Britons, Saxons and Normans, and like most other places in the Cotswolds, Castle Combe's prosperity was based on sheep and wool. The village was important enough at one time to be granted the privilege of holding a fair where wool and sheep were traded.

The village is built around the 14th-century Market Cross with the old water pump beside it. A few yards away are the remains of the Butter Cross which was dismantled during the 19th century. St. Andrew's Church is probably 12th century and of particular interest inside is the modified 15th-century clock which used to ring the hours from the tower.

Castle Combe The classic view of the village is from across the bridge by the old weavers' cottages. The small local museum is up the hill away from the village towards the parking area

Castle Combe is one of the most visited Cotswold villages, and frequently finds favour as a backdrop for period television and cinema dramas.