England is filled with picture-perfect towns that look like they were plucked straight from the pages of a classic fairytale. Think cobbled streets, timber-framed cottages, ivy-covered stone walls, and castles perched above misty hills. These charming destinations are not only visually enchanting but also brimming with history, quaint shops, and cozy tearooms that make them unforgettable places to visit.
Here are 15 of the most magical towns in England that feel like something out of a storybook — and the top things to do in each one.
1. Bibury, Cotswolds
Why it feels like a fairytale: Bibury is often called “the most beautiful village in England” — and for good reason. Its row of 17th-century weavers’ cottages known as Arlington Row is one of the most photographed sites in the country.
Top things to do:
- Stroll along the River Coln for perfect photo ops.
- Visit the Bibury Trout Farm.
- Explore Arlington Row and the nearby St Mary’s Church.
2. Castle Combe, Wiltshire
Why it feels like a fairytale: With no new houses built since the 1600s, Castle Combe is pure medieval magic. Stone cottages, blooming gardens, and peaceful lanes make it a timeless treasure.
Top things to do:
- Walk through the village and enjoy the historic charm.
- Sip tea in a cozy inn like The Castle Inn.
- Take a walk through the surrounding countryside for panoramic views.
3. Rye, East Sussex
Why it feels like a fairytale: Perched on a hilltop with narrow lanes and half-timbered houses, Rye feels like stepping back in time — especially along Mermaid Street.
Top things to do:
- Explore Mermaid Street and its enchanting architecture.
- Visit Rye Castle Museum and the Ypres Tower.
- Shop for antiques and browse quirky boutiques.
4. Clovelly, Devon
Why it feels like a fairytale: This car-free fishing village clings to a steep hill overlooking the sea. Its cobbled lanes and whitewashed cottages tumble down to the harbor.
Top things to do:
- Walk down the cobbled main street to the harbor.
- Visit the Fisherman’s Cottage and Clovelly Court Gardens.
- Watch donkeys carrying goods up the steep lanes.
5. Hawkshead, Cumbria
Why it feels like a fairytale: Nestled in the Lake District, Hawkshead is a blend of slate buildings, cozy pubs, and winding lanes.
Top things to do:
- Visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery.
- Explore the medieval grammar school where Wordsworth studied.
- Take a scenic walk through the surrounding fells.
6. Shere, Surrey
Why it feels like a fairytale: This picturesque village was featured in the movie The Holiday and is known for its flower-covered cottages and ancient church.
Top things to do:
- Visit St. James’ Church and the old village forge.
- Enjoy a meal at The White Horse pub.
- Wander the riverbank and spot ducks and quaint bridges.
7. Lavenham, Suffolk
Why it feels like a fairytale: Once one of England’s wealthiest towns thanks to the wool trade, Lavenham is lined with colorful, crooked timber-framed houses.
Top things to do:
- Visit the medieval Guildhall.
- Take a guided walking tour of the historic architecture.
- Dine at one of the many characterful cafes and restaurants.
8. Staithes, North Yorkshire
Why it feels like a fairytale: Staithes is a coastal gem with tiny cottages, twisting streets, and a rich maritime history — all nestled in a dramatic cliffside cove.
Top things to do:
- Walk down to the working harbor and watch the boats come in.
- Explore the Captain Cook & Staithes Heritage Centre.
- Hike the Cleveland Way for seaside views.
9. Lacock, Wiltshire
Why it feels like a fairytale: Lacock is a perfectly preserved medieval village used in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. It’s full of old-world charm and photogenic beauty.
Top things to do:
- Tour Lacock Abbey and its cloisters.
- Stop by the Fox Talbot Museum for a dive into photography history.
- Enjoy a cream tea in a tearoom overlooking cobbled streets.
10. Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire
Why it feels like a fairytale: This historic fishing village is a maze of steep, winding alleyways with red-roofed cottages clinging to cliffs overlooking the North Sea.
Top things to do:
- Walk along the sandy beach at low tide.
- Visit the Old Coastguard Station.
- Wander the coastal trail to Whitby for breathtaking views.
11. Bourton-on-the-Water, Cotswolds
Why it feels like a fairytale: Often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” this charming village is built along the gentle River Windrush, with low arched bridges and flower-filled banks.
Top things to do:
- Visit the Model Village — a replica of the town in miniature.
- Browse the Cotswold Motoring Museum.
- Enjoy riverside tea or ice cream in the sunshine.
12. Alfriston, East Sussex
Why it feels like a fairytale: Alfriston combines Tudor buildings with a village green, a flint church, and views over the rolling South Downs.
Top things to do:
- Visit the Clergy House, the first National Trust property.
- Walk part of the South Downs Way.
- Browse independent shops and local art galleries.
13. Grasmere, Cumbria
Why it feels like a fairytale: Surrounded by the Lake District’s misty peaks, Grasmere is known for its literary ties and tranquil setting.
Top things to do:
- Visit Dove Cottage, home of poet William Wordsworth.
- Taste the famous Grasmere Gingerbread.
- Stroll around Grasmere Lake.
14. Corfe Castle, Dorset
Why it feels like a fairytale: Towering castle ruins watch over this quaint stone village, which looks frozen in time with its medieval charm and sweeping views.
Top things to do:
- Tour the dramatic Corfe Castle ruins.
- Ride the steam train from Swanage to Corfe Castle.
- Explore local pubs and shops nestled in stone cottages.
15. Broadway, Cotswolds
Why it feels like a fairytale: With golden stone cottages, antique shops, and leafy lanes, Broadway is one of the most elegant villages in the Cotswolds.
Top things to do:
- Climb Broadway Tower for panoramic countryside views.
- Enjoy upscale dining and boutique shopping.
- Walk the Cotswold Way trails that pass through the village.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.