UK's 'prettiest' village is even more stunning during autumn

Tucked away in the heart of Wiltshire, the English village of Castle Combe has long enchanted visitors with its breathtaking autumn splendour.

Often celebrated as one of the globe's most beautiful villages, this delightful community becomes a magical autumn paradise that has recently secured its place on Condé Nast Traveller'sroster of top destinations for witnessing fall colours. Castle Combe, home to merely 356 residents according to the 2021 census, sits roughly five miles northwest of Chippenham and 10 miles north-east of Bath.

Positioned within the Cotswolds National Landscape, the settlement is famous for its immaculately maintained buildings and picturesque surroundings.

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The village's enduring appeal stems largely from its array of Cotswold stone homes and the complete lack of contemporary development in its historic core since approximately 1600, reports the Express.

This careful conservation has resulted in Castle Combe being dubbed a "chocolate box" by The Independent. Furthermore, it has been praised as "the prettiest village in England" by numerous travel writers and magazines.

The settlement comprises two sections: Lower Castle Combe, situated in the By Brook valley, and Upper Castle Combe, positioned on elevated terrain alongside the B4039 road.

To the south of Upper Castle Combe sits the Castle Combe motor racing track, bringing a dash of contemporary thrills to the area's historic appeal. As autumn paints the village in hues of gold and crimson, it transforms into a picturesque scene, perfect for those seeking the quintessential autumnal experience.

Adding to its charm, the village has been the setting for several period films and TV series, including Downton Abbey and Steven Spielberg's War Horse. Its cinematic allure, coupled with its natural beauty, makes Castle Combe an essential visit during the autumn season.

Despite the ruins of a castle once standing in the area, the village's historical and aesthetic value has been preserved, offering visitors a tranquil retreat into a world where time appears to have paused.

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