The United Kingdom and Ireland are home to some of the most picturesque villages in the world. From quaint cottages to charming cobblestone streets, these rustic retreats offer breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into the past. In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland.
1. Bibury, England
Located in the Cotswolds, Bibury is often referred to as the “prettiest village in England”. With its honey-colored stone cottages and picturesque river, it’s easy to see why.
2. Portmeirion, Wales
Designed to resemble an Italian village, Portmeirion is a colorful and whimsical village in North Wales. It’s also famous for being the filming location of the cult TV series, “The Prisoner”.
3. Adare, Ireland
Known as “Ireland’s prettiest village”, Adare is a charming village with thatched-roof cottages and a medieval castle. It’s also home to a beautiful park and golf course.
4. Castle Combe, England
Often used as a filming location for period dramas, Castle Combe is a quintessential English village with its stone cottages, winding streets, and medieval church.
5. Doolin, Ireland
Located on the west coast of Ireland, Doolin is a small fishing village known for its traditional Irish music and stunning views of the Cliffs of Moher.
6. Clovelly, England
Perched on a steep hillside overlooking the sea, Clovelly is a unique village with its cobbled streets and traditional fishing harbor. It’s also car-free, making it a peaceful and charming retreat.
7. Kinsale, Ireland
Located on the southern coast of Ireland, Kinsale is a colorful and lively village known for its seafood, art galleries, and historic buildings.
8. Bourton-on-the-Water, England
by Kees Streefkerk (https://unsplash.com/@kees_streefkerk)
Often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, Bourton-on-the-Water is a picturesque village with its low bridges, stone buildings, and tranquil river.
9. Cong, Ireland
Famous for being the filming location of the movie “The Quiet Man”, Cong is a charming village with its thatched-roof cottages, medieval abbey, and beautiful surrounding countryside.
10. Lavenham, England
Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Lavenham is a stunning village with its timber-framed buildings, winding streets, and historic church.
11. Kenmare, Ireland
Located on the Ring of Kerry, Kenmare is a colorful and lively village with its traditional pubs, seafood restaurants, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
12. Polperro, England
Nestled on the coast of Cornwall, Polperro is a charming fishing village with its colorful cottages, narrow streets, and picturesque harbor.
13. Dingle, Ireland
Famous for its traditional Irish music and friendly locals, Dingle is a lively and colorful village with its brightly painted buildings and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
14. Rye, England
Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, Rye is a medieval village with its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and charming tea rooms.
15. Howth, Ireland
Located just outside of Dublin, Howth is a picturesque fishing village with its colorful boats, seafood restaurants, and stunning views of the Irish Sea.
16. Stow-on-the-Wold, England
Known for its antique shops and traditional pubs, Stow-on-the-Wold is a charming village in the Cotswolds with its stone buildings and historic market square.
17. Kilkenny, Ireland
Famous for its medieval castle and lively arts scene, Kilkenny is a vibrant and historic village with its colorful buildings and charming streets.
18. Polperro, England
Located on the coast of Cornwall, Polperro is a charming fishing village with its colorful cottages, narrow streets, and picturesque harbor.
19. Westport, Ireland
Nestled on the coast of County Mayo, Westport is a colorful and lively village with its traditional pubs, seafood restaurants, and stunning views of Clew Bay.
20. Lacock, England
Famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Lacock is a stunning village with its timber-framed buildings, winding streets, and historic abbey.
Conclusion
The UK and Ireland are home to some of the most beautiful villages in the world. From quaint cottages to charming cobblestone streets, these rustic retreats offer breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into the past. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or a lively village with plenty of activities, there’s something for everyone in these top 20 most beautiful villages.
Read Also: Top 10 Most Beautiful Villages in the World
