Castle Combe Water Lane

Castle Combe Water Lane

The most iconic viewpoint of Castle Combe is from the bridge that crosses over Water Lane by the old weavers’ cottages. This gorgeous view is one of the most photographed spots in the Cotswolds and it’s not hard to see why. The best time to enjoy this pretty prospect of the village is to visit Castle Combe either early morning or late afternoon.

Castle Combe is a fairytale-like medieval settlement often called the ‘prettiest village in England’. Plan the perfect visit to this tiny Cotswolds village as you explore its ancient landmarks, wander along its meandering river, enjoy a tasty pub meal plus other unmissable things to do in Castle Combe.

Castle Combe (pronounced ‘koom’) takes its name from the 12th-century castle which once stood about 1/3 mile (500 m) to the north. The word, Combe is an old English term for a short valley or hollow on a hillside or coastline. What makes Castle Combe so special is that it has barely changed in 500 years with no new houses having been built in this cosy chocolate box village. The signature honey-coloured Cotswold stone cottages here are even listed as ancient monuments and were mostly weavers’ cottages.