Ah, the British countryside! Rolling hills, quaint cottages, and… hordes of tourists? Yikes! Did you know that some of the UK’s most popular villages receive over a million visitors annually? That’s right, a million! It’s time to ditch the crowds and discover the real heart of Britain. In this article, we’ll reveal 10 touristy villages to skip this summer and offer fantastic alternatives that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
Why should we avoid popular British villages, you ask? Well, overtourism is wreaking havoc on these charming locales. Massive influxes of visitors are disrupting local life, straining resources, and sending prices through the roof.
Plus, the commercialization is overshadowing local culture, and the environmental impact is becoming a real concern. But don’t worry – I’ve got you covered with some amazing alternatives!
1. Skip Bourton-on-the-Water, Visit Naunton Instead
Bourton-on-the-Water, with its picturesque bridges and gentle river, has long been a magnet for tourists. However, its popularity has led to overcrowding, especially during summer months. The village’s narrow streets struggle to cope with the influx of visitors, and local amenities are often stretched to their limits. Parking can be a nightmare, and prices for accommodation and food have skyrocketed due to high demand.
In contrast, Naunton offers a serene Cotswold experience without the crowds. This hidden gem, nestled in the Windrush Valley, boasts the same honey-coloured stone buildings and rolling landscapes as its famous neighbour.
The village’s crown jewel is its 16th-century dovecote, perched on a hill overlooking the village. Take a leisurely walk along the Windrush Way, stopping to admire the centuries-old St. Andrew’s Church.
For history enthusiasts, the nearby Chedworth Roman Villa offers a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s Roman past. End your day at the Black Horse Inn, a quintessential Cotswold pub serving local ales and hearty meals. In Naunton, you’ll find the authentic, unhurried Cotswold experience that Bourton-on-the-Water can no longer provide.
2. Bypass Clovelly, Explore Appledore
Clovelly, with its steep cobbled streets and donkeys, may seem like a step back in time. However, the village’s charm is often overshadowed by its commercialization. The hefty entrance fee (yes, you have to pay to enter the village) can feel steep, especially for families.
The cobbled streets, while picturesque, can be challenging for those with mobility issues. During peak season, the village can feel more like an open-air museum than a living, breathing community.
Appledore, on the other hand, offers an authentic taste of North Devon coastal life without the tourist traps. This colourful fishing village sits at the confluence of the Rivers Torridge and Taw. Wander through its narrow streets, lined with brightly painted houses, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
The North Devon Maritime Museum offers a fascinating look at the area’s seafaring history. Art lovers will appreciate the numerous galleries showcasing local talent. Don’t miss the Appledore Book Festival if you’re visiting in autumn.
For a true local experience, take a ferry across to Instow or join a fishing trip from the quay. Finish your day with fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants – The Seagate or The Royal George are local favourites. In Appledore, you’ll find a vibrant community that welcomes visitors without compromising its authentic charm.
3. Sidestep Bibury, Discover Coln St. Aldwyns
Bibury, once described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England,” is now often more memorable for its crowds than its beauty. The famous Arlington Row, while undeniably picturesque, is frequently swarmed by tour groups and individual tourists jostling for the perfect photo.
The trout farm, while interesting, can feel more like a tourist attraction than a working farm. During peak seasons, it’s not uncommon to see buses lining the narrow roads, disrupting the village’s tranquil atmosphere.
Coln St. Aldwyns, just a few miles from Bibury, offers the same Cotswold charm without the tourist throngs. This quintessential English village is centred around a beautiful green, with the River Coln meandering nearby. The 13th-century St. John the Baptist Church is a masterpiece of Cotswold architecture, featuring a rare Saxon sundial.
Nature lovers will appreciate the Oxbow nature reserve, a peaceful spot for birdwatching and quiet contemplation. For a unique experience, book a falconry lesson at the nearby Cotswold Falconry Centre.
The New Inn, a 17th-century coaching inn, serves excellent food and local ales. Here, you can enjoy riverside picnics, country walks, and the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds without battling crowds or feeling like you’re in a theme park version of rural England.
4. Avoid Castle Combe, Wander Through Lacock
Castle Combe, often dubbed “the prettiest village in England,” is undeniably beautiful. However, its beauty has become its burden. On sunny weekends, the village can be overwhelmed by day-trippers, turning the peaceful lanes into congested walkways.
Parking is a major issue, with the small car park often full by mid-morning. The village’s popularity as a film location (it’s featured in everything from “War Horse” to “Downton Abbey”) has further increased tourist numbers, sometimes making it feel more like a film set than a living village.
Lacock, by contrast, offers a more balanced visitor experience. Owned almost in its entirety by the National Trust, this village has been beautifully preserved, appearing much as it did 200 years ago. Its claim to fame as a filming location for Harry Potter movies adds a touch of magic without overwhelming the village’s authentic charm. Lacock Abbey, founded in the 13th century and later converted into a quirky country house, is a must-visit.
Don’t miss the Fox Talbot Museum, dedicated to the pioneer of photography who lived in the Abbey. The village’s streets, lined with timber-framed cottages, are a joy to explore.
Stop by the George Inn, a 14th-century pub with an impressive inglenook fireplace, for a pint of local ale. In Lacock, you can step back in time and experience a perfectly preserved slice of English history, all without the suffocating crowds of Castle Combe.
5. Pass on Polperro, Embrace Mousehole
Polperro, with its narrow streets and picturesque harbour, may seem like the ideal Cornish fishing village. However, its popularity has led to significant overcrowding, especially in summer.
The village’s layout, with extremely narrow streets, means that most visitors must park in the main car park and walk into the village – a journey that can be challenging for those with mobility issues. The influx of tourists has also led to a proliferation of gift shops and galleries, sometimes at the expense of businesses catering to locals.
Mousehole (pronounced “Mowzel”), on the other hand, offers a more authentic Cornish experience. This charming fishing village retains its working harbour, providing a genuine glimpse into Cornish maritime life. Its winding streets are lined with granite cottages, art galleries, and local craft shops.
The village has a rich history and culture, including the famous Tom Bawcock’s Eve festival on December 23rd, celebrating a legendary fisherman who saved the village from famine. Literary enthusiasts will appreciate the Dylan Thomas connection – the poet described Mousehole as the “loveliest village in England.”
Don’t miss the spectacular harbour lights display during the Christmas season, a truly magical sight. For a taste of local cuisine, try the Mousehole stargazy pie at the Ship Inn or enjoy fresh seafood at 2 Fore Street restaurant. In Mousehole, you’ll find the Cornwall of your imagination – picturesque, authentic, and far from the madding crowd.
6. Skip Grassington, Explore Linton
Grassington, known as the capital of Upper Wharfedale, has much to offer with its charming market square and surrounding limestone landscapes. However, its popularity, particularly during the summer festival season, can lead to overcrowding and a shortage of accommodation. The influx of visitors can strain local resources and detract from the authentic Dales experience many seek.
Linton, a lesser-known gem in the Yorkshire Dales, provides a more tranquil alternative. This small village is centred around a picturesque green, complete with an ancient cross and overlooked by charming stone cottages.
The star attraction is Linton Falls, a spectacular series of waterfalls on the River Wharfe. The falls are accessible via a short walk from the village, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
History buffs will appreciate St. Michael and All Angels Church, parts of which date back to Norman times. For a true taste of Yorkshire hospitality, stop by the Fountaine Inn, a 17th-century coaching inn serving local ales and hearty pub fare.
Linton’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Dales, with numerous walking and cycling routes right on its doorstep. Here, you can experience the raw beauty of the Yorkshire Dales without the crowds, allowing for a more intimate connection with the landscape and local culture.
7. Bypass Beddgelert, Discover Betws-y-Coed
Beddgelert, with its legendary connection to the faithful hound Gelert, draws many visitors to Snowdonia. However, the village can become congested, especially during peak season, with limited parking and facilities struggling to cope with the influx of tourists. The focus on the Gelert legend can sometimes overshadow the natural beauty of the area.
Betws-y-Coed, known as the gateway to Snowdonia, offers a more diverse experience. This picturesque village, surrounded by dense woodland and mountains, serves as an excellent base for exploring the national park. The village is famous for its outdoor shops, making it a haven for hikers and adventure enthusiasts.
Don’t miss the Pont-y-Pair Bridge, a 16th-century stone bridge spanning the River Llugwy, or the nearby Swallow Falls, one of Wales’ most beautiful waterfalls. For a unique perspective, visit the Sappers Suspension Bridge, a remarkable piece of Victorian engineering.
Art lovers should check out the Betws-y-Coed Artists’ Colony, continuing a tradition of attracting artists to the area since the 19th century. After a day of exploration, relax at the Royal Oak Hotel, which has been welcoming guests since the 18th century.
In Betws-y-Coed, you’ll find a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and Welsh culture, all without the overcrowding often experienced in Beddgelert.
8. Avoid Robin Hood’s Bay, Visit Staithes
Robin Hood’s Bay, with its steep streets tumbling down to the sea, is undoubtedly picturesque. However, its narrow lanes can become unbearably crowded during peak season. Parking is a significant issue, with visitors often having to park at the top of the hill and walk down to the village. The influx of tourists can sometimes overwhelm this small fishing village, detracting from its historic charm.
Staithes, further up the coast, offers a similar seaside charm with fewer crowds. This former fishing village has reinvented itself as an artists’ colony, attracting creatives inspired by its dramatic cliffs and quaint cottages. The Staithes Heritage Centre offers fascinating insights into the village’s history, including its connection to Captain James Cook, who worked here as a grocer’s apprentice.
For geology enthusiasts, the coastline around Staithes is rich in Jurassic fossils – you might even find an ammonite or two on the beach. Don’t miss the Staithes Studios Gallery, showcasing work by local artists.
For a unique dining experience, book a table at the Cod & Lobster, perched right on the harbour wall. The Cleveland Way National Trail passes through Staithes, offering spectacular coastal walks.
In Staithes, you can experience the rugged beauty of the North Yorkshire coast and immerse yourself in a vibrant artistic community, all without the overwhelming crowds of Robin Hood’s Bay.
9. Sidestep Haworth, Explore Hebden Bridge
Haworth, forever associated with the Brontë sisters, draws literary pilgrims from around the world. However, this popularity comes at a cost. The main street can feel overly commercialized, with gift shops and tea rooms catering mainly to tourists. During peak seasons, the village can be overwhelmed with visitors, detracting from the atmospheric moorland setting that inspired the Brontës.
Hebden Bridge, just a short distance away, offers a refreshingly different Yorkshire experience. This former mill town has reinvented itself as a hub of creativity and alternative living. Hebden Bridge boasts a vibrant arts scene, independent shops, and a strong community spirit.
The town’s location in the Calder Valley makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside. Take a stroll along the Rochdale Canal, or venture into Hardcastle Crags, a beautiful, wooded valley often called “Little Switzerland.”
The town is home to the Hebden Bridge Picture House, a charming independent cinema, and hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Hebden Bridge Arts Festival. For a quirky shopping experience, visit the town on a market day when the square is filled with stalls selling everything from local produce to handmade crafts.
End your day with a meal at Rim Nam Thai, housed in a former chapel, or enjoy live music at the Trades Club, a legendary venue that has hosted many famous acts. In Hebden Bridge, you’ll find a slice of Yorkshire that’s both deeply rooted in tradition and excitingly progressive.
10. Pass on Portmeirion, Embrace Criccieth
Portmeirion, with its whimsical Italianate architecture, is certainly unique. However, the high entrance fees and the fact that it’s more of a designed tourist attraction than an authentic Welsh village can leave some visitors feeling disappointed. The artificial nature of the village, while visually striking, doesn’t offer a genuine Welsh experience.
Criccieth, on the other hand, provides an authentic taste of Welsh coastal life. This charming seaside town is dominated by its 13th-century castle, perched dramatically on a rocky headland overlooking Tremadog Bay. The castle, built by Llywelyn the Great, offers stunning views of the coastline and Snowdonia. Beyond its historical significance, Criccieth boasts beautiful beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or water sports.
The town has a rich cultural heritage, including the Lloyd George Museum, dedicated to the only Welshman to serve as British Prime Minister. For a taste of local cuisine, try the award-winning Cadwalader’s ice cream, first made in Criccieth in 1927.
Art enthusiasts should visit the Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, Wales’ oldest art gallery, housed in a Gothic Victorian mansion. The town is also an excellent base for exploring the Llŷn Peninsula and Snowdonia National Park. In Criccieth, you’ll experience genuine Welsh hospitality, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, all without the artificiality and high costs associated with Portmeirion.