The rolling hills of The Cotswolds are often cited as a place of beauty, along with many of the charming market towns within it.
Often referred to as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Cotswolds, Chipping Campden is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in history and a love of pretty British towns.
The old English settlement was first settled in the 7th century and the ancient word ‘chipping’ refers to market, and the town’s age-old Market Hall was built in 1627 by Sir Baptist Hicks for the sale of cheese, butter and poultry.
Nestled within the town is the Church of St James, and it’s said to be one of the best examples of ‘ ‘wool churches’ in the Cotswolds, as it was built with money from the town’s booming wool trade. In the church, you’ll find one of the oldest altar tapestries and the largest brass in England.
Chipping Campden High Street is considered one of the most attractive streets in the UK, with its stunning terraced buildings dating as far back as the 14th century.
Most of the buildings are made from Cotswold stone, and the street itself was laid out by Hugh De Gondeville, a close friend of King Henry II.
De Gondeville had realised that the town needed a market to improve revenues for the King and laid it out in a burgage style.
The archaic word burgage refers to a town rental property, owned by a king or lord in mediaeval times and its style is usually made up of a house on a long and narrow plot of land, with a narrow street front.
Historian George Macaulay Trevelyan once fondly described the high street as “the most beautiful village street now left on the island”.
The town is so picturesque that it has been a setting for many TV series, including 1972’s film The Canterbury Tales. Its unique historic and quintessentially English style makes it a perfect place to film period pieces.
There are a great deal of positive reviews on Tripadvisor in regards to the town, with many calling it simply beautiful.
Nicola H said: “Chipping Campden is my favourite town in the Cotswolds. It has a worldly feel with a few up-market tourists, but it has never been busy or crowded. The main street has some wonderful places to stay including the Noel Arms which welcomes dogs.
“In summary, Chipping Campden has a quiet vibe, still a town for locals, exquisitely beautiful, calm and enough to keep the visitors happy.”
While TeamWard said: “Simply England in a beautiful setting, classic style, well-maintained plenty of character, with some local shops all offering a great visit”
For tourists seeking a perfect chocolate box English town rooted in history, Chipping Campden is up there with the best of them.