English village steeped in history crowned most ‘idyllic’ autumn destination

Autumnal foliage is best experienced with scenic walks along quaint villages, making the Costwold’s enticing landscapes ideal for this purpose.

One of the region’s prettiest towns, Stow-On-The-Wold, has been crowned a top autumnal destination thanks to its patchwork of fiery shades, according to visitors.

The destination was mentioned in a TikTok clip by the travel specialist @the wanderlust.blonde, who divulges travel tips to an audience of 181,300 followers every week.

The clip, which lists The most idyllic towns and villages in Cotswolds, was accompanied by the caption: “Autumn is the best time to visit all of them”.

Perhaps the best known of the small Cotswolds towns, the market town of Stow-On-The-Wold is also one of the highest, perked on an 800-foot-high hill.

It was once famed for its wool and became a hub for the industry, with as many as 20,000 sheep being sold at one time.

In the autumn, one of the main attraction spots is the spectacular Japanese Maples dotted around the town, as well as the local church’s Yew Tree Door.

The clip shows the entrance of Stow’s St Edward’s church, which dates back to the Middle Ages, housing elements from the 11th century to the Victorian period.

“The north entrance has become one of the top things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold,” according to Explore the Cotswold, and is rumoured to have inspired the Door of Durin in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

The Market Square is fringed with 16th-century golden stone buildings which now serve as house antique and interior shops and art galleries.

Experts at Explore the Cotswolds say: “Spring and autumn are quiet with good weather for walking, though pack a coat and umbrella in case of rain showers.”

The clip, which was liked by more than 2,268 viewers, also listed an array of other spots to visit in the Cotswolds region, including Bourton-on-the-Water and Bradford-on-Avon.

Several commentators agreed the destinations were worth a visit, with one writing in the comments: “Bourton-On-The-Water is my favourite place!!”