'Venice of the Cotswolds' named as the most beautiful in England

For a stunning staycation, there is one spot which beats the rest. This beautiful chocolate box village has been voted one of the most beautiful in the country.

Despite the crowds that flock there, this charming village has plenty to offer holiday makers, including honey coloured cottages and a river that winds through its centre, crossed by romantic stone bridges. Bourton-on-the-Water has been named by Independent Cottages as the UK’s most beautiful village in the UK, and one of the things that makes it so special is the presence of the River Windrush. This river runs right through the town, earning it the nickname ‘The Venice of the Cotswolds’.

The village dates back as far as 4000 BC, and has more than 380 listed buildings - perfect for a day of wandering and marvelling in the rich history of this village.

The river has an average depth of only 10 inches, and gently bubbles through the centre of the village, adding a touch of charm to the atmosphere.

Bourton-on-the-Water is nestled within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so if you somehow get tired of the gorgeous village, the surrounding countryside is also something to behold.

Just 300 metres from the main car park of Bourton-on-the-Water is Greystones Nature Reserve.

Owned by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, Greystones is home to wildflower meadows, Iron Age ramparts, a replica Iron Age roundhouse and a working organic farm.

It’s perfect for a day of exploring and spotting wildlife such as foxes, deer and native birds.

For more wildlife, you can explore Birdland Park and Gardens, a stunning reserve set in nine acres of woodland and gardens.

The park is home to more than 130 species of birds, including the only breeding group of King Penguins in the UK.