Exploring GB

The Castle Inn, in the Cotswolds, dates back to the 12th century and many elements of its original construction are still preserved today.

The atmospheric structure is situated in the heart of Castle Combe, often called the most picturesque village in England.

Buildings in this village are made from thick honey-coloured stone and dappled with ivy line the edges of the narrow main street, and a river flows slowly through underneath.

The Castle Inn, sits in the heart of the village, it’s the kind of old English pub that’s romanticised in films and books, thanks to its charm, quirks, and authenticity.

Upstairs, 12 contemporary and comfortable rooms spill off twisting, low-ceiling corridors, each with its own unique character.

According to their website, great care has been taken in a thoughtful and extensive restoration to preserve and enhance the charm of this beautiful historic building.

While honouring the ancient structure, the refurbishment has introduced many contemporary amenities to ensure guests enjoy the utmost comfort and attention.

Visitors can stop by for a quiet pint, relax with a comforting home-cooked meal, or settle in for the night.

Their menu offers homemade comforting meals, lighter bites, and daily cream teas. Find a cozy spot in the bar, the snug, the conservatory, or enjoy the courtyard on sunny days.

Someone who recently visited the establishment said: “The Inn is cosy, well furnished and despite having had a makeover retains true to it's roots as a village pub, Castle Combe is tricky, inhabited by tourist's and passers through mostly, or people staying at the Hotel or playing Golf.

”It's got no locals apart from a handful in the village, who generally stay indoors as the Tourist masses can feel very invasive. It's beautiful, but i wouldn't want to live there.”

Another person added: “This is an elegant place outside the entry of the manor house hotel.
The place is really nice, decorated with style.

We had burgers. They were homemade, huge burger, but a bit salty though. The village is definitely worth visiting.”

In the 12th century, British pubs, then known as inns, taverns, and alehouses, were central to community life and played a significant role in the social and economic fabric of medieval England.

These establishments were modest, with simple amenities such as basic food and ale, which was a staple due to poor water quality.

The interiors were dimly lit, often centred around a large fireplace, much like it is today inside the Castle Inn.

The clientele was diverse, including travellers and pilgrims in need of rest, local villagers like farmers and craftsmen seeking relaxation, merchants and traders negotiating deals, and occasionally lower nobility and knights conducting affairs or socialising.

Surrounded by Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Castle Combe itself features beautiful honey-coloured houses made from Cotswold stone, typical for a village of this area.

One of the most fascinating things about Castle Combe is that it strictly bans any modern attachments to the exterior of its houses, including TV dishes.

So when you visit, it's like stepping back in time.

Its history dates back to the Roman era, and evidence of its ancient origins can be seen in the cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings.

The Market Cross, an ancient stone structure at the village centre, has been a gathering point for centuries and is a great place to start your exploration.

This iconic structure, dating back to the 14th century, stands as a reminder of Castle Combe’s bustling market days.

Stroll along the village to the bridge and you’ll not only enjoy the views but may be able to purchase homemade cakes, sweets or bunches of flowers from outside the locals’ houses.

Stop at the bottom of the village by the bridge and enjoy a great photographic moment too!

On the edge of the village is the Castle Combe Circuit, where drivers have the opportunity to test out different vehicles, drive your own car or motorbike around the circuit or tackle the Rally course.

There are also a host of events throughout the year at the circuit including race days for both cars and motorbikes.

The village has also played host to many filming productions, the most famous of these being Doctor Dolittle filmed in and around the village in 1966.

More recently, it had a major role in Stardust, The Wolf Man and War Horse. In 2016, Castle Combe starred in Doctor Thorne!

If you’d like to visit the village’s beautiful pub, the address is: West St, Castle Combe, Chippenham SN14 7HN.

If you enjoyed this blog post, please follow Exploring GB on Facebook for daily travel content and inspiration.

Don’t forget to check out our latest blog posts below!

Thank you for visiting Exploring GB.