The Cotswolds is packed with postcard-perfect villages, yet one is often missed as visitors head instead to a more famous market town just four miles away. Blockley sits right at the summit of the Cotswolds, renowned for serving as the filming location for the television series Father Brown.

The historic Norman church, St Peter and St Paul’s, doubled as the fictional St Mary’s Church whilst the vicarage portrayed Father Brown’s home. The settlement — recognised as amongst the largest in the Cotswolds — served as a principal hub of the silk trade during the 18th and 19th centuries. Two excellent pubs call it home — The Great Western Arms and the Crown Hotel. The Great Western Arms has built its reputation on Sunday roasts, whilst the Crown Hotel additionally provides accommodation.

A local café situated directly beside the church serves freshly brewed coffee and brunch for visitors seeking a break before an action-packed day of sightseeing.

Yet despite its numerous attractions, holidaymakers frequently choose to base themselves in Moreton-in-Marsh which lies just four miles down the road. The attractive market town boasts an array of shops, eateries and cafés.

However, for those seeking somewhere more tranquil, Blockley presents the perfect spot for a staycation. With multiple cottages available on platforms such as Airbnb, it’s ideal for visitors wanting self-catering options.

Alternatively, for those preferring hotel accommodation, The Crown Hotel offers rooms from £90 per night. The three-star establishment receives excellent reviews from guests, with one visitor describing it as “lovely” whilst another deemed it “charming”.

Another visitor wrote: “We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Crown Hotel. The owners were wonderful and so kind! Great food and cold beer in the pub, and an overall cozy atmosphere. If you’re traveling in the Cotswolds, be sure to book a night or two here!”.

The village of Blockley boasts numerous 18th-century structures and some even more ancient buildings, stretching back to medieval times. The historic mill ponds remain visible, situated just beside the Blockey Brook.

It serves as the perfect launching point for various walking trails, surrounded entirely by picturesque countryside. A stroll along the cobbled pathways is essential when exploring this charming village.

Visitors can access several private gardens, historic churches, and stunning attractions such as Batsford Arboretum and Cotswold Falconry Centre.

The village also benefits from excellent transport connections, reachable from the A44 via the B4479 from Bourton on the Hill. Alternatively, you can take the route from Chipping Campden, passing through Broad Campden and ascending the hill into the settlement.