Today I went out in search of the charming images on my box of notecards. According to the photographer's notes, it was nearby and I had to see for myself if such a place actually existed. I am here to tell you that Castle Combe is probably the most charming little village I have seen since arriving here!
It is in the countryside right on the border of Wiltshire and the Cotswold's. I parked just outside of town and walked along a shaded country road with very little traffic for about 10 minutes before reaching the charming village. My camera was immediately put into service. The cottages had so much character with flowers hanging from the stone windows, the occasional thatched roof, well-worn doors, and welcoming gardens. In the center of town, you are greeted by the Market Cross, a covered gazebo-like structure in the middle of the main intersection offering large stone benches perfect for an afternoon ice cream cone. Across the street is St. Andrews Church, originally built in the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries.
Tucked away behind the church, down a quiet lane lined with stone houses and well-tended gardens, I came upon The Manor House Hotel. Suddenly the lane opens up to the expansive grounds and you can immediately feel the elegance and tranquility of this place. The building is covered in Ivy and the surrounding lawns have giant trees with benches underneath, tables and chairs for taking tea on a nice day, lawn chess and well placed reclining chairs out by the stream. Up a flight of stairs, in front of The Manor House, is a formal garden that overlooks the grounds and leads to a walking trail through the woods. Apparently, this is a golf club. I did not see the course but maybe that will get Mike to take me back one of these days!
I reluctantly left the grounds and completed my exploration of the town before heading back up the hill to retrieve the car and get back to reality. After several weeks of overcast skies and rain, the clear blue sky and sunshine today was a welcome sight!
It is in the countryside right on the border of Wiltshire and the Cotswold's. I parked just outside of town and walked along a shaded country road with very little traffic for about 10 minutes before reaching the charming village. My camera was immediately put into service. The cottages had so much character with flowers hanging from the stone windows, the occasional thatched roof, well-worn doors, and welcoming gardens. In the center of town, you are greeted by the Market Cross, a covered gazebo-like structure in the middle of the main intersection offering large stone benches perfect for an afternoon ice cream cone. Across the street is St. Andrews Church, originally built in the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries. 
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