The Top 5 Most Popular Cotswold Villages to Relocate To in 2026

Every year, hundreds of families leave the cities in search of a slower pace, better schools, and somewhere genuinely beautiful to call home. These five Cotswold destinations consistently top our enquiry list — and for very good reason.

For decades, the Cotswolds has drawn buyers seeking an escape from city life, but not all of the region is equal. Some villages offer better schools, some better commuter links, others a stronger sense of community. Based on our buyer enquiries and market activity, these are the five places that come up again and again.

1. Bourton-on-the-Water
Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water sits on the River Windrush and offers one of the most picturesque high streets in England. It attracts families drawn by its strong primary school, excellent local amenities, and easy access to Cheltenham and Oxford. Property here moves quickly — off-market opportunities are rare but highly prized.

2. Burford
Burford's steep high street of honey-coloured stone townhouses has made it one of the most recognisable towns in the Cotswolds. It draws a discerning crowd — often from London — who want character, good restaurants, and access to both the M40 and Oxford. Second-home buyers and permanent relocators compete fiercely for the same stock.

3. Chipping Campden
For those who want the quintessential Cotswold experience without the tourist crowds of Broadway, Chipping Campden is the answer. A strong arts community, excellent gastropubs, and a genuine village atmosphere make it consistently popular. It sits at the northern edge of the AONB with easy access to Stratford-upon-Avon.

4. Stow-on-the-Wold
Sitting at the highest point in the Cotswolds, Stow offers commanding views, a thriving antiques trade, and a central location that gives easy reach across the whole region. Buyers relocating from London frequently choose Stow for its balance of accessibility and authenticity. The property market here has tightened significantly over the past two years.

5. Cirencester
The unofficial capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester offers the best of both worlds — a proper market town with supermarkets, independent schools, and a hospital, alongside beautiful Georgian architecture and strong community ties. It's our most enquired-about location for family relocations and offers the widest range of price points in the region.