If you’ve not visited the Cotswold village of Lacock then you really must put it on your to-do list. Lacock is owned by the National Trust and is situated just three miles south of Chippenham, but once you arrive you’ll feel a million miles away from, well anywhere really. A small sign off the main road leads you down to Lacock village and as you arrive you may feel a little like you’ve stepped back in time. The historic buildings have been completely untouched by modern alterations and you’d be forgiven for feeling as though you’re in a museum or even a dream that’s taken you back many, many years.

Within the village, you’ll find quite a lot to do including the Abbey which is located at the heart of the village and was built on the foundations of a nunnery. You can wander round the abbey and visit its medieval rooms.  Whilst here you must pay a visit to the Fox Talbot Museum which was built in honour of one of Lacock’s most famous owners and showcases his world-changing photography breakthroughs.

The village itself has attracted movie and television directors quite frequently over the years and it’s not difficult to see why. Lacock boasts of being in scenes in a Harry Potter movie and series such as Pride and Prejudice and Downton Abbey, so you never know what or who you might spot! The village has lots to see; beautiful little cottages, a village church, and the medieval tithe barn to name a few things to look out for. There are even places to stay within Lacock if you fancy making a weekend of it and immersing yourself in the relaxing atmosphere here.

You could visit the new Stables Courtyard and Tea Rooms for some afternoon tea or head to the pub for a pint and a cozy chill out in front of the fire. If you fancy a bit of retail therapy then there are a handful of quaint shops to browse from where you can buy gifts, books, and cards, plus lovely handmade products if you are looking for special presents. Christmas at Lacock is stunning, and you haven’t missed the boat with that just yet as the new 2017 Christmas pop-up shop opens at the end of December. There’s a beautiful Christmas tree and wonderful gifts to be bought.

Around the village are some stunning trail walks so if you’ve filled up on afternoon tea and done your fair of trinket shopping then get your walking boots on and head out. The riverside walk is gorgeous and takes you along the banks of the River Avon with exquisite views of the abbey and out to the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, try out the Lacock Pleasure Garden walk that takes you from the village out through the remains of the long-gone 17th-century water garden and provides beautiful views of the Abbey that are quite different from those seen within the Abbey grounds.

Lacock is really quite a special place to visit and it really doesn’t matter which season you pick, the grounds will look stunning at all times of the year and the village is quite something to behold.