Castle Combe

Possibly the most photographed village in England and only about two miles away, this small star of films typifies the Cotswolds. There is a fairly long walk down a hill from the public car park, but it is often possible to park on the hill itself and reduce the climbing needed. There are good walks from the village. Try crossing the stone bridge at the end and follow the path. Keep turning left and you will have done an agreeable circular walk. A bit of map reading will identify other, longer, options.

The Bybrook restaurant in the historic Manor House hotel offers fine dining with bills to match. (phone 01249 782206).

Badminton

The base of the landowning Duke of Beaufort, this village has a strange feel to it, because of its strong emphasis on tenanted properties. The Beaufort estate embraces a great many tenanted farms and has historically dominated the area, notwithstanding a bit of competition for a while from the Neeld estate. Except when the hugely popular horse trials are taking place in May, it is possible to walk in the grounds away from the house.

Sherston

An attractive large village typical of the area, it has a useful Coop and the well run Rattlebone pub - a former haunt of William and Harry.

Corsham

An attractive town, used to film Poldark. There is a large park next to the church popular with dog walkers. Corsham Court and its gardens are interesting to visit. The Methuen publishing family were based there. The Methuen Arms is a good lunch option.

Malmesbury

Now quite small, this town was very prominent in the past. What remains of the abbey is evidence of this. The large surviving building has associations with King Athelstan, regarded as the first to rule over the whole of England, and Elmer, the flying monk.

Tetbury

Fluctuations in the fortunes of the antique trade have led to a reduction in the number of outlets in this town. Still worth a visit for the shops and/or lunch at the Snooty Fox or The Close hotel.  The second of these is a serious evening option.

Lacock

Another much filmed and photographed large village, this has a very strong National Trust presence, including the abbey and its grounds. The older parts of the abbey may be recognised by Harry Potter fans. Lacock offers a lot to see in a small area, in addition to which there are interesting country walks. Grab a coffee in the very old Sign of the Angel hotel.

Dyrham Park

Recently extensively renovated inside, this National Trust house has extensive grounds and a garden which is currently receiving a lot of improvement.

Chippenham

Best for shopping- plenty of supermarkets. Excellent train connections to London, Bath and Bristol.