Ebbesbourne Wake, Salisbury, Wiltshire
A world away from the fast pace of modern life, this sleepy village is nestled near the head of the valley of the small River Ebble in the Cranborne Chase AONB. It’s really just a cluster of mostly 17th and 18th century cottages and a little church, but it’s so pretty you’ll be glad you found it. The pub, The Horseshoe Inn, is a gem, unspoilt and authentic and there aren’t enough pubs like that nowadays.
What’s surprising is that this tiny village hosts a history festival each year, the biggest that’s solely dedicated to history in the UK; they have lots of events and activities and even an air show. Fortunately it’s held in a field on the edge of the village, otherwise there’d be nowhere for anyone to park.