From colourful Italian-style streets to storybook Welsh landscapes and a Lancashire village frozen in time, three picturesque spots within easy reach of Greater Manchester have been named among the UK’s prettiest to visit this summer.
Three villages near Greater Manchester named among UK’s prettiest to visit this summer
If you’re planning a seasonal escape without venturing too far, a new list by The Independent has highlighted 14 of the most beautiful villages across the country and three of them are perfect for a day trip or weekend break from the North West.
Whether you’re after coastal charm, mountain views or peaceful countryside walks, these destinations offer a slower pace of life paired with striking scenery.
Portmeirion in Gwynedd remains one of the UK’s most unique destinations
Arguably the most eye-catching of the trio, Portmeirion looks like it belongs on the Italian Riviera rather than the coast of North Wales. The village is famed for its pastel-coloured buildings, elegant piazza and subtropical gardens overlooking the estuary.
Designed by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, the village was built between 1925 and 1975 as a vision of Mediterranean-style living in the UK. Today, it remains one of the country’s most unique destinations.
The Independent describes it as an “ideal spot for a relaxed weekend”, noting how visitors can feel transported from rural Wales to Europe and even Japan thanks to its Gwyllt gardens.
There is an entry fee to visit, currently priced at £20 for adults and £14 for children, but for many, the experience of wandering its colourful streets makes it worthwhile.
Beddgelert in Eryri is the postcard-perfect setting and a popular base for exploring Snowdonia
Nestled in the heart of Eryri National Park, Beddgelert offers a more traditional kind of beauty, with stone cottages, riverside walks and dramatic mountain backdrops.
The village sits where the rivers Colwyn and Glaslyn meet, with historic stone bridges adding to its postcard-perfect setting. It’s also a popular base for exploring Snowdonia, whether on foot or via the scenic Welsh Highland Railway, which passes through the village.
Beddgelert is steeped in legend, most famously the tale of Gelert, the loyal dog said to have been tragically killed by his owner after being wrongly accused of harming a child. Visitors can follow a circular walking route to Gelert’s grave, adding a touch of folklore to the experience.
Described as a “spot of classic Welsh beauty”, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to combine scenery with a sense of history.
Downham in Lancashire is known for its remarkably preserved appearance no overhead wires, satellite dishes or even road signs
Closer to home, the Lancashire village of Downham offers a different kind of charm, one that feels largely untouched by modern life.
Set at the foot of Pendle Hill in the Forest of Bowland, Downham is known for its remarkably preserved appearance. There are no overhead wires, satellite dishes or even road signs in the village, helping maintain its historic character.
Owned by the Assheton family since 1588, the village has been carefully managed to retain its traditional look, making it a favourite for walkers and those seeking a peaceful countryside escape.
The Independent calls it a “serious contender for a summer stroll”, and it’s easy to see why. After exploring the surrounding hills and landscapes, visitors can stop off at the Assheton Arms pub for a well-earned drink or meal.
For Greater Manchester residents, all three villages are within a few hours’ journey, making them ideal for a spontaneous summer day out or a longer countryside retreat.