And then it stopped snowing…
View of the old weavers´ cottages where the local red and white clothes were produced. Once upon a time ago, Castle Combe was the heart of the heart of the Cotswolds wool trade.
Castle Combe’s history goes back much further than this though. The site of the castle is above today’s village, but little other than earthworks now mark its one time presence. Originally it was a British hill fort which became occupied by the Romans due to its proximity to The Fosse Way. After the Romans, came the Normans, who built the fort up into a Castle.
By the Middle Ages the village in the valley had become an important centre for the wool industry. The spinsters and weavers lived in the cottages (hence names such as “Weaver’s House”) and the river, still known as By Brook, provided the power to run the mills.
Today Castle Combe is not only loved by visitors but also by the TV- and Movie industry, a lot of movies and tv shows have been filmed in the lovely village. From Dr Dolittle to Dr Thorne, The Wolf Man, Stardust, War Horse, Poirot to Downton Abbey and many more!
The Manor House
The Manor House is a 5star hotel situated in a stunning garden next to the village. The house was built in the 17th century and rebuilt in the 19th century.
Beside the Manor House, one can also rent these stunning little cottages.
The Market Cross
Castle Combe village is built around the 14th-century Market Cross with the old water pump beside it. It was erected when the privilege to hold a weekly market in Castle Combe was granted.
After some cream tea, it was time for a walk at sunset.
The Castle Inn and another walk the next morning…
