The UK's 'most beautiful village' that always gets overshadowed by its more famous neighbour

Will Twigger

28 June 2024 at 2:04 am·2-min read

No caption — -Credit: (Image: No credit)

The UK is brimming with enchanting villages and towns perfect for filling your weekends, complete with quaint cobbled streets and the quintessential experience of enjoying fish and chips by the seaside.

While some spots are bustling with tourists due to their undeniable charm and popularity, their equally delightful but less-known neighbours offer peaceful exploration opportunities.

One hidden gem is the village of South Pool in Devon, which has been hailed as one of the UK's most beautiful villages by Conde Nast Traveller. Snuggled next to the tourist hotspot Salcombe, a summer retreat for the well-heeled, South Pool often remains off the radar for many visitors.

Nestled on the eastern flank of Kingsbridge Estuary lies the tranquil South Devon village of South Pool, home to merely 143 souls, according to the latest census data.

Yet this idyllic locale has carved out its own reputation, boasting the esteemed Millbrook Inn a pinnacle of gastro-pubs within the region, celebrated for blending fine French cuisine with the classic British pub ambiance.

South Pool is an explorers dream destination on foot, offering a myriad of scenic paths crisscrossing the countryside. Visitors can appreciate the serene creek views, meander along the water's edge, or pause at one of the numerous benches sprinkled throughout.

As Conde Nast notes: "Savvy canoeists who've checked the tide charts arrive by boat and tie up to the pontoon."

If you're a history buff, The Church of St Nicholas and St Cyriac is a must-visit. Built almost entirely with local slate, it mostly dates back to the 15th Century, though some believe it could be as old as the 1100s.

South Pool may be a bit of a trek from London, but the natural beauty makes it worth the journey. A drive from central London will take around four and a half hours.

Alternatively, you can catch a train from London Paddington to Totnes, then hop on a bus to Kingsbridge and finally a taxi to South Pool.

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