Charlton Abbots

This is genuine countryside rather than the tidied-up villages you'll find deeper into the hills, and you'll spend time on proper country lanes with real rural character around you.

Most people come here for Leckhampton Hill and what's on it: the Devil's Chimney, a striking rock column that juts up from the hillside like something you'd see in a geology museum. It's actually a human creation, formed when stone quarrying stripped away the surrounding rock and left this single pillar standing. The name fits perfectly if you look at its bent, irregular shape.

The Chimney has had an eventful life. An earthquake in 1926 shook it but didn't bring it down, though it did cause damage. It was properly restored and protected in 1985, and it's now a genuine local landmark. The walk up the hill to reach it is satisfying, and the views across the countryside from the top make it worthwhile.

The village itself is understated, but it works well as a base for exploring this part of the Cotswolds. Cheltenham is close enough if you need supplies or anything else, and the walking around Leckhampton Hill gives you reason to spend time here. It's the kind of place where you can stretch your legs and actually feel like you're away from things.