The model villages in the UK are great fun. I first visited the first on my list on a school trip when I was a kiddie and have been back to it a few times (as it is in a gorgeous area of the country). When you’re a kid, you probably don’t appreciate the effort that goes into their construction, but adults look at miniature villages in a different way and it’s fun to uncover all the details. Here are some of my favorite model villages in the UK, and most are in popular tourist destinations too.
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1. Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire
Learn more at: themodelvillage.com
The detailing of model villages is always the biggest draw, and this village has it in droves. Their stone houses have even grown the stone mould that you see on real rural homes and walls. They have also included smaller living items, such as garden furniture and even greenhouses with small vegetables in them. The attention to detail makes this village all the sweeter.
Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire is a beautiful village located in the Cotswolds area of England. It is known for its quaint stone buildings, picturesque bridges, and winding river. It is a popular tourist destination, and the Model Village is one of its most popular attractions.
The Model Village was built in 1937 and is a miniature version of the village. It is made up of hundreds of tiny buildings, including stone cottages, churches, a post office, and even a miniature version of the famous River Windrush. The attention to detail is remarkable, with tiny gardens, furniture, and even greenhouses with small vegetables.
The village also features a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a few pubs. There are also several attractions, such as the Cotswold Motoring Museum, the Dragonfly Maze, and the Birdland Park & Gardens. You can also take a boat trip along the River Windrush, or explore the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike.
2. Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset
Learn more at: corfecastlemodelvillage.co.uk
This model village has a slightly gothic feel about it. The village buildings are exquisite, but it is the castle that is the real draw. The enchanted garden is great for the kids and a nice day out for adults if it is sunny. Some people liken the village and the attraction to being in Alice in Wonderland. It is a nice place to photograph all year round but is sadly only open at selected times through the year.
Corfe Castle Model Village in Wareham, Dorset is a great destination for a fun day out. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Isle of Purbeck, the village is home to a range of historic buildings, from the enchanting castle to the delightful model village. The castle is the main attraction, with its gothic architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Inside, visitors can explore the secret passages, towers and courtyards, as well as the enchanting gardens.
The model village is a great place for kids to explore, with a range of miniature buildings, including a post office, a church and a pub. There are also a variety of activities to keep them entertained, such as a treasure hunt and a mini golf course.
The village is open at selected times throughout the year, and is a great place to visit whatever the weather. In the summer months, visitors can enjoy the outdoor activities, while in the winter months, the village is a great place to escape the cold and explore the castle and its grounds.
Frequently asked questions
Model villages are tiny, detailed replicas of real towns and cities. They often feature miniature houses, shops, and sometimes even people and vehicles. It's like stepping into a miniature world - super fun and really cute!
Model villages have been popular in the UK for ages because they are such a delightful way to explore a place in miniature. Plus, they are perfect for a fun family outing or a quirky date. They also showcase incredible craftsmanship.
Oh, definitely! Bekonscot in Buckinghamshire is a classic. It's the oldest model village in the world and it's absolutely charming. Trust me, you don't want to miss it!
Absolutely! Kids love them. They're like giant, intricate playsets where children can let their imaginations run wild. Plus, many model villages have interactive elements that make the visit educational and entertaining.
There are quite a few model villages spread across the UK. I can’t give an exact number, but each one is unique and worth a visit. They are spread from Cornwall to Scotland, so wherever you are, there’s likely one not too far away.
3. Anglesey, Wales
Learn more at: angleseymodelvillage.co.uk
This model village has a train that stops at the famous Welsh station called “Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch rail station” (honestly! Google it). It has its miniature train set, model village and a children’s play and picnic area. The village is set out so that they allow dogs, so long as they do not leave any unsolicited hills in the area.
Anglesey, Wales is a great place to visit for a fun day out. Located in northwest Wales, Anglesey is an island off the coast of the mainland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and lush green countryside.
The Anglesey Model Village is a great place to visit for a fun day out. This model village has a unique train that stops at the famous Welsh station called “Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch rail station” (yes, that's its real name!). The model village consists of a miniature train set, a model village, and a children’s play and picnic area. Dogs are welcome in the village, as long as they don't leave any hills behind!
The model village also features a variety of shops, including a sweet shop, a toy shop, and a pottery shop. There is also a café, which serves a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals.
4. Bekonscot, Buckinghamshire
Learn more at: bekonscot.co.uk
This is a model village that is spread out across the gardens and there’s further interest with water areas that contain boats. It is a lovely place to visit and see the village nestled within the garden’s shrubs and flowers. There are 1.5 acres of gardens that contain the model village. Be aware that it is only open February to November. All their profits go to charity.
Located in the county of Buckinghamshire, Bekonscot is a popular model village that attracts visitors from all over the UK. Spanning across 1.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this village is a must-visit for those looking for a unique and fun day out. The intricate details of the miniature buildings and landscapes are sure to captivate both children and adults alike. Visitors can also enjoy the added touch of boats sailing in the water areas throughout the gardens. It should be noted that Bekonscot is only open from February to November, so plan accordingly. Additionally, all profits from the village go to charity, making it a feel-good destination for all.
5. Lakeland, Cumbria
Learn more at: lakelandminiaturevillage.com
The detailing is very good and it obviously took the creators a long time to build the village. It is built mostly from stone wall, which makes it easier to see just how much time has been put into the project. The website they have really doesn’t do it justice, which is a shame. But go in person – that’s a much better idea anyway.
Lakeland, Cumbria is a charming miniature village that was built by the local community and is now open for visitors to explore. Located in the heart of the Lake District, Lakeland is a unique attraction that offers a glimpse into the past and the traditional way of life in the area.
The village is made up of several small buildings, including a church, a pub, a post office and several other shops. The detailing is incredibly intricate and it is easy to see the amount of time and effort that went into its construction. Visitors can explore the village and take in the sights, sounds and smells of a bygone era.
In addition to the village, there are several other attractions in the area that are worth visiting. The nearby Tarn Hows is a beautiful lake surrounded by the lush green hills of the Lake District. There are also several walking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The village is open all year round and there are several events held throughout the year, including a traditional village fair and a Christmas market. The village also has a museum which is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the history of the area.
6. Polperro, Cornwall
Learn more at: polperromodelvillage.com
The mixture of white buildings and blue waterways really makes this model village unique amongst other miniature villages. The small cars, people and boats add a touch of magic to the village. The model trains are always moving and they have light shows and small showpieces that keep things interesting. This is yet another model village that is undersold on its website. It is far better in real life and the Cornish setting makes it yet another element to enjoy about the area.
7. Bondville, Bridlington
Learn more at: visithullandeastyorkshire.com
This is a model village set out in a one acre piece of land. It has small model people and figures and the creators have added people and animals in “situations” that you can spot around the village. They have crafted humorous and fun scenes to add a little more to the experience. There are over 200 characters within the village and over 1000 figures existing within it.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve always thought visiting model villages is like being able to play with toys as an adult without feeling guilty. It’s something I’ll never grow out of. Have you ever visited any miniature villages?
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