Ilmington, often described as one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds, is tucked away in Warwickshire and makes for an ideal day trip from Birmingham. Located within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this idyllic village offers visitors breathtaking hillside views along its walking routes and a historic pub recognized for its charm and heritage.
For those seeking a cozy yet affordable dining option, the community-owned village shop and cafe is a true gem. Situated in the former Catholic Church building on Upper Green, the cafe serves hot tea, freshly baked croissants, and delicious homemade cakes—all prepared by dedicated local volunteers. The shop also features an excellent selection of local produce, making it a vibrant hub of village life.
A community cafe spokesperson shared, “Ilmington is one of the prettiest Cotswold villages, and our community shop sits at the heart of village life. Volunteers are there from early morning baking croissants, arranging daily newspapers, and restocking shelves. All our staff enjoy chatting with visitors and helping them find exactly what they need. We take great pride in our shop and our beautiful village.”
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Visitors are advised to check the cafe’s opening times in advance, as it is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Ilmington’s appeal goes beyond its picturesque setting—it was recently named one of the best places to live in Warwickshire by the Muddy Stilettos 2026 guide.
Begin your visit with a spot of walking: from the cafe, take the scenic uphill trail, pausing at a bench to admire stunning panoramas of the honey-stone rooftops and rolling Cotswold hills. Continue along the ridge past the gates of Foxcote House for panoramic views extending toward Darlingscott and Shipston on Stour. This three-and-a-half-mile circular route gently descends back into the village via a tranquil road, perfect for relaxing with refreshments at the community cafe or enjoying a hearty meal at the award-winning Howard Arms pub—rumored to have origins dating back to Shakespeare’s time.
For those wanting a longer hike, the path extends to Compton Scorpion, while a shorter option follows a mile-long trail looping around the village’s orchards near St Mary’s Church. The church boasts a rich history, originally dating from the mid-12th century but substantially rebuilt in 1849.
Ilmington is conveniently located just seven miles south of Stratford-upon-Avon and lies near the borders of Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, and Oxfordshire. From Birmingham, the village is about an hour’s drive via the M42, traffic permitting.