bibury tourist attractions

Things to do in Bibury, Cotswolds: A local’s guide

By Author Local Expert

Posted on Last updated: 25 August 2024

Described by poet and designer William Morris as ‘the most beautiful village in England’, Bibury is one of the Cotswolds’ most popular and picturesque spots. Famed for its trout farm and the row of pretty stone cottages known as Arlington Row, this tiny village on the banks of the River Coln is one not to miss when visiting the Cotswolds, says local expert Jessica , who shares her tips on the best things to do in Bibury as well as where to eat, drink and stay in this beautiful village.

Bibury’s history

Bibury has a history dating back to the Iron Age, with the remains of a hill fort and Roman villa discovered near the village. In the 8th century, the estates in the village were given to Earl Leppas and his daughter, who was named Beaga. It was known back then as ‘Beagan-byring’, and by the time of the Domesday Book of 1086 it had become ‘Becheberie’, before evolving to Bibury.

The land around Bibury was owned by nearby abbeys – firstly St Mary’s Benedictine Priory in Worcester then ownership passed to Osney Augustinian Abbey in Oxford in 1130. The cottages on Arlington Row were built in 1380 and were first used as wool stores by monks from the abbey.

There were originally two villages named Bibury and Arlington, which were separated by the River Coln, but they’re now simply known as Bibury.

The River Coln’s reputation as a trout stream brought renown – and visitors – to the area. Bibury became a famous beauty spot, enthralling not only William Morris but also the poet and satirist Alexander Pope, who described it as having a ‘pleasing prospect’ in 1726.

Tourism grew up around the village, which had two tea rooms and a boarding house by 1939. It’s grown a bit more since then and now sees thousands of visitors a year, and is particularly popular with Japanese visitors after Emperor Hirohito stayed in Bibury on his 1921 European tour.

Map of Bibury

Things to do in Bibury

Arlington row.

One of the most photographed streets in England – it even featured on the inside cover of British passports – Arlington Row was originally built as a monastic wool store. It was converted into weavers’ cottages in the 17th century, with the cloth produced sent to nearby Arlington Mill.

This row of stone cottages draped with flowers lies on a gentle hill alongside a stream. Today it’s owned by the National Trust and the cottages are leased to private tenants – though one is available as a holiday let (see below). Admiring the views from all angles is one of the top things to do in Bibury, but if you want it all to yourself you’ll have to get there early or visit off-season.

Arlington Row was also a filming location for 2007 movie Stardust , starring Michelle Pfeiffer and Robert de Niro. Although the village of ‘Wall’ in the film was mainly filmed 30 miles away in Castle Combe , Arlington Row features as the home of Sienna Miller’s character, Victoria.

Rack Isle water meadows

Arlington Row overlooks the Rack Isle water meadows, which get their name from the days when wool was hung out to dry on racks here after being washed by the monks on Arlington Row. It’s now a wildfowl reserve and a refuge for wildlife like kingfishers, dragonflies and water voles.

Although the water meadows are a protected area, there is a pathway along the edge which connects Arlington Row to the centre of Bibury. Along the way you can see colourful flowers like the pink ragged robin and yellow flag iris. You might also see Belted Galloway cattle at the end of summer too, who help with conservation by grazing the land so that wildflowers can grow.

The Trout Farm

Founded in 1902, Bibury Trout Farm is the oldest working trout farm in England, in beautiful surroundings which are home to ducks, swans, kingfishers, geese, herons and otters.

It’s a working farm with its own hatchery fed by the Bibury Spring, which stays at a constant 10°C/50ºF all year. Up to 10 million rainbow trout are spawned on the farm each year. There’s also a smokery which uses a traditional combination of salt and hardwood chips to smoke their fish.

The Trout Farm is also open to visitors (entry £8.50 adults, £8 seniors, £6.50 under 15s, dogs welcome), where you can watch the fish being fed and try your hand at fishing. All equipment is supplied and you’re given a quick lesson, then can BBQ what you catch (charged at £11.50 per kilo). Or if you don’t fancy catching your own, there’s a café and shop where you can buy trout.

St Mary’s Church

St Mary’s Church is tucked away in a quiet location just outside the village centre. The church dates back to the late 11th century and was built of local golden limestone with a slate roof. You can see a Saxon stone slab incorporated into the North Wall as well as some Saxon gravestones.

St Mary’s was extended and adapted over the years, and you can see traces of its different periods of history in the intricate carved Norman doorway, medieval stained glass and unusual 13th-century square font. There’s also a pretty garden of fruit and rose trees in the grounds outside.

Walks from Bibury

Escape the crowds in Bibury by heading out into the surrounding countryside on a Cotswold walk . One of the most popular routes is the 6.7-mile circular walk from the small village of Coln St Aldwyns to Bibury and back. It takes you across high fields with stunning countryside views on the way to Bibury then runs through the Coln River Valley on its way back to Coln St Aldwyns.

The walk takes around 3 hours – and has the bonus of avoiding parking issues in Bibury by getting there on foot. Or there’s also a shorter 4-mile circular loop through Bibury Court Estate.

Things to do near Bibury

The remains of a Roman villa were unearthed outside Bibury in the 19th century, but it’s on private land. If you want to find out more about the Romans in the Cotswolds, it’s only 8.5 miles from Bibury to the National Trust’s Chedworth Roman Villa , one of the largest Roman villas in Britain which dates back to the 4th century and has impressive mosaics, bathhouses and shrines.

Also within easy reach of Bibury is Cirencester (7.5 miles) with more Roman artefacts at the Corinium Museum as well as shops, restaurants and cafés. Or there’s Cerney House Gardens (7.8 miles), a romantic Victorian walled garden, and the village of Barnsley (3.3 miles), which is home to the luxurious Barnsley House spa hotel with gardens designed by Rosemary Verey.

Places to eat & drink in Bibury

Cafés and delis.

The café at the Trout Farm is open 9am–5pm (3pm in winter), even if you’re not visiting the farm. They serve dishes made with their trout – like a smoked trout chowder or Asian trout salad – as well as light bites like sandwiches and paninis, sausage rolls, homemade cakes and ice creams.

The Twig deli and café is run by the same team as the nearby Stump and New Inn Cotswold pubs. They focus on high-quality coffee as well as snacks and sandwiches, including sourdough toasties and filled foccacia. Or you can buy local produce from their deli counter for a picnic.

You can also pick up drinks, ice creams, cakes and snacks like hot sausage rolls as well as souvenirs at the Bibury Post Office , which is just across the road from Arlington Row.

Pubs and restaurants

The Catherine Wheel is a family-run 15th-century pub in the centre of Bibury which has a separate bar and restaurant area. They serve tasty traditional dishes using locally sourced ingredients for lunch and dinner – from fish and chips and sausage and mash to pizza and a Sunday roast. And there’s a gorgeous garden to enjoy on a sunny day and a cosy fire in winter.

For something a bit fancier, the Swan Brasserie use British ingredients in dishes with a European twist, like Devonshire crab lasagne or Isle of Wight pea risotto. They also do a decadent afternoon tea, or you can just have drinks and bar snacks in the Swan Bar. The ivy-clad hotel is beautifully decorated, and the terrace is a lovely place to sit and watch the River Coln flowing by.

Where to stay in Bibury

Bibury’s only hotel is the four-star Swan Hotel *, a riverside coaching inn oozing classic Cotswolds charm. It has 22 en-suite rooms – 18 in the main hotel and four dog-friendly garden cottage suites in the hotel grounds. Each room is individually designed and has a mix of antique furnishings and contemporary fabrics, and some come with four-poster beds or a private hot tub.

Cotteswold House * is a smart stone building on the quieter outskirts of the village which combines bed and breakfast and self-catering accommodation. There are three en-suite rooms in the B&B as well as a cosy guest lounge. Or the Courtyard and Gable self-catering cottages each have two bedrooms. All are beautifully decorated and come with a warm welcome from friendly owners.

Historically a working mill which was mentioned in the Doomsday Book, Arlington Mill * has been converted into self-catering holiday accommodation for up to 12 guests. The mill’s original wheels and machinery add character, and it’s been stylishly converted with two large living rooms, one with woodburner and piano, and five comfortable en-suite bedrooms set across four floors.

Or if you want to stay at Bibury’s most iconic address, you can rent number 9 Arlington Row through the National Trust. This cottage is bursting with historic features and comes with two bedrooms (one double and one single), as well as a shower room, kitchen and sitting/dining room which has a wood-burning stove. There’s also a private garden to hide from the crowds.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Bibury?*

How to get to Bibury

Bibury by car.

Bibury is located on the B4425 between Aldsworth and Barnsley, around 7.5 miles/15 minutes’ drive northeast of Cirencester. Parking in Bibury is limited, so you may have to wait for a space in the summer and at weekends. There’s free off-road parking on The Street, and a small chargeable car park opposite the Trout Farm (GL7 5NF), which is free for Trout Farm visitors.

Bibury by public transport

The Pulhams 855 bus connects Bibury with Cirencester and Northleach, as well as Bourton-on-the-Water less frequently – though note that there are no services on Sundays.

The nearest train station is in Kemble. There is no direct bus between Kemble and Bibury, but you can take the Stagecoach 882 service to Cirencester and change there for the Pulhams 855.

The Robin , the Cotswolds’ bookable bus service, also covers Bibury. Its South Cotswolds service allows you to pre-book minibus journeys around the area, including to or from Cirencester or Kemble train station. Rides can be requested and booked via their website and cost £2.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

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Sunday 11th of June 2023

I visited this place and it was very beautiful. I loved it very much.🥰❤

Lucy Dodsworth

Monday 12th of June 2023

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6 lovely things to do in Bibury, The Cotswolds

With quaint cottages and the pretty River Coln, Bibury is an utterly charming village in the heart of the Cotswolds.

It is famed for being home to the iconic Arlington Row, a row of postcard-perfect cottages from the 14th century.

As one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds – and a personal favourite of mine – Bibury is a must-visit for anyone looking to discover that classic ‘cottagecore’ aesthetic.

Having visited the village a few times, my Bibury travel guide explains everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful village.

Whether you prefer to embark on a scenic walk, visit an ancient church and Roman villa, or try a spot of trout fishing, discover my pick of the best things to do in Bibury.

So if you’re planning a visit to Bibury village in the Cotswolds – and I highly recommend that you do – let my guide whet your appetite!

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Bibury – what you need to know

Where is bibury.

Bibury can be found in the county of Gloucestershire, around six-and-a-half miles from the town of Cirencester .

It forms part of the Cotswolds area, which comprises around 800 square miles of beautiful English countryside and picturesque villages.

The River Coln – a Thames tributary – runs through Bibury. Features typical of the Cotswolds are abound in this pretty village, including charming cottages built from honey-toned local stone set among a lush green landscape. 

Believe me when I say that it’s a photographer’s dream!

Parking in Bibury

From personal experience, Bibury parking can be a bit of a nightmare during peak periods, when you may need to wait for a space.

The good news is that there is some free parking available in Bibury, both on the main street and in a car park. 

The latter can be found across the road from Bibury Trout Farm and has a couple of coach bays as well as car parking spaces.

If you arrive early or visit outside the busy summer months, then parking in Bibury shouldn’t pose a problem at all.

But if you plan to visit during peak times then I’d strongly recommend arriving early, or you could be waiting a while for a parking spot.

For those travelling from London and looking to explore the area, you can book a full-day Cotswolds tour to take all the planning hassle out.

Best things to do in Bibury

1. stroll along arlington row.

Arguably one of the most photographed spots in The Cotswolds, Arlington Row is a string of ancient cottages that date back to the 14th century.

Run by the National Trust and with an interesting history, it was used by monks to store wool during the 1300s, before being converted into cottages during the 1800s.

These honey-coloured limestone buildings perfectly capture the essence of old-world England – and it’s one of my favourite photo spots in the Cotswolds.

The former weavers’ cottages are still occupied, and one is let as a holiday home. In this area you can also see Rack Isle, a water meadow once used for drying wool.

2. Bibury Trout Farm

When visiting local pubs and restaurants , you’re likely to see Bibury trout on the menu. So if you want to see where it came from, why not pop into the trout farm?

One of the oldest of its kind in the country, the Bibury Trout Farm offers both an educational and recreational experience.

Spread across 15 acres, the farm provides a unique opportunity to learn about the trout breeding process.

But it’s not all observation; if you’re up for it, I’d recommend trying your hand at catching your own trout! 

If that’s not for you, there’s an appealing café on site where you can pause for a bite to eat and a coffee.

This is one of the UK’s oldest and prettiest working trout farms, and the grounds are a delight for nature lovers.

Get access to my Cotswolds travel guide

I have curated all of my Cotswolds knowledge and recommendations into one comprehensive guide, complete with an interactive map, filtering options and itineraries. 

It’s available to buy through Rexby and you can preview parts of it for free. Get in touch if you have any questions about my Cotswolds guide!

3. Go for a walk

If you enjoy a spot of fresh air and exercise, Bibury is the perfect place in which to enjoy an energetic stomp or a leisurely stroll. There is of course stunning scenery to take in along the way. 

My favourite routes include the Bibury and Coln St Aldwyns circular, the Bibury – Arlington Row – River Coln walk, or the Bibury and Bibury Court Estate circular.

The former connects Bibury with the New Inn in Coln St Aldwyns, and is thus a well-trodden route between the two villages.

4. Chedworth Roman Villa

Chedworth Roman Villa is also overseen by the National Trust and is a listed monument. Nestled in a Cotswolds valley, it’s one of the finest examples in the British Isles.

The villa was unearthed in 1864, and was discovered quite by accident when a local gamekeeper found fragments of mosaic while digging. 

The building dates back as far as the second century, and was completed in the fifth. Elaborate mosaics can still be seen at the site.

It’s near to the Fosse Way, an ancient Roman road that crosses through the Cotswolds, and was also deliberately built by a natural spring.

5. Church of St Mary

The Church of St Mary can be accessed directly from the grounds of the Jacobean Bibury Court Hotel.

It’s a Grade I listed Anglican house of worship dating back to the 11th century. The church was once the property of Osney Abbey in Oxfordshire.

St Mary’s is built from the local honey-hued limestone with a slate roof, and incorporates additions from later centuries.

These include a Saxon grave slab, a 13th century font, a 15th century belfry and a north doorway that was constructed during the late 12th century.

6. The Rack Isle

A short walk from Arlington Row, The Rack Isle is a water meadow that plays a crucial role in Bibury’s ecosystem. 

It’s so called due to its former purpose as a drying area for the wool that monks stored and washed in Arlington Row.

Today, The Rack Isle is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which lies between the River Coln and the village’s main thoroughfare.

The small nature reserve comprises a water meadow rich in local flora and fauna, so it’s a must for wildlife lovers.

Keep a keen eye out, as you may spot colourful flowers, kingfishers, dragonflies and even water snakes during your visit.

Where to visit near Bibury

With its rolling green hills and valleys, honey-toned stone buildings and charming towns and villages, the Cotswolds is an area that invites further exploration.

If you’re tempted to do just that, why not check out my complete Cotswolds travel guide ? 

Other lovely locations to discover locally include Stow-on-the-Wold , Castle Combe and Bourton on the Water .

While you’re in the Cotswolds, sampling a traditional English afternoon tea is also practically obligatory.

If you have any questions on visiting Bibury or found this guide useful, let me know in the comments!

If you’re planning a visit to the area, read my guide to the best restaurants in Bibury or discover the best hotels in Bibury .

You may also like:

• 23 best things to do in the Cotswolds
• 15 best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds
• 15 prettiest villages in the Cotswolds

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Find me on: Web | Instagram

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The Complete Guide to Bibury, the Cotswolds (And the Best Things to Do There)

Dubbed the most beautiful village in England, Bibury in the Cotswolds is the ideal place to visit in the summer. With picturesque cottages and quintessential English charm, Bibury is a must-visit when exploring the Cotswolds.

Bibury is Circenester is a small but picturesque village that sits on the River Coln. Bibury is nestled in the rolling hills of the English countryside, making it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Cotswolds too. You’ll find Cirencester, Bourton-on-the-Water and both Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter nearby.

Despite being small in size, there’s plenty to see in this idyllic village – or two! In fact, the area is split into two different villages on either side of the River Coln. On one side sits Arlington, home to the famous Arlington Row cottages. On the other, is Bibury, which features pubs, cafes and Bibury Trout Farm.

That being said, both are within easy walking distance and seemingly overlap, so can be enjoyed together in one visit. If you’re planning to visit this village filled with English charm, my Bibury travel guide should tell you everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

Bilbury Village: Everything You Need to Know

Bibury is a quintessential English village renowned for its picturesque charm and historic beauty. Often described as one of the most beautiful villages in England, most people flock to Bibury to admire the famous Arlington Row. However, this pretty village boasts a rich history, which dates back to Saxon times.

Because the famous Arlington Row is one of the most photographed scenes in the country, the villages of Bibury and Arlington can get extremely busy and overrun with tourists and coaches. To enjoy the serenity of its idyllic landscape, try to visit during off-peak times, like the winter, early spring or late autumn.

Fun Fact: Some UK passports feature a colourful picture of Arlington Row’s historic cottages!

Travelling to Bibury

Bibury is actually really easy to get to, particularly from the M4 or M5 motorway. From London, you can drive there in about two hours. Driving is the easiest way to get to Bibury, but parking can be quite limited, especially at peak times! When it comes to parking, you can park for free either on The Street/Arlington Row parking (the main road that runs through the village) or a small car park opposite Bibury Trout Farm. There is also a paid car park adjacent to the trout farm, or free for people visiting the trout farm as well as the rest of the village.

Another alternative is to park in a nearby town or village and walk into Bibury if it’s a nice day. Scroll down to the ‘How Do I Spend a Day in Bibury?’ for some suggested guided walks. There are plenty of great places to see in the surrounding areas of The Cotswolds, which is why driving a car there is usually the best choice.

If you’re without a car, you can take a direct train service from London Paddington to Kemble, which is a few miles outside of Cirencester. The train journey takes just over an hour, then you can take a taxi from around £25 from Kemble train station to Bibury.

You can also take a bus to Bibury village. There’s a regular bus service from Cirencester and a bus service from Victoria Station in London to Cirencester.

Food and Drink in Bibury

Bibury has a few charming spots to grab a bite to eat. You can enjoy locally sourced pub grub from the family-run Catherine Wheel pub, or enjoy a light lunch and coffee from The Twig cafe. The Swan Hotel is a great choice for lunch, dinner and traditional Cotswolds afternoon tea in Bibury,

Accommodation in Bibury in the Cotswolds

If you’re making this quaint village your home base to visit the rest of the Cotswolds, you have plenty of options to rest your head!

The Swan Hotel: Here’s another mention for The Swan Hotel too. At the heart of Bibury, this 4-star accommodation is a former coaching inn and is now a beautiful hotel. As a bonus, staying here means you can cross over to the wonderful bank filled with pretty flower beds, deck chairs and places to enjoy the sun. This popular spot often features in photographs of Bibury but is off-limits to the public unless you’re staying at The Swan Hotel!

Cotteswold House : If you’re on a budget, Cotteswold House is a more affordable option, with stays starting from £110 per night. This charming property is a top location for couples staying in Bibury. Arlington Mill is another self-catering cottage. Sleeping up to 13, this Grade II listed building is filled with history. It was once a working mill processing corn and wool and later became a museum filled with Victorian clothing, documents and working machinery. It’s even believed to be haunted!

9 Arlington Row : Finally, you can also stay on the iconic Arlington Row. The National Trust owns and rents out 9 Arlington Row as Bibury’s most sought-after cottage. If you want to see behind the walls in the famous row of cottages on Arlington Row, Bibury Cotswolds, this is your chance.

The Best Things to Do in Bibury, the Cotswolds

Many people flock to Bibury to photograph Arlington Row, but there’s lots of other great stuff to do in this charming village. But because the village is so small, you might be wondering is Bibury worth visiting? The answer is yes! From historic churches to a haven of wildlife, Bibury is definitely worth visiting beyond the obvious. Read on for the best Bibury things to do.

Admire Arlington Row

The historic cottages of Arlington Row are probably the most photographed houses in all of the UK. They were originally built in 1380 as a monastic wool store and were converted into cottages in the 17th century. Today the cottages are owned privately (which means it’s important to be respectful when visiting), but the street has also appeared in the romance fantasy film, Stardust. One of the cottages has been converted into a National Trust holiday cottage too – so you can stay there!

A stroll along Arlington Row in Bibury Cotswolds is definitely a must-do when visiting Bibury, but that’s all there is to do on this particular street. You should be especially conscious of the fact that people live there: admire the cottages but don’t peer inside! It’s also worth noting that as one of the most famous sites in the Cotswolds, it gets very busy. You may have to wait a long time to get that essential Instagram shot – or visit off-peak instead!

River Coln & Rack Isle

The two villages of Bibury and Arlington are divided by the pretty River Coln that runs between them. But Rack Isle – the water meadow that sits between the river and Arlington Row – is a haven for wildlife. All sorts of creatures such as kingfishers, grass snakes and dragonflies reside there – plus Belted Galloway in the late summer. We also spotted swans and their babies along the river, watching as the male swan built a nest.

Walking along the River Coln is a wonderful way to admire not only wildlife but other beautiful houses in Bibury. You’ll also find free parking alongside the river too, making it a lovely circuit when visiting the town and walking back through Arlington Row.

St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is a beautiful historic church based in the oldest part of Bibury. It’s only about a five-minute walk outside the village’s main area and is a great way to get away from the crowds and enjoy some calm. The Grade I listed building is really historic, with Norman doorway arches, Saxon artefacts and even brass skeleton tombs. The church itself is very pretty too and has stunning stained glass windows.

Top tip: Pick up ‘A Pictorial Guide to St. Mary’s Church Bibury’ leaflet inside the church to ensure you don’t miss anything on your visit. The leaflet outlines all the interesting spots and historical artefacts inside the church. There’s a small selection of paper leaflets to buy here for just 50p, some of which outline guided walks around Bilbury and Arlington too. They even have a children’s treasure map!

Read more: Why Cheltenham Is the Perfect Pick for a Cotswolds City Break

Send a Post Card From Bibury Post Office

Okay, this may sound like a weird point, but it’s definitely worth doing! Bibury Post Office is a grade II listed building and was built in the 18th century. Nowadays, it’s still used as a working post office but also has a coffee shop and gift shop inside. So it’s worth visiting to purchase some Cotswolds souvenirs and send (or buy) a postcard from your trip.

Please note: As of May 2024, Bibury Post Office is currently closed for major building work.

Catch Your Own at Bibury Trout Farm

Did you know that Bibury Trout Farm is one of England’s oldest working trout farms? Founded in 1902, Bibury Trout Farm really offers something for everyone (even if you’re not into fishing!). The grounds are wonderful to explore but you can also hire a barbeque or enjoy a fun round of crazy golf there. The most unique activity here is definitely catching your own fish on-site! Staff will give you a full demonstration on arrival and you can even cook your trout on one of their BBQs straight after. Otherwise, enjoy some seasonal produce in their cafe or explore the gift shop. The outdoor eating area overlooks the heart of Bibury and is a lovely spot on a hot day.

Explore Bibury Village

Finally, Bibury (and Arlington!) is a place that is just great to explore on foot. There are so many quintessential cottages and historical buildings to admire as you pass at your own pace. Collect a leaflet from St. Mary’s Church for short self-guided walks around Arlington or Bibury or find many suggestions online.

Things to Do Near Bibury, England

There are plenty of places to visit near Bibury and the surrounding areas of the Cotswolds, especially if you’re taking a holiday or road-tripping around this beautiful area of the UK.

National Trust – Chedworth Roman Villa

Just 20 minutes outside of Bibury you’ll find one of the grandest Roman Villas in Britain. Chedworth Roman Villa was rediscovered by the Victorians over 150 years ago and you can visit today to see extensive mosaic floors, bath-houses and more. Also on site is a Victorian museum and a cafe and shop. The site is worth visiting for the views alone, where you can see the archaeological site backdropped by the rolling hills of the surrounding countryside.

Cotswold Wildlife Park

If you want to see over 260 different species of animals in 160 acres of stunning landscaped parkland and gardens, Cotswold Wildlife Park is a must-do. At just an 18-minute drive from Bibury, there’s so much to see here, from birds, mammals, primates, and reptiles. And if the animals aren’t quite your thing, there are also wonderful gardens to explore and enjoy.

National Trust – Lodge Park and Sherborne Park Estate

Another nearby National Trust gem is Lodge Park and Sherborne Park Estate. It’s just 10 minutes away and is England’s only surviving 17th-century grandstand! You’ll also find 18th-century water meadows and plenty of wildlife on this working estate.

Bibury Village: FAQs And Everything Else You Need to Know

If my guide hasn’t covered everything to know about Bibury so far, you can find answers to some popular questions about this wonderful village below. You can also contact me if you have any further questions or queries!

How Much Time Do You Need in Bibury?

Half a day is more than enough time to enjoy this idyllic place. I would recommend visiting in the morning to beat the crowds and visit another Cotswolds spot in the afternoon. Bourton-on-the-Water and both Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter are both less than a half-hour drive away, as is the market town of Cirencester.

How Do I Spend a Day in Bibury?

If you’d like to spend a whole day in Bibury, I’d recommend the above itinerary, and swap nearby towns for a leisurely walk in the afternoon. As an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there is so much picturesque and serene countryside to explore. I’d suggest searching for a self-guided walk here , of which there are 17 guided walks surrounding Cirencester. The closest one is Bibury and Coln St Aldwyns, which joins the two villages.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Go to Bibury?

To avoid the crowds, I’d recommend early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Even as late as early evening would be a good time to go to avoid the crowds. However, if you go in the morning, you can grab a nice lunch in the village before travelling on elsewhere.

What Is Famous About Bibury?

Bibury is most famous for Arlington Row – the most photographed place in the Cotswolds and likely the UK too. This makes Bibury one of the most visited places/villages in the country also. In fact, the 19th-century artist and craftsman William Morris called Bibury “the most beautiful village in England” when he visited, which is part of the reason why it’s so famous. Finally, Arlington Row in Bibury, Cotswolds was a filming location for the romance-fantasy film, Stardust. Stardust actually filmed many scenes around the Cotswolds, including at Castle Combe.

Does Bibury Have Shops?

Bibury actually only has one village shop and that’s inside the local post office – which is currently closed! However, locals (and visitors) can purchase basic groceries like fresh bread and dairy items from Bibury Trout Farm Shop – and meat/fish from the fish shop, of course!

Top Tips for Visiting Bibury

When exploring Bibury, try to avoid visiting at peak times. The small village can very easily get overrun with tourists in the summer. Allow at least half a day for your visit – you may just want to visit the top sights like Arlington Row, but parking can sometimes be limited so you may have to wait for a spot. However, you can easily spend a whole day there if you’d like. Remember that Bibury is just one small village in the Cotswolds and many other surrounding areas are worth exploring too.

My top tip would be to be super respectful when visiting though. It’s one of the most popular areas in the Cotswolds – but people still live there! Don’t knock on people’s doors or peer through their windows. Take your photos but don’t be intrusive. Be careful when driving through and parking. And finally, try to grab lunch within the village to help support the local economy too.

In conclusion, Bibury is a lovely and quintessential village worth making time for when visiting the Cotswolds. Enjoy a stroll down Arlington Row, enjoy Bibury Trout Farm and visit the historic St. Mary’s Church this summer.

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14 Things to Do in Bibury Cotswolds (2024)!

If you’re looking for a quaint, picturesque village to visit in the Cotswolds, then Bibury is it! A series of two gorgeous hamlets that are split by the River Coln.

On one side of the stream, you have Bibury and on the other side, you have Arlington, Rack Isle and Awkward Hill! 

William Morris once said that Bibury was ‘surely, the most beautiful village in England’ and I can’t say I disagree with him. It’s like walking through an old oil painting hanging in a gallery.

From the honey stone cottages of Arlington Row, scenic strolls along the Coln, some quintessential country pubs and cosy tea rooms; there are plenty of things to do in Bibury that make it worth visiting.  

You couldn’t get more quintessentially Cotswolds if you tried.

Here is a complete Bibury travel guide with what to do, where to eat and stay!  

Table of Contents

A brief history of Bibury

Bibury has a huge history dating back to the Iron Age with the nearby Rawbarrow Camp looking down over the village. There is evidence of the Romans settling here too with the discovery of the Bibury Roman Villa.  

In the Anglo-Saxon age the land was owned by Earl Leppa and St Mary’s Church was built in the 8th century. It was then rebuilt again in the 11th century.  

In the Domesday Books, a survey carried out under William the Conqueror in 1086, it was logged as ‘Becheberie’. The land was noted as owned by St Mary’s Priory in Worcester.

It then switched hands to the Abbey of Osney near Oxford in the 12th century.

In the 1380s, a gorgeous set of cottages were built in Arlington hamlet known today as Arlington Row. When they were first built they were used as a monastic wool storehouse.

Then, they were converted into weavers cottages in the 17th century.   The workers here would supply cloth to the nearby Arlington Mill for degreasing and they would be hung out to dry on the Rack Isle!  

It was noticed as a tourist attraction around the Victorian era when the likes of William Morris raved about its timeless beauty.

Ever since it has seen endless flows of visitors every year.

Interesting Bibury facts

• Bibury & Arlington have featured in the Hollywood movies of Stardust and Bridget Jones’ Diary
• An American Businessman named Henry Ford wanted to buy the whole of Arlington Row. His vision was to dismantle it, transport it and rebuild it on his estate in Michigan.  
• The Japanese Emperor Hirohito visited the village in 1921 and ever since it’s been seen as a spiritual place for the Japanese. It brings in lots of tourism.  
• Arlington Row features in British passports but the row of houses inside are shown as blue!  
• Bibury used to be home of the Bibury Races. It is thought that Charles II visited the Jacobean Bibury Court on his visit. Today, there are duck races on the Coln!  
• Bibury is haunted and home to many ghosts! There is a grey lady who haunts the Rack Isle and Catherine Wheel pub, pasty faces have been seen from the windows in Arlington Mill and even a ghostly cat in one of the pubs.

Why visit Bibury in the Cotswolds today?

Bibury, pronounced “bye-buh-ree”, has everything you could want in a traditional English village and it’s like stepping back in time to a bygone era.  

With a history dating back to the Iron Age, it has oodles of heritage that is largely untouched and you can still experience today.  

This picture-perfect area is as pretty as a postcard and it’s an idyllic place to spend an afternoon.   

Whether you relax and paddle in the river, spot wildlife in the Wildfowl Reserve, have a lazy pint in the pubs or marvel at the splendid architecture.

As well as the village being ridiculously attractive, you’re right in the heart of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This is your gateway to many wonderful walks in the rolling hills of the countryside!  

Whatever your interests, Bibury will certainly have something for you. Here’s what to see in Bibury.

Quaint things to do in Bibury Village  

1. cross a footbridge over the river coln.

Although Bibury is the name that stands for the whole area today, it may surprise you to know that the settlement is actually a set of two villages.

The hamlets of Bibury and Arlington are split by the River Coln or “The Coln”.  

It’s a tributary of the Thames and it snakes through the hamlet making it effortlessly picturesque.   A stroll along this river is a must when in Bibury and you can admire the quaint cottages and Arlington Row from afar.

You’ll always find children walking along the walls or families sitting here by the river enjoying lunch or a drink.  Maybe, a duck or two as well. 

If you have a look in the crystal clear river, you’ll find trout swimming along through the river weeds. 

There are a series of 3-foot bridges that allow you to cross over the Coln from Bibury to Arlington.

The new wooden foot bridge, the arched bridge by the Swan Hotel and the old graded Row Bridge by Arlington Row.  

The old Row Bridge is by far the most scenic and has some fantastic photo opportunities with it being near the old weaver’s cottages!

2. Take a stroll down Arlington Row  

The main driver of tourism in Bibury by far is the gorgeous honey-coloured cottages of Arlington Row. This iconic address has been known as the most photographed street in all of England!  

Originally built as a wool storehouse in 1380 and then weavers cottages in the 17th century, this area is now Grade I listed and part of an architectural conservation area.  

In 1929, the Royal Arts Society protected the area and then in 1975, the National Trust renovated it further.  

Nowadays, it’s home to a handful of trust tenants. However, there is one cottage at number 9 that has been left available so you can call it home for the night!

Here, you can shut the door on snap-happy tourists and enjoy this retreat in absolute privacy. Click here to enquire.

Simply walking down this row is one of the best things to do in Bibury. It is like being in a postcard. You’ll fall in love with the quirky the honey comb architecture, the slate rooftops, eau-de-nil doorways and gables.   It’s one of the best things to do in Bibury.

But, I will warn you now, this place is constantly packed and sees hundreds of visitors in tour groups each day. So, if you wanted empty photos, come early in the morning.

Click here to read my essential guide for visiting with some more photography tips

3. Explore the Rack Isle

Just beyond the weaver’s cottages, you’ll find ‘The Rack Isle’ which is an island now owned by the National Trust. You may notice a crooked wooden fence that runs alongside the pathway.

This used to be the drying rack for the woollen cloth produced by the weavers. They used to send their wares over to the Arlington Mill for degreasing and then hang them out to dry here.  

Today, it’s a gorgeous shaded stroll next to the wetlands and you’ll see the backdrop of the cottages and Bibury village.  

Make sure you keep an eye out here for passing dragonflies and even cows that have been known to graze here seasonally since the Victorian era.  

4.   Spot wildlife in the National Trust Wildfowl Reserve  

The Rack Isle has been owned by the National Trust since 1956 and has been officially classified as a Wildfowl Reserve.  

The wetlands are an important home for many plants, fish and animals that roam here and live in harmony.  

A rare sight in the UK nowadays is water voles and luckily, Rack Isle have a few that call this place home.

You’ll also spot Kingfishers, grass snakes, butterflies and a lot more if you keep your eyes peeled.

The wildflowers are also a lovely sight in spring and summer with Yellow Flag Iris and Pink Ragged Robin as a highlight.

The Belted Galloway Cows, that I call ‘Oreo Cows’ , help them grow and visit in late summer. It’s one of the best things to do in Bibury.

5. Admire Arlington Mill

Arlington Mill has been here ever since the Domesday Books and has a long and important history to Bibury.  

Firstly it was used as a corn mill, then it played an important role in the wool trade by degreasing the cloth produced at the weavers cottages.

In later years, it ceased being a working mill and became a popular museum which housed a large collection of period clothing. It also had a cosy tea shop for visitors up until fairly recently.  

Nowadays, it’s a private residence that has been completely transformed into a Holiday Home that you can rent for yourself.

Although members of the public cannot go inside, it’s a great stop for photos. But, be warned, there have been ghosts spotted hereabouts!  

6.   Catch a fish dinner at historic Bibury Trout Farm

Bibury Trout Farm is one of England’s oldest working trout farms in the country and was originally founded in 1902.

The founder was the naturalist Arthur Severn who had a vision to stock the local streams with the native Brown Trout in Coln Valley.

It’s now 15 acres of beautiful farmland and springs which has a trout hatchery onsite. It produces over 6 million trout ova every year.

This is one of the top things to do in Bibury and there is something for all ages. You can wander around and spot the Brown and Rainbow trout who live here.

There is also a trout feed to witness if you fancied it – sometimes they will leap out of the water. Or, try the famous Fish BBQ, where you can catch your own trout and have it cooked for dinner.

The Trout Farm gift shop is also a popular stop and they sell a delightful range of Cotswolds souvenirs. Plus, a range of essential groceries in their farm shop. 

Click here for more information and opening times

7.   Dine at The Swan Hotel

If you’re looking for where to eat in Bibury, then you should check out The Swan Hotel that sits prettily on the River Coln.

The Swan was originally a coaching inn built in the 17th century as a stop for weary travellers. It had its own stables and a busy taproom onsite.  

Today, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors in the village that has a popular brasserie and bar!  

You can take a cosy seat by the fire in winter or enjoy an al fresco drink, lunch or dinner in their garden terrace.  

If you were tempted to stay the night in Bibury, it has 22 boutique rooms for rent and some have a prime view of the trout farm and Arlington Row! Click here to book your stay.  

8.   Browse the Village Post Office & Shop

An unassuming building on ‘The Street’ over the Coln, is the Old Bibury Post Office that was built in the late 18th century.  

Now, it’s a grade II listed building. It still acts as a working post office so you can send a postcard stamped from the most beautiful village in England!  

As well as sending letters, it has an enchanting gift shop that sells all sorts of Cotswolds souvenirs to take home with you.  

There is also a coffee house with some takeaway food items should you fancy a quick snack while you’re here. 

9. Take a quintessential afternoon tea  

Every guide book, reference and even this very blog post references William Morris’ famous quote about Bibury being the most beautiful village in England. 

So, it does seem rather appropriate that there is a William Morris Tea Room that is perched just opposite the iconic Arlington Row.  

This Victorian, Alice in Wonderland style Tea Room will transport you back to his time. With English bone crockery, loose leaf teas and specially prepared scones and homemade cakes.

As well as sweet treats, there is also a selection of sandwiches, soups and light lunches as well.

  You really cannot leave England without experiencing a quintessential afternoon tea and where better than Bibury?!

The tearooms are set inside the delightful grade II listed, 17th-century cottage which is now a B&B that you can stay in.  

10. Visit the Anglo-Saxon Church of St Mary  

The church that the village of Bibury is gathered around is a little further on from the main hub of the village. But, it is definitely worth visiting if you have the time. If anything, the distance will help you escape some of the crowds!

The Church of St Mary dates all the way back to the 8th century and subsequently this Anglo-Saxon structure was built in the 11th century.

It was originally owned by the Abbey of Osney up until Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries in 1539.  

It’s now a Grade I listed building and a delight to visit inside and out. You can still find a Saxon stone slab that’s been incorporated into the North Wall. Plus, the original North Doorway is still intact dating back to 1189.

Inside, you’ll find a 13th-century nave and font plus some amazing stained glass windows.

Did you know? Some of the glass installed by Karl Parsons in 1927 was used on a 1992 Christmas stamp in the UK? Well, you do now!  

11. Have dinner at the Catherine Wheel Pub

Another fantastic pub that you can visit is the Catherine Wheel that is located a little further up from Arlington Mill. You’ll most likely pass it on the road down to the village.  

Originally, this was a 15th century building that had its own stable courtyard and orchard. By the 19th century, a blacksmith called William Taylor and his family worked here. They had a business of shoeing horses and making cart wheels.  

By 1856, the Catherine Wheel pub was opened up to the public by J.Hathaway, who was a barrel maker and beer retailer. It became an instant success with visitors who enjoyed the cosy, original stone features and the roaring log fires that kept the place warm.  

Eventually, it was sold on to the Nailsworth Brewery Company in 1899. Now, a century later, the new owners have made it a popular restaurant and pub in the village.  

They have a seasonal menu that aims to use as much organic produce as possible, sourced from the local area and farms. You can try some famous Bibury trout or traditional pub favourites.  

12. Discover Roman history  

It is recorded that in the nineteenth century, George Witts accidentally discovered the Bibury Roman villa near the mill beside the River Coln.

In 1880, there were many items recovered including Roman pottery, coins and even some ancient paving slabs that had been found.  

Aside from that, not much else is known about it. But, it does give a great insight into the fact that there were Romans camped out here many years ago.  

The Bibury Roman Villa is enclosed on private farmland. But, if you were interested to learn more about the Romans in the Cotswolds then you should visit the Chedworth Roman Villa nearby.

Owned by the National Trust, these ruined remains of an ancient household are enclosed inside a gorgeous valley. It was discovered in the Victorian age and has since been preserved for the public to enjoy.  

The exhibition provides a unique insight into the Roman era and they have a modern conservation centre where you can see progress with recent excavations! Click here for more details of ticket prices and opening times.

13. Admire the magnificent Bibury Court  

The largest building in Bibury is the Jacobean mansion of Bibury Court that was built in the late 16th century. Before that, it was the site of a Benedictine monastery.  

In 1633 Sir Thomas Sackville, who was the illegitimate son of the first Earl of Dorset, made further renovations to the country home. It remained in the Sackville family for generations. 

It is said that King Charles II made a visit here when he attended the Bibury Races. Years ago, this was a big event that happened around Boxing Day! Charles Dickens even based his famous novel ‘Bleak House’ on an unfortunate court case involving this home.

The Cresswells inherited the property from the Sackvilles in the female line and had to sell out to the Lord Sherbourne due to a dispute in the will.  

It then fell into disrepair and was refurbished by the Clarke family in the 1920s. Once Lady Clarke passed away in 1968, it was sold and turned into a hotel.

Today, the property is Grade I listed but is once again abandoned due to the hotel business being in decline. However, there are plans for a renaissance So, let’s see what the future holds.

Until then, you can admire it from the countryside walks like the Bibury Circular (see below). It has an ancient Millhouse and Dovecote on the 100-acre estate.

14. Go on the many Bibury walks

Bibury is the gateway to the Coln Valley and the Cotswolds, which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. So, you can enjoy a wealth of pretty walks that will take you across the scenic rolling hills of the countryside.  

The most popular is the Bibury to The Coln St Aldwyn walk or the Bibury Circular which will take you around the most popular sites in Bibury and beyond.  

This 5-mile loop connects the two villages and will take you around 3 hours.  A walk is one of the best things to do in Bibury.

Where is Bibury in the Cotswolds?

Bibury sits in the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucestershire, England.   It’s just a few miles out to Cirencester and Oxford and easily accessible from London for a day trip.  

How to get to Bibury

As Bibury is situated in a remote area of the Cotswolds, it is easiest if you arrive here by car.  

You can easily access the village from the M4 and M5 motorways and along country roads. Or, you can easily head in from the nearby Oxford and Cirencester.  

• Bibury Parking – There is plenty of free visitor parking beside the River Coln on “The Street” as you drive into the village. Also, opposite the nearby Bibury Trout Farm.
• Trains – The nearest train station to Bibury is Kemble. This is around 14 miles from Bibury, from here you can get a bus or taxi.  
• Bus options – There are many bus services that run to Bibury from the nearby Cirencester. Click see to plan your journey !
• Bibury from London – Bibury is situated around a two hour drive out of London. You can take the M5 motorway towards Gloucester, alight at Cirencester and then make your way to Bibury. Alternatively you can get a National Express coach to Cirencester from London then a bus to Bibury from there.  

Take a tour of the Cotswolds

If you’re on holiday, it may be easier to do a day trip of the Cotswolds from London or Bath.  This way you can tick off a variety of places saving both money and time. 

Here are some of my top picks;

A full day tour of the Cotswolds from London

Cotswolds, Oxford and Stratford Day Tour with a small group

Cotswolds Tour with lunch included

From Bath: Stonehenge, Salisbury and Cotswolds

Places near Bibury to visit  

If you’re planning a Cotswolds road trip or day out, there is plenty of places to visit near Bibury to carry on your adventures.

You can visit the oh-so busy Bourton-on-the-Water sitting on the River Windrush.  Here you have another beautiful village, with a vintage motor museum, tea rooms, mazes and more. 

Or, if you wanted to take it down a notch on crowds, visit Lower Slaughter or Upper Slaughter nearby. They sound horrific, but don’t worry, they are SO pretty and see far less crowds!  

Stow-on-the-Wold is also down the road which has the magical St Edward’s Church . It’s yew tree door apparently inspired J. R. R. Tolkien for Middle Earth in Lord of the Rings ! 

If you wanted to feel like royalty for the day, stop by the majestic Blenheim Palace which is the birthplace of Winston Churchill. You can visit the Harry Potter Tree there. Or, visit the famous Westonbirt Arboretum – home to 2500 different species of trees.

Further afield, you can fall in love with the magnificent village of Castle Combe or pop along  Burford which is a gorgeous gateway. Lacock is also an incredible place which featured in Harry Potter !

Read more of my Cotswolds travel guides

The best places to visit in Tetbury and the Chipping Steps

The top things to do in Painswick and the legend of its famous Yew Trees

Why you must visit Minster Lovell Hall Ruins

How to visit the Cotswolds Confetti Fields

How to visit Cotswolds Lavender Fields and top things to do in Snowshill

Did this pub inspire the Prancing Pony in Lord of the Rings?

The best things to do in Corsham

A complete visitor guide for Broadway Tower

Visit The Cotswold’s very own Rollright stone circle

Harry Potter locations in Gloucester

The Most Instagrammable places in Gloucester

What to do at Gloucester Docks

Save these things to do in Bibury for later!

Sophie Pearce is the founder of Third Eye Traveller. Always having a restless soul seeking adventure, she has now travelled to over 30+ countries, many of them solo. Leaving her heart in India, which gifted her a "Third Eye", she felt inspired to share her travel stories in the hope of encouraging others to find their inner magic and explore this beautiful world of ours. Even if it's on their own!

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11 Must Things To Do In Bibury England That Make A Visit Worth It (+ map)

With so many ridiculously cute fairytale villages in the Cotswolds, it’s easy to contemplate whether or not it’s worth checking Bibury England off the bucket list.   After all, if you’ve seen one Cotswold village, haven’t you seen them all?   Absolutely not!   Here’s why Bibury England is worth visiting and 11 must things to do in as little as 2 hours.

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means I may make a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking a link but costs you nothing more).  Read here for the full  disclosure  policy.

Why Bibury England Is Famous

Whether you live in the UK or not, it’s quite possible you’ve visited Bibury England before.   From the big screen to your travel companion, here are a few fun facts that make this super cute village famous and different from the others:

• Arlington Row Bibury is a street lined with cute side-by-side 1380 cottages that can be seen on the inside cover of UK passports.   This former mill village is that iconic for the country.
• The converted 17th-century stone cottages with perfectly placed flowers and greenery make Bibury the most beautiful and most photographed of all the Cotswold villages.
• Site location for major film productions, such as Bridget Jones Diary and Stardust.
• Home to England’s oldest working trout farm (1902), making Bibury a bonus village to visit with kids.
• Bibury is considered a spiritual place by the Japanese because it was a highlight of Emperor Hirohito’s Europe tour in 1921.   This is why many Japanese tour groups can be seen here.
• Henry Ford had the nerve to try to buy Arlington Row so that he could dismantle and rebuild it on his Michigan estate!

Thankfully, much of Bibury’s rich history is well protected and preserved.   The National Trust owns Arlington Row and is entirely private except for number 9, which you can rent for an overnight stay!

Even with Bibury’s rich resume, it may not be convincing enough to visit if you’re on short time.

11 Things To Do In Bibury England

As an American expat in England, prioritizing where to go and what to see when expat time is almost up may push Bibury lower on the list.   But, Bibury is one of those special places you visit and then leave with an experience you can’t possibly forget.   In walking order, here are 11 more reasons and things to do in Bibury England that make it so impressionable.

1 – Arlington Row

The picturesque row of converted weavers’ cottages converted in the 17th century speak for themselves.   It’s the most popular attraction in Bibury so get there early for stranger-less photos.

Cottage 4 on Arlington Row

2- Awkward Hill

Rarely mentioned since Arlington Row typically steals the spotlight, Awkward Hill is the little bend at the top of Arlington Row.   This is where you’ll find the cutest little Number 9 cottage you can actually book for your very own Bibury Cotswold holiday.

Cottage at the top of Awkward Hill

3 – Cotswolds Elbow Public Footpath

There is a 6.5-mile circular walk in Gloucestershire Cotswolds that you can join just beyond Awkward Hill.   The loop takes you along Bibury’s River Coln through to another pretty village, Coln Saint Aldwyns.

If you don’t have the time or stamina for a moderate countryside walk, that’s ok.   You can turn back around to carry on Bibury sightseeing along the backside of River Coln.

Elbow Footpath entry past Awkward Hill

4 – The Catherine Wheel

The Catherine Wheel is the only pub in Bibury and also serves as a B&B.   The pub is two 15th century buildings joined in the main bar area. The Catherine Wheel is known for its inn but may have originally served as a location for wool traders.

Only pub & B&B in Bibury

5 – Arlington Baptist Church

Before Arlington Baptist Church was originally built in 1747, Baptists met in each other’s private homes and around the Green.   Evidence and the plaque that can be seen on the Arlington Baptist Church exterior wall indicate it was rebuilt in 1833 and can seat up to 240 attendees.

This community church remains active and certainly in the most picturesque Cotswolds village for a wedding or baptism service.

Arlington Baptist Church

6 – The Bakehouse & Pancake House

As an American living in England, finding old bakeries that are now someone’s ridiculously cute home never gets old.   It’s these seemingly normal British things that you can’t find in the USA that make a visit to Bibury England worth it.  In fact, it’s one of the reasons why I love the UK .

The Bakehouse Cottage is among the cutest group of cottages near Baptist Church

7 – Bibury Fish Trout Farm

Bibury has the oldest working trout farm in the Cotswolds.   You can fish and even book your own BBQ pitch for your day’s catch.

But if fish isn’t your preferred picnic choice, the Bibury Trout Farm Deli has a cute outdoor patio with many sandwich and soup options for anyone.   This is where you can also pick up a bottle of local Poulton Hill wine or gin, fresh fish from the fishmonger, and quaint Bibury locally made gifts.

Bibury Trout Farm Cafe offers a covered patio & local Bibury gifts

8 – Rack Isle

Go for a walk along Rack Isle.  This is the paved walkway that runs alongside the River Coln directly across the cottages on Arlington Row.  This meadow earned its name from the racks used to dry the wool.  The weavers would hang outside to dry on racks, hence Rack Isle.  

This little meadow is now home to an abundance of wildlife.   In fact, Bibury is the only place in the UK where I witnessed a wild grass snake!

The Rack Isle, National Trust

9 – The Swan Hotel

Address: bibury, gloucestershire, gl7 5nw.

Situated on the corner of where 2 main roads meet in the heart of Bibury, The Swan Hotel stands tall with its sprawling ivy and postcard presence over the nearby River Coln.   Pop into the bar or garden for views of this 17th-century inn dressed in blue plaids and statement prints.

The Swan Hotel near River Coln

10 – The William Morris Tea Room, B&B & Shop

If you arrive for your day trip to Bibury from the east, the street lined with little shops on the right opposite the river is where you’ll find the quaint William Morris Tea Room.   If there’s no time for tea, pop into the neighboring Bibury Post Office to shop for more than a stamp.

11 – St Mary’s Church

Nestled in the old village parts of Bibury near the Primary School is St Mary’s Church.   This is about a 5-minute walk from The Swan Hotel.   You can do a circular walk via Cemetery Ln to Church Rd to see Village Hall and interesting cottages along the way.

St Marys Church, Bibury England

A few notable things to look for at St Mary’s Church include the Norman doorway arches, a Saxon gravestone on the exterior wall not far from the door, 13th-century stained glass, font, and the not-to-be-missed beautiful trees lining the walkway to the north door.

Where To Picnic In Bibury

The best location for a picnic in Bibury is the Bibury Trout Farm.   Aside from the public footpaths, there are limited areas along the River Coln for a scenic picnic lunch.   Otherwise, The Swan Hotel, The William Morris Tea Room, and The Catherine Wheel are great spots for lunch.

Short Walking Map of Bibury England

For a 2-hour visit, here’s a short walking map of the 11 things to do in Bibury listed in this post.

Bibury Parking & Toilets – This is Important!

Bibury parking.

Although parking is free, there are limited parking spaces in Bibury.   Best advice is to arrive early, be patient, and park as soon as you see a spot become available.   Your best bet for finding a parking spot in Bibury is along the River Coln.

Bibury Toilets

Address: bibury, the street gl7 5np.

The only public toilet facility in Bibury requires 20p.   Be sure to bring enough money for the whole family.

Things To Do Near Bibury

If Bibury alone isn’t enough to justify the drive from London or elsewhere in the UK, Bibury is nestled between two other not-so-far-away Cotswold villages.

Another pretty Cotswold village to add to your Bibury trip is the town of Burford.  This Cotswold town is an easy stop because you drive straight through it if traveling via the A40 from London.  Burford is considered ‘the gateway to the Cotswolds’, as proven by the incredibly picturesque high street, The Hill, and River Windrush that anchors it.

Picturesque street in Burford

Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water is 20 minutes north of Bibury via the A429.  Take the kids through the Dragonfly Maze for a different Cotswold experience, before popping into St Lawrence’s Church.

For a long weekend exploring more things to do near Bibury, read An Easy Family Getaway for Londoners: Bath, Cotswolds and Blenheim Palace.

Although Oxford isn’t in the Cotswolds, it’s conveniently located off the A40 while driving to Bibury from London.   For things to do in Oxford to add to a Bibury trip, read this 1-day Oxford itinerary .

Final Tips For Things To Do In Bibury & Why

You don’t need much time in Bibury to make your visit special.   It’s simply one of those British villages that must be seen in order to understand it.   Even if seeing only the outside is an option, this picture-perfect watercolor village is more than enough to appreciate why a drive to Bibury is worth it.

Bibury England art on Etsy

As an expat in England running out of time, we nearly crossed a Bibury day trip off the bucket list .   However, one drizzly Sunday morning decision to hop in the car for a day trip to Bibury was all we needed to appreciate why it’s titled the “most beautiful village in England”.

Have you been to Bibury?  Add what you loved the most in the comments! x

Looking for UK travel ideas?

• 8 Top Things To Do In Durham UK In A Day
• How To Spend A Half Day In Notting Hill
• 13 Best UK Road Trip Ideas With Kids

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Thanks Bea! It means so much coming from a local of the Cotswolds xx

This is such a great read, Lori! As a local of the cotswolds, I love reading other peoples views of it and their insights!

You’ve really provided some great info here and love how you’ve put in the map for us to view!

Thanks for sharing your 11 ideas!

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Charming Things to Do in Bibury, The Cotswolds

Planning a visit to Bibury Cotswolds, and wondering what there is to do exactly? Or wondering if Bibury is worth your time? You might be here, curious to know what the hype about Bibury Cotswolds is all about? It might also be a little confusing to figure out the easiest ways of getting to Bibury if this is your first visit.

I shall answer all of these questions and more in this article so you could have an incredibly enchanting experience with the 10+ charming things to do in Bibury Cotswolds. Bibury is a small village and all of the activities can easily be experienced in a few hours. However, this pretty hamlet is way too quintessential to rush through, and if you can, try and spend at least a day here. An overnight stay would be best for optimum experience.

The Cotswolds is one of my favourite places to visit in England . Rolling hills, picturesque thatched medieval villages made of golden stone, churches and plenty of walking paths, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Entwined with rich history and a surprise around each winding road: how could I ask for more? A peaceful haven away from the flurry of near-city life. There are corners I had not seen before no matter how many times I visited this beautiful nook of England.

Bibury tops all of my experiences in the Cotswolds: I walked the steps of an emperor, and famed film stars, see giant swans glide noiselessly and trout gently cruising along in the super clear waters of happy River Coln. Strolled the edge of an ancient meadow and sat under a willow tree with an ice cream cone. I wallowed in the flawless scenic beauty of this timeless village. Bibury is a place I will return to countless times without hesitation to enjoy the soothing tranquility it bestows and I hope to inspire you the same with this article.

*This post was first published in March 2023, and is regularly updated. Last Updated on April 11, 2024 by Georgina.

Timeless Travel Steps is supported by our readers. If you purchase through an affiliate link on my site, at no cost to you, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Please read our Disclosure for further information.

Touring the UK?

The easiest way to visit Bibury is on a guided tour. The best tour is this one here that combines a visit to other Cotswold villages that are worth visiting. It is also possible to drive to Bibury as it is well placed and can be reached conveniently. If you are planning on driving in England, get your car from Discover Cars .

Additionally, visit my travel pages about London , England, and Scotland for travel inspiration around the UK. You’ll find this guide about the Regions of England to be particularly helpful for pre-planning your trips.

Are you visiting some of the English Heritage sites such as Stonehenge , Dover Castle , 1066 Battle of Hastings and Battle Abbey or Osborne House on the Isle of Wight ? If so, you may want to take advantage of the discounted Overseas Visitor Pass . This visitor pass is worth buying if you are typically visiting more than two of the over 100 sites covered by this scheme.

There are several informative pages about travels in Lake Como , Milan , Verona and Barcelona also, if you are extending your vacation to Europe.

In this guide about Bibury, Cotswolds: 10+ charming things to do in England’s most beautiful village

In this guide, I explain everything there is to know about visiting this historically picturesque village so you could plan your visit easily. I share my tips on the charming things to do in Bibury Cotswolds along with where to stay and the best restaurants, cafes and pubs. I include practical tips about how to get here with or without a car. Find out how much time you really need for this haven, where to park, the best scenic easy circular walks in Bibury to go on and where to try a spot of trout fishing.

Bibury: The most beautiful village in England

The Victorian artist, William Morris once described Bibury as “the most beautiful village in England” and it is easy to understand why. I am sure you will too when you visit the classic Instagrammable village of Bibury Cotswolds. A quaint little village with a huge amount of history nestled on the banks of the pretty River Coln with the most photographed street is genuinely one of the most gorgeous places in England .

Bibury truly is timeless; this is a place where you are thrown back a few centuries and the kind where visitors to England would imagine all English villages to be like. It is so wonderfully peaceful here that it makes you feel you’ve stepped back in time. This pretty village is one not to miss when visiting this part of England for anyone looking to discover that classic cottage loveliness.

Bibury is most famous for its charming postcard perfect honey-stoned cottages in Arlington Row, built in the 14th century. While an ivy-covered inn stands watch over a slow-moving peaceful River Coln, the village is popular for its Trout Farm, a beautiful meadow, an Old Mill and a medieval church as well.

Where is Bibury?

Bibury is set amidst a beautiful English countryside in the county of Gloucestershire, and sits on the River Coln, a Thames tributary. The village is situated about 12 km (7.5 miles) drive from the town of Cirencester and about 15 km (9 miles) from the market town of Burford, known as the “gateway to the Cotswolds”. This charming little village is surrounded by lush green landscape the ‘ wolds ‘ and golden stone cottages, defining features of the Cotswolds.

The Cotswolds cover a large expanse, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It runs through six counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire , Worcestershire, and parts of Somerset.

Want to know more about England’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?

Read my Complete Guide to the Isle of Wight, famed for coastal scenic beauty, historic monuments and dinosaur fossils discovered to this day. Includes 35 Epic Things to do along with a super 5-Day Itinerary to relish at this beautiful destination in Southern England.

The History of Bibury, Cotswolds

The exact beginnings of Bibury is not known but the discovery of a hill fort and Roman villa nearby indicates roots going back pre-history. Records show that in the early 8th century, land was given by Bishop Wilfrith of Worcester to Earl Leppas and his daughter, Beaga (AD 721-743). The commune was known as “Beagan-byrig” back then. By the time of the Domesday Book of 1086, the village was known as “Becheberie”. The lands and church around this settlement were still under the ownership of St Mary’s Priory, Worcester. In 1130, the ownership passed to Abbey of Osney, Oxford and the Abbey held it until its dissolution in 1540. Over time, the name evolved to become Bibury.

Traditionally, Bibury was made up of two villages: Bibury and Arlington separated by the River Coln but both are now known as Bibury.

Today, Bibury is one of the most famous villages in the Cotswolds. Its crown, Arlington Row , is the most photographed street in England, along with the picturesque meadow next to it. The River Coln that runs through the village was, and still is renowned as a trout stream, inhabited since ancient times. It has drawn visitors to the area in huge numbers over the years.

According to Gloucestershire City Council , the population of Bibury is 625 (2023).

Why is Bibury worth visiting?

Bibury has everything you could ask for in a traditional Cotswold English village and it does not get any more quintessential than this charmingly splendid hamlet.

Bibury is 100% absolutely worth visiting for it has a rich history dating back to the Iron Age, along with an overwhelming heritage that is largely untouched which surrounds your every step in this perfectly idyllic place that is as pretty as a postcard. It is a place where you enjoy a stroll along the pretty River Coln with an ice cream cone, have a pint at the pub and dream away your day over the picturesque Arlington Row or just sit on a bench to watch the wildlife. These are moments to enjoy the tranquility of this scenic village of Bibury. Moreover, this examplary British village sits within the picturesque Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the gateway to many delightful walks in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.

Whatever you wish to do, there is something for you in Bibury, and it is a destination not to miss.

What to do in Bibury, Corswolds: 10+ Enchanting Things to do in Bibury Cotswolds

Here are some splendidly wonderful things to do in this hamlet:

Stroll along River Coln, Bibury

Take a short stroll along the river bank from the car park to Arlington Row. River Coln meanders lazily through the village of Bibury. The water is crystal clear with majestic swans, ducks and trout enjoying the slow moving stream. There are some paths and beautiful stone bridges leading to Arlington Row and scenic fields. You can admire the quaint cottages of Arlington Row from afar and old buildings across the road. It is absolutely effortlessly picturesque.

Some benches are sprinkled around the bridge where you could grab some moments to yourself and savour on an ice-cream cone from the post-office across the road. The scene is tranquil and picture perfect, one that will stay with you for a long time.

Cross the Old Footbridge over to River Coln

There are three footbridges in Bibury to cross over the River Coln: the arched stone bridge (near Swan Hotel), a wooden footbridge and the listed old Row Bridge. By far the most popular is the Row Bridge as it connects the main road to the weavers cottages, once used for the flourishing wool and textile trade.

Row Bridge is a seemingly simple old footbridge over River Coln in Bibury which leads to Arlington Row in Awkward Hill. It lends a lot of beauty to the area and one of the most scenic spots in Bibury for excellent photo opportunities.

Saunter through Arlington Row on Awkward Hill, Bibury Cotswolds

One of the best enchanting things to do in Bibury is to take a lazy stroll through Arlington Row in Awkward Hill, a low gradient slope. The cocoon cottages here are simplistic beauty, topped with roofs of fine tiles that have withstood the passing of times. These pretty cottages, weaved with an untold old charm conjure happy dreams that one could only imagine. These old and charming cottages, though not for sale by its present owners, the National Trust, are estimated to go well beyond the one million mark. If you would like to live around here, there are a couple further up Awkward Hill where you could rent for a stay.

I would suggest that Arlington Row is the reason most visitors from another country, especially Japanese tourists come to Bibury.

Arlington Row, the most picturesque and most photographed street in England is a row of crooked Grade I honey-coloured stone cottages with undulating roofs and wonky windows draped in flowers alongside a gentle stream.

Fall in love with this row of quirky architecture of slated roofs, gables, and Lincoln green doorways for one of the best moments in Bibury. A timeless piece of enchanting beauty.

THE classic Cotswolds view has appeared in numerous calendars covers and postcards. At one time, it was even featured in the inside cover of British passports.

Walk the edge of Rack Isle Wetland Meadow Bibury Cotswolds

The cottages of Arlington Row have views of the delightful casual grace of the wetland meadow, known as Rack Isle. Rack Isle takes its name from when back in the day, the Osney monks used wooden racks to dry the finished cloth.

Situated at the heart of Bibury, this water marshy meadow is surrounded by water on three sides and is seasonally flooded.

Today, this ancient wetland meadow area is a wildlife refuge and is officially classified as a Wildfowl Reserve. The Reserve is home to protected wildfowl, kingfishers, dragonflies and water voles. Here, you’ll see the unusual water-loving plants, including yellow flag iris and pink jagged robin during spring and summer months.

The Belted Galloway Cows make their appearance in late summer and to experience this wondrous sight is definitely one of the best enchanting things to do in Bibury.

While this is a protected area, there is a shaded footpath along the edge of the meadow, connecting Arlington Row to the centre of Bibury which you could take.

Rack Isle is cared for by the National Trust.

Head over to Bibury’s Post Office

Bibury’s Post Office is housed in an 18th century building and sits along “the Street” over the Coln. You can send a postcard from the most beautiful village in England or buy some Cotswold souvenirs from the nice quaint gift shop located here. You can also buy some coffee and food items to go. More popularly, people tend to leave this shop with ice cream.

Arlington Mill, Bibury Cotswolds

Arlington Mill has a long history going back to Domesday Book as a working corn mill. Then, it played a pivotal role during the textile trade by degreasing the cloth produced by the weavers cottages.

Arlington Mill is now privately owned and has been converted to modern self-catering holiday rental for up to thirteen guests. It was a highly sought after spot for those seeking a quintessential Cotwolds experience. Arlington Mill is presently closed.

While you cannot go inside, it makes a nice backdrop to photos.

Fishing at Trout Farm, Bibury

Set amidst beautiful surroundings at the northern edge of Bibury is England’s oldest working trout farm. The Trout Farm was established in 1902, and has its own hatchery fed by the Bibury Spring which stays at a constant 10°C all year.

There are hundreds of rainbow and brown trout in different beautifully laid out ponds. You can buy a food bag to feed them and see them leap out of water when a handful is thrown up.

Dedicated sections of the farm are available where you can fish your own trout and grill them. There are barbecue grills set up on the side. A smokery which uses the traditional salt and hardwood chips to smoke the trout is also available.

You can purchase fresh trout from their farm shop. There is a small gift shop as well.

Dogs are welcomed but must be kept on a lead.

Parking at the Trout Farm: There is a fee paying carpark at the entrance. Parking here is free for Trout Farm visitors. There is an overflow car park during busy times but this is in private property and parking here incurs a fee.

Trout Farm is open to the public daily. However, times for the cafe and the fishery vary.

Open: March through to September: 09:00 – 17:00 (18:00 in July & August);

Cafe: 09:00 till 16:00

Experience the Hospitality at the Swan Hotel, Bibury

Built in the mid-18th century, the ivy-clad Swan Hotel is one of the most picturesque buildings in Bibury. This pretty inn stands opposite the east side of the bridge across River Coln.

The Swan Hotel began life as a coaching inn in the 17th century providing a sanctuary for weary travellers. The inn had its own stables and a taproom.

Today, the tranquil location of the Swan Hotel Bibury provides a peaceful escape for locals and visitors alike. Sit by the fire in wintertime over a drink, brunch at the brasserie or al fresco at their garden terrace during summer.

The Swan Hotel is popular for its Afternoon Tea by the river. You can enjoy warm homemade scones with Devonshire clotted cream and jam along with a selection of afternoon tea cakes, nibbles and sandwiches.

The Swan, a sought-after wedding location offers boutique rooms with unrivalled views of River Coln, the Trout Farm and Arlington Row in the distance. The venue is uniquely set with big open fireplaces and warm cosy comforts along with an inviting atmosphere.

The Swan Hotel is another Instagrammable spot in this quaint village of Bibury.

To top it off, The Swan welcomes a “man’s best friend”. There are specially allocated rooms for you and your canine.

If you are tempted to stay the night in Bibury, why not experience the hospitality of this age old inn?

BOOK YOUR TIMELESS STAY AT THE SWAN BIBURY

Stopover at St Mary’s Church, a Saxon Church in Bibury

Tucked away in a quiet street away from the centre of Bibury is the pretty medieval church of St Mary’s. The first church on this site is likely to date back to the 8th century, and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being owned by St Mary’s Priory in Worcester.

The church was granted to Osney Abbey, which retained it until the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII .

The present church was built in the middle of the 11th century with further renovations in subsequent centuries. St Mary’s Bibury was built of local golden limestone with a slate roof.

Highlights include Saxon stone slab supporting the chancel arch and Saxon gravestones. A 13th century font as well as stained glass in the sanctuary from the same medieval period. Norman doorway arches and a 15th century roof. St Mary’s Church has served its local community for over 800 years.

St Mary’s Church is home to a stained glass window which was designed in 1927 by Karl Parsons (1884-1934). You will find this beautiful window at the north chancel wall of the church. This was featured in the 1992 Christmas stamp set issued by the Royal Mail.

St Mary’s Bibury is a lovely church exuding an oasis of calm and it is one of the best things to do in Bibury Cotswolds.

See the admirable Bibury Court

Bibury Court is a charming Grade I listed Jacobean mansion and is the largest building in Bibury. The mansion was built in the late 16th century on what was previously a Benecditine monastery. In 1633, Sir Thomas Sackville made further renovations and additions to the house. The property remained in the Sackville family for generations and it passed on to the Cresswells.

Eventually, it fell into disrepair and was refurbished by the Clarke family in the 1920s. The mansion was converted into a hotel in 1968 when Lady Clarke passed away. Bibury Court was a popular hotel, Today, it is no longer a hotel. Bibury Court has been in private ownership since 2015.

While you can’t go inside, you can admire its magnificence from the outside. You are likely to pass it on the Bibury Circular Walks.

The best 10+ enchanting things to do in Bibury Cotswolds:

• Stroll along River Coln, Bibury;
• Cross the Old Footbridge over River Coln;
• Saunter through Arlington Row;
• Walk the footpath along Rack Isle Wetland Meadow;
• Head over to Bibury’s Post Office;
• Arlington Mill, Bibury
• Fishing at Trout Farm, Bibury;
• Experience the hospitality at the Swan Hotel, Bibury;
• Stopover at the medieval Church of St Mary’s, Bibury;
• See the admirable Bibury Court;
• Short Walks from Bibury (see below).

Walks from Bibury

Head out of Bibury to the peaceful haven that surrounds this hamlet on a Cotswold Walk. Each route takes you across scenic rolling hills of the countryside. There are 5 easy routes for a nice stroll with not much to climb.

• Bibury Village Short Walk (2.8 km; 1.75 miles): This walk involves some road walking along The Street and opens up onto a track to the countryside through Oxhill Woods;
• Bibury Village & Countryside Walk (6 km; 3.75 miles): This beautiful walk starts from River Coln in Bibury and takes you through scenic open countryside through pretty woods along the edge of the village. The walk crosses River Coln and passes Arlington Row;
• Bibury and Ablington Walk (10 km; 6.25 miles): This lovely walk is longer than the two above and starts from the village. The route takes you across the Cotswolds countryside and through woodland, River Coln and the village of Ablington;
• Bibury and Coln St Aldwyns Walk (10 km; 6.25 miles): This longer route starts in Bibury and takes you through a scenic route of a beautiful Cotswold countryside joins two beautiful villages. There are pubs in both villages where you could stop for refreshments.
• Bibury Adventure Walk (19 km; 11.75 miles): This is an epic adventure route, essentially combining routes 3 and 4 above. This is a very long walk, therefore ensure you have appropriate clothing, sufficient refreshments and are prepared for adverse weather conditions. Ensure your mobile device is fully charged.

PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK IN BIBURY COTSWOLDS

Cafes and delis.

The Trout Farm Cafe serves dishes made from their trout for example smoked trout quiches. They also serve sandwiches, paninis, sausage rolls and homemade cakes.

The Twig: With a focus on high quality coffee as well as snacks, sandwiches, toastoes and filled foccacia.

Bibury’s Post Office: You can pick-up drinks to go, ice-creams, cakes and snacks.

Bibury Cotswolds Pub and Restaurants

The Catherine Wheel: This 15th century family run venue is the only pub in Bibury. In 1856, the Catherine Wheel was opened up to the public by J. Hathaway, who was a barrel maker and beer retailer. It was instantly popular with visitors who enjoyed the cosy, authentic stone features and fire logs. It was sold on to Nailsworth Brewery Co. in 1899. Today, it is a popular restaurant and a pub that serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their tasty traditional dishes. Enjoy a hearty plate of fish and chips to sausage and mash or a full Sunday roast.

The Brasserie at the Swan Hotel: This high-end eatery serves dishes with a European twist using British ingredients. You will find interesting dishes such as Crab and Mascarpone Risotto, Devonshire Brown Crab Arancini and Wild Mushroom and Caramelised Onion Ravioli on their menu.

WHERE TO STAY IN BIBURY COTSWOLDS

#9 arlington row, bibury cotswolds.

Stay at Bibury’s most iconic address at #9 Arlington Row managed by the National Trust. This remarkable heritage property comes brimmed with historic features, two bedrooms, a shower room, kitchen and a sitting/dining room equipped with a wood-burning stove.

If you would like to experience a stay in an ancient building with all the modern comforts, then this would make an ideal retreat for you.

BOOK YOUR STAY AT #9 ARLINGTON ROW FOR A COMPLETE TIMELESS EXPERIENCE OF BIBURY, COTSWOLDS

The Swan Hotel Bibury

The splendid Swan Hotel is the only Bibury hotel within the vicinity of the village. This 4-star hotel oozes in Cotswold charm with a mix of antique furnishings, contemporary textile and four-poster beds in some rooms. More info is covered in the above section about the Swan Hotel.

BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE SWAN HOTEL

Sycamore, Bibury

This really nice 4-star one-bedroom cottage just off the B4425 in the heart of Bibury is ideal for 2-person stays. Described as ‘Superb’, this charming property has received highly positive reviews for its location, comfort and cleanliness. Sycamore is a popular rental and gets booked really quickly. Book well ahead of your visit if you want to stay here.

BOOK SYCAMORE, BIBURY FOR A COMFORTABLE STAY

Swallows Nest, Bibury

Stay at this beautiful one-bedroom house that is a highly rated property, fully equipped with modern amenities. This cute property has its exterior woodwork in the ever pleasing eau-de-nil, which adds a really nice touch to a lovely property.

BOOK YOUR STAY AT SWALLOWS NEST, BIBURY

Take a look at this property for a budget stay in Bibury

GO HERE FOR MORE ACCOMMODATION CHOICES IN AND AROUND CIRENCESTER

PLACES NEARBY TO ADD TO YOUR BIBURY ITINERARY

If you are planning to see more of Cotswolds during your trip, there are lots of places around Bibury. Here are a few for you to visit:

Chedworth Roman Villa: Reputed as one of the largest and most elaborate of Roman villas discovered todate in Britain. It dates back to the 4th century and is adorned with beautiful mosaics, bathhouses and shrines. The Chedworth Roman Villa is cared for by the National Trust and is located in the beautiful Cotswold valley, about 13.6 km (8.5 miles) from Bibury. Visit National Trust website for ticket prices and times.

Ablington Manor, Bibury: Built in 1590, Ablington Manor is another large country house. The manor houses 17th century Georgian additions, an ornate porch adorned with the statue of Queen Elizabeth, James I, Henry VIII, Queen Mary and her husband, Philip of Spain. The property is privately owned but can be visited. Visits are by appointment only, March through to September.

You can visit Stow-on-the-Wold , not too far from Bibury. Home to the magical yew tree door that is said to have inspired JRR Tolkien in his Middle Earth, Lord of the Rings.

Visit also the pretty towns of Burford , showcasing a timeline of quintessential English architecture and Bourton-on-the-Water , a busy town sitting on River Windrush and houses a vintage motor museum and tea rooms.

How much time is needed in Bibury?

A couple of hours is generally enough to see Bibury but it may be longer if you are to experience all of the enchanting things to do in Bibury listed above. You may want to linger longer at Arlington Row, visit St Mary’s Church, have brunch or afternoon tea at The Swan and attempt the shortest circular walk at least, so you can experience the countryside. If this is something you would like to do, then give yourself a half-day visit to Bibury.

How far is Bibury from London?

The shortest road distance from London to Bibury is approximately 138 km (85.6 miles) via M40 and A40. This journey is approximated for 1 hour and 50 minutes.

The longer road distance is approximately 164 km (101.7 miles) via M4. This journey will take approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

PARKING IN BIBURY: Where to park in Bibury?

If you are driving to Bibury for the first time, you may be wondering where to park.

Generally, parking in Bibury is limited. There are some off-street parking spaces allocated along “The Street” and a small free car park opposite the Trout Farm.

Bibury parking during an off-season visit should not be a problem but it might be challenging to find spaces during high seasons. You may have to wait for spaces to become available to be able to park. Best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to easily park and avoid the tourist crowd.

BIBURY COTSWOLDS DIRECTIONS: How to get to Bibury by Car

Travelling by car to Bibury is the most convenient way to get here. If you don’t have your own car or if you are visiting England from abroad, hire your car from Discover Cars .

TIP: Use Arlington Row Bibury postcode GL7 5NJ England as a guide for directions. It will get you to Bibury without any problems.

GPS coordiantes: 51° 45′ 30.816″ N and 1° 50′ 5.8956″ W

M4 Motorway: Travelling West along the M4, exit at Junction 15 to travel towards Cirencester (A419). Here, take the B4425 to Bibury.

If travelling East along the M4, exit at Junction 17, and travel towards Malmesbury and Cirencester (A429). Once at Cirencester, take the B4425 to Bibury.

M5 Motorway: From the North, take exit 11A and travel towards Cirencester. Once in Cirencester, take the B4425 to Bibury.

From the South, take exit 11A and travel towards Cirencester. When in Cirencester, take the B4425 towards Bibury.

B2425: You could also reach Bibury on the B2425 between Barnsley and Aldsworth.

There is a minor road from the nearby village of Coln St Aldwyns.

How to get to Bibury, Cotswolds without a car

You can get to Bibury without a car by train, bus, private taxi or with a tour group.

By Train to Bibury

There is no train station at Bibury. The nearest railway station to Bibury is Kemble. Kemble is situated only a few kilometres from Cirencester and around 22.5 km (14 miles) from Bibury. You can either take a bus from Kemble to Cirencester, then another bus to Bibury from Cirencester. Alternatively, take a taxi from Kemble to Bibury.

By Train from London: There is a direct train service from London Paddington Station to Kemble. The journey takes around 1 hour 12 minutes. Once at Kemble, take a taxi to Bibury.

Travelling by Bus to Bibury

If you are travelling from London Victoria Station to Cirencester, you are likely to be dropped off at London Road, Cirencester. Once here, you can walk to nearby Market Place to catch a bus to Bibury. The Stagecoach 855 connects Cirencester, and Bourton-on-the-Water. This service does not run on Sundays.

If you are arriving by train, get off at Cirencester. There are regular bus services from Cirencester. You can take the 882 service to Cirencester and change to the 855

If you are not or do not want to drive to Bibury, it is easier to do a day trip to the Cotswolds. This is especially useful if you are visiting from abroad and want to make the most of your trip in one day. With a day trip to the Cotswolds, you can tick-off several places while enjoying the scenic views. In this way, you save money and time as well. There are several tours departing from London and Oxford. I have researched and found the following to be the best. Take a look:

TOURS FROM LONDON

Tour of Cotswolds’ Small Villages ;

Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace & Downton Abbey;

Cotswolds Tour in a Small Group;

Full Day Cotswolds Tour with Lunch;

Oxford & Cotswolds Villages Day Trip;

Oxford, Stratford, Cotswolds & Warwick Day Trip;

TOURS FROM OXFORD

Cotswolds Towns & Villages Tour;

Cotswolds Adventurer Tour.

ADDITIONAL INFO AND TIPS FOR YOUR BIBURY VISIT

Listed buildings in bibury cotswolds.

Bibury Cotswolds is host to an extraordinary number of 123 exceptional listed properties. 116 of these are Grade II listed. There are four buildings listed as Grade I, the highest designation for heritage properties. These include the weavers cottage at Arlington Row, St Mary’s Church, Ablington Manor and Bibury Court.

When Outdoors…

* During walks, hiking and generally when outdoors, please observe the following 7 Principles of Leave No Trace :

• Plan ahead and make adequate preparations for a safe and enjoyable experience;
• When moving through natural areas, stay on the dedicated trails and avoid causing damage or negative impacts on surfaces;
• Dispose of waste properly or take them home with you;
• Leave areas as you find them; Do not dig trenches or remove unique plants that may be interesting;
• Minimise the impacts of campfires;
• Respect wildlife;
• Be considerate and maintain courtesy of other walkers, and hikers.

Bibury is famous for its picturesque beauty and quintessential English charm, particularly notable for Arlington Row, a row of ancient cottages with steeply pitched roofs, and the surrounding Cotswold stone buildings. This idyllic village in Gloucestershire, England, has been recognised as one of the most picturesque places in the country, drawing visitors from all over the world.

The most famous street in Bibury is Arlington Row, renowned for its iconic row of ancient weaver’s cottages with their charming Cotswold stone architecture and picturesque setting.

Bibury population is around 600 residents.

Yes, there are pubs in Bibury. As a quintessential English village, Bibury offers traditional pubs where visitors can enjoy a taste of local charm and hospitality while savoring a variety of drinks and often traditional pub meals.

The exact founding date of Bibury is not well-documented, but its history can be traced back to at least the Saxon period, which was between the 5th and 11th centuries. It is likely that the village has even earlier origins.

The village of Bibury has a long history dating back to the Saxon period, making it over a thousand years old. It has preserved its picturesque charm and ancient architecture, attracting visitors with its timeless beauty and historical significance.

In sum…

While the beauty of this remarkably charming and well preserved Cotswold village at an idyllic setting on River Coln is well documented, nothing quite beats a visit. Spending some time in the untouched environment delving into the enchanting things to do in Bibury truly is a wonderful experience. A small village that offers so much to its visitors in timelessness. I hope this guide about things to do in Bibury Cotswolds has helped you decide and plan a visit to this timeless destination.

I, Georgina at Rack Isle, Bibury

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Introducing Georgina, the insightful Content Creator behind Timeless Travel Steps. A champion of off-season journeys and cultural immersion for the mature traveller, Georgina has explored 4 continents and over 30 countries. Her blog offers practical tips and personal insights into responsible, comfort-oriented travel along with slow travel destinations. Accompanied by classical, country, and jazz tunes, Georgina's solo adventures and time with her adult children, A & M, enrich her unique travel narrative. Join her for inspiring, immersive global explorations.

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Your ultimate guide to the Cotswolds

A guide to Bibury

Bibury is a small village in the south Gloucestershire Cotswolds.

This charming and popular Cotswold village has a population of just over 600 inhabitants, although this number is dwarfed by the annual influx of visitors.

The name is pronounced like Buy-bury not Bee-bury or even Beebry (in case you were wondering). There was a village recorded here in the Domesday book in 1086, although then the name was Becheberie.

Bibury was described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England” and it is arguably one of the most famous and popular spots in the Cotswolds.

Were his words responsible for the influx of tourists each year?

A tale of two villages

Technically Bibury is actually two small picturesque villages, separated by the river Coln.

On the one side of the river is Bibury & on the other, Arlington, with its famous Arlington Row of former Weavers’ Cottages. These cottages are next to Rack Isle, a name earned from the fact that wool was hung out to dry on racks here after it had been washed in Arlington Row.

The history of Bibury dates back to at least the Iron Age & there are remains of a hill fort above the village.

Akeman Street, the Roman road from Cirencester to St Albans is close by & the ancient Salt Way from Droitwich to Lechlade can be followed just up the hill towards Burford.

Every year this tiny village is squeezed to bursting point with visitors. People jostle with each other (not so much since social distancing) for the best views to take with their cameras or standing like a winding snake along the path as they wait patiently to be served by the man in the ice-cream van.

St Mary’s Church

The local church of St Mary contains some signs of Saxon origins and is a Grade I listed building. The churchyard itself is also notable and has been described as being “of special interest, because of the remarkable survival of so many excellently carved table tombs with bale tops, and headstones with cherubs and symbolic figures of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries”

Close by is the former Bibury Court Hotel, built in 1633. This has been reverted back to being a private residence.

The small, boggy water meadow across the river is known as Rack Isle. This small parcel of land is not accessible, only wildlife free to enter, although the Swan Hotel owns the fishing rights. The river is well stocked with plump, native brown trout, thanks to Bibury Trout Farm and the land is owned by the National Trust, as is Arlington Row. Just one of many National Trust properties in the Cotswolds .

The island was once used to dry the cloth from Arlington Mill (now also a private residence) the workers who were responsible for making the cloth lived in the nearby row of weavers cottages at Arlington Row during the 17th Century.

These cottages started life as monastic wool stores, dating back to the 13th Century.

Getting Here

Bibury is on the B4425 than runs from the A40 to the A417 (at Cirencester ) and is a short drive (about 7 miles) from the Cotswolds capital. There are bus services to the village from Cirencester.

You can also find out more about getting to the Cotswolds here .

Public Conveniences

Perhaps owing to its popularity, Bibury does have public conveniences, unlike many other small Cotswolds villages. Be prepared to pay as there is a charge for entry.

There is free parking in the village, primarily along the edge of the river, although on busy days demand usually exceeds supply.

Places to stay in Bibury

Despite its diminutive size, there are a number of hotels and other places to stay in the ever popular village of Bibury.

19th Century craftsman, designer and writer, William Morris, crowned Bibury ‘the most beautiful village in England’. Today, this picturesque Cotswold hamlet continues to evoke such reactions.

It is often regarded as the quintessential country village, with beautiful Cotswold stone buildings surrounded by meandering rivers and sporadic, overgrown birch trees.

If you are looking for a country weekend getaway then read on for recommendations on the top 4 places to stay in the village (in no particular order).

Swan Hotel Bibury

In the heart of Bibury sits the iconic 4 star Swan Hotel, overlooking the River Coln and the arched stone bridge that crosses its shallow waters. The Swan has become renowned as an excellent country hotel, serving superb cuisine.

There are 22 cosy rooms at the hotel, each providing all the essentials to ensure a comfortable stay. Honeymoon suites are also available.

Frequently photographed, this charming former coaching inn sits on a bend in the road, next to the crossing point over the river and adjacent to Bibury’s trout farm.

Get more information or make a booking now.

Cotteswold House

A beautiful Cotswold stone bed and breakfast. Commended with a Four Diamond Gold Rating by the AA, it assures quality similar to a Mayfair hotel, but maintains a personal touch expected from a family run business.

If you prefer a more flexible stay, you can stay in one of the self-catering spacious cottages. The Cotteswold House is definitely a place for the luxurious country getaway.

Bibury Holiday Cottages

If you prefer a traditional 17th century country cottage then this may be for you. These highly sought after cottages (there are only four) are situated on the edge of the river separating the two villages.

They may have been built over 300 years ago but the interior is very much modern fitted with modern day heating! Each cottage sleeps up to 4 people. In the summer, the glorious sun shines on the neatly kept gardens surrounding the cottages.

A few minutes down the road and you can reach 2 fantastic restaurants serving only local produce and a picturesque country pub serving local beverages.

Visit Bibury Holiday Cottages website here.

No. 9 Arlington Row

The iconic and much photographed cottages of Arlington Row are owned by the National Trust.

One of these cottages (number 9) is available to rent as a holiday cottage.

For more information visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays/9-arlington-row-the-cotswolds

How much time do you need in Bibury?

If you are planning to visit Bibury and are wondering how long to spend in Bibury then a couple of hours should be plenty of time. As we mentioned, it’s a small village and there’s not a great deal to do, other than wander around and enjoy the sights.

On that note, as with all of the other towns and villages in the Cotswolds area of outstanding natural beauty, the cottages and houses here are peoples’ homes. Please be respectful of the privacy of the locals by not trespassing or encroaching on their properties, and help keep Bibury beautiful by taking your rubbish home with you.

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Visiting Bibury — The most charming ancient village in England

Forget whatever you’ve got planned for fall, because we found the trip you need to take. Head to Bibury — also known as “the most beautiful village in England.”

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Nestled in the Cotswolds, Bibury looks straight out of a painting. It has everything you’re looking for in a trip to England — rows of ancient cottages, a picturesque old church, and the Coln, a river that leads straight to Bibury’s main street . It’s so bloody perfect, we can’t get enough of it.

It’s hard to pick a place more beautiful than the others at Bibury, but Arlington Row, a cluster of ancient cottages that have been around since the 1300s, is a pretty easy choice. With the Row’s stone slate roofs and old-world charm, these wee little shelters basically belong on a postcard.

Bibury’s famous trout farm is also surprising lovely — you can catch your own dinner , and it’s connected to a cafe. It’s safe to say fish is always on the menu.

While in Bibury, make sure to stop by St. Mary’s Church for its beautiful stained glass windows.

Stop by The Swan Hotel to enjoy a meal in a gorgeous, seventeenth-century inn.

Bibury is not only a popular spot for tourists, it’s also a popular setting for films. As if we weren’t already obsessed with this town, “Bridget Jones’s Diary” was filmed here.

We’re packing our bags now!

Futher information

Bibury tourist information guide.

Bibury is situated in the Gloucestershire Cotswolds on the River Coln 9 miles from the market town of Burford.

The village was once described by William Morris as ‘the most beautiful village in the Cotswolds’.

The village centre clusters around a square near St. Mary’s, a Saxon church. Some of the Saxon remains inside the church are replicas as the originals are housed in the British Museum.

One of the village’s main tourist spots and overlooking a water meadow and the river is Arlington Row, a group of ancient cottages with steeply pitched roofs dating back to the 16th Century.

Henry Ford thought Arlington Row was an icon of England. On a trip to the Cotswolds he tried to buy the entire row of houses to ship back to Michigan so that he could include them in Greenfield Village.

Bibury has provided the backdrop for blockbuster films including Stardust and Bridget Jones’s Diary.

How to get to Bibury by Car

M4 Motorway

Travelling West along the M4, exit at junction 15 and travel towards Cirencester (A419), then take the B4425 to Bibury.

Travelling East along the M4, exit at junction 17 then travel towards Malmesbury and Cirencester (A429). Once in Cirencester take the B4425 to Bibury.

M5 Motorway

From the North take exit 11A and travel towards Cirencester. Once in Cirencester take the B4425 to Bibury.

From the South take exit 11A and travel towards Cirencester. Once in Cirencester take the B4425 to Bibury.

Parking : Where to park in Bibury

How to get to Bibury by train

The nearest railway station to Bibury is Kemble, a few miles from Cirencester and around 14 miles from Bibury.

Once at Kemble train station you can get a taxi to Bibury which will cost around £25.

Hoe to get to Bibury by Bus

Given the large number of possible starting points, it’s difficult to give exhaustive information on how to get to Bibury by bus.

If you are arriving in the area by train (Kemble train station) then you may be visiting Cirencester before travelling on the Bibury. There’s a regular bus service from Cirencester.

If you are travelling by bus to Cirencester from London then you will probably be dropped off on London Road in Cirencester. You can then walk to the Market Place and catch a bus to Bibury from there.

Attractions

Bibury Trout Farm and restaurant where you can catch your own trout. The restaurant serves fresh trout meals.

Strolling alongside the river watching the trout in their live habitat and visiting Arlington Row.

Don’t miss a visit to the beautiful gardens at Barnsley House at Barnsley 3.3 miles away.

The Church of St Mary

The Church of St Mary the Virgin is located to one side of the village on higher ground than the river and the bridge. Here we have a church of Saxon origin, probably founded in the mid 8th century, though the surviving earliest feature may owe more to the 11th century.

There is much to see, from the Saxon and Norman carvings, to medieval windows and stained glass, and the striking chancel arch with evidence of Saxon, Norman, and Early English work. St Mary’s is a delightful church, and well worth a visit.

A peculiar tale attaches to a section of the churchyard, which has been known for centuries as ‘The Bisley Piece’. Bisley is a village about 17 miles to the west of Bibury, near Stroud. The inhabitants seemed to make a habit of running foul of church law. In the 13th and 15th centuries Bisley was placed under interdict by the pope.

One consequence of the interdict was that the people of Bisley were not allowed to bury their dead anywhere within the Diocese of Worcester for the duration of the penaly. The closest place outside the diocese which would accept Bisley burials was at Bibury.

Walking Route 4 miles approx 2 hours

Away from the sightseeing crowds in Bibury, a delightful walk through woodland and meadow rich in wildlife, across a Roman road and past a hidden dewpond.

Places to Eat

Bibury Court – magnificent Jacobean mansion now used only for exclusive weddings and private party venue.

The Swan Hotel and Trout Farm Restaurant.

Accommodation:  You can find, check rates, reviews & availability for Bibury hotels on Booking.com .

See more photos of Bibury village

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Arlington Mill

Believed to date back to the 17th Century, Arlington Mill is now a private residence, but it used to house the museum of Arlington Mill with a collection of period clothing, documents and working machinery illustrating milling & the Victorian way of life. The cloth produced at the Arlington Row of weavers' cottages was sent to Arlington Mill for fulling (degreasing).

The Church of St Mary

The Church of St Mary the Virgin is located to one side of the village on higher ground than the river and the bridge. Here we have a church of Saxon origin, probably founded in the mid 8th century, though the surviving earliest feature may owe more to the 11th century.

A peculiar tale attaches to a section of the churchyard, which has been known for centuries as ' The Bisley Piece '. Bisley is a village about 17 miles to the west of Bibury, near Stroud . The inhabitants seemed to make a habit of running foul of church law. In the 13th and 15th centuries Bisley was placed under interdict by the pope.

One consequence of the interdict was that the people of Bisley were not allowed to bury their dead anywhere within the Diocese of Worcester for the duration of the penaly. The closest place outside the diocese which would accept Bisley burials was at Bibury. 

Walking Route 4 miles approx 2 hours

Away from the sightseeing crowds in Bibury, a delightful walk through woodland and meadow rich in wildlife, across a Roman road and past a hidden dewpond.

For comprehensive walking guide see - www.escapetothecotswolds.org.uk/userfiles/file/walks/ jubilee/bibury-and-the-river-coln.pdf .

Places to Eat

Bibury Court - magnificent Jacobean mansion now used only for exclusive weddings and private party venue. The Swan Hotel and Trout Farm Restaurant.

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Things to do in Bibury

Bibury attractions.

Bibury Trout Farm

Bibury Trout Farm is a working trout farm set in idyllic, countryside surroundings in the valley of the River Coln

Arlington Row

The epitome of Cotswold quaintness. Picturesque row of higgledy-piggledy cottages built in the 1830s as a wool store for the local mill

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Our Cotswolds village was perfect – now up to 20,000 tourists visit in a weekend

Mark honeyball, a long-term resident, is among those calling for coaches to be banned from bibury, gloucestershire.

“Years ago, William Morris said Bibury was England’s prettiest village – and it’s been doomed ever since.”

So says Lisa Spivey, a county and district councillor in Gloucestershire . The county is home to Bibury, often hailed – by countless others, as well as Morris – as the “perfect” Cotswolds village and one of the most attractive in the UK.

Since the textile artist heaped praise upon Bibury in the 19th century, visitors have travelled from far and wide to see its bucolic loveliness, which dates back to the days of the Domesday Book .

In the first half of the 20th century, late Japanese emperor Hirohito stopped off in Bibury as part of a European tour and was immediately enchanted.

Since then, it’s been particularly popular with Japanese tourists who, according to locals, treated the village with respect.

After the Covid lockdown, though, things changed and the village is now crowded with tourists wandering into picturesque cottages on Arlington Row, built in 1380, and clogging up the roads with unsustainable levels of traffic.

Mark Honeyball was appointed as the chair of the Bibury Parking and Traffic Reporting group by the parish council, having lived in the village for a decade.

“As we came out of lockdown, there were a lot of staycations,” he tells i .

“After that, we saw a marked increase in Instagram and Facebook posts saying, ‘Come to this little, quiet country village’.

“It was peaceful and quiet once but, now, thousands of tourists come on a daily basis.”

Mr Honeyball says that on especially busy summer weekends, Bibury can see around 20,000 visitors, countless cars – many parking on double yellow lines in desperation – as well as up to 80 coaches, winding their way through the tiny lanes, or attempting to.

That’s a lot for a village of just over 600 people, without the infrastructure to support so many tourists.

Mr Honeyball says some of the coaches have snarled up the roads, on occasion blocking emergency vehicles from helping people in need.

“One coach driver told a 92-year-old lady to ‘f**k off’ when she politely asked him to move,” he says.

He, local councillors and county officials now say enough is enough – although they do acknowledge that there are some limits to what can actually be done.

“I would support any initiatives that can alleviate the problem of traffic, parking and, in particular, coach parking in Bibury, whilst at the same time recognising the reality, which is that Bibury is one of the top visitor attractions in the country,” North Cotswolds MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, who convened a public meeting over the issue in May, told i .

Nevertheless, locals are now calling for coaches to be banned outright, not least because of the damage to a bridge in the centre of the village.

“Some of the coach companies have very bad drivers who literally bang into the bridge, and that’s causing considerable damage,” Mr Honeyball says. “It’s cracking, and masonry work is falling out of the bottom of the bridge.”

A recent report undertaken by Gloucestershire County Council (GCC) discovered that the bridge does have structural issues and that the only two parking bays for coaches are “fundamentally unsafe”.

GCC have suggested a park and ride system to stop any coaches entering the village, but Mr Honeyball says this likely wouldn’t work, due to the surrounding terrain.

“We’re in a valley here and there is simply no flat land. We spoke to a few of the local landowners and none of them are willing to give up land to coaches,” he explains.

“Ideally, we’d have a hub out of the village which could ferry tourists in minivans to Bibury and other popular Cotswolds hotspots, like Bourton-on-the-Water, in a responsible, sustainable way.”

“But it would be a huge project which would cost millions and no one’s going to do that privately. It’s a long-term plan, one to discuss going forward, once we’ve sorted out the immediate issues.”

While there are plans in place, Mr Honeyball says, to create a total of 50 parking spaces at a trout farm on the outskirts of the village, nothing is yet set in stone.

Speaking to i , Councillor Spivey says the ideal situation would allow visitors to take in the surrounding areas of Bibury, some the most beautiful places Gloucestershire has to offer – a “park and walk” system, if you will.

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“If I was planning it, I’d say we should have a coach parking area and then a very nice nature trail walk into the village,” she adds.

“It would be a really great way of educating people about nature and they’d learn more than coming to Bibury and just looking at Arlington Row, and then leaving.”

But what of the local economy? Bibury is so small it has just one hotel, a pub, a tea room, a gift shop – and the aforementioned trout farm, which has its own cafe and shop.

“None of us, including the local businesses, rely solely on tourism,” Mr Honeyball claims.

“People do benefit from it, but it has a negative effect on us because we have to spend money to clean up after the tourists. They’re not bringing in any benefit to the locals.”

Ideally, he’d like to see an all out ban on coaches and much of the centre of the village pedestrianised so people can take in the beauty of Bibury without the eyesore of cars and minibuses.

“People could get an ice cream or a coffee from the little shop and sit and enjoy the view,” he says.

While there is no obvious, immediate solution yet, Mr Honeyball admits it will be an uphill battle for residents and the entire county of Gloucestershire – but one they’re determined to tackle.

“Every single tourist says, ‘I saw this on Instagram and it looked like a beautiful, quiet, serene place.’ It’s not,” he says.

“We understand the people want to come see it and, really, we want to make it a pleasant experience when they do come – and that doesn’t involve traffic.”

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England’s 'prettiest village' may ban coaches amid ‘overtourism’ concerns

• West Country
• Gloucestershire
• Sunday 25 August 2024 at 2:50pm

Coaches could soon be banned from the centre of “England’s prettiest village” amid serious concerns of overtourism in the Cotswolds.

Bibury, with its iconic Arlington Row, is among the most picturesque villages in the world.

But its huge popularity as a destination for touring coaches has made life a nightmare for many residents who feel their village is not their own during the hours tourists crowd Bibury.

Illegal parking is now commonplace in the village where many visitors struggle to find a spot.

The increase in the amount of large coaches which park in the small village has made matters worse.

And there have been reports of villagers who confront people over the issue being physically attacked.

Bibury residents have been calling for a solution to ease the problems they are facing.

A recent road safety audit by Gloucestershire Highways has come up with a series of recommendations which includes relocating the coach parking area and potentially setting up a park and ride for the village.

Mark Honeyball, who lives in the village and has been campaigning for a solution, says he has been assaulted four times by drivers after asking people who park illegally to move on.

He said the situation has reached a tipping point in the village and the situation has become quite fraught.

“The last few weeks it has been getting particularly bad to the extent where we now have had a safety report back from Gloucestershire County Council (GCC),” he said.

“It clearly says the bridge is damaged and the roads are unsuitable for large coaches. It quite clearly says the coach bays we have on the other side of the bridge are unsafe.

“There have also been a number of serious injuries reported in Bibury due to traffic.”

He said there are plans afoot for a park and ride and once it is done the tourists will have “a much nicer experience”.

“They will not have hundreds of cars in the photos, the roads won’t be congested and everyone should be happy, in theory,” he said.

Parish Council chairman Craig Chapman says Bibury is suffering greatly from overtourism which results particularly from the volume of coaches that visit the village.

“They not only bring in large numbers of tourists who maybe stay for 30 to 40 minutes but causes massive disruption and creates significant safety issues,” he said.

“GCC road safety officers witnessed on separate occasions coaches reversing in to the parking bays without a banksman. Traffic stopped for five minutes due to blocked carriageway and coaches alighting passengers in to the carriage way.

“A recent GCC report indicated that our one bridge has structural issues resulting from the volume of traffic using it which includes numbers of coaches.

“It is therefore very positive that a GCC road safety report undertaken in August recognised the bridges structural issues and also indicated that the two coach parking bays are fundamentally unsafe.

“However, having recognised the issues we face, the Parish Council and community are now seeking urgent action by GCC to resolve them.”

The road safety report says that over the last five to ten years, the level of visitors to Bibury has increased exponentially.

“There has been a huge increase in the number of cars and coaches visiting the village but there is a lack of infrastructure and parking control to cope with the surge in tourism.

The width of the carriageway on the approach to the village on the B4425 is restricted due to limited road widths, according to the report.

And there are multiple bends where vehicles over 17 tonnes have to stray across the central line markings in order to continue their journey This poses a risk of head on collisions.

The bridge is suffering structural damage. And the report says it is an attraction for tourists.

While there is a dedicated pedestrian bridge there were a number of people standing in the road to get a photograph.

Highways officers, who conducted the report, also say there is nothing to indicate which vehicle has the right of way at the bridge which could cause conflicts and create frustration among drivers leading to aggressive driving.

There are two coach parking bays but to manoeuvre into the spaces coaches block the carriage way and reverse into the space. In the same area where pedestrians are directed to use the footbridge.

The report recommends a priority system at the bridge, removing and relocating the coach parking area. This could be troublesome as there seems to be no area within the immediate 3km vicinity which is suitable for coaches.

It also suggests creating a park and ride system outside the village using smaller vehicles to ferry visitors to the area and install a pedestrian footpath on the bridge. And to install a width restriction on the bridge.

County and District Councillor Lisa Spivey (LD, The Ampneys and Hampton), has been working since last year with the village, police, highways to try and find a solution.

She said: “As soon as William Morris said it was England’s prettiest village, that place was doomed to have a million people come and see it.

“From a Cotswold District point of view we do everything we can to not promote Bibury. But try as you might, it’s one of those quintessential, idyllic, English villages.

“But the number, and more importantly, the size of the coaches coming in to Bibury just makes it really unpleasant for residents and the people living there.

“The coach comes in, they offload. People walk around for 20 minutes, they take the standard picture of Arlington Row.

“They look at the ducks walk along the river and that’s it. There are no real advantages from the coaches for the village and the businesses there.

“The coaches are huge these days. There is nowhere for them to turn around really. I’ve escalated it to senior highways officers that it needs coordinate work.”

North Cotswold MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, who convened a public meeting over the issue in May, says he supports any move to solve the village’s problems.

He said: “I would support any initiatives that can alleviate the problem of traffic, parking and in particular coach parking in Bibury.

“While at the same time recognising the reality, which is that Bibury is one of the top visitor attractions in the country which has to be a good thing for both visitors and the local tourism economy.’’

Gloucestershire County Council has been approached for comment.

Credit: Carmelo Garcia, local democracy reporter

'England's prettiest village' may ban coaches in Cotswolds overtourism chaos

C oaches could soon be banned from the centre of “England’s prettiest village” amid serious concerns of overtourism in the Cotswolds where residents “are attacked by angry drivers”. Bibury, with its iconic Arlington Row, is among the most picturesque villages in the world.

But its huge popularity as a destination for touring coaches has made life a nightmare for many residents who feel their village is not their own during the hours tourists crowd Bibury. Illegal parking is now commonplace in the village where many visitors struggle to find a spot.

The increase in the amount of large coaches which park in the small village has made matters worse. And there have been reports of villagers who confront people over the issue being physically attacked.

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Bibury residents have been calling for a solution to ease the problems they are facing. A recent road safety by Gloucestershire Highways has come up with a series of recommendations which includes relocating the coach parking area and potentially setting up a park and ride for the village.

Mark Honeyball, who lives in the village and has been campaigning for a solution, says he has been assaulted four times by drivers after asking people who park illegally to move on. He said the situation has reached a tipping point in the village and the situation has become quite fraught.

“The last few weeks it has been getting particularly bad to the extent where we now have had a safety report back from Gloucestershire County Council (GCC),” he said. “It clearly says the bridge is damaged and the roads are unsuitable for large coaches. It quite clearly says the coach bays we have on the other side of the bridge are unsafe.

“There have also been a number of serious injuries reported in Bibury due to traffic.” He said there are plans afoot for a park and ride and once it is done the tourists will have “a much nicer experience”.

“They will not have hundreds of cars in the photos, the roads won’t be congested and everyone should be happy, in theory," he said.

Parish Council chairman Craig Chapman says Bibury is suffering greatly from overtourism which results particularly from the volume of coaches that visit the village. “They not only bring in large numbers of tourists who maybe stay for 30 to 40 minutes but causes massive disruption and creates significant safety issues," he said.

“GCC road safety officers witnessed on separate occasions coaches reversing in to the parking bays without a banksman. Traffic stopped for five minutes due to blocked carriageway and coaches alighting passengers in to the carriage way.

"A recent GCC report indicated that our one bridge has structural issues resulting from the volume of traffic using it which includes numbers of coaches. It is therefore very positive that a GCC Road Safety Report undertaken in August recognised the bridges structural issues and also indicated that the two coach parking bays are fundamentally unsafe.

"However, having recognised the issues we face, the Parish Council and community are now seeking urgent action by GCC to resolve them.”

The road safety report says that over the last five to ten years, the level of visitors to Bibury has increased exponentially. There has been a huge increase in the number of cars and coaches visiting the village but there is a lack of infrastructure and parking control to cope with the surge in tourism.

The width of the carriageway on the approach to the village on the B4425 is restricted due to limited road widths, according to the report. And there are multiple bends where vehicles over 17 tonnes have to stray across the central line markings in order to continue their journey This poses a risk of head on collisions.

The bridge is suffering structural damage. And the report says it is an attraction for tourists.

While there is a dedicated pedestrian bridge there were a number of people standing in the road to get a photograph. Highways officers, who conducted the report, also say there is nothing to indicate which vehicle has the right of way at the bridge which could cause conflicts and create frustration among drivers leading to aggressive driving.

There are two coach parking bays but to manoeuvre into the spaces coaches block the carriage way and reverse into the space. In the same area where pedestrians are directed to use the footbridge. The report recommends a priority system at the bridge, removing and relocating the coach parking area. This could be troublesome as there seems to be no area within the immediate 3km vicinity which is suitable for coaches.

It also suggests creating a park and ride system outside the village using smaller vehicles to ferry visitors to the area and install a pedestrian footpath on the bridge. Also install a width restriction on the bridge.

County and District Councillor Lisa Spivey (LD, The Ampneys and Hampton), has been working since last year with the village, police, highways to try and find a solution. She said: “As soon as William Morris said it was England’s prettiest village, that place was doomed to have a million people come and see it.

"From a Cotswold District point of view we do everything we can to not promote Bibury. But try as you might, it’s one of those quintessential, idyllic, English villages.

"But the number, and more importantly, the size of the coaches coming in to Bibury just makes it really unpleasant for residents and the people living there. The coach comes in, they offload. People walk around for 20 minutes, they take the standard picture of Arlington Row.

“They look at the ducks walk along the river and that’s it. There are no real advantages from the coaches for the village and the businesses there.

"The coaches are huge these days. There is nowhere for them to turn around really. I’ve escalated it to senior highways officers that it needs coordinate work."

North Cotswold MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, who convened a public meeting over the issue in May, says he supports any move to solve the village’s problems.

He said: “I would support any initiatives that can alleviate the problem of traffic, parking and in particular coach parking in Bibury, whilst at the same time recognising the reality, which is that Bibury is one of the top visitor attractions in the country which has to be a good thing for both visitors and the local tourism economy.’’