The idyllic Cotswolds village of Bibury is set to introduce new rules after experiencing a major influx of visitors. Once described by arts and crafts pioneer William Morris as ‘the most beautiful village in England’ and previously hailed as one of the world’s most picturesque villages by Fox News and experts at Faraway Furniture, Bibury is now facing the challenges of an ever-growing influx of tourists.
Bibury’s charm can draw as many as 20,000 visitors in a single weekend and 50 coaches in just one day. With Arlington Row being one of the most photographed streets in the UK, its stunning honey-coloured stone buildings, the meandering River Coln, and the oldest trout farm in England, the charm that has made Bibury a must-see destination is now putting pressure on its narrow lanes and small population.
But the village is now taking action to manage the surge in visitors as it prepares for another busy bank holiday weekend. Gloucestershire County Council will roll out a temporary traffic management trial, which will start on Friday. With only a few hundred residents, locals have voiced growing concerns about gridlock, unsafe traffic conditions, and disruption to daily life.
The plan includes closing the current coach bays in the village centre and introducing new bus stops to provide safer drop-off and pick-up points for visitors.
Car parking will also be suspended near the trout farm to create a designated coach unloading zone, and visitors are encouraged to use the existing pay-and-display facilities nearby.
County council leader, Lisa Spivey, said: “The safety of our residents and visitors is paramount. We’ve seen an increase in unsafe coach movements, particularly reversing into bays without proper guidance, which poses a serious risk to pedestrians and other road users.
“This trial is a proactive step to prevent accidents and ensure Bibury remains a welcoming and safe destination for all.”
The new plan comes shortly after a controversial proposal to establish a dedicated coach parking area was abandoned due to opposition from locals and a landowner’s withdrawal of support.
Residents say the influx of tourists has led to congestion, parking disputes, and even accidents with one incident over Easter seeing a resident injured during a confrontation related to illegal parking.
The council is urging all visitors to park responsibly and comply with the new restrictions. Vehicles found in breach of parking rules may face penalty charges.
A council spokesperson said: “Irresponsible parking not only endangers others but also detracts from the charm and accessibility of this historic village.
“Any vehicles not parked in compliance with parking restrictions will risk being issued with a parking penalty charge notice.”
