The UK is full of beautiful villages that wouldn’t look out of place in a fairytale. But one village in particular has been described as not only the most beautiful in England, but also the most charming in Europe and on the planet.
So stunning is tiny Bibury – which is located in the beautiful Gloucestershire Cotswolds – that it is absolutely inundated with visitors who flock to catch a glimpse at its picture perfect scenery.
Home to less than 700 people and sitting on the River Coln, the village is most famous for its honey-coloured stone cottages with steep roofs which were the homes of weavers who worked with nearby Arlington Mill. It’s thought to be one of the Cotswold’s most photographed sites.
It is also a nationally notable architectural conservation area that’s been used inside cover of some British passports and is featured in the film Stardust, which stars Robert De Niro and Michelle Pfeiffer.
A website dedicated to the village explained more about the location. It said: “There’s no doubt that Bibury is featured on many lists of most beautiful Cotswold villages, and even the most beautiful villages in the UK.
“Come and visit Bibury, see its beauty for yourself.” And many have taken the invite up too and have taken to travel review website Tripadvisor to talk about its beauty.
Although many said that the location’s soaring popularity means that traffic can be an issue. One said: “Bibury is a breathtakingly beautiful destination.
“Just be aware that it can get extremely congested during the travel season making it very difficult to navigate both on foot and by car.
“If you can manage an early visit, you’ll be rewarded with beauty and serenity. Don’t miss the Trout Farm, The Swan Inn and a bit further up the road, The Catherine Wheel Pub.
It added: “Of course, Arlington Row is a fairy tale and a prime reason to visit Bibury. Highly recommended!”
Another said: “In a world where traffic congestion, pollution, crime and overcrowding make the quality of life so poor, this is a reminder that the planet still has little pockets of beauty tucked away.
“If your God has a holiday home, it’s probably here.”
There is an array of places to stay in both the village itself and the surrounding area and also a good selection of places to eat in the village including The Swan Hotel, The Catherine Wheel and Bibury Trout Farm.
Bibury can be accessed by car via the B4425 and the M4 or M5, or via train to nearby Swindon, Kemble and Cheltenham Spa.
