Quiet village named ‘UK’s most beautiful’ could ban big groups of tourists | Travel News | Travel

The idyllic Cotswolds village of Bibury, once hailed as the « most beautiful village in England » by 19th Century writer William Morris, is on the brink of banning coaches due to the havoc wreaked by hordes of tourists. The picturesque Gloucestershire hamlet has been inundated with visitors in recent years, some of whom have been seen trespassing onto residents’ properties to capture the perfect photograph. In response to the escalating situation, locals have formed a task force comprising councillors and police officers, while Gloucestershire County Council has unveiled plans to combat overtourism.

Initially, the layout of parking bays will be altered over the next two months to deter coaches from parking or waiting in the layby on the B4425, adjacent to the Swan Bridge at the heart of the village. The second phase of the plan involves further investigation into imposing restrictions on coach access to the village centre, which would necessitate a legal consultation process set to commence in early summer.

Bibury, a picturesque village often swamped by tourist coaches, may soon breathe a sigh of relief as Gloucestershire County Council considers banning these large vehicles from its quaint streets.

The working group’s long-term plans include exploring the prohibition of coach stops and parking in the village, alongside improving signage to steer them away from narrow lanes.

They are also looking at potential parking areas outside the village for coaches, reports the Mirror.

In an effort to reduce congestion, the group is promoting alternative travel options for tourists, such as walking, cycling, or public transport.

MailOnline quotes Councillor Stephen Davies, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, who expressed commitment to the community’s safety and visitor experience: « We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Bibury residents and visitors. The proposed measures will help manage traffic more effectively and enhance the overall experience for everyone. »

He acknowledged the need for cooperation and the potential unpopularity of the proposals among coach operators: « We appreciate the community’s support and cooperation as we implement these changes.

« We also understand that these proposals may not be popular with coach operators, however we are determined to work to find a solution for coach tourists to be able to visit Bibury but this will take time. »

Davies further emphasised the council’s balanced approach: « Therefore, we have attempted to find compromise solutions that offer outcomes which continue to welcome visitors in a managed way, whilst also addressing safety and congestion concerns of the village. »

Craig Chapman, the parish council chairman, has voiced concerns over the tourist pressure on Bibury, describing the influx of coaches as « intolerable and unacceptable ».

Despite the current issues, he remains optimistic about the proposed plans to alleviate the situation, believing they will be welcomed by the local community.

Bibury, nestled on the River Coln in Gloucestershire, is famed for Arlington Row, a picturesque set of 14th-century cottages that have graced British passports and are considered one of the most iconic images of the Cotswolds.