A village in the Cotswolds has been named the most beautiful in the whole world and there is a variety of things to do there, according to a UK travel fan who has shared his recommendations
The Cotswolds is famed for its charming, honey-hued stone villages that draw in countless visitors. In collaboration with Unforgettable Travel Company, Forbes has unveiled its 2025 ranking of the world’s most stunning villages – with Bibury in Gloucestershire claiming first place.
This picturesque Cotswold village sits along the River Coln, just a short distance from Cirencester – often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’. Bibury’s charm has long been celebrated as 18th-century designer, poet, artist, and writer William Morris once called it “the most beautiful village in England.” Its most iconic landmark is Arlington Row, a set of 17th-century weavers’ cottages.
Anyone planning a trip to this picturesque English village may wonder how best to spend their time, but UK travel enthusiast Haider Ali has shared a one-day Bibury itinerary on Instagram.
Here are the nine things he suggests you do….
1. Start your day with breakfast at a local cafe
Haider suggests kicking off the day with a hearty full English breakfast at The Catherine Wheel.
This welcoming, family-run Cotswold pub dates back to the 15th century and serves up a menu packed with locally sourced favourites, including smoked trout, pizzas, steaks, sausages, pies, and classic roasts.
2. Pay a visit to Arlington Row
A trip to Bibury wouldn’t be complete without visiting Arlington Row, which Haider describes as “some of the most photographed buildings in the Cotswolds”.
Originally built in 1380 as a monastic wool store, the building was later converted into cottages.
3. Bibury Trout Farm
Those who love nature might fancy a trip to Bibury Trout Farm, one of England’s oldest working trout farms where you can “feed the fish, wander around the peaceful grounds and even catch your own trout”.
4. Have lunch at The Swan Hotel
Haider suggests grabbing lunch at The Swan Hotel, calling it an “iconic spot in Bibury”.
This four-star hotel sits on the banks of the River Coln and serves locally-sourced seasonal dishes alongside a “charming dining experience”.
5. Walk along the River Coln
Strolling along a river is a quintessential activity when visiting an English village.
The River Coln flows as a tributary of the River Thames and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and limestone scenery.
6. Visit St Mary’s Church
Haider continued: “Explore St Mary’s Church, a lovely historical church with beautiful architecture dating back to the 12th century.”
St Mary’s boasts Norman doorway arches and Saxon gravestones.
7. Explore the village
No village visit is truly complete without wandering the area and discovering what gems await.
Haider added: “The village is small enough to explore on foot, and you’ll find several quaint shops where you can buy souvenirs or local goods like honey, jams, and crafts.”
8. Afternoon tea
Afternoon tea remains a popular British tradition and the travel fan suggests finishing your Bibury day at The Swan Hotel or the café at Bibury Trout Farm where you can enjoy scones with clotted cream, sandwiches and tea in a tranquil setting.
9. Unwind by the river or local pub
In the evening, Haider recommends relaxing by the river or popping into one of Bibury’s cosy local pubs for a quiet pint.