The quintessential English village is renowned for its idyllic stone cottages along the River Coln, which captivated Victorian poet William Morris
For those seeking a peaceful and enchanting UK getaway, the quintessentially English village of Bibury should be at the top of your list. It has named as the world’s most beautiful village by Forbes magazine, beating other stunning locations across the globe.
Found in the heart of Gloucestershire, Bibury is renowned for its picturesque stone cottages that line the River Coln. It was this very charm that led Victorian poet William Morris to proclaim it the “most beautiful place in England”, enchanted by its honey-coloured houses and tranquil rural backdrop.
The village’s allure has not only captured the hearts of poets but also artists. Arlington Row is a famously beautiful road where historic cottages sit beside the river against a backdrop of verdant foliage and bright blooms.
Working with experts the Unforgettable Travel Company, Forbes said: “Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bibury unfurls like a watercolor dream—where honey-slicked cottages line Arlington Row; their mossy roofs whispering tales of 14th-century weavers.”
“The River Coln murmurs gently here—weaving through golden buttercups and forget-me-nots, while plump ducks paddle lazily beneath canopies of willow. Nearby, Bibury Trout Farm invites visitors to feed fish or enjoy a riverside picnic, and St. Mary’s Church offers a moment of stillness amid ancient stone—while the air carries the smell of blooming lavender, mingling with freshly-baked scones.”
Visitors can bask in the village’s tranquil vibe and discover its array of attractions, making it a perfect spot for a delightful winter retreat.
Attractions include the oldest trout farm in Britain, where guests can feed the fish and buy fresh goods from the local farm shop, cosy tearooms, and classic pubs like the historic The Swan situated by the river, which stands out as the most notable, reports the Express.
This cosy pub doesn’t just serve up hearty meals and pints, but also offers a place to lay your head after a day exploring. Tucked away in the countryside, Bibury is an idyllic location for scenic strolls through the Cotswolds and has become a favourite among snap-happy photographers.
Over on Tripadvisor, one tourist recounted their visit to Arlington Row with friends, saying: “Visiting Arlington Row with friends was like stepping into a peaceful, timeless postcard. The enchanting cottages charmed us with their historic allure.”
“We wandered the serene surroundings, snapping photos and soaking in the tranquil vibes. A perfect spot for a chill day out together!”
Despite the beauty, Bibury is struggling with the throngs of tourists. Residents have shared their frustration about visitors being brought in by the coach-load.
One local told the Guardian earlier this year: “We have such a beautiful place that we want to share, but the level of tourism and the hordes of people that come has just made it entirely unpleasant, and the infrastructure doesn’t really cope with it.
“All they want to do is come and take a photograph. They don’t stay in the village. They don’t linger enough to really ingest the beauty and historic value of the place. It’s literally, I think, to take a selfie.”