River in 'World's Most Beautiful Village' to Be Fenced Off From Tourists

The River Coln, which flows through the picturesque English village of Bibury, will be fenced off to deter tourists from paddling in its waters and leaving behind litter, following concerns about harm to local wildlife. The village, often cited as one of England's most beautiful, experiences immense visitor numbers, particularly during peak summer months.

Bibury, home to approximately 600 residents, is famous for its 17th-century weavers' cottages and was lauded by 19th-century writer William Morris. However, the influx of tourists, sometimes reaching up to 20,000 visitors per day, has led to significant challenges, including traffic gridlock on narrow lanes and disputes over parking. The issue has been exacerbated by social media, with influencers promoting the village as an idyllic destination.

Craig Chapman, chair of Bibury Parish Council, stated that new fences have been approved to safeguard the river's swans, ducks, voles, and fish. "Over recent months tourists had been 'doing what they want' in the village," Chapman said, noting that visitors had been sitting on riverbanks, walking in the river, and even setting up tables and chairs in the water during hot weather. He described the fencing as a "drastic measure" but a necessary one to protect the environment.

Residents have reported instances of paddling in the River Coln, a protected site due to the presence of water voles. The amount of litter, including bottles and coffee cups, found in the river has also been described as "unbelievable." Some residents have resorted to putting up "private, no entry" signs, even in multiple languages, to deter tourists from entering their gardens or private property.

Gloucestershire County Council has attempted to mitigate congestion by introducing trial coach drop-off points. However, residents claim that some drivers continue to stop elsewhere in the village. The situation has become so difficult that some long-term residents, like Brian Skarda, a parish councillor from nearby Cirencester, have expressed frustration over "door banging, window peeping and general interference in our private lives," ultimately deciding to leave after 14 years.

Victoria Summerley, a 14-year resident, recalled an incident where she sprayed an "entitled" coach driver with her hose for blocking her driveway. "His attitude was so offensive I thought it would teach him a lesson," she said.

Frustrated cottage owners have reported coaches stopping in the middle of the road to drop off tourists for photos. The parish council has advocated for a limit on daily coach traffic, but locals express little optimism for regulation.

Bibury's popularity surged after it topped Forbes Magazine's list of the 50 most beautiful villages in the world in 2025, further increasing visitor numbers. The village's appeal extends internationally, with Japanese tourists visiting due to Crown Prince Hirohito's visit in 1921, and Chinese tourists drawn by its presence on Chinese social media platforms.

A working group, including councillors and police, was formed last year, leading to a trial scheme in May 2025 that established designated coach drop-off points. However, these plans have not been permanently implemented, with public consultations ongoing.