Several of Britain's most picturesque towns and villages are experiencing significant strain due to an influx of tourists, leading to local discontent and calls for action. Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds, a village with fewer than 4,000 residents, has seen as many as 10,000 visitors per day during peak times. Residents there recently held a protest, holding placards with the message "We love tourists - just not this many!" A survey indicated that 90% of Bourton residents feel that tourists are negatively impacting their quality of life, with concerns also raised about traffic, parking, and a perceived loss of community.
Similar issues are reported in Bibury, another Cotswolds village famed for its 14th-century cottages. Locals have complained about unsustainable numbers of visitors, leading to traffic gridlock on narrow country lanes. Plans for a new cafe and shopping area were rejected by local councillors fearing resident backlash over increased visitor numbers.
Cornwall is also grappling with overtourism, particularly in coastal towns like St Ives. Residents have expressed frustration with tourists' behavior, including parking violations and obstructing roads. The region has seen a decline in visitors, with its official tourist board entering liquidation due to financial difficulties. The former head of Visit Cornwall had previously stated the region only wanted 'certain types' of holidaymakers.
In the Lake District, popular central areas like Ambleside and Windermere are experiencing high visitor numbers, with 18 million visitors annually to the national park. Locals report gridlocked roads and express concerns about the environmental impact of traffic. The proliferation of second homes also contributes to pricing out local residents.
Edinburgh is facing overcrowding, particularly during the Fringe Festival, with an added challenge of campervans occupying on-street parking. The city has implemented a 5% visitor levy on overnight stays, though motorhome occupants parked on streets are exempt.
Salcombe in Devon, nicknamed 'Chelsea-on-Sea,' has become a magnet for tourists and second-home owners, leading to traffic congestion, parking issues, and booked-out establishments. Residents cite high costs, difficult behavior from some younger visitors, and a lack of diversity as other grievances.
In response to these pressures, alternative destinations are being highlighted for those seeking quieter experiences. The 'Notswolds' region, specifically Market Harborough, is promoted for its beauty and affordability, offering boutique shops, historic architecture, and canal access. The Shropshire Hills provide a serene countryside escape with charming towns like Church Stretton and Ludlow. Seaford in Sussex offers a relaxed atmosphere and coastal walks, serving as a quieter alternative to Brighton.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cambrian Mountains in Wales are noted as a less crowded alternative to areas like Snowdonia, offering hiking and stargazing opportunities. The Peak District is suggested as a scenic alternative to the Lake District, with accommodations like Swinney Wood Log Cabins in the Derwent Valley being recognized for their romantic settings and crowd-free environment.
Coastal options include Alnmouth and Bamburgh in Northumberland, known for their sandy beaches and picturesque castles, offering peaceful walks and a relaxed atmosphere. Loweswater in the Lake District is also mentioned as a crowd-free spot within a popular region, offering scenic views and local amenities like the Kirkstile Inn.