Bibury Battles Overcrowding: Village Considers Banning Tourist Coaches

As of November 12th, 2025, the quaint Cotswold village of Bibury, described by William Morris as "the most beautiful village in England", is facing a growing challenge from the surge of tourist visitors. The village, home to around 600 residents, has seen a dramatic increase in the number of tourists, with up to 20,000 visitors and 50 coaches arriving on a single summer weekend.

This influx has led to severe traffic congestion and safety risks due to the village's narrow roads and lack of formal parking controls. In 2024, pictures emerged of tourists attempting to leap over fences of private homes, clambering over stone garden walls, and leaning against ancient buildings to capture photographs and selfies.

In response, Gloucestershire County Council has opened a consultation to decide whether to permanently ban tourist coaches from entering the village. Temporary restrictions were introduced in May 2025, with parking bays in the center of the village closed and new public bus stop clearways installed to create safer areas for dropping off and picking up passengers.

The proposed permanent changes are supported by a group called Bibury One, which includes representatives from the local community, parish councillors, coach and tour operators, the county council, and Gloucestershire Constabulary. One resident, Mark Honeyball, reported being kicked in the stomach and punched in the face following a clash with visitors over parking in 2024.

Councillor Lisa Spivey, leader of the council, stated that the proposals aim to "make the village safer, reduce congestion and protect its unique character." Additional plans include implementing a loading bay, disabled parking spaces, and extended yellow line restrictions to prevent parking problems elsewhere.