Bibury, a Cotswold village of just 600 residents, is grappling with overtourism after Forbes named it the 'most beautiful village in the world'. The accolade has intensified pressure on the community, already struggling with congestion from coach tours and visitor numbers.
Parish council chairman Craig Chapman expressed dismay at the Forbes ranking, saying it would worsen the imbalance between tourists and villagers. 'My heart sank,' he said, noting that the village is already overwhelmed by up to 25 coaches a day, which block roads and cause disruption.
Residents report problems including inconsiderate parking, damage to stone walls, and even an assault by a coach driver. One Sunday, the local vicar had to abandon his car and run to church to make his service due to traffic. Many visitors stay only an hour, offering little economic benefit to local businesses.
Gloucestershire County Council has introduced a trial traffic scheme with temporary bollards closing coach parking bays, and two drop-off points monitored by a parking official. However, Chapman wants a ban on larger coaches, arguing they bring volume without spending. The council encourages visitors to use smaller vehicles or explore other Cotswold locations.
Parking remains a major issue, with limited spaces and tourists parking illegally on double yellow lines or outside homes. Residents like Frank, who found an SUV parked despite 'no parking' cones, express frustration. 'I've had enough,' he said, confronting a tourist.
The village hopes to restore balance, but the Forbes title is likely to attract even more visitors. Chapman says, 'We know it's beautiful here, but no one is benefiting from overtourism. It's got to a point where residents are suffering.'
