Deep in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds lies Bibury, a village so stunning that William Morris once declared it 'the most beautiful village in England'. But beyond its classic honey-coloured stone cottages and tranquil River Coln flows a story stranger than fiction, centred around a property with arguably the most peculiar name in the entire country.
The House With a Name That Demands Explanation
At the heart of this architectural wonderland stands a building bearing the unforgettable title: 'The Most Ugly Building in the World'. Far from living up to its self-deprecating name, this charming property forms part of the iconic Arlington Row - a breathtaking terrace of weavers' cottages that now features on the inside cover of every UK passport.
A Name Shrouded in Local Legend
The origins of this bizarre moniker trace back to the 17th century, when the buildings served as wool stores before being converted into cottages for weavers in the 18th century. Local folklore suggests the name emerged as a tongue-in-cheek response to its undeniable beauty, perhaps coined by a resident with a well-developed sense of irony.
Why Bibury Captures Hearts
This Gloucestershire gem offers visitors far more than just curiously named architecture:
- Arlington Row: The quintessential Cotswold scene that attracts photographers worldwide
- Bibury Trout Farm: One of Britain's oldest and most picturesque trout farms
- St Mary's Church: A magnificent Saxon-era church with medieval additions
- The Swan Hotel
The Perfect English Escape
Despite its global fame, Bibury maintains an atmosphere of peaceful seclusion. The gentle murmur of the River Coln, the swans gliding past ancient stone bridges, and the absence of street lights preserving dark skies create an experience that feels both timeless and magical.
Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a photographer's paradise, or simply want to discover the story behind Britain's most unusually named building, Bibury offers a slice of English heritage that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
