Tourists could be blocked from paddling in a river in one of England's prettiest villages as locals take drastic action to protect its wildlife. Bibury, in the Cotswolds, attracts thousands of visitors hoping to admire its picture-perfect cottages and peaceful countryside.
But the influx of tourists has sparked concern among residents, with parish council leaders approving plans to install fences along parts of the River Coln. The barriers are intended to stop visitors from wading into the water and disturbing swans, ducks, voles and fish.
Council chairman cites 'detrimental' behaviour
Craig Chapman, chairman of Bibury Parish Council, said tourists had been "doing what they want". He told the BBC that visitors had been sitting on the riverbank with their feet in the water, walking through the river and even setting up tables and chairs during hot weather.
"That's highly detrimental to the wildlife," he said.
Mr Chapman described fencing off areas as a "drastic measure", adding that it was not what the council wanted but appeared necessary to protect the river's environment. The move comes amid growing frustration over the pressure mass tourism is putting on the tiny village.
Village popularity and traffic pressures
Bibury has a population of around 600, but can attract as many as 20,000 visitors a day, according to reports. Its popularity surged further after Forbes named it the world's most beautiful village in 2025, The Telegraph reports.
The village is famous for Arlington Row, a line of historic weavers' cottages, and was described by 19th-century writer William Morris as "the most beautiful village in England".
But the crowds have created problems beyond the riverbanks. Gloucestershire County Council said a traffic survey in July 2025 recorded more than 4,500 vehicle movements across Swan Bridge in a single day. The authority has since pursued measures to improve road safety and ease congestion, including changes to coach parking.
Wider Cotswolds overcrowding concerns
And in Bourton-on-the-Water, another Cotswolds beauty spot, residents have complained about overcrowding, litter and traffic. The village, known for its stone bridges over the River Windrush, has repeatedly faced calls for tourism to be managed more sustainably.
