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Forbes Names Bibury the World's Most Beautiful Village as Overtourism Concerns Resurface

Local leaders call the accolade a double‑edged sword due to heavy visitor traffic straining daily life.

Overview

  • Forbes placed Bibury at No. 1 on its 2025 list of the 50 most beautiful villages, a ranking compiled with input from the Unforgettable Travel Company.
  • Parish council chair Craig Chapman said the title is an honor but described the impact as problematic for residents.
  • The village of roughly 600–700 people reportedly sees up to 20,000 visitors on weekends, with narrow roads and a single‑lane bridge contributing to congestion and safety issues.
  • Local steps to manage pressure include coach access restrictions introduced in May and a recent request from county leaders for visitors to use smaller vehicles.
  • Attractions cited in the ranking include Arlington Row, the River Coln, Bibury Trout Farm and St Mary’s Church, with Arlington Row occupied by tenants and not open to the public.