Charming Things to Do in Bibury, Cotswolds

Planning a visit to Bibury Cotswolds, and wondering what there is to do exactly? Or wondering if Bibury is worth your time? You might be here, curious to know what the hype about Bibury Cotswolds is all about? It might also be a little confusing to figure out the easiest ways of getting to Bibury if this is your first visit.

I shall answer all of these questions and more in this article so you could have an incredibly enchanting experience with the 10+ charming things to do in Bibury Cotswolds. Bibury is a small village and all of the activities can easily be experienced in a few hours. However, this pretty hamlet is way too quintessential to rush through, and if you can, try and spend at least a day here. An overnight stay would be best for optimum experience.

The Cotswolds is one of my favourite places to visit in England. Rolling hills, picturesque thatched medieval villages made of golden stone, churches and plenty of walking paths, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Entwined with rich history and a surprise around each winding road: how could I ask for more? A peaceful haven away from the flurry of near-city life. There are corners I had not seen before no matter how many times I visited this beautiful nook of England.

Bibury tops all of my experiences in the Cotswolds: I walked the steps of an emperor, and famed film stars, see giant swans glide noiselessly and trout gently cruising along in the super clear waters of happy River Coln. Strolled the edge of an ancient meadow and sat under a willow tree with an ice cream cone. I wallowed in the flawless scenic beauty of this timeless village. Bibury is a place I will return to countless times without hesitation to enjoy the soothing tranquility it bestows and I hope to inspire you the same with this article.

Touring the UK?

The easiest way to visit Bibury is on a guided tour. The best tour is this one here that combines a visit to other Cotswold villages that are worth visiting. It is also possible to drive to Bibury as it is well placed and can be reached conveniently. If you are planning on driving in England, get your car from Discover Cars.

Additionally, visit my travel pages about London, England, and Scotland for travel inspiration around the UK.

Are you visiting some of the English Heritage sites such as Stonehenge, Dover Castle, 1066 Battle of Hastings and Battle Abbey or Osborne House on the Isle of Wight? If so, you may want to take advantage of the discounted Overseas Visitor Pass. This visitor pass is worth buying if you are typically visiting more than two of the over 100 sites covered by this scheme.

There are several informative pages about travels in Lake Como, Milan, Verona and Barcelona also, if you are extending your vacation to Europe.

In this guide about Bibury, Cotswolds: 10+ charming things to do in England’s most beautiful village

In this guide, I explain everything there is to know about visiting this historically picturesque village so you could plan your visit easily. I share my tips on the charming things to do in Bibury Cotswolds along with where to stay and the best restaurants, cafes and pubs. I include practical tips about how to get here with or without a car. Find out how much time you really need for this haven, where to park, the best scenic easy circular walks in Bibury to go on and where to try a spot of trout fishing.

Bibury: The most beautiful village in England

The Victorian artist, William Morris once described Bibury as “the most beautiful village in England” and it is easy to understand why. I am sure you will too when you visit the classic Instagrammable village of Bibury Cotswolds. A quaint little village with a huge amount of history nestled on the banks of the pretty River Coln with the most photographed street is genuinely one of the most gorgeous places in England.

Bibury truly is timeless; this is a place where you are thrown back a few centuries and the kind where visitors to England would imagine all English villages to be like. It is so wonderfully peaceful here that it makes you feel you’ve stepped back in time. This pretty village is one not to miss when visiting this part of England for anyone looking to discover that classic cottage loveliness.

Bibury is most famous for its charming postcard perfect honey-stoned cottages in Arlington Row, built in the 14th century. While an ivy-covered inn stands watch over a slow-moving peaceful River Coln, the village is popular for its Trout Farm, a beautiful meadow, an Old Mill and a medieval church as well.

Where is Bibury?

Bibury is set amidst a beautiful English countryside in the county of Gloucestershire, and sits on the River Coln, a Thames tributary. The village is situated about 12 km (7.5 miles) drive from the town of Cirencester and about 15 km (9 miles) from the market town of Burford, known as the “gateway to the Cotswolds”. This charming little village is surrounded by lush green landscape the ‘wolds‘ and golden stone cottages, defining features of the Cotswolds.

The Cotswolds cover a large expanse, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It runs through six counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire , Worcestershire, and parts of Somerset.

The History of Bibury, Cotswolds

The exact beginnings of Bibury is not known but the discovery of a hill fort and Roman villa nearby indicates roots going back pre-history. Records show that in the early 8th century, land was given by Bishop Wilfrith of Worcester to Earl Leppas and his daughter, Beaga (AD 721-743). The commune was known as “Beagan-byrig” back then. By the time of the Domesday Book of 1086, the village was known as “Becheberie”. The lands and church around this settlement were still under the ownership of St Mary’s Priory, Worcester. In 1130, the ownership passed to Abbey of Osney, Oxford and the Abbey held it until its dissolution in 1540. Over time, the name evolved to become Bibury.

Traditionally, Bibury was made up of two villages: Bibury and Arlington separated by the River Coln but both are now known as Bibury.

Today, Bibury is one of the most famous villages in the Cotswolds. Its crown, Arlington Row, is the most photographed street in England, along with the picturesque meadow next to it. The River Coln that runs through the village was, and still is renowned as a trout stream, inhabited since ancient times. It has drawn visitors to the area in huge numbers over the years.

According to Gloucestershire City Council, the population of Bibury is 625 (2023).

Why is Bibury worth visiting?

Bibury has everything you could ask for in a traditional Cotswold English village and it does not get any more quintessential than this charmingly splendid hamlet.

Bibury is 100% absolutely worth visiting for it has a rich history dating back to the Iron Age, along with an overwhelming heritage that is largely untouched which surrounds your every step in this perfectly idyllic place that is as pretty as a postcard. It is a place where you enjoy a stroll along the pretty River Coln with an ice cream cone, have a pint at the pub and dream away your day over the picturesque Arlington Row or just sit on a bench to watch the wildlife. These are moments to enjoy the tranquility of this scenic village of Bibury. Moreover, this examplary British village sits within the picturesque Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the gateway to many delightful walks in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.

Whatever you wish to do, there is something for you in Bibury, and it is a destination not to miss.

Cross the Old Footbridge over to River Coln

There are three footbridges in Bibury to cross over the River Coln: the arched stone bridge (near Swan Hotel), a wooden footbridge and the listed old Row Bridge. By far the most popular is the Row Bridge as it connects the main road to the weavers cottages, once used for the flourishing wool and textile trade.

Row Bridge is a seemingly simple old footbridge over River Coln in Bibury which leads to Arlington Row in Awkward Hill. It lends a lot of beauty to the area and one of the most scenic spots in Bibury for excellent photo opportunities.

Saunter through Arlington Row on Awkward Hill, Bibury Cotswolds

One of the best enchanting things to do in Bibury is to take a lazy stroll through Arlington Row in Awkward Hill, a low gradient slope. The cocoon cottages here are simplistic beauty, topped with roofs of fine tiles that have withstood the passing of times. These pretty cottages, weaved with an untold old charm conjure happy dreams that one could only imagine. These old and charming cottages, though not for sale by its present owners, the National Trust, are estimated to go well beyond the one million mark. If you would like to live around here, there are a couple further up Awkward Hill where you could rent for a stay.

I would suggest that Arlington Row is the reason most visitors from another country, especially Japanese tourists come to Bibury.

Arlington Row, the most picturesque and most photographed street in England is a row of crooked Grade I honey-coloured stone cottages with undulating roofs and wonky windows draped in flowers alongside a gentle stream.

Fall in love with this row of quirky architecture of slated roofs, gables, and Lincoln green doorways for one of the best moments in Bibury. A timeless piece of enchanting beauty.

THE classic Cotswolds view has appeared in numerous calendars covers and postcards. At one time, it was even featured in the inside cover of British passports.

The Belted Galloway Cows make their appearance in late summer and to experience this wondrous sight is definitely one of the best enchanting things to do in Bibury.

While this is a protected area, there is a shaded footpath along the edge of the meadow, connecting Arlington Row to the centre of Bibury which you could take.

Rack Isle is cared for by the National Trust.

Head over to Bibury’s Post Office

Bibury’s Post Office is housed in an 18th century building and sits along “the Street” over the Coln. You can send a postcard from the most beautiful village in England or buy some Cotswold souvenirs from the nice quaint gift shop located here. You can also buy some coffee and food items to go. More popularly, people tend to leave this shop with ice cream.

Fishing at Trout Farm, Bibury

Set amidst beautiful surroundings at the northern edge of Bibury is England’s oldest working trout farm. The Trout Farm was established in 1902, and has its own hatchery fed by the Bibury Spring which stays at a constant 10°C all year.

There are hundreds of rainbow and brown trout in different beautifully laid out ponds. You can buy a food bag to feed them and see them leap out of water when a handful is thrown up.

Dedicated sections of the farm are available where you can fish your own trout and grill them. There are barbecue grills set up on the side. A smokery which uses the traditional salt and hardwood chips to smoke the trout is also available.

You can purchase fresh trout from their farm shop. There is a small gift shop as well.

Dogs are welcomed but must be kept on a lead.

Parking at the Trout Farm: There is a fee paying carpark at the entrance. Parking here is free for Trout Farm visitors. There is an overflow car park during busy times but this is in private property and parking here incurs a fee.

Trout Farm is open to the public daily. However, times for the cafe and the fishery vary.

Open: March through to September: 09:00 – 17:00 (18:00 in July & August);

Cafe: 09:00 till 16:00

Experience the Hospitality at the Swan Hotel, Bibury

Built in the mid-18th century, the ivy-clad Swan Hotel is one of the most picturesque buildings in Bibury. This pretty inn stands opposite the east side of the bridge across River Coln.

The Swan Hotel began life as a coaching inn in the 17th century providing a sanctuary for weary travellers. The inn had its own stables and a taproom.

Today, the tranquil location of the Swan Hotel Bibury provides a peaceful escape for locals and visitors alike. Sit by the fire in wintertime over a drink, brunch at the brasserie or al fresco at their garden terrace during summer.

The Swan Hotel is popular for its Afternoon Tea by the river. You can enjoy warm homemade scones with Devonshire clotted cream and jam along with a selection of afternoon tea cakes, nibbles and sandwiches.

Stopover at St Mary’s Church, a Saxon Church in Bibury

Tucked away in a quiet street away from the centre of Bibury is the pretty medieval church of St Mary’s. The first church on this site is likely to date back to the 8th century, and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being owned by St Mary’s Priory in Worcester.

The church was granted to Osney Abbey, which retained it until the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII.

The present church was built in the middle of the 11th century with further renovations in subsequent centuries. St Mary’s Bibury was built of local golden limestone with a slate roof.

Highlights include Saxon stone slab supporting the chancel arch and Saxon gravestones. A 13th century font as well as stained glass in the sanctuary from the same medieval period. Norman doorway arches and a 15th century roof. St Mary’s Church has served its local community for over 800 years.

St Mary’s Church is home to a stained glass window which was designed in 1927 by Karl Parsons (1884-1934). You will find this beautiful window at the north chancel wall of the church. This was featured in the 1992 Christmas stamp set issued by the Royal Mail.

St Mary’s Bibury is a lovely church exuding an oasis of calm and it is one of the best things to do in Bibury Cotswolds.

To sum up:

The best 10+ enchanting things to do in Bibury Cotswolds:

• Stroll along River Coln, Bibury;
• Cross the Old Footbridge over River Coln;
• Saunter through Arlington Row;
• Walk the footpath along Rack Isle Wetland Meadow;
• Head over to Bibury’s Post Office;
• Arlington Mill, Bibury
• Fishing at Trout Farm, Bibury;
• Experience the hospitality at the Swan Hotel, Bibury;
• Stopover at the medieval Church of St Mary’s, Bibury;
• See the admirable Bibury Court;
• Short Walks from Bibury (see below).

Walks from Bibury

Head out of Bibury to the peaceful haven that surrounds this hamlet on a Cotswold Walk. Each route takes you across scenic rolling hills of the countryside. There are 5 easy routes for a nice stroll with not much to climb.

• Bibury Village Short Walk (2.8 km; 1.75 miles): This walk involves some road walking along The Street and opens up onto a track to the countryside through Oxhill Woods;

• Bibury Village & Countryside Walk (6 km; 3.75 miles): This beautiful walk starts from River Coln in Bibury and takes you through scenic open countryside through pretty woods along the edge of the village. The walk crosses River Coln and passes Arlington Row;

• Bibury and Ablington Walk (10 km; 6.25 miles): This lovely walk is longer than the two above and starts from the village. The route takes you across the Cotswolds countryside and through woodland, River Coln and the village of Ablington;

• Bibury and Coln St Aldwyns Walk (10 km; 6.25 miles): This longer route starts in Bibury and takes you through a scenic route of a beautiful Cotswold countryside joins two beautiful villages. There are pubs in both villages where you could stop for refreshments.

• Bibury Adventure Walk (19 km; 11.75 miles): This is an epic adventure route, essentially combining routes 3 and 4 above. This is a very long walk, therefore ensure you have appropriate clothing, sufficient refreshments and are prepared for adverse weather conditions. Ensure your mobile device is fully charged.

PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK IN BIBURY COTSWOLDS

Cafes and Delis

The Trout Farm Cafe serves dishes made from their trout for example smoked trout quiches. They also serve sandwiches, paninis, sausage rolls and homemade cakes.

The Twig: With a focus on high quality coffee as well as snacks, sandwiches, toastoes and filled foccacia.

Bibury’s Post Office: You can pick-up drinks to go, ice-creams, cakes and snacks.

Bibury Cotswolds Pub and Restaurants

The Catherine Wheel: This 15th century family run venue is the only pub in Bibury. In 1856, the Catherine Wheel was opened up to the public by J. Hathaway, who was a barrel maker and beer retailer. It was instantly popular with visitors who enjoyed the cosy, authentic stone features and fire logs. It was sold on to Nailsworth Brewery Co. in 1899. Today, it is a popular restaurant and a pub that serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their tasty traditional dishes. Enjoy a hearty plate of fish and chips to sausage and mash or a full Sunday roast.

The Brasserie at the Swan Hotel: This high-end eatery serves dishes with a European twist using British ingredients. You will find interesting dishes such as Crab and Mascarpone Risotto, Devonshire Brown Crab Arancini and Wild Mushroom and Caramelised Onion Ravioli on their menu.

WHERE TO STAY IN BIBURY COTSWOLDS

#9 Arlington Row, Bibury Cotswolds

Stay at Bibury’s most iconic address at #9 Arlington Row managed by the National Trust. This remarkable heritage property comes brimmed with historic features, two bedrooms, a shower room, kitchen and a sitting/dining room equipped with a wood-burning stove.

If you would like to experience a stay in an ancient building with all the modern comforts, then this would make an ideal retreat for you.

Sycamore, Bibury

This really nice 4-star one-bedroom cottage just off the B4425 in the heart of Bibury is ideal for 2-person stays. Described as ‘Superb’, this charming property has received highly positive reviews for its location, comfort and cleanliness. Sycamore is a popular rental and gets booked really quickly. Book well ahead of your visit if you want to stay here.

Swallows Nest, Bibury

Stay at this beautiful one-bedroom house that is a highly rated property, fully equipped with modern amenities. This cute property has its exterior woodwork in the ever pleasing eau-de-nil, which adds a really nice touch to a lovely property.

PLACES NEARBY TO ADD TO YOUR BIBURY ITINERARY

If you are planning to see more of Cotswolds during your trip, there are lots of places around Bibury. Here are a few for you to visit:

Chedworth Roman Villa: Reputed as one of the largest and most elaborate of Roman villas discovered todate in Britain. It dates back to the 4th century and is adorned with beautiful mosaics, bathhouses and shrines. The Chedworth Roman Villa is cared for by the National Trust and is located in the beautiful Cotswold valley, about 13.6 km (8.5 miles) from Bibury. Visit National Trust website for ticket prices and times.

Ablington Manor, Bibury: Built in 1590, Ablington Manor is another large country house. The manor houses 17th century Georgian additions, an ornate porch adorned with the statue of Queen Elizabeth, James I, Henry VIII, Queen Mary and her husband, Philip of Spain. The property is privately owned but can be visited. Visits are by appointment only, March through to September.

You can visit Stow-on-the-Wold, not too far from Bibury. Home to the magical yew tree door that is said to have inspired JRR Tolkien in his Middle Earth, Lord of the Rings.

Visit also the pretty towns of Burford, showcasing a timeline of quintessential English architecture and Bourton-on-the-Water, a busy town sitting on River Windrush and houses a vintage motor museum and tea rooms.

How much time is needed in Bibury?

A couple of hours is generally enough to see Bibury but it may be longer if you are to experience all of the enchanting things to do in Bibury listed above. You may want to linger longer at Arlington Row, visit St Mary’s Church, have brunch or afternoon tea at The Swan and attempt the shortest circular walk at least, so you can experience the countryside. If this is something you would like to do, then give yourself a half-day visit to Bibury.

How far is Bibury from London?

The shortest road distance from London to Bibury is approximately 138 km (85.6 miles) via M40 and A40. This journey is approximated for 1 hour and 50 minutes.

The longer road distance is approximately 164 km (101.7 miles) via M4. This journey will take approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

PARKING IN BIBURY: Where to park in Bibury?

If you are driving to Bibury for the first time, you may be wondering where to park.

Generally, parking in Bibury is limited. There are some off-street parking spaces allocated along “The Street” and a small free car park opposite the Trout Farm.

Bibury parking during an off-season visit should not be a problem but it might be challenging to find spaces during high seasons. You may have to wait for spaces to become available to be able to park. Best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to easily park and avoid the tourist crowd.

BIBURY COTSWOLDS DIRECTIONS: How to get to Bibury by Car

Travelling by car to Bibury is the most convenient way to get here. If you don’t have your own car or if you are visiting England from abroad, hire your car from Discover Cars.

TIP: Use Arlington Row Bibury postcode GL7 5NJ England as a guide for directions. It will get you to Bibury without any problems.

GPS coordiantes: 51° 45′ 30.816″ N and 1° 50′ 5.8956″ W

M4 Motorway: Travelling West along the M4, exit at Junction 15 to travel towards Cirencester (A419). Here, take the B4425 to Bibury.

If travelling East along the M4, exit at Junction 17, and travel towards Malmesbury and Cirencester (A429). Once at Cirencester, take the B4425 to Bibury.

M5 Motorway: From the North, take exit 11A and travel towards Cirencester. Once in Cirencester, take the B4425 to Bibury.

From the South, take exit 11A and travel towards Cirencester. When in Cirencester, take the B4425 towards Bibury.

B2425: You could also reach Bibury on the B2425 between Barnsley and Aldsworth.

There is a minor road from the nearby village of Coln St Aldwyns.

How to get to Bibury, Cotswolds without a car

You can get to Bibury without a car by train, bus, private taxi or with a tour group.

By Train to Bibury

There is no train station at Bibury. The nearest railway station to Bibury is Kemble. Kemble is situated only a few kilometres from Cirencester and around 22.5 km (14 miles) from Bibury. You can either take a bus from Kemble to Cirencester, then another bus to Bibury from Cirencester. Alternatively, take a taxi from Kemble to Bibury.

By Train from London: There is a direct train service from London Paddington Station to Kemble. The journey takes around 1 hour 12 minutes. Once at Kemble, take a taxi to Bibury.

Travelling by Bus to Bibury

If you are travelling from London Victoria Station to Cirencester, you are likely to be dropped off at London Road, Cirencester. Once here, you can walk to nearby Market Place to catch a bus to Bibury. The Stagecoach 855 connects Cirencester, and Bourton-on-the-Water. This service does not run on Sundays.

If you are arriving by train, get off at Cirencester. There are regular bus services from Cirencester. You can take the 882 service to Cirencester and change to the 855

In a Tour

If you are not or do not want to drive to Bibury, it is easier to do a day trip to the Cotswolds. This is especially useful if you are visiting from abroad and want to make the most of your trip in one day. With a day trip to the Cotswolds, you can tick-off several places while enjoying the scenic views. In this way, you save money and time as well. There are several tours departing from London and Oxford. I have researched and found the following to be the best. Take a look:

ADDITIONAL INFO AND TIPS FOR YOUR BIBURY VISIT

Listed Buildings in Bibury Cotswolds

Bibury Cotswolds is host to an extraordinary number of 123 exceptional listed properties. 116 of these are Grade II listed. There are four buildings listed as Grade I, the highest designation for heritage properties. These include the weavers cottage at Arlington Row, St Mary’s Church, Ablington Manor and Bibury Court.

When Outdoors…

In sum…

While the beauty of this remarkably charming and well preserved Cotswold village at an idyllic setting on River Coln is well documented, nothing quite beats a visit. Spending some time in the untouched environment delving into the enchanting things to do in Bibury truly is a wonderful experience. A small village that offers so much to its visitors in timelessness. I hope this guide about things to do in Bibury Cotswolds has helped you decide and plan a visit to this timeless destination.

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