Bibury Weighs Coach Ban Amid Overtourism Crisis

The picturesque village of Bibury in the Cotswolds, often hailed as 'England's most beautiful village' by designer William Morris, is grappling with an overwhelming influx of tourists, with up to 20,000 visiting on weekends. Residents have reported safety concerns and congestion due to the arrival of up to 50 coaches daily, exacerbated by social media influencers promoting the village. In response, local leaders have formed a working group to explore potential restrictions on coach access, including changes to parking layouts and possibly banning coaches altogether. The first phase involves modifying parking bays to alleviate congestion near Swan Bridge, while the second phase will consider broader restrictions contingent on legal consultations. The council aims to encourage alternative transport methods such as minibuses and public transport. Local officials are committed to balancing tourism with residents' safety and quality of life.