Bibury, a picturesque village nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, England, is renowned for its enchanting blend of honey-colored stone cottages, tranquil waterways, and captivating historical charm. The village's most iconic image, Arlington Row, features a captivating row of 14th-century weavers' cottages nestled alongside the gently flowing River Coln.

Unveiling Bibury: A Fairytale Cotswolds Escape

Ah, Bibury. The Cotswolds village that stole William Morris’s heart and continues to bewitch travelers with its honey-hued cottages, babbling brooks, and timeless charm. But before you hop on the bandwagon, let’s crack the code to a truly enchanting Bibury adventure.

First things first: timing is everything.

Spring (April-May): Witness the Cotswolds come alive with wildflowers and baby lambs. Think gentle breezes, emerald meadows, and picture-perfect picnics by the river.
Summer (June-August): Bask in the golden sunshine, vibrant blooms, and buzzing tourist scene. Be prepared for crowds, especially around Arlington Row.
Autumn (September-October): Cozy up as the leaves turn fiery, and mist hangs in the air. Think cozy pub evenings, crisp walks, and fewer crowds.
Winter (November-March): Embrace the fairytale magic of frost-dusted cottages and wintery walks. It’s the quietest time to visit, with a chance of snow!

How to get there:

Getting there: Bibury is a car-dependent village, though buses from Cirencester and Oxford are available. If driving, be prepared for limited parking, especially in peak season.
Train + Taxi: Hop on a train to Kemble station, then grab a taxi for the short ride to Bibury.

arlington row bibury - film locations cotswolds

Bibury’s hidden gems:

Arlington Row: The crown jewel, this row of honey-colored cottages lining the River Coln is pure Cotswolds magic. Capture postcard-worthy shots, but remember, these are private homes, so be respectful.
The Swan Hotel: Sip afternoon tea or savor a candlelit dinner in this historic riverside inn, once William Morris’s haunt.
Bibury Trout Farm: Watch trout frolic in crystal-clear waters, then indulge in fresh, locally-caught trout at the onsite restaurant.
St. Mary’s Church: Immerse yourself in history at this 11th-century church, boasting Saxon remains and beautiful stained glass.
The Coln River: Wander along the riverbank, soak in the tranquility, and spot playful otters frolicking in the water.

Beyond the village:

Coln St Aldwyns: Take a scenic walk to this neighboring village, boasting a charming pub and historic church.
Barnsley House: Escape to this luxurious country house hotel, indulge in afternoon tea at their award-winning gardens.

Remember:

Respect the village’s tranquility and charm.
Be mindful of the locals, these are their homes, not a museum.
Pack comfy shoes for exploring the village and surrounding countryside.
Embrace the slow pace and soak in the Cotswolds’ timeless beauty.

With a little planning and a dash of wanderlust, your Bibury adventure promises to be an unforgettable chapter in your travelogue. So, go forth, explore, and let the Cotswolds’ magic work its spell!