Bibury is a captivating village situated within the coronary heart of the Cotswolds, an space of excellent pure magnificence in southwestern England. There are many great issues to do in Bibury; a quaint village best-known for its picturesque stone cottages and idyllic nation scenes.
The world is dwelling to many historic landmarks comparable to Arlington Row, a row of Seventeenth-century weavers’ cottages which have been fantastically preserved. I’ve been visiting the Cotswolds for years and Bibury is one in every of my favourite villages due to its picturesque structure and charming location.
With its beautiful surroundings and historic buildings Bibury, Cotswolds is a must-visit vacation spot for anybody touring to the West Nation. There are additionally loads of locations to go to close by such because the villages of Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton on the Water, and bigger cities like Stroud and Cirencester.
Finest Issues To Do in Bibury
Under, you’ll discover a big selection of issues to do in Bibury, Cotswolds from exploring the quaint homes and structure to mountaineering and biking trails, nation pubs, and a few superior day journeys to close by locations of curiosity.
1. Stroll Alongside the Well-known Arlington Row
Arlington Row is a picturesque row of honey-colored cottages that have been constructed within the Seventeenth century as a wool retailer. They have been transformed into weavers’ cottages within the nineteenth century and strolling alongside these idyllic cottages is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Bibury; they’re undoubtedly worthy of a photograph or two.
The Arlington Row cottages are one of many most photographed landmarks in the Cotswolds due to their distinctive stone roofs and charming façades. The cottages are additionally a well-liked vacationer attraction, drawing guests from world wide who come to admire their magnificence and study their fascinating historical past.
This is likely one of the prime issues to see in Bibury and is a must-visit attraction for anybody visiting the Cotswolds. As an novice photographer myself, that is someplace I like to go to after I’m within the space to snap some photographs and wow my pals world wide with such idyllic English scenes.
Tackle: Awkward Hill, Bibury, Gloucestershire, GL7 5NJ
2. See the Outdated Publish Workplace
The Publish Workplace at Bibury is situated in a captivating Cotswold stone constructing on the principle avenue and provides a glimpse into days passed by. The positioning is briefly closed (on the time of writing) as they’re present process constructing work to include it into the tea rooms subsequent door, however you’ll be capable of take pleasure in a cream tea whereas writing a postcard when it reopens shortly.
Make sure you verify their website earlier than your go to to keep away from disappointment.
Tackle: 10 The Street, Bibury, Gloucestershire, GL7 5NP
3. See the Historic St Mary’s Church
The Grade I listed St Mary’s Church dates again to the eleventh Century making it one of many oldest buildings within the area (it’s been the location of a church since not less than 899AD). The north wall of the church incorporates an Anglo-Saxon grave slab, of which 4 related may be discovered within the British Museum.
Different factors of curiosity across the church embrace its Saxon columns, a thirteenth Century font, a roof courting to the fifteenth Century, and Seventeenth Century desk tombs. St Mary’s is likely one of the prime locations to see in Bibury for these with an curiosity in historical past (I like studying concerning the Anglo-Saxon instances) and has a peaceable churchyard to discover.
Guests can enter the church and grounds freed from cost making this the most effective free issues to do in Bibury. It’s additionally potential to attend a Sunday service. If you happen to’re seeking to escape the crowds round Arlington Row, it is a great spot for somewhat solitude.
Tackle: Church Road, Bibury, Gloucestershire, GL7 5NR
4. Strive the Native Trout
Bibury is famed for its trout farm which has an onsite cafe serving up this scrumptious native specialty. You’ll be able to attempt the Bibury trout trio of dressed trout with garlic mayo, smoked trout terrine, and smoked trout chowder, or you’ll be able to even rent a barbeque and cook dinner up a trout that you just’ve caught your self.
However fear, not, in the event you’re not a fan of fish the cafe has a superb vary of cold and warm snacks, salads, and desserts, and is a superb place for a spot of breakfast, brunch, or a cream tea for simply £5 ($6.20). All meals is made to order utilizing solely the freshest of regionally sourced components.
There’s additionally a small hut promoting chips, cold and warm drinks, and ice lotions. The cafe is open each day from March to December from 10 am to three:30 pm and from 10 am to three pm in January and February. Making an attempt the native trout is certainly one of many prime issues to do in Bibury for foodies.
Tackle: Bibury, Gloucestershire, GL7 5NL
5. Take the Coln, Saint Aldwyns, and Bibury Stroll
Bibury is situated within the coronary heart of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and as such there are many glorious walks by the close by countryside from the village. These vary from brief walks of some miles to longer day-long hikes.
The most effective hikes to attempt is the average 6.5 mile (10.5 km) Coln, Saint Aldwyns, and Bibury circular walk that takes within the lovely River Coln, two picturesque Cotswolds villages, and miles of open fields and pastures. The hike ought to take round three hours to finish, however pack a picnic and make a day of it if the climate permits.
You’ll be able to cease within the charming New Inn in St Aldwyns for a spot of lunch and refreshment midway (attempt one of many hearty burgers or the native trout). That is one in every of my favourite walks within the space and is an effective way to identify a number of the native wildlife.
6. Have a Pint in The Catherine Wheel
The most effective issues to do in Bibury for beer lovers like myself is to drop into the native pub, The Catherine Wheel for a pint of native beer or cider. The Cotswolds is filled with rustic nation pubs and I like nothing greater than whiling away a day or night in a nice beer backyard, or subsequent to a roaring fireplace in colder instances.
The Catherine Wheel is a conventional inn (you can also book a stay here) with a big bar, nice beer backyard, and restaurant. They provide an ideal collection of native beers and ciders, wines and cocktails, and a meals menu utilizing native and seasonal produce. With steaks, pizza, burgers, and naturally trout, there’s one thing to go well with even the fussiest of eaters.
Grabbing just a few pints within the native is definitely the most effective issues to do in Bibury at night time as there isn’t a lot else in the best way of nightlife on this rural location (one in every of my favourite issues about this a part of the world – Bilbury may be very laid-back!).
Tackle: Arlington, Bibury, Gloucestershire, GL7 5ND
7. Discover the Rack Isle Nature Reserve
Rack Isle is an historic water meadow situated beside the weavers’ cottages of Arlington Row in Bibury. It was traditionally used for drying completed material and grazing and was given to the National Trust in 1956. At the moment, it serves as an essential wildlife refuge, offering a uncommon habitat for water voles and serving as a protected wildfowl breeding floor.
Wandering round this beautiful nature reserve within the coronary heart of the village is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Bibury for households as there’s numerous house to run about (and canine are allowed if saved on a lead). That is additionally an ideal vantage level for snapping footage of Arlington Row away from the crowds.
Tackle: Bibury, Gloucestershire, GL7 5NP
8. Go to Chedworth Roman Villa
If, like me, you’re a lover of Roman historical past you then’ll need to try the close by ruins of Chedworth Roman Villa simply 8.5 miles (13.7 km) from Bibury. Right here, you’ll discover the ruins of a 4th Century Roman home and an accompanying museum displaying artifacts excavated from the world.
This is likely one of the most spectacular archaeological sites within the space, (I used to check archaeology so know somewhat concerning the topic), and is nicely value a go to for curious adults and youngsters alike. See historic flooring mosaics nonetheless remarkably intact, Roman baths, and a water shrine.
Free parking is offered onsite, and there’s a restaurant promoting mild snacks and cold and warm drinks, a museum and reward store promoting souvenirs and native handicrafts, and a picnic space to take pleasure in too. This is a superb household time out and I extremely advocate a go to. Tickets price £12 for adults and £6 for youngsters.
Tackle: Chedworth Roman Villa, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 3LJ
9. See the Cotswold Lavender Farm
Simply 20 miles north of Bibury is the attractive Cotswold Lavender Farm on a hill overlooking the beautiful Vale of Evesham. Through the season from June to August, you’ll be able to stroll amongst the sweet-smelling purple flowers and take within the beautiful countryside views.
There are over 35 sorts of lavender throughout 70 acres of land which erupt right into a crescendo of shade lighting up this charming nook of the Cotswolds. You’ll be able to go to the onsite distillery to learn the way the lavender oil is extracted and see the vary of merchandise it’s used for.
You should purchase lavender-scented presents comparable to fragrances, candles, and extra from the onsite store. There’s a woodland strolling path, a wildflower meadow, and a cabin promoting snacks and cold and warm drinks. The farm is open day by day from 14th June till sixth August from 10 am to five pm. Tickets price £7.50 for adults and £3.75 for youngsters.
Tackle: Hill Barn Farm Cottages, Snowshill, Gloucestershire, WR12 7JY
10. Go for a Swim on the Cotswolds Water Park
The Cotswolds Water Park, on the outskirts of Cirencester, is likely one of the greatest locations to go to close to Bibury with 180 lakes spanning throughout 42 sq. miles. The park provides actions comparable to riverside walks, picnics, boating, kayaking, and swimming. It’s additionally a breeding floor for hundreds of chicken species and is a superb place for wildlife watching.
There’s even a sandy seaside for swimming and constructing sandcastles, numerous watersport actions, and a seaside shack cafe. Guests can rent a BBQ to cook dinner their very own lunch so it’s a perfect place to pack a picnic. That is one in every of my favourite spots within the Cotswolds as I like a swim, adopted by just a few lakeside beers and a BBQ.
Though not a conventional water park with slides and flumes, this wonderful lakeside attraction makes for an ideal time out for the entire household. There are many pubs and eating places close by in picturesque villages across the lakes, and you’ll even guide a keep within the water park. Click here to find out more.
Tackle: Rigsby’s Lane, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 6GJ
11. Have a Picnic Alongside the River Coln
The attractive River Coln winds its manner by the center of Bibury and is the right place for a brief stroll and a packed lunch. You’ll be able to choose up some tasty treats from The Twig delicatessen and discover a nice spot to observe the world go by at a cushty tempo.
Taking a romantic stroll alongside the river and stopping for a picnic is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Bibury for {couples}.
12. Take a Scorching Air Baloon Flight
The most effective methods to see this picturesque a part of the Cotswolds (in the event you’re not afraid of heights like I’m) is to take a hot air balloon ride from close by Cheltenham. Flights happen within the morning and early night so riders can catch both a surprising dawn or sundown over the Cotswolds.
It is a actually distinctive approach to see the picturesque cities, villages, and sweeping countryside round Bibury and the remainder of the Cotswolds Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence. You’ll be able to even go for a champagne flight making this a extremely particular factor for {couples} to do in Bibury.
Costs begin at £129 per particular person for a four-hour flight and an unforgettable expertise to recollect endlessly. Click here for more info.
13. Go to Close by Cirencester
Cirencester is the closest massive city to Bibury and is nicely value a go to for its Roman historical past, enjoyable points of interest, and plenty of great cafes, eating places, and pubs. The city is simply 8 miles (13 km) from Bibury and is definitely reachable by automobile and bus No 855.
Head to the weekly farmers’ market which is a superb place to choose up native produce and handicrafts, the Corinium Museum detailing the city’s historical past, and a very good open-air swimming pool to chill off in in the course of the summer season months. Together with close by Stroud, Cirencester is one in every of my favourite cities within the Cotswolds.
14. Go to Bourton on the Water
Similar to Bibury, Bourton on the Water is one other of probably the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds. There are many great pubs in Bourton, in addition to idyllic cottages alongside the charming River Windrush, a model village, and the wonderful Hawkstone Brewery which prodcues native craft beers and ciders (together with a beer by TV persona Jeremy Clarkson).
Bourton is simply 12.3 miles (20 km) from Bibury and bus 855 connects the 2 villages, (in addition to the city of Cirencester), with semi-regular providers. Click here for the current timetable. That is undoubtedly the most effective locations to go to close to Bibury for it’s picturesque cottages and old-worldly appeal.
15. See Picturesque Stow-on-the-Wold
The most effective locations to go to close to Bibury is the beautiful market city of Stow. The city is located on prime of a hill that provides breathtaking views of the encompassing Cotswold countryside. The place has a wealthy historical past courting again to the medieval interval and is known for its historic market sq. and picturesque St Edward’s Church.
Stow-on-the-Wold makes a superb day journey from Bibury and is the right place to browse the various impartial retailers, seize a chunk in one of many many eating places and pubs, or take stroll within the close by countryside. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Bibury, however you’ll want your individual automobile as public transport is missing on this rural space.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Bibury
Under, you’ll discover some helpful itineraries that can assist you get probably the most out of your journey sightseeing in Bibury, Cotswolds. These itineraries embrace all the highest sights talked about above and embrace day journeys for longer stays.
1 Day in Bibury Itinerary
With only a day in Bibury, begin off on the well-known Arlington Row of cottages. Make sure you take loads of photographs of this unique Seventeenth-century dwelling because it actually is likely one of the most picturesque locations in England. Take a stroll alongside the River Coln and see the spectacular St Mary’s Church earlier than popping into the trout farm for a lunch of the native specialty (see beneath).
Within the afternoon, discover different points of interest across the village from the outdated mill and publish workplace and take a stroll within the native Nationwide Belief Wildfowl Reserve. For dinner, head to The Catherine Wheel pub for some hearty meals washed down with a pint or two of native ale or cider.
2-3 Days in Bibury Itinerary
With extra time in Bibury, observe the above itinerary on your first day and embrace nation walks just like the scenic Coln, Saint Aldwyns, and Bibury circular walk which is 6.5 miles (10.5 km) and consists of a number of the most picturesque countryside scenes conceivable. Deal with your self to a meal at Rhe Swan Brasserie and loosen up and also you look throughout the river.
1 Week in Bibury Itinerary
With every week to spend in Bibury, observe the above itineraries on your first three days and add in day journeys to close by Cirencester and Stroud. Discover a number of the different lovely Cotswold villages close by comparable to Bourton on the Water and Stow-on-the-Wold.
Take a look at The Keepers Arms in close by Quenington for a pint and a chunk of wonderful pub grub, and you’ll want to choose up some items from The Twig deli for all of the suplies you’ll want for a picnic alongside the river.
The place to Keep in Bibury
These are just a few of the most effective locations to remain in Bibury for vacationers:
The Swan Lodge – Finest for First-Time Guests
The four-star Swan Hotel is situated within the coronary heart of the village and is the right place to remain for first-time guests. This beautiful ivy-clad stone constructing sits proper subsequent to the River Coln and provides beautiful views of the encompassing countryside. Rooms include an en-suite rest room and there’s an onsite bar, restaurant, and personal backyard. Click here to book now.
Sycamore – Finest for Households
Sycamore is a cute cabin within the coronary heart of the village only a brief stroll from all of the points of interest in Bibury and the native pubs and eating places. The property advantages from an outdoor patio for al-fresco eating, free onsite parking, and WiFi all through. The within is spacious and ethereal with lovely picket flooring and fixtures. Click here to find out more.
Swallows Nest – Finest for {Couples}
The Swallows Nest is a cute, one-bedroom vacation dwelling in Bibury and the right cozy hideaway for {couples}. The property comes with free, non-public parking, WiFi all through, and a fitted kitchen with all you want for a self-catering keep. All of the Bibury points of interest are only a brief stroll away and the native pub is a stone’s throw from the home. Click here to learn more.
Finest Eating places in Bibury
Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Bibury. There are many glorious eateries across the village from conventional pubs with homely meals to unique eating places, and even the native trout farm. Consuming and consuming the native specialties is certainly the most effective issues to do round Bibury for foodies.
The Catherine Wheel: This beautiful outdated pub within the coronary heart of Bibury has an in depth meals menu with native, seasonal dishes and pub favorites. That is my prime place to eat within the village and has cheap costs with mains from £12 to £20. I like to recommend the beer-battered fish and chips or Sunday roast (in addition they do pizzas). Click here for directions.
The Swan Brasserie: This upmarket brasserie at The Swan Lodge is the place to return for that special day or a calming afternoon by the river. You’ll be able to take pleasure in afternoon tea on the riverside, a drink within the bar, or an excellently ready meal utilizing the freshest native components from the dinner menu. Click here for directions.
Bibury Trout Farm: Bibury is known for its trout and the most effective place to pattern this delicacy is from the cafe of the Bibury Trout Farm. From trout terrine to smoked trout chowder, soups, sandwiches, and even vegan sausage rolls, this is a superb place to return for an actual style of Bibury. Click here for directions.
The Twig: This quaint little espresso store and deli is the right place to choose up do-it-yourself sandwiches and desserts for a picnic down by the river. It additionally makes the most effective espresso within the village so you’ll be able to come right here to get your each day repair. In addition they supply a spread of freshly made salads, juices, and different wholesome snacks. Click here for directions.
The Keepers Arms: This conventional nation inn is situated within the village of Quenington simply three miles from Bibury. The menu consists of pub classics with a contemporary twist from burgers with an ale ketchup to beer-battered fish and chips, grilled sea bream, and vegetarian choices. Click here for directions.
Attending to Bibury
The closest airport to Bibury is Britsol Worldwide which is 70 miles (112 km) to the southwest. The closest massive city is Cirencester and there are each day trains from London Paddington which take below two hours. If driving from London, take the M40 after which the A40.
The most effective methods to get to Bibury is to take a day journey from London like this full-day Cotswolds tour. You’ll get to see Bibury and the well-known Arlington Row in addition to the close by villages of Bourton on the Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Click here to book.
As Bibury is such a tiny village, in every single place is definitely reachable on foot. If you happen to want to discover the opposite cities and villages within the neighborhood then hiring a automobile is greatest as there isn’t a lot in the best way of public transport on this rural a part of England.
Issues To Do in Bibury: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Bibury:
Bibury is called probably the most picturesque villages within the Cotswolds (and indeed England). The place is known for the Seventeenth Century Arlington Row of homes, its trout farm, and the historic Arlington Mill.
The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are the most effective instances to go to Bibury because the climate is gentle however there are fewer vacationers than in the summertime months. Summer time may be very nice in Bibury, nevertheless, lodging choices promote out shortly so you’ll want to guide early.
Bibury is certainly value visiting for a superb pattern of a British nation village. With numerous historic websites from the outdated mill to Arlington Row and plenty of scenic walks, that is one in every of my favourite locations within the Cotswolds.
One to 2 days is sufficient time to see all of the vacationer points of interest in Bibury. Nonetheless, if you wish to discover a number of the lovely close by cities and villages every week is healthier.
As with most villages in rural England, Bibury is so much safer than bigger cities and cities. As the world can appeal to numerous folks in the summertime months, take the standard precautions you’d when touring wherever and guarantee doorways are locked and valuables aren’t left on show.
Strolling alongside picturesque Arlington Row is likely one of the hottest issues to do in Bibury and folks travel from all over the world to see these quaint homes. Different standard issues to do in Bibury embrace making an attempt the native trout and having fun with a pint in The Catherine Wheel pub.
Bibury is known for its trout farm so making an attempt out this native delicacy is a must-for guests that like fish. There’s an onsite cafe on the farm serving up a spread of dishes from smoked trout chowder to terrine and different mouthwatering specialties.
In Closing
Now you understand what to see and do in Bibury from strolling down the historic and Insta-worthy Arlington Row to sampling the native trout, taking a rustic stroll, or having fun with a pint within the native. That is one in every of my favourite Cotswold villages and earns its status as one of many prettiest locations within the nation.
