The most beautiful village in the world is officially located in Britain, according to Forbes Magazine’s prestigious 2025 rankings. Bibury, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, has claimed the top spot on the list of the world’s 50 most beautiful villages.
With its enchanting honey-coloured cottages, historic Arlington Row, and the serene flow of the River Coln, Bibury is described as unfolding “like a watercolour dream,” capturing the quintessence of the idyllic English countryside.
This article explores why Bibury has earned this global accolade, delves into the village’s rich history and landscape, examines the challenges of overtourism, and highlights how residents and authorities are balancing preservation with popularity.
What Makes Bibury the Most Beautiful Village in the World?
Bibury is famed for its timeless charm and quintessential English rural aesthetics. The village’s golden Cotswold stone cottages, moss-covered roofs, and millennia-old waterways create a setting that feels plucked from a storybook.
Arlington Row, a collection of 17th-century weavers’ cottages, is particularly iconic and has appeared on countless postcards, even the cover of British passports.
The village is cradled by the gentle river Coln, which meanders softly beneath ancient willow trees and past fields sprinkled with wildflowers like buttercups and forget-me-nots. Bibury Trout Farm, a notable local attraction, offers visitors a chance to connect intimately with nature. Nearby St Mary’s Church, with its medieval architecture, adds another layer of historical depth to the locale.
Such a combination of natural beauty, heritage architecture, and tranquil rural life has mesmerised both locals and visitors alike and cemented Bibury’s place on the world stage as a beacon of pastoral perfection.
Historical Background of Bibury
Bibury’s history dates back over a thousand years with its name appearing in the Domesday Book of 1086. The village’s development is closely tied to the wool and weaving industry, which flourished here during medieval times.
Arlington Row cottages, originally built for wool weavers in the 14th century, reflect this rich industrial past. These stone buildings’ unique architectural style and mossy roofs exude an air of nostalgia and timelessness.
Over centuries, Bibury has remained remarkably intact, with conservation efforts preserving its medieval character. The village represents a living snapshot of England’s rural heritage, a reason why it continues to inspire artists, writers, and photographers alike.
The Impact of Being the Most Beautiful Village
Bibury’s crowning as the world’s most beautiful village has sparked a surge in tourism. While celebrated as an honour by many locals, the influx of visitors also poses significant challenges. During peak summer weekends, the village population balloons from around 600 residents to nearly 20,000 tourists.
This visitor boom has placed strain on local infrastructure, particularly roads and parking, as the village’s narrow streets and single-vehicle bridge over the Coln are ill-equipped to handle large-scale traffic.
Larger tourist coaches, often exceeding 50 vehicles daily, have caused congestion and raised safety concerns.
In response, residents and the Parish Council have enacted measures such as restricting coach access in the village centre, creating new pick-up and drop-off zones, and encouraging visitors to use smaller vehicles or public transport alternatives.
These steps seek to protect Bibury’s fragile charm while allowing visitors a chance to experience its beauty responsibly.
Comparison with Other Renowned Beautiful Villages
Bibury’s recognition stands amidst stiff competition from other globally celebrated villages, including Hallstatt in Austria, Oia in Santorini (Greece), and Reine in Norway. The following table contrasts Bibury with some famous contenders:
| Village | Country | Key Features | Population Approx. | Tourism Challenge |
| Bibury | England (UK) | Medieval cottages, River Coln, Arlington Row | 600 | Overtourism in summer |
| Hallstatt | Austria | Alpine lake, ancient salt mines, timber houses | 800 | Peak-season overcrowding |
| Oia | Greece | Whitewashed buildings, caldera views, sunsets | 1,100 | Congestion & preservation |
| Reine | Norway | Fjord views, fishing village charm | 300 | Limited accessibility |
While each village boasts unique beauty and history, Bibury’s blend of rural English character and pastoral tranquillity has won the top honour for 2025.
How Residents Are Preserving Bibury’s Beauty
Local residents have taken an active role in balancing tourism with daily life. Craig Chapman, chair of the Bibury Parish Council, describes the accolade as a “double-edged sword,” lauding the recognition but acknowledging the pressures it brings.
Community-led initiatives focus on educating tourists about respecting the village environment, limiting vehicle congestion, and promoting local crafts and businesses that support sustainability.
Authorities encourage off-peak visits to reduce pressure and seek innovative transport solutions to maintain harmony between visitors and the close-knit village community.
Visiting Bibury: What to Expect
Visitors to Bibury can expect serene countryside walks, quaint tea rooms, artisanal shops, and photo opportunities at Arlington Row. The village embodies an authentic England countryside experience where time seems to slow down.
Visitors are advised to plan ahead, particularly in the peak summer months, to avoid crowded days and parking difficulties.
Quiet mornings and late afternoons offer the best chance to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty without large crowds. Bibury serves as an ideal day-trip destination from nearby cities such as Oxford, Bath, or London.
Conclusion
It is official: the world’s most beautiful village is in Britain. Bibury’s crowning by Forbes Magazine highlights not only the village’s spectacular natural and architectural beauty but also the challenges and responsibilities that come with fame.
Balancing tourism and preservation will be essential to ensure that Bibury remains a timeless gem, inspiring future generations with its charming blend of history, nature, and community spirit.
For anyone seeking the quintessential British countryside experience, Bibury is now indisputably the place to visit in 2025 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is the most beautiful village in the world located?
The most beautiful village is Bibury, located in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, England.
2. What makes Bibury the most beautiful village?
Its historic 17th-century sandstone cottages, the picturesque Arlington Row, and the gentle River Coln surrounded by natural beauty contribute to its charm.
3. How many people live in Bibury?
Bibury has approximately 600 residents but experiences up to 20,000 visitors during busy summer weekends.
4. What challenges does Bibury face as a result of increased tourism?
The village struggles with overtourism-related traffic congestion, parking shortages, and maintaining a balance between visitors and resident life.
5. Can visitors easily access Bibury year-round?
Yes, but visitors are advised to plan off-peak daytime visits to avoid crowds and traffic difficulties, especially during the summer season.
