15 Things to do in Bibury, Cotswolds: Don’t miss Number 4!

Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by Lauren Allen

On the hunt for the best things to do in Bibury? Then you’ve come to the right place! 

As one of the most picture-perfect villages in the whole of England, its lovely Cotswolds charm brings in thousands of visitors each year. However, with so many amazing things to do in the area, it can be hard to know how to spend your time. 

That’s where I come in! Having explored this beautiful English region on a Cotswolds road trip, Bibury was one of the first places I visited.

I fell in love with the historic stone cottages, traditional pubs and unique vibes of this stunning Cotswolds village. In fact, I’d go back to Bibury again and again!

From admiring one of the prettiest streets in the country to sending a postcard from their Grade 2 listed post office, it’s a place worth visiting in this area of outstanding natural beauty. 

This guide to visiting Bibury will cover the top things to see and do, where to eat, where to stay and much more. I’ll even cover nearby villages to add to your Cotswolds bucket list.

By the end of this post, you’ll be fully clued up on how to make the most out of your trip to the village. Let’s dive right in!

Free things to do in Bibury

1 | Go for a stroll down the picturesque Arlington Row

One of the best things to do in the Cotswolds is to take a stroll down Arlington Row. In fact, world-famous textile designer William Morris dubbed Bibury “the most beautiful village in England” and shared his love for Arlington Row.

Since then, this spot has been one of the most popular locations for tourists to visit in the Cotswolds. As a textile designer myself, the influence that William Morris left on the Cotswolds interests me greatly.

Additionally, I totally agree that Bibury is indeed one of the most delightful places to visit in the whole country! I loved it so much that I took over 50 photos in a very short space of time.

How old is Arlington Row?

Arlington Row dates back to the 1380s when the picturesque houses were built. Back then, the houses played a large part in the wool trade as they were constructed as wool stores. Three centuries later, they were repurposed into homes for weavers.

Nowadays, Arlington Row is a residential street. However, travellers also have the opportunity to stay at number 9 (more on that later). The cottage has been left tenant-free which offers tourists the chance to book an overnight stay.

2 | Get up close and personal with Arlington Mill

A short stroll away, Alington Mill is a historic building dating back to the 17th century. It’s a testament to the region’s industrial past and the textile trade in Bibury. Back in the day, it was a working mill producing wool and corn.

Nowadays, it’s a holiday cottage that travellers from across the globe can rent out as they enjoy a Cotswolds road trip. Although it’s not cheap (typically around £3000 or more for a week), it can sleep up to 12 people.

If you’re on a getaway with a large group of people, it’s the perfect place to stay! However, solo adventurers and couples may want to give it a miss due to the high price tag. 

Regardless of whether or not you stay there, stopping by to admire Arlington Mill is one of the top things to do in Bibury.

3 | Wander along the River Coln

Running through the centre of Bibury, the River Coln is worth checking out. If you’ve been treated to nice weather in the village, walking along the river is a lovely way to pass some time.

Plus, you may even see swans and ducks swimming down the river. How cute is that?

The views from the other side of the river also boast amazing views of Arlington Row. It’s a lovely viewpoint to snap yet more photos that show off the traditional English charm of this beautiful village. 

4 | Check out the Rack Isle

If you’re wondering what to do in Bibury, one place you can’t miss is the Rack Isle! Nestled between Arlington Row and the River Coln, this National Trust nature reserve is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. 

Known for its serene beauty and stunning landscapes, you’ll discover cute creatures such as robins and frogs. It’s also full of lush greenery, including willow trees and various wildflowers, all set against the stunning backdrop of the calming river.

Rach Isle is an ideal spot to pause, appreciate nature’s beauty and take a moment to soak in the Cotswolds’ peaceful vibes. It offers a calming escape away from the crowds that descend upon the area each day. 

If you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet as you explore Bibury’s top attractions, make sure you check it out.

5 | Visit St Mary’s Church

St Mary’s Church is a picturesque treasure nestled within the captivating village of Bibury. As a Grade 1 listed building that dates back to the 12th century, it’s worth visiting to discover more about the history of this popular Cotswolds village. 

With an iconic spire that can be seen from various points in the village, this ancient church boasts a unique blend of architectural styles, showcasing its evolution throughout time. 

The church’s exterior is built with Cotswold stone, something you’ll see a lot of throughout the region. As you reach St. Mary’s, you’ll be captivated by a timeless beauty that leaves you in awe. 

As you step inside, you’ll find stunning stained glass windows, ornated carvings and impressive woodwork. It truly is a work of art!

6 | Go for a walk

Another thing to do in Bibury is to simply just go for a walk. During your wander around the village, you’ll pass by many charming buildings surrounded by nature. Make sure you take your camera!

In addition to a stroll around the village, there are other stunning walks to go on in Bibury.

For example, travellers who fancy a hike can walk the Coln Saint Aldwyn and Bibury Circular. The walk is considered easy and you’ll be treated to fantastic views of the English countryside.

Top tip: This walk can get muddy, especially in wet weather. Make sure you come prepared with wellies and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty!

If you’re looking for something a little easier, the Bibury circular walk around the village takes you to many of the most photogenic spots (including Arlington Row). Click here to download the map for this walk through the Local Walks App.​​​​​​​

7 | Go on an Instagram mission

There are many amazing Instagram spots in the Cotswolds. Bibury is no different. If you’re looking for some lovely snaps to post on your feed, there is a wealth of photo opportunities in Bibury! Some of my favourites are: 

Arlington Row 

It goes without saying that Arlington Row is a fab photo spot. These beautiful homes were built centuries ago meaning photography lovers (and Instagram addicts) will be in their element!

However, please remember that Arlington Row is a residential street. As such, please be respectful and respect the tenants’ privacy.

The Swan Hotel

Not only is it a great place to stay (or eat), but The Swan Hotel also makes a lovely backdrop for photos. Its stunning ivy-covered exterior just screams English charm and will look fab on your Instagram feed! 

Awkward Hill

Located at the top of Arlington Row, Awkward Hill is another great photo spot in Bibury. Thanks to the charming buildings that Bibury is known for, you’re bound to get some beautiful snaps here. 

Top attractions to visit in Bibury, Cotswolds

7 | Explore Bibury trout farm

One of the most visited Bibury attractions is the trout farm. As one of the oldest in the country, it’s worth visiting if you have an interest in fish.

It’s also a lovely spot for nature lovers as the farm is located on well-maintained grounds surrounded by greenery and blooms.

If you’re in the area on a sunny day, picnicking next to the river is a fab way to enjoy your lunch at Bibury Trout Farm. As you fuel up surrounded by beautiful scenery, you can truly take in the charm of this stunning English region.

If you enjoy fish dishes, you may want to skip the picnic and eat on-site instead. The cafe serves up its famous trout in addition to other meals made with locally sourced ingredients. 

Lastly, the trout farm also gives you the opportunity to catch your own fish to take home with you. If you like cooking up a storm in the kitchen, this is for you! 

Top tip: Visitors to Bibury have complained about their parking experience at the trout farm. If possible, I recommend finding a parking spot on the main street. That way, you shouldn’t have any issues.

8 | Send a postcard from Bibury Post Office

Fancy sending a postcard from one of the prettiest villages in England? Then Bibury is the place to be!

The local post office is a Grade 2 listed building located on the main street of the village. It’s worth visiting just to admire its charm, even if you don’t want to send a postcard.

A quick note: Bibury Post Office is currently closed while building work takes place. However, you can still check out the exterior.

9 | Explore the beauty of Chedworth Roman Villa

Situated a 20-minute drive from the village of Bibury, Chedworth Roman Villa is a well-loved National Trust attraction.

Surrounded by picture-perfect Cotswolds views, this extraordinary historical site showcases the unique Roman past in England.

The well-preserved villa offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ancient Romans, showcasing their culture and way of life. It’s one of the largest and most impressive Roman villas in the whole country making it well worth visiting. 

During your visit, you can admire the impressive mosaic floors, visit the bathhouses and learn more about its history at the museum. Beyond the mosaics and bathhouses, Chedworth Roman Villa features a series of well-preserved rooms. 

You’ll enjoy a look into the villa’s layout and purpose. From the dining room to the living quarters adorned with decorative elements, the villa paints a vivid picture of Roman life in Britain.

Whether you’re into history, craftsmanship or impressive architecture, there’s bound to be something that interests you here. 

Before you leave, make sure you factor in some time to wander around the grounds and snap some photos of the scenery. Trust me, you will not be disappointed!

10 | Experience a traditional Bibury afternoon tea

One of the most popular things to do in the Cotswolds is enjoy afternoon tea. This has long been a tradition in England allowing locals and tourists alike to enjoy finger sandwiches, cakes, scones and hot drinks. 

Indulging in this quintessentially British experience allows you to get a real feel for local culture as you take in the charm of the Cotswolds. 

This delightful tradition will see you enjoy the warm embrace of Cotswolds’ hospitality in some of the most iconic destinations. 

Since the William Morris Tea Rooms closed down, The Swan is the only place to get afternoon tea in Bibury. However, it’s a lovely place to grab a bite to eat and fuel up after a morning of exploration. 

In addition to a classic afternoon tea, they also offer cream teas which include a hot drink and some tasty scones. 

11 | Enjoy a picnic along the river

If you’d fancy lunch by the river, grabbing essentials for a picnic is a must-do if you’re visiting the Cotswolds in summer. You can easily rustle up your own sandwiches, snacks and drinks then bring them along with you. 

Picnicking next to the River Coln in the Cotswolds is a delightful way to take in the beauty of your surroundings. The gentle flow of the river, lush greenery and relaxed vibes create the perfect backdrop for a memorable outdoor meal. Don’t forget your picnic blanket! 

12 | Join a guided tour of The Cotswolds

If you want to explore the Cotswolds without a car, joining a guided tour is a great option! It allows you to discover the region without the hassle of relying on public transport.

If you’re travelling alone, it’s also a fab way to meet like-minded people. 

This guided adventure from London takes you on a whistle-stop tour of the Cotswolds. As well as stopping in Bibury, you’ll explore Stow on the Wold, Burford and Bourton on the Water. 

Although you won’t have much time to take a deep dive into either village, you can certainly see the highlights of each destination during this fab day trip.

In my opinion, it’s nowhere near enough time in the Cotswolds, but if it’s all you can do, grab the opportunity with both hands! 

13 | Discover Cotswolds Wildlife Park and Gardens

A short 20-minute drive from Bibury, you’ll find Cotswolds Wildlife Park and Gardens. Home to many animals including giraffes, zebras and lemurs, it’s a must-see for animal lovers. 

As well as the animals, you can also admire beautiful plants, flowers and foliage scattered around the park. 

To truly appreciate everything that this attraction has to offer, aim to spend at least four hours there. Parking is free for visitors and there are plenty of facilities on-site including toilets, restaurants and a gift shop. 

14 | Hit up nearby towns and villages

If you’re not on a guided tour and therefore have more time to discover the local area, there are many lovely places to visit near Bibury.

For example, Castle Combe is another popular destination in the region. Despite it being an hour away from Bibury by car, it’s well worth the journey. 

Other options include Tetbury, Chipping Norton, Broadway and Cirencester. 

15 | Stay overnight on Arlington Row

Fancy living like a local? Then book a stay at Number 9 Arlington Row. As one of the oldest buildings in the Cotswolds, this unique holiday home boasts English charm and a cosy stay on one of the country’s most beautiful streets. 

Its modern yet traditional decor offers a lovely environment to relax in after a busy day of sightseeing. With wooden beams and stone fixtures, it’s without a doubt one of the prettiest places to stay in Bibury.

Staying in the heart of Bibury means you’ll have the chance to admire (and photograph) the street without heaps of tourists crowding your view. However, you will still need to wake up early to take advantage of that!

How to get to Bibury, Cotswolds

Figuring out how to get to Bibury will highly depend on where you are travelling from. While it will be much easier to travel by car, there are options if you’re only able to use public transport. Just be prepared for longer journeys. 

Regardless, here are the best ways to travel to Bibury in the Cotswolds: 

The closest airport to Bibury, United Kingdom

The closest airport to Bibury Village is Birmingham International Airport. From there, it’s a 90-minute drive to get to the village.

You can also travel via public transport, but this typically takes 3 – 4 hours depending on your rote. 

Getting to Bibury by car

The best way to get around in the Cotswolds is to drive. This is due to the limited public transport links in the area.

Driving allows visitors to stop off at as many Cotswolds villages as they wish without relying on buses and trains.

Where to park in Bibury

There are limited free parking spots in Bibury that can be found along the main street and within a small car park. However, they get nabbed up pretty quickly due to the small number of spaces.

Due to this, I recommend getting to Bibury as early as possible. That way you can beat the crowds to secure a spot.

Although you can park at Bibury Trout Farm car park, I’d personally avoid this option (unless you’ll be visiting the farm).

Many people complain of £100 fines after having trouble with Ardpark. It’s not worth the hassle!

How to get to Bibury via public transport 

Although exploring the region is best done by car, it is possible to travel to the Cotswolds via public transport.

The closest train station to Bibury is Kemble. From there, travellers can book a taxi to get to Bibury. The taxi ride from Kemble Train Station to Bibury typically takes around 25 minutes to half an hour. 

Places to eat in Bibury

If you’re deciding where to eat in Bibury, consider checking out these popular spots: 

Dine at The Swan Brasserie

Perhaps the best place to eat in Bibury, The Swan Brasserie is located in the heart of the village. Here you can enjoy a delicious meal in a tastefully decorated setting.

This well-loved brasserie serves a range of dishes such as chicken breast, baked trout and haddock. They also cater to vegans and vegetarians with their pea ravioli.

However, it’s worth noting that with a limited menu, there aren’t many options if you have dietary requirements. 

If you’re in Bibury on a Sunday, they also serve up a traditional Sunday lunch. Main meals come complete with Yorkshire puddings, veggies, roast potatoes, cauliflower cheese and gravy – yum! 

Fancy a sweet treat? Then you’re in luck! They serve a variety of delicious desserts including caramel tarts, eton mess and cheese boards.

As I’ve already mentioned, you can also enjoy an afternoon tea if you’re looking to partake in this English tradition. 

Enjoy a traditional British meal at The Catherine Wheel

As one of the best pubs in Bibury, The Catherine Wheel is highly rated amongst travellers and locals. As well as serving alcohol, they offer a menu full of delicious food.

If nothing at The Swan takes your fancy, The Catherine Wheel has a much bigger menu.

You can enjoy dishes such as pizza, baguettes, fish and chips, braised beef and many more. However, it’s worth noting that their menu changes daily based on local suppliers. 

This popular Bibury pub is well-loved for its cosy vibes, friendly atmosphere and great service. If you’re looking for somewhere to eat in the village, it’s a strong contender! 

Places to stay in Bibury 

If you don’t want to stay at Number 9 Arlington Row, don’t fret! There are quite a few B&Bs, holiday rentals and hotels in Bibury, such as: 

The Swan

Located right in the centre of Bibury, The Swan is minutes away from the ever-popular trout farm and Arlington Row. This four-star hotel is situated in the heart of the village and offers a luxurious stay in one of the Cotswolds’ most popular villages.

Furthermore, it’s beautifully decorated and boasts friendly staff that are happy to assist with any questions. Lastly, its on-site brasserie is one of the best places to eat in the Bibury.

Sycamore Arlington House

If you’d prefer to stay in a gorgeous holiday home, consider a stay at Sycamore Arlington House. Situated a 5-minute walk from the main street in Bibury, this offers both convenience and privacy.

The beautiful home has a lounge area, one bedroom, a bathroom and a kitchen with everything you need to cook your own yummy meals.

Additionally, it boasts private parking, a TV and free wifi. This makes it ideal if you are looking for a stay that feels more homely than a hotel!

Bothy Holiday Home, Bibury

If you’re looking for a stylish stay in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bothy Holiday Home is a great option! Situated a stone’s throw away from the main attractions in Bibury, you can easily explore the village before the crowds roll in. 

With everything you need under one roof, you can enjoy Cotswolds living (even if it’s just for a few days). Bothy comes equipped with everything you need to cook up a storm, despite the small kitchen. 

It also has a lovely lounge area, a cosy bedroom and a modern bathroom with everything you could ever need. If you’re a solo traveller or a pair, this is a fab place to stay on your Cotswolds getaway. 

Swallows Nest holiday cottage in Bibury

If you’re looking for a modern yet charming cottage in the middle of the Cotswolds, book a stay at Swallows Nest. Surrounded by flowers and greenery, it’s the perfect place to retreat after a busy day of sightseeing. 

Boasting a large kitchen, comfy sofa, beautiful bathroom and classic bedroom, you have everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.

For all you digital nomads or workaholics out there, there’s even a workspace if you need some laptop time. 

When it’s time to relax, take a seat outside to enjoy a glass of wine surrounded by nature. 

If you’re visiting Bibury in winter, there’s even a log fire to keep you nice and toasty! What more could you want?

Tips for visiting Bibury

As one of the most popular villages to visit in the Cotswolds, there are a few things to keep in mind while exploring Bibury: 

Visit in the morning 

If you want to discover the best places to visit in Bibury without the crowds, you should aim to visit first thing in the morning.

As the day progresses, Bibury gets considerably busier making it difficult to avoid heaps of tourists. 

Wear comfy shoes 

The Cotswolds are full of charming cobbled stoned streets. You will also be doing a whole lot of walking in the local area. As such, you should wear comfy shoes.

Don’t do what I did and wear heeled boots (even though they look good in photos ha). 

If you’re spending a day in this area of outstanding natural beauty, there are many great walking trails. This means walking shoes, trainers or any other super comfy shoes are ideal for your trip to the Cotswolds. 

I recently discovered UIN Footwear and after wearing their shoes on many of my travels recently, I can’t recommend them enough!

Although some of the designs are not to my taste, you can find some lovely little shoes. They’re also ideal if you know you’ll be wracking up a lot of steps. 

I recently spent a day in Rotterdam and walked approximately 25,000 steps. My feet didn’t ache at all! If that’s not the ultimate comfort, I don’t know what is.

Carry your camera

As one of the most picture-perfect places in England, it would be a mistake to travel to the Cotswolds without a camera (or a smartphone).

Before your visit, make sure you charge your devices and come prepared. Carry extra memory cards, batteries and a portable charger just in case then you’re good to go! 

Pack a change of clothes

If you want to go on a stroll through the countryside, it’s best to pack a change of clothes. That way you can change into something fresh if you happen to get covered in mud. 

Be respectful

Many of the buildings in Bibury are residential homes. They may be used to tourists, but please don’t disrespect them by peeking into their windows or being intrusive. 

How long to spend in Bibury?

Wondering how much time you need to visit Bibury? This will vary greatly depending on personal interests, attractions you wish to visit and your pace of travel.

Bibury is a small village, and many visitors find that a few hours is enough to explore its key attractions and soak in its English charm.

However, you may want to extend your visit to fully appreciate the ambience and check out additional points of interest. 

If you’re mainly interested in seeing the iconic Arlington Row, taking a leisurely stroll along the river and snapping some photos, a couple of hours will be enough. This allows you to experience the village’s highlights without feeling rushed.

However, if you’d prefer to discover the village more in-depth and visit some Bibury attractions, you will need around half a day. This is especially true if you’ll be grabbing lunch in the village. 

If you fancy taking longer walks in the surrounding countryside, discovering more about Bibury’s history and visiting nearby villages, you should plan to spend a whole day in the local area. 

Can you visit Bibury on a day trip?

Absolutely, embarking on a day trip to Bibury is a wonderful way to experience the true essence of the Cotswolds’ natural beauty and historic charm.

Nestled within the rolling hills of the English countryside, Bibury is a stunning village that showcases the timeless allure of the region.

If you’re travelling to the Cotswolds from London, it’s best to travel to Bibury by car. Simply because this allows you to easily explore more of the Cotswolds on your day trip. This journey takes around 2.5 hours depending on where you’re travelling from in London.

Travelling by public transport is also possible. If you want to do the latter, the closest train station is Kemble. From there, you can jump in a taxi to Bibury village. If you’re travelling from London Paddington, this entire journey will take around 1 hour and 45 minutes. 

Although it’s quicker to travel by train from London, public transport to other villages in the Cotswolds can be sparse. If you have your own wheels, you’ll find it much easier to explore further afield. 

Bibury is also not too far from Oxford or Bath. The drive from Oxford takes just 50 minutes, whilst the journey from Bath takes 75 minutes.

If you can, it’s worth staying overnight in the Cotswolds. That way you can spend more time in this area of outstanding beauty and avoid spending most of your day on the road (or rails).

Places to visit near Bibury

Cirencester

Known as the capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester is one of the best places to stay due to its central location. It’s situated a short 15-minute drive from Bibury, making it a convenient stop on your Cotswolds itinerary. 

Furthermore, it is also a great place to visit in the area. Some of the best things to do in Cirencester include admiring the church of St John the Baptist, visiting the Corinium Museum and exploring beautiful parks.

Stroud

Situated approximately 35 minutes from Bibury, Stroud is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds. This is especially true if you enjoy shopping at indie stores and hunting for antique treasures. 

Due to this, the market town (located in Gloucestershire) is totally worth checking out. Once you’re done shopping, you can visit the farmers’ markets or take a walk along the Stroudwater Canal.

If you’d prefer to visit museums, the Museum in the Park is one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds. 

Painswick

Just 10 minutes away from Stroud by car, Painswick is another town worth adding to your England bucket list.

Whilst there, spend some time in the beautiful Rocco Gardens. This wonderfully unique park was designed many years ago in the 1740s.

Nowadays, travellers can enjoy incredible views of the Cotswolds countryside whilst exploring the picturesque gardens. Ticket prices range based on full-price admissions, concessions or group tickets.

Alternatively, you could check out St Mary’s church, wander the charming streets of Painswick or visit the Ashton Beer Collection. It’s a popular museum that showcases work focusing on the arts and crafts movement. It’s well worth visiting if you are interested in art and design (like me).

FAQs about visiting Bibury, Gloucestershire

Conclusion

With so many amazing things to see in Bibury, you could easily spend a day or two in this charming Cotswolds village. From the ever-popular Arlington Row to the many beautiful walks nearby, there is plenty to keep you occupied! 

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover or simply seeking a serene escape, Bibury has got you covered. If you’re anything like me, you’ll fall in love as soon as you arrive. 

Have I missed anything off this list of things to do in Bibury? Feel free to let me know.

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