A TRAVEL GUIDE TO THE PETITE VILLAGE OF BIBURY
The Swan Hotel
Arlington Row
It’s quite likely that if you do a Google image search of ‘The Cotswolds’, a large swathe of the photos will have been taken in the bite-sized village of Bibury. Situated in the East of the Cotswolds region, close to the city of Cirencester, what Bibury lacks in size it more than makes up for in charm. It’s one of those places that hasn’t quite made it in to the modern world yet, with honey coloured stone buildings draped in ivy and a river winding through it’s heart, you’d be forgiven for feeling as if you’d stepped back in time.
Although most visitors arrive only to spend a few hours sightseeing, we decided we wanted more of a slow experience and chose to stay 2 nights in order to soak up the quiet mornings and evenings (once the day-trippers had retreated). Although having said that, by visiting in mid Winter we found we mostly had the place to ourselves at all hours, Summer must be a completely different experience. In fact, despite the threat of crowds we would still love to return and see the village covered in greenery.
WHERE TO STAY
As you can imagine from it’s teency size, there aren’t a huge variety of accommodation options within the Village itself.
The Swan Hotel - While the hotel has a range of rooms in it’s main building, we spent 2 nights in “The Trumpeter Cottage” just to the side of the hotel. A cosy two storey cottage with seperate lounge room and bath (the only thing we were missing was a real log fire).
Airbnb / self catering rentals - There are a few holiday rentals dotted around the area which might be a good option if you’d like to stay longer or are travelling in a group
Barnsley House Hotel - Located a quick 5minutes drive away this was actually our first choice for our trip, but they unfortunately didn’t have availability for our dates. Helpfully bus 855 runs between the two spots or it takes about 90mins to walk across the fields.
WHERE TO EAT
Catherine Wheel Pub - This feels like a true country pub, local’s drinking pints at the bar and dogs sleeping in front of the fire included. We were pleasantly surprised by the lunch we had there and would recommend the trout (you’ll quickly realise you can’t go far in this town without the mention of trout!)
Trout Farm - Catch and cook your own lunch here, or let someone else do the hard work instead
The Twig Cafe - Newly opened this is a friendly little spot for coffee and cake. Although there aren’t any tables, there is a standing bench to do some people watching while you refuel.
The Swan Hotel - We ate all our breakfasts and dinners at the hotel and found the food a bit hit and miss but the staff were friendly and efficient and the space is modern and welcoming. You can also book in an afternoon tea for a true
WHAT TO DO
Arlington Row - You can’t help but make a beeline for the most famous residents of Bibury. These 17th century weavers cottages are just as idyllic in real life as they seem in photographs and are in fact one of the most photographed places in the UK. Just remember to be respectful, these are still peoples homes.
Trout Farm - Aside from the obvious, theres also a small crazy golf course for the kids here. One for the families and fishermen.
St Marys Church - The Anglican Church of St Marys was built in the 11th century, although records show there has been a church there as early as 899 (!). Follow the curve of the river away from Arlington Row for a few minutes to visit.
Shopping - Stop by the Post Office opposite Arlington Row or the gift shop up next to The Twig cafe for a browse or to pick up a Bibury flavoured souvenir
Walks - No matter if you are looking for a stroll or a hike, there are some nice local walks around the area. During our stay we walked over to the nearby Village of Barnsley where we had a delicious lunch at The Village Pub (part of nearby Barnsley House Hotel which also has a restaurant and gardens to visit).
Arlington Row
Arlington Row
The Post Office
The Twig Cafe
The River Coln
A walk to Barnsley
GETTING THERE
The drive from London will take 1.5-2hours, from Oxford 40mins and 1 hour from Bath. The closest rail station is Kemble where direct trains from London Paddington run frequently and take just over an hour. From there it is around a 20minute drive to the centre of Bibury. Buses are available but few and far between so plan ahead, likewise taxis are best booked in advance. We can heartily recommend Steve from Coln Valley Cabs, he actually grew up and still lives in Bibury. We caught a ride with him 3 times and he was always friendly, organised and on time.
