Cotswolds village named UK's prettiest plunged into chaos as tourists descend

A picturesque Cotswolds village known for its quaint architecture and picture-postcard setting has been branded a "theme park" as crowds of tourists arrive for summer.

Locals in Bourton on the Water say visitors "come and never leave", with the 3,300 residents who call the village home reporting increased traffic as around 300,000 visitors descend every year. Some even claim its bustling tourism never really dies down, with the area still being busy in winter.

Affectionately known as the Venice of the Cotswolds visitors assemble on the bank of the River Windrush, flanked by five low footbridges, just a stone's throw from Bourton’s High Street. But the sheer number of people all hoping to experience a slice of Cotswold life cause carnage for locals.

A recent video shared on social media platform, TikTok, shows just how chaotic the village's centre can get. Filmed by @LukeTravelUK, the noise is loud as crowds of people huddle on the riverbank, while shops and pubs seem brimming with people.

One commenter said: "What theme park is this? Disney on the Water?"

Another added: "Gorgeous little Cotswold village until the hoards arrive." While another, who appears to be a local, continued: "The tourists never move out of the way, we have to drive really slow - they have no concept of danger, they treat it like a beach. But tourism is good for the economy and business." Another said: "It's way too busy, and still busy in the winter."

Others have questioned why this village in-particular appears to be so popular, with the Cotswolds itself being home to many beautiful hotspots. But it seems the charming atmosphere and unique honey-coloured stone cottages with a ton of shops, restaurants and tea rooms, keep people coming.

According to Bourton Info, the village has been regularly voted one of the prettiest in England. Close to the town, visitors can find the Greystones Farm, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife. The nature reserve is known to be the site of the Salmonbury Camp, which was once an important place during Neolithic and Iron Age periods and a Scheduled Monument.

Walking trails, delicious gastronomy, museums, and a brewery, the gorgeous Cotswolds village is suitable for all ages and preferences. However, its popularity in recent years has led to some locals expressing their frustration as some areas have become "overcrowded".

The issue has seen a lack of parking for residents, coupled with the influx of more cars on the road making traffic hell for all. Bourton Parish Councillor Jon Wareing last year branded the village "free-for-all chaos" as he claimed coaches laden with tourists would storm into the area, adding to the busy vibe.

As a result, a now coach-ban plan has been tabled - but has received mixed reactions from businesses who fear it could impact trade in the village. Others are worried about exhaust fumes from coaches who "do not turn off their engines" as they drop off and wait for their passengers to come back.

Currently, a trial drop-off zone within the village has been created for a six month period between 9am and 4pm, with a longer-term solution earmarked for another site. However, this is yet to be confirmed.