Arlington Row Bibury
Iconic 17th-century weavers' cottages in a fairytale Cotswolds village, a must-see for its timeless beauty and charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, capture best light
Arlington Row Bibury
Best Time
Avoid crowds, capture best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 17th-century weavers' cottages in a fairytale Cotswolds village, a must-see for its timeless beauty and charm.
"William Morris called it 'the most beautiful village in England' – and it's easy to see why!"
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Shot
Visit at dawn for crowd-free photos and magical light. :camerawithflash:
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Paid parking is available, or try free spots further out. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arlington Row Cottages
Bibury
Iconic 17th-century weavers' cottages, a fairytale scene straight out of a storybook. The most photographed spot in Bibury.
Bibury Trout Farm
Adjacent to Arlington Row
England's oldest working trout farm, offering fishing, a gift shop, and a restaurant.
River Coln Stroll
Bibury village
A peaceful walk along the River Coln, offering charming views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Photos
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Shot
Visit at dawn for crowd-free photos and magical light.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Paid parking is available, or try free spots further out. :car:
🚶♀️ Wander Beyond the Row
Explore the charming village and river for a fuller experience.
🎣 Trout Farm Fun
Consider fishing and dining at the historic trout farm. :fishing_pole:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Shot
Visit at dawn for crowd-free photos and magical light.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Paid parking is available, or try free spots further out. :car:
🚶♀️ Wander Beyond the Row
Explore the charming village and river for a fuller experience.
🎣 Trout Farm Fun
Consider fishing and dining at the historic trout farm. :fishing_pole:
☁️ Check the Weather
Blue skies enhance the picturesque scenery. :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Arlington Row is widely praised for its breathtaking beauty and fairytale charm, often called the most beautiful village in England. Visitors love the picturesque cottages, peaceful river walks, and the unique experience of the trout farm. However, the popularity leads to significant crowds and parking challenges, which can detract from the serene atmosphere for some.
"Arlington Row has become a rather popular tourist destination in the Cotswolds, resulting in difficulties finding parking and large groups of visitors. That said, it is a delightful area and well worth the visit, as William Morris once said it is ‘the most beautiful village in the country’. There is a short walk available past the houses that takes you to the oldest working trout farm in the country with a quaint gift shop and delightful restaurant. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended if you want to avoid the larger groups"
Martyn Puttock
"Have been to Arlington Row multiple times, and it never disappoints. It’s such a beautiful and peaceful place, with postcard-perfect scenery every time. We love walking around the area - the river nearby, the charming cottages, and the surrounding village make it feel like something out of a storybook.
It’s the kind of place where you can just stroll and take in the views, then relax with a drink at one of the nearby pubs or restaurants. A truly picturesque spot we keep coming back to."
Highway Video
"A lovely little cottage with gorgeous exterior design. I reckon it's the fact that they are all joined up which makes the houses so appealling. Do note that car park fee at the attraction is £10 per day. I parked in a village 2miles away so mine was free."
Kin Shing Huo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arlington Row is located in the village of Bibury, Gloucestershire. The easiest way to reach it is by car, with Sat Nav directing you to Bibury. Public transport options are limited; you may need to combine bus services with a taxi or a longer walk.
Yes, Arlington Row is the most famous landmark in Bibury and is well-signposted within the village. It's hard to miss once you're in Bibury.
While possible, it's not the most convenient. You'd typically need to take a train to a nearby town like Kemble or Cheltenham, then a bus service to Bibury. Check local bus timetables as services can be infrequent.
Bibury is a small village best explored on foot. Once you've parked, walking is the ideal way to see Arlington Row and the surrounding areas.
The drive through the Cotswolds to Bibury itself is very scenic. Enjoy the rolling hills and charming villages on your way to Arlington Row.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Arlington Row itself is a public street and you do not need tickets to view or walk past the cottages. Access to the cottages is private.
Arlington Row is accessible at any time of day as it's a public area. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and photography.
There is no entrance fee to see Arlington Row. The cottages are privately owned, but the street is open to the public.
No, the cottages are private residences and not open to the public for tours. Please be respectful of the residents' privacy.
The National Trust owns and manages Arlington Row, ensuring its preservation. While you can't enter, they maintain the iconic facade and surrounding area.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
There are no official restrictions on photography for personal use. However, remember that these are private homes, so be mindful and respectful.
The uniform, honey-colored stone cottages with their distinctive steep roofs and small windows create a unique, fairytale-like aesthetic that is incredibly picturesque.
Drone usage may be restricted due to privacy concerns and proximity to residences. It's best to check local regulations and be extremely cautious if considering drone photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full row of cottages. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Catherine Wheel is a popular pub offering traditional English food. The Bibury Trout Farm also has a restaurant. For more options, consider nearby villages.
Yes, Bibury has a few charming cafes, including The Catherine Wheel which serves breakfast and other meals.
While there aren't designated picnic areas right by the cottages, you can find spots along the River Coln to enjoy a picnic.
You'll find classic British pub fare, including fish and chips, pies, and Sunday roasts. The trout farm offers fresh trout dishes.
Dining in Bibury can be moderately priced, typical for popular tourist spots in the Cotswolds. Pub meals offer good value.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can see and photograph Arlington Row in about 15-30 minutes. However, to fully enjoy the village, river walk, and trout farm, allow 2-3 hours.
Absolutely! Bibury is a perfect destination for a day trip from London or other Cotswolds towns, offering a quintessential English village experience.
Explore the River Coln, visit the Bibury Trout Farm, and wander through the rest of the charming village.
Yes, Bibury is very walkable. The main attractions, including Arlington Row and the trout farm, are all within easy walking distance of each other.
Take your time, stroll along the river, admire the cottages, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Consider visiting the trout farm for a unique experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking can be a challenge, so be prepared for a short walk. Strollers are manageable on the main paths, but some areas might be uneven. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, making it a good spot for a relaxed family outing, especially if you visit outside peak hours.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
A wide-angle lens is recommended to fit the entire row into your frame, but a standard zoom can also capture charming details. Be prepared for crowds, especially during midday. Visiting on a weekday and outside of peak season will significantly improve your chances of getting unobstructed shots. Remember to be respectful of the private residences while you capture your perfect image.
🚶♀️ Slow Travelers & Amblers
The Bibury Trout Farm offers a unique, unhurried activity. To truly savor the experience, aim for an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the midday rush. This allows you to appreciate the quiet charm of Arlington Row and the surrounding village without feeling hurried. Consider staying overnight in a nearby Cotswolds village to enjoy Bibury at its most peaceful.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Arlington Row
+1Today, Arlington Row is one of the most photographed spots in the Cotswolds, drawing visitors from around the globe. While the cottages are private residences and not open to the public, their exterior beauty is a major draw. The National Trust now owns and cares for Arlington Row, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to admire the cottages from the street, respecting the privacy of the residents.
To truly appreciate the magic of Arlington Row, it's recommended to visit during the quieter hours of the day. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience, allowing you to capture stunning photographs without the hustle and bustle of peak crowds. The soft light during these times enhances the cottages' charm and the overall fairytale atmosphere.
Exploring Bibury Village and Beyond
A significant attraction adjacent to Arlington Row is the Bibury Trout Farm, established in 1902 and recognized as England's oldest working trout farm. Here, visitors can learn about trout farming, try their hand at fishing, and enjoy a meal at the farm's restaurant, which often features its own fresh catch. It's a unique experience that adds another dimension to a visit to Bibury.
For those looking to extend their stay or explore further, Bibury serves as an excellent base for discovering other Cotswolds gems. However, many visitors find that a few hours are sufficient to soak in the primary sights of Bibury itself, making it an ideal destination for a day trip.
Practicalities: Parking and Visiting
When planning your visit, consider the time of day and day of the week. Weekends and peak tourist seasons can lead to significant crowds, impacting the peaceful atmosphere and making photography more challenging. Early mornings or late afternoons are consistently recommended by visitors for a more enjoyable and less crowded experience.
While Bibury is a small village, it's worth checking the weather forecast before you go. Clear, sunny days with blue skies and white clouds significantly enhance the picturesque beauty of the cottages and the surrounding landscape, making for more memorable photos and a more pleasant visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit