Beautiful Bibury: A Walk Through England’s Most Picturesque Village

Behind Bibury’s picturesque stone cottages are hidden histories and fascinating tales waiting to be told. On this walking tour through the village’s ancient streets, you’ll find traces of the Celtic tribes, Roman settlers, medieval weavers, and even Japanese royalty who have left their mark. Starting and ending in the car park near Bibury Trout Farm, you’ll make your way through the village. You’ll wander past iconic landmarks like Arlington Row – the weavers’ cottages from the 1300s that Henry Ford tried (and failed) to relocate to America. You’ll see St Mary’s Church with its Norman architecture and mysterious sundials, and learn why Emperor Hirohito called his visit to this village “one of the happiest periods” of his life. Along the way, you’ll hear stories passed down through generations. You’ll also have an opportunity to see private historic properties like the Bibury Roman Villa and the Bibury Court gates, where you’ll gain insight into how this Cotswolds village evolved from an ancient Celtic settlement to a modern-day filming location for Stardust and Bridget Jones’ Diary. Highlights include: • Walking across the footbridge over the crystal-clear River Coln where the famous Boxing Day duck race attracts worldwide viewers • Standing before Arlington Row, the first example of terraced housing in England which is featured in British passports • Learning about the Roman villa discovered in 1880, complete with mosaics and hypocaust heating systems • Visiting the site where Shakespeare stayed in 1592 and went hawking with local gamekeeper Bill Peregrine • Discover the Catherine Wheel pub, built in the 1400s using timber beams from old sailing ships • Hear tales of Celtic goddess Cuda and the peaceful Dobunni tribe who first settled this valley This hour-long walking tour covers just over a mile through the village center, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Step into England’s most photographed village and uncover the remarkable stories that make Bibury far more than just a pretty face.

Price: £9.99 from VoiceMap