A family trip to Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the Cotswolds’ most picturesque villages, turned sour when they encountered groups of tourists eating food straight from saucepans and occupying every available patch of grass. Hoping for a peaceful day out soaking in the idyllic scenery, the family of eight from Middlesex left within 30 minutes due to the overwhelming crowds and disorder.
Karl Taylor, 58, who visited with relatives aged six to 60, described the experience as “truly awful.” After a 90-minute drive, they were dismayed to find the village green crowded with large groups picnicking and creating an untidy atmosphere. Some visitors brought their own food and even used saucepans as makeshift serving dishes, which Taylor found embarrassing in a place known for its English charm and heritage.
Expressing concern over the impact such behaviour has on both the village’s image and local businesses, Taylor wrote to the Bourton-on-the-Water parish council. He suggested that installing “Keep Off the Grass” signs could encourage tourists to support local cafes and shops rather than bringing their own food. He also called for improved waste management, clearer visitor guidelines, and better traffic control to help preserve the village’s character.
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The parish council responded by emphasizing that the village green is a legally protected public space, maintained for recreation and enjoyment by all. Sharon Henley, parish clerk, explained that while the council temporarily fences off the green during winter maintenance, it cannot lawfully restrict access by installing “Keep Off the Grass” signs. They acknowledged the village is especially busy on weekends and bank holidays and encouraged visitors seeking a quieter experience to come during less crowded times such as weekday mornings or late afternoons.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to balancing public access with preserving the village’s charm, noting that as long as visitors behave within the law and respect bylaws, their activities on the green cannot be limited. Meanwhile, Taylor hopes his feedback will spark ongoing discussions about sustainable tourism that protects Bourton-on-the-Water’s beauty and supports its community.