Bourton-on-the-Water, affectionately known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, is grappling with a surge in visitors that many locals say has reached an intolerable level. At a packed meeting held at the Baptist Church on Station Road on November 27, nearly 100 residents voiced growing concerns about the overwhelming impact of overtourism on their charming village.
Representatives from Gloucestershire County Council, Cotswold District Council, and the parish council attended the event to listen and consider residents’ feedback, aiming to develop solutions that balance tourism with the village’s sustainability.
Organised by Bourton Residents’ Voice, the meeting made clear that locals are not against tourism itself but seek a manageable flow that preserves the village’s character and quality of life.
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Ben Lunnon-Wood, a group member, posed a critical question: “Is this surge in tourism a passing phase, or have we hit a new peak in 2025?” His query struck a chord with attendees, many of whom shared personal experiences highlighting how much busier the village has become.
A lifelong resident recalled that while tourists have always visited Bourton, it was never as crowded as it is now. “From March to October, you can hardly move. I avoid the village during those months,” she said. She also noted how the quieter period during the coronavirus pandemic was a rare blessing, allowing residents to enjoy the village’s beauty without crowds.
Another local, living in Bourton for 30 years, described the near impossibility of walking along village footpaths due to crowds spilling onto roads, putting pedestrians’ safety at risk. He also raised concerns about coaches causing traffic chaos by dropping off tourists haphazardly and blocking roads.
A newer resident echoed the sentiment, remarking on the sharp decline in visitor experience over recent summers. “I’ve seen many tourists leave looking frustrated and disillusioned,” he said, highlighting how overcrowding could ultimately harm the village’s appeal.
A resident near a longstanding bed and breakfast shared that even regular visitors are reconsidering return trips due to the village’s current state. Mr. Lunnon-Wood described similar encounters during his runs, reporting that visitors consistently express a desire for a quieter, more relaxing visit.
“It seems we’ve reached a breaking point this summer,” he concluded.
Bourton Residents’ Voice encourages those concerned about tourism levels to reach out via [email protected] to join the conversation and help shape the village’s sustainable future.