Overtourism in the “Venice of the Cotswolds”: Bourton-on-the-Water Struggles to Maintain its Charm Amid the Crowds

Published on December 6, 2025

Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. The village, known for its charming honey-coloured stone bridges, meandering waterways, and picturesque chocolate-box houses, was once a peaceful place, with narrow streets lined with history and tradition. However, with the rapid increase in tourism over the last few years, the idyllic haven is now under strain, and its residents are expressing concerns about the problems of overtourism.

The Rise of Overtourism: A Beauty Spot Overrun

Bourton-on-the- Water’s transformation from a quiet village into a bustling tourist hub has been both swift and dramatic. The village’s stunning natural beauty and quaint ambiance, coupled with its close proximity to popular tourist routes, have made it a major attraction for visitors. The appeal of this picturesque village lies in its serene setting—five sparkling waterways crisscrossing the area, each bridge adding to the charm of this beloved English spot.

Once a hidden gem, Bourton-on-the-Water now attracts thousands of tourists annually, turning it into a tourist magnet during the peak months from March to October. The village’s population, which hovers at under 100 residents, has struggled to cope with the surge in visitors, leading to growing frustrations among locals. The sheer volume of tourists has led to overcrowding, with roads blocked, pathways obstructed, and the once serene atmosphere now marred by the noise and bustle of constant foot traffic.

The Impact on Daily Life for Residents

Local council leaders from Gloucestershire, Cotswold District Council, and the parish council recognized the escalating problem and convened a public meeting at a nearby church to address residents’ concerns. The overwhelming consensus among the village’s residents is that they can no longer enjoy their once tranquil home.

The disruptions caused by the influx of tourists have left many locals unable to carry out their daily routines. For many, the village’s streets, once quiet and contemplative, have become nearly impassable during the summer months. Residents described their difficulty navigating the streets, with coaches packed full of visitors frequently blocking roads, causing congestion, and creating safety hazards. Some locals expressed their frustration at the fact that they were unable to even go out for a walk without encountering crowds of tourists, making the village feel like a theme park rather than a residential community.

The Strain on Local Infrastructure

The once peaceful charm of Bourton-on-the-Water has been overshadowed by the growing number of coaches dropping off tourists at all hours of the day. This surge in coach tourism has had a significant impact on local infrastructure. Streets that were never designed to accommodate large vehicles are often choked with traffic, causing delays, accidents, and an overall sense of disarray.

Residents have reported their frustration with the lack of adequate infrastructure to cope with the increasing number of visitors. With narrow roads and limited parking spaces, the village’s infrastructure is simply not built to handle the demands of overtourism. Locals noted how the village’s roads, which were once quiet, now feel cramped and inaccessible, especially during peak tourist seasons. The situation has reached a point where it has become increasingly difficult to distinguish between the locals and the visitors who flock to the village daily.

Disillusioned Tourists: Not the Experience They Hoped For

Interestingly, it’s not just the residents who are feeling the strain. According to some residents, tourists themselves have become disillusioned with the reality of their visit. They are increasingly finding that the quintessential English village experience they expected is no longer possible amid the crowds. It’s been reported that some tourists, who had visited in search of peaceful surroundings, have been disappointed by the level of congestion and lack of tranquility. The experience that once attracted them to Bourton-on-the-Water has been diluted by the overcrowding.

Local groups, such as the Bourton Residents’ Group, have noted that many tourists have expressed frustration at the lack of space and the overwhelming crowds. Despite being in one of the most picturesque settings in England, the village no longer offers the solitude and serenity that many visitors come seeking. Instead, they are left battling through throngs of people to catch a glimpse of the village’s signature landmarks. It has become evident that Bourton-on-the-Water’s popularity is now a double-edged sword, attracting crowds but leaving both residents and tourists dissatisfied.

The Need for Sustainable Tourism in the Cotswolds

The situation in Bourton-on-the-Water is a poignant reminder of the growing issue of overtourism in the UK and around the world. While tourism can be an economic boon, it can also place an immense strain on small, rural communities that were not designed to accommodate large numbers of visitors. As one of the most picturesque regions in the country, the Cotswolds, including Bourton-on-the-Water, faces a critical juncture: how to preserve its charm and heritage while managing the overwhelming tide of tourism.

The call for sustainable tourism practices has never been more urgent. Local authorities and tourism boards must work together to implement strategies that help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism while ensuring that the benefits of tourism—such as economic growth and cultural exchange—are still realized. Managing visitor numbers through targeted campaigns, promoting lesser-known destinations within the Cotswolds, and improving infrastructure to support sustainable tourism can all help preserve the region’s appeal without overwhelming its residents.

A Look Ahead: Can Overtourism Be Tamed?

As the tourism industry continues to rebound, it remains to be seen how the situation in Bourton-on-the-Water will evolve. Will the village be able to maintain its historic charm, or will overtourism permanently alter its character? Residents are calling for a more balanced approach to tourism that prioritizes local quality of life while still welcoming visitors to experience the village’s beauty.

With the support of local councils and stakeholders, there is hope that the issue of overtourism in Bourton-on-the-Water can be addressed effectively. It’s clear that the village’s historic charm cannot be sacrificed for the sake of mass tourism. Sustainable tourism initiatives must be implemented to protect the essence of this beautiful Cotswold village while ensuring that it remains a destination that visitors and residents alike can continue to enjoy for generations to come.

Conclusion: Striking a Balance

Bourton-on-the- Water’s struggle with overtourism is emblematic of the larger issues confronting many popular tourist destinations. Addressing residents’ concerns, managing visitor numbers, and implementing sustainable tourism practices can help the village maintain its unique charm while also allowing it to thrive as a top-tier travel destination.