UK’s Bourton-on-the-Water Implements New Parking Measures to Combat Overtourism and Support Locals

Published on December 28, 2025

Bourton-on-the-Water, a picturesque town nestled in the Cotswolds, has implemented new measures to combat the effects of overtourism, which have begun to overwhelm its infrastructure. This idyllic village, located beside the River Windrush, receives 300,000 visitors each year, demonstrating how an influx of tourists can affect small towns. Bourton-on-the-Water has long been a popular tourist destination, thanks to its charming stone houses, historic bridges, and attractions such as the Model Village and Cotswold Motoring Museum. However, its population of only 4,000 people is struggling to keep up with the seasonal crowds, which frequently overwhelm its limited resources.

The Impact of Overtourism on Bourton-on-the-Water

The town’s idyllic atmosphere and stunning architecture have captured the hearts of tourists from across the globe. However, this influx has brought several issues for the local community. Parking has become one of the most pressing problems, as visitors often take up spaces meant for residents, leaving locals without convenient access to the town centre. During peak tourist seasons, the town experiences heavy congestion, with tourists flooding into the area, resulting in longer waiting times to park and an increase in verge parking.

The challenges have been further exacerbated by the growing trend of “TikTok tourism”, where social media influencers and casual visitors are drawn to the town for its picturesque settings and viral videos. While this has helped boost the town’s fame, it has also led to a situation where many tourists are more interested in capturing the beauty of the town for social media than in learning about its history or culture. Locals have expressed their frustration with the situation, citing verbal abuse from tourists and increased pressure on already limited services.

A Solution to the Parking Dilemma

In an effort to alleviate these issues, the local council has introduced a set of new measures designed to balance the needs of the locals with the economic benefits of tourism. The key change is an extension of parking charges until 8pm, which aims to free up parking spaces for residents. This is part of a broader strategy to ensure that locals have access to necessary amenities without being pushed out by the growing number of visitors. The new parking schedule introduces a period of free parking before 10am at the Rissington Road car park, which is predominantly used by tourists. After this period, the parking charges will apply, following the updated 8am-8pm schedule.

These changes reflect a growing concern about the impact of overtourism on small towns, particularly in popular destinations like the Cotswolds. By extending parking hours and offering free parking in the mornings, the local council hopes to create a more sustainable and community-friendly tourism experience. The funds generated from the parking charges are expected to be reinvested in local projects, which will directly benefit the town’s infrastructure and services.

Supporting Locals and Funding Community Projects

The implementation of parking charges has been part of a broader effort to invest in the local community. Since the introduction of the 50p parking levy in 2021, the funds generated have been used to improve public amenities, including larger waste bins and the hiring of a new village warden. The funds raised from these parking charges are also earmarked for ongoing community projects that will help maintain Bourton-on-the-Water’s charm and liveability.

The money raised will be put toward enhancing public spaces, improving waste management, and ensuring that the town remains a welcoming place for both visitors and residents. The added revenue from the parking charges aims to offset the costs associated with the increased strain on local services, such as waste collection and street cleaning. Moreover, the village warden will play a crucial role in ensuring that the new measures are adhered to and that the local community is not unduly burdened by the influx of tourists.

A Model for Sustainable Tourism

Bourton-on-the-Water’s new approach to managing overtourism could serve as a model for other popular destinations struggling with similar issues. The delicate balance between maintaining the charm of a small town and accommodating large numbers of visitors is a challenge faced by many tourist hotspots. As more towns look for ways to manage the pressures of overtourism, Bourton-on-the-Water’s focus on supporting locals while generating income for community projects may offer valuable lessons in how to navigate these challenges.

Paul Hodgkinson, a local council member, has expressed his awareness of the difficulties that tourism has created for the town. The recent changes are seen as a step toward giving something back to the residents while still encouraging tourism in a more sustainable manner. By adjusting the parking schedule, the town aims to make sure that it remains a welcoming place for visitors, without compromising the quality of life for its residents.

Future Outlook: A New Approach to Managing Overtourism

As tourism continues to play a major role in the economy of Bourton-on-the-Water, the challenge of managing visitor numbers will remain a key issue for the local council. The town’s historic appeal and picturesque beauty make it a highly desirable destination, but without proper planning, the influx of visitors can lead to problems such as overcrowding, waste accumulation, and a diminished local experience for residents.

The changes to parking policies are just one part of a larger strategy to address the complex issue of overtourism. In the coming years, the town may consider additional measures, such as introducing timed entry to popular attractions or promoting off-peak visits to spread out the demand. As local councils across the country continue to explore ways to manage tourism, it is clear that Bourton-on-the-Water’s efforts represent a promising approach to striking a balance between the needs of residents and the benefits of tourism.

Conclusion

Bourton-on-the-Water’s new overtourism management measures reflect a growing understanding of the challenges that small towns face in the face of mass tourism. With a focus on ensuring locals have access to essential services while also accommodating the influx of visitors, the town has implemented parking changes that will benefit both residents and tourists. By reinvesting parking revenues in local community projects, Bourton-on-the-Water lays the groundwork for a more sustainable approach to tourism, one that ensures the town’s long-term viability while preserving its charm for future generations.

As the world grapples with the effects of overtourism, Bourton-on-the-Water’s experience teaches valuable lessons about how towns can strike a balance between preserving their local culture and meeting the needs of an ever-expanding tourism industry.