Cotswolds

Two residents of the village of Bibury, Gloucestershire, are taking matters into their own hands after becoming fed up with a change in tourists’ behaviour after the Covid-19 pandemic

A couple who live in one of the UK’s most beautiful villages, located in the Cotswolds, have announced their plans to leave after a major change in the area following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Brian and Jill Skarda have decided to leave the village of Bibury, Gloucestershire, a place named “the most beautiful village in England” by William Morris, due to the worsening behaviour of visitors.

Brian and Jill originally moved to Bibury, which was also branded the “world’s most beautiful village” by Forbes last year, that lies along the River Coln, from Barnsley. During their time in the area, they joined the parish council and became part of everyday life.

Writing in the Village Life magazine in a column known as Tales from the Riverbank, Mr Skarda admitted “we have had enough invasive tourism”.

Mr Skarda, who highlighted Arlington Row as a key point of issue, explained that he felt tourists are now getting too up close and personal with locals, so much so they had been finding it harder to go about their own lives.

He explained: “We have decided that we have had enough invasive tourism in Arlington Row…We have been here for over 14 years and noticed that since Covid, visitor behaviours have changed.

“They have become more inconsiderate and the sheer numbers of tourists …meant that, on occasions, we have virtually been unable to get out of our front door.”

In the latter part of his column, the Independent reported that Mr Skarda said he hoped that Bibury would one day “resolve its tourism issues” after complaining the area was being “ruined by the very people who come to see it”.

When it comes to Bibury, Mr Skarda isn’t the only person to have taken issue with the seasonal influx of tourists.

Speaking to the Independent, parish council chairman Craig Chapman said overtourism was having an impact on the local environment too.

He added: “Over the summer with the hot weather, people would not just sit on the river bank but would go in the water and even bring chairs in to sit on to cool down.

“The main concern is the wildlife, but also the whole area with people using it like it is a recreational area. When they go into the water they can upset the habitat.”

So great are the concerns about the impact on Bibury’s environment that last month, they announced they were going to put up fences around the river to stop people paddling in it.

Mr Skarda’s and Mr Chapman’s remarks about the village comes as debate grows about the impact of overtourism in places like Bibury and Castle Combe.

Every year, thousands of people from all over the world and the UK flock to these aesthetically pleasing places, many of which they have seen in films, to admire them.

Whilst these visits can be good for the local economy, locals are often caught in the crossfire.

ALONGSIDE his brother Noel, Oasis rocker Liam Gallagher is believed to have earned around £50million from their Live ‘25 Tour.

But rather than spending it on VIP boxes at Manchester City, or a palatial palace and gold-plated bone for his beloved rescue dog Buttons, Liam appears to have plunged part of his cash into a new house.

Paperwork for his pad in the Cotswolds, which he bought with fiancée Debbie Gwyther, revealed the singer paid the £4million bill in cash.

A source said: “Liam and Noel are both savvy and have ­people advising them when it comes to their earnings.

“The cash they earned from their Live ’25 Tour is just the start of it as, when they finish their second tour next year, they will both be so minted they’d never have to work a day in their lives ever again.”

And as they continue to ride the wave of success — with their 42-date tour next year totally sold out — Noel and Liam are doing everything they can to ­protect their ­legacy.

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Yesterday it was ­confirmed the brothers had taken legal action against an auction house over a proposed sale of old Oasis recordings.

London-based Littleton ­Auctions had announced they had a huge lot of archive ­footage — including audio from soundchecks and 100 hours of rehearsal tapes from Oasis’s Nineties heyday.

The lot was taken to them by Owain Richards, whose father Huw worked with the band from 1994 until 2001.

An injunction has now been taken out by Oasis to stop the ­auction going ahead.

The MD of the company said in a statement: “Littleton Auctions confirms that the Oasis recordings known as The Desk Tapes have been ­withdrawn from our October 3 auction in light of legal ­proceedings.

“We are very ­disappointed that we cannot offer this ­significant archive as planned.”

When asked about the legal row, Owain said: “It is true that Oasis have sued me and my father, to try to prevent the auction of the tapes made by my father many years ago.

“We have agreed to postpone the auction to enable the legal dispute to be resolved, either by litigation or otherwise in an orderly way.”

Some items have been allowed through, including original set lists and itineraries from Oasis’s early tours, as well as an original Kangol parka coat, and will go under the hammer on ­Saturday.

JIMI STILL IN RON’S ART

RONNIE WOOD has put his never-before-seen portraits of Jimi Hendrix on display at the late rocker’s home, which has been turned into a museum in London.

Speaking at Handel Hendrix House, where he was given a giant celebratory bouquet of flowers, Ronnie also spilled the beans about the time when he and Jimi were young housemates in London back in the day.

He revealed they both nearly starved because neither of them had a clue how to cook.

Ronnie said: “Food was never an option.

“We had a few peas to shove around the plate.”

But life was certainly interesting.

Ronnie said of Jimi: “He could play the guitar right and left-handed.

“He used to play over the neck, upside down.

“In the end, he ran out of ideas and used to set his guitar on fire.”

Recalling Jimi’s passing in 1970, Ronnie added: “I was at Ronnie Scott’s the night he died.

“He was walking away with his arm around a girl, he said goodbye – and died that night.

“It was such a shock the next day.”

Ronnie also gave an update on The Rolling Stones after their last two planned tours were canned.

He said: “I take it as it comes.

“I don’t like waiting.

“That is why I get a band together, to keep playing.”

You can get along now to Ronnie’s show at Jimi’s old house in Mayfair, which was also once home to composer George Frideric Handel.

It runs until April 11 next year.

BIG NAMES LINE UP FOR MERCURY SHOW

FLORENCE + THE MACHINE, Olivia Dean, Raye, Suede, Pulp and Jade Thirlwall are all confirmed as performers at this year’s Mercury Prize show.

Dove Ellie, Knats, Kojey Radical and Nia Archvies will also take to the stage at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle on October 22.

Each artist will perform one track from their Album Of The Year entry, while fellow nominees Dave and Sir Paul McCartney will be celebrated with two special, short films showcasing their records.

THE BEATLES’ Apple Corps company made a huge £41.1million profit last year.

That’s up £16million on the year before, with surviving members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr each pocketing millions, as will the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison.

JUST A PERFECT DAZE

DAISY EDGAR-JONES reminds me here of an angelic ornament you’d find in your nan’s garden.

She wore this demure white dress for a garden shoot in Australia to promote her movie Sense And Sensibility, based on the romantic novel by Jane Austen.

As is the trend with actresses now, Daisy has taken a leaf out of Zendaya‘s book and is matching her fashion choices to the film she’s promoting.

And as she steps back in time to play sensible older sister Elinor Dashwood in the new big-screen adaptation of Austen’s 1811 novel, Daisy absolutely nailed the vibe while posing for pictures in Sydney.

But could her stylist have a bit more fun with her fashion? For sure.

BRIT Awards bosses say ­holding the ceremony in ­Manchester for the first time gave the city a major boost ­earlier this year.

A new report says the ceremony contributed £5million in direct spending, with £3.6million coming from visitors and the remaining £1.4million from organisers and ­partners.

On top of this, employment rates got a helping hand, with 3,099 temporary jobs created.

The report also revealed that 92 per cent of attendees rated their Brits experience as excellent or good – which is helpful, given the bash is going to be held at Co-op Live in the city for the next two years.

Stacey Tang, co-president of RCA Records at Sony Music UK and chair of the Brits Committee, said: ­“Moving the Brits to ­Manchester was about more than moving an awards show.

“It’s about shining a light on ­talent and creative communities across the UK, opening up opportunities and widening participation.”

R.E.M. are re- releasing their 12th studio album Reveal to celebrate its 25th anniversary.

The reissue – out November 20 – will be put out alongside The Black Sessions Revealed, a previously unreleased 17-song performance by R.E.M., recorded for Radio France in 2001.

THE house where ­Taylor Swift recorded her 2014 No1 album 1989 has gone up for sale.

The Pillsbury Estate in Beverly Hills, which was her home for seven years until 2018, has become a mecca for fans.

It is now on the market for $7.9million.

GRAND PLANS

FREDDIE Mercury’s grand piano is going under the hammer today – and could fetch up to £400,000.

Before the auction began, the late Queen frontman’s godson, Freddie Mack, opened up about his favourite memories of his namesake.

In an exclusive chat, he said: “He came to my family home in Munich, and there was this big rocking horse.

“It was very fancy and I was kind of scared of it.

“He just waited with me then guided me to befriend this new toy.

“He put me on it and rocked me back on forth and showed me that this is a nice gift, nothing to be scared of.

“He just took his time to be there for me.”

The piano is up for sale at Propstore’s Music Memorabilia auction, alongside other big-ticket collectors’ pieces.

These include Michael Jackson‘s black and gold military-style jacket, which could fetch up to £500,000.

Or if you fancy John Lennon’s tinted glasses, they could cost you £200,000.

Stone cottages, a cobbled square and independent shops make this small town a charming option for a weekend escape – and fans of a much-loved TV series may recognise it.

The Cotswolds may well be one of Britain’s most beloved countryside retreats, but its sheer popularity can make a visit feel worlds apart from the tranquil rural getaway many tourists imagine.

The area is renowned for its picturesque villages, cobbled lanes and distinctive stone cottages – but that fame comes at a price.

For anyone hoping to enjoy a more laid-back weekend break, navigating through the crowds can quickly dampen the experience.

Fortunately, you needn’t abandon that quintessentially British charm altogether. One Yorkshire destination combines stone cottages and flower-adorned window boxes with independent shops and countryside walks.

Travel experts at Parkdean Resorts have tipped the North Yorkshire town as a ‘Cotswolds alternative’ for those looking to escape the crowds, as previously reported by the Mirror.

Nestled within the Yorkshire Dales, it boasts a traditional cobbled centre surrounded by stunning countryside. Its square serves as an ideal starting point, with independent shops and eateries clustered along the historic streets.

Alongside its stone cottages, flower boxes and historic pubs, there’s another reason the setting may look familiar. It serves as the primary filming location for the fictional village of Darrowby in All Creatures Great and Small.

The high street is brimming with independent shops where you can browse handmade art and jewellery, indulge in sweet treats and pick up a good book.

Grassington holds particular appeal for visitors who want their break to blend sightseeing with walking. Visitors can spend time exploring the town before venturing out into the surrounding Dales.

If Yorkshire isn’t quite to your taste, the experts at Parkdean Resorts have another destination in mind that they believe offers Cotswolds charm without the overwhelming crowds.

Rye in East Sussex is another option for visitors willing to look beyond the usual summer hotspots.

The town is filled with historic streets and striking old buildings, while independent shops and eateries make it easy to while away a leisurely day exploring without a packed itinerary.

Its location adds to the appeal. Rye offers easy access to the Sussex coastline, meaning a short break can take in both a characterful old town and a day at the beach.

Visitors can wander through the historic centre in the morning before heading to the nearby coast – a compelling choice for anyone torn between a countryside break and a seaside getaway.

ANNE Robinson has split from Queen Camilla’s ex-husband Andrew Parker Bowles after moving from the Cotswolds to London, it has been reported. 

In a recent podcast appearance, Anne, 81, told how she’s been forced to sell her £4million mansion in the countryside “because my eyes aren’t good and I can’t drive”. 

Now the Daily Mail have alleged the TV presenter has called time on her relationship with Andrew, 86 – who still lives in the Cotswolds – after around four years of dating. 

The publication reports that, when asked if she’d been going out with the retired brigadier, Anne replied: “I might have done.

“It’s very difficult to talk about a relationship where part of it is owned by somebody else, so out of politeness I don’t talk about it.”

Anne and Andrew have never been photographed together and he’s never confirmed their relationship. 

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He and Camilla, 79, were married from 1973 until 1994 and are parents to Tom, 51, and Laura, 48. 

During a recent appearance on the Experience is Everything podcast with Lorraine Kelly, Anne opened up about ageing and said: “I do Pilates twice a week, I run and I do exercises. 

“I don’t mind the Pilates. The keep fit trainer is very nice but that’s quite boring.

“And I just try not to be ill. But you don’t know. 

“I mean, I’m just selling my house in the country because my eyes aren’t good and I can’t drive, and I can’t be really isolated anymore.

“But you know, and I don’t hear that well. Otherwise I’m OK.”

Anne confessed that leaving the Cotswolds after 40-odd years was a “heartbreaking decision.”

OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in some of the best holiday destinations abroad as well as some lesser-known spots in the UK.

With the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Megan and Harry, beginning their new life in the UK, we’ve decided to shine a light on the Cotswolds town of Witney as the couple and their children are reportedly settling into the historic region.

The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey grew up there and has long claimed its an excellent day trip outside of the nearby busy Cotswolds towns of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Try Hunter’s Cake Cafe for insanely delicious sweet treats, and pick up some cute gifts from Lily’s Attic.

Or go just outside of town to Minster Lovell Ruins for the ideal picnic spots within the 16th century remains.

Here are some of my other top tips of places to go.

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MUST SEE / DO

Learn about the town’s history in wool at Witney Blanket Hall, which dates back to 1721 and is free to visit (make sure to pick up a blanket at the gift shop too).

And kids will love Cogges Manor Farm with 17 acres to explore which includes an adventure playground and animals they can feed and pet.

Tickets start from £12 for adults, see cogges.org.uk.

Otherwise a short drive away is Blenheim Palace as well as Jeremy Clarkson’s The Farmer’s Dog.

HIDDEN GEM

Only known by locals, head straight to Sandwich de Witney for one of the heartiest baguettes you’ll have ever seen.

Just don’t be too late – most of them sell out shortly after lunch.

For evening entertainment, catch some comedy or some live tribute acts at the very tiny Fat Lils music venue.

Previous comedians have included Greg Davies and Milton Jones. Tickets from £5. See fatlils.co.uk.

BEST VIEW

Grab a coffee and head down to the banks of the River Windrush which runs through the town.

The peaceful break from the bustling town is the ideal escape, where you’ll be mainly joined by joggers and a few cows in the distance.

It even used to host the World Pooh Sticks Championships, so grab a stick and get racing.

RATED RESTAURANT

If there is one thing Witney has an abundance of, its pubs.

And one of the finest in town for a meal out is The Fleece, a gastropub and hotel.

You’ll be licking the crumbs off the plate of the Devon crab cakes, and I’d go back just for Aubrey’s Cheeseburger, complete with the crispiest chips and pickles.

There’s a fantastic list of desserts, but my sweet tooth was satisfied by the bizarre, yet strangely delicious Banana Brulee Old Fashioned.

BEST BAR

If you love a beer, head to the Crafty Pint Bar.

It was recently named Oxford Pub of the Year by Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), with a number of independent beers both on tap and by the bottle.

Try the Little Ox which is brewed just down the road.

Otherwise for the best vibes on a Friday night, head over to the Como Lounge in the centre of town where you can get two cocktails for £13.25.

HOTEL PICK

The Blue Boar ticks all the boxes – central location, cosy-yet-modern bedrooms and a fantastic restaurant downstairs.

Originally a 17th century coaching inn, there’s just 20 rooms to choose from, each with four poster beds, DAB radios and Nespresso machines.

Some rooms have views over the town centre, and easy has lush bathrooms kitted out with fluffy towels and luxe toiletries.

After recent renovations to the bar and restaurant, it reopened last week. Rooms start from £81. See acornpubs.co.uk/blueboar.

THE HOLIDAY inspired hotel rooms? Check. Free fudge after check in? Check.

If both of those have you tempted, here’s everything you need to know about a stay at The Feathered Inn.

What is The Feathered Nest like?

This 350 year-old former malthouseturned-inn with a fine dining restaurant is a cosy bolthole in a chocolate box village overlooking the rolling hills of the Evenlode Valley.

What are the rooms like?

The inn has four tastefully decorated rooms where homemade cookies and fudge will await you.

For those wanting a Kate Winslet moment, inspired by movie, The Holiday, the inn features a gorgeous honey-coloured cottage that sleeps four guests.

It features flagstone flooring, an open fireplace and a huge freestanding bath.

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Rooms start from £235 per night, including breakfast. Stays at the cottage are from £350 per night. See thefeatherednestinn.co.uk.

Dogs are allowed at the cottage for an additional £25.

What is there to eat and drink at the hotel?

The inn’s award winning 3-AA Rosette restaurant sources the best seasonal ingredients, such as Welsh lamb and Yorkshire rhubarb and is where head chef James Erasmus works his magic.

Breakfast can be served in either the pretty garden room or the grounds.

What else is there?

The nearby village of Stow-on-the-Wold is a market town featuring quaint antique shops and traditional tea rooms.

David Beckham‘s favourite sausage roll can be found at The Cotswold Guy in the village of Guiting Power.

The Feathered Nest has lots of information about circular walks or, if you’re up for it, take on The Cotswold Way – a 102-mile hiking route between Chipping Campden and Bath.

It’s surely one of the best kept secrets in the Cotswolds.

Is it family friendly?

The cottage fits 4 people which families will want to book to make their stay easy. 

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

The ground floor of the Inn can be uneven and requires the use of short staircases throughout the building.

Guests that need a room with easy access should contact the bookings team to discuss requirements for the stay.

However, there is level access to the dining terrace and the Garden Room, although guests should let the booking team know that easy access is needed.