Hashtag Bibury

If you're a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien's novels, Bibury is your paradise, dear Instagrammers. This tiny village of about 600 inhabitants, nestled in the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds, is a magnet for photographers, influencers and simple beauty lovers. Every corner seems tailor-made for like-worthy shots, but the undisputed star is Arlington Row, a row of medieval cottages that have earned the title of the most Instagrammed spot in England.

Just 130 kilometers from London, Bibury is a window into a time that seems to have stood still. The village, described by British writer William Morris (1834–1896) as "the most beautiful in England," is enchanting with its stone cottages featuring sloping roofs, immaculate gardens, and walls covered in climbing plants that seem designed to captivate anyone holding a camera.

The cottages of Arlington Row, dating back to 1380, are not only stunning but also tell a story. Originally built as warehouses for wool, they were transformed in the 17th century into homes for weavers. With their stone facades, slate roofs, and flower-filled windows, they are a masterpiece of rural architecture that has captivated for centuries.

But Bibury is not just Arlington Row. For nature lovers, the River Coln flows quietly through the village, with its swans, ducks, and even otters. Not far away, at Bibury Trout Farm, one of the oldest trout farms in England, you can purchase smoked trout and themed souvenirs while enjoying a natural setting rich in wildlife.

St. Mary's Church, built in the 8th century and renovated between the 12th and 13th centuries, is a gem of sacred architecture, while Arlington Mill, once dedicated to wool processing, now stands as a symbol of the village's industrial past.

Getting to Bibury is simple: from London Heathrow Airport, take the bus or train to Cirencester, then continue with a local bus. From then on, your only concern will be finding the right hashtags.