Travel writer warns Castle Combe too crowded to enjoy

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 14:07 · Archive

Travel writer Sophie Harris says the Cotswolds village of Castle Combe has become too busy to visit.

Travel writer Sophie Harris has visited Castle Combe numerous times and says the Wiltshire village has become increasingly crowded. The village, on the southern edge of the Cotswolds, is known for its honey-coloured cottages, historic stone bridge and traditional streets, and has frequently been described as one of England's prettiest villages.

Ms Harris observed that even during what she anticipated would be a tranquil morning, the village is 'gradually becoming one of the most crowded Cotswolds villages'. She said what should be 'a serene stroll through a historical setting can instead feel as though you're weaving through a photo shoot'. The village's historic appearance is partly responsible for attracting so many visitors, she noted.

Ms Harris also raised concerns about the impact of tourism on people who live in the village. Castle Combe's visitor guidelines ask tourists to respect residents' privacy, avoid photographing private homes and ensure roads and gateways are not obstructed. Parking is also difficult, as the historic streets were not designed for large amounts of traffic and there is only limited parking in the centre; visitors are directed towards a designated car park at Dunns Lane instead.

How it is being reported

• 'I visited pretty village in Cotswolds but I would never go back'A travel writer who visited one of the Cotswolds' prettiest villages has revealed why she would never make the trip again.Oxfordshire Guardian · 30 Oct, 13:30
• 'I visited pretty village in Cotswolds but I would never go back'A travel writer who visited one of the Cotswolds' prettiest villages has revealed why she would never make the trip again.Oxford Mail · 30 Oct, 13:30

In this story: Sophie Harris · Castle Combe · Wiltshire · Cotswolds

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log