### Outcry as Tourists Prepare Meals in Public Spaces at Iconic Cotswolds Village
A family outing to the celebrated Cotswold village of Bourton-on-the-Water recently took a sour turn, leaving one group of visitors appalled by the behaviour of fellow tourists. Their idyllic day trip was cut short after they witnessed visitors openly eating from saucepans and occupying almost every patch of grass for home-brought picnics.
The family, who had journeyed 90 minutes from Middlesex in hopes of enjoying the quintessential English charm of Bourton-on-the-Water, described their experience as deeply disappointing. Having anticipated a tranquil and scenic escape, they were instead greeted by what they perceived to be disorderly scenes that, according to one family member, prompted embarrassment and sorrow for the village’s reputation.
Karl Taylor, aged 58 and from Ruislip, did not hesitate to voice his concerns after the visit on 27 May. He wrote directly to the parish council, documenting his dismay over the scenes he and his family, ranging from six to sixty years old, had witnessed. Mr Taylor recounted seeing large groups sprawled across village lawns, many eating from saucepans and using the grass as communal dining space. Describing the scene as “truly awful”, he confessed they “couldn’t wait to leave.”
According to Mr Taylor, such behaviour detracts from the image the Cotswolds has carefully cultivated over generations. “As someone who takes pride in promoting English values and heritage, I was embarrassed,” he wrote. He further argued that the practice not only marred the village’s image, but also impacted local businesses that depend upon visitors choosing to eat in local cafés, restaurants and pubs.
Among his proposed solutions was the suggestion of placing “Keep Off the Grass” signs around popular green areas. Mr Taylor believes such measures could nudge visitors towards supporting hospitality businesses, bolstering both the local economy and the preservation of the green spaces. He also called for clearer signage, better waste management, and positive communication encouraging more considerate visitor behaviour.
Despite his efforts, Mr Taylor expressed frustration following the parish council’s reply, which he saw as somewhat dismissive of local concerns. Nevertheless, his letter underscores growing tensions in communities balancing the economic benefits of tourism with its more challenging impacts.
In response, Bourton-on-the-Water Parish Council clarified the legal position regarding the use of public spaces in the village. Parish clerk Sharon Henley explained that the central green is a registered Village Green, not only owned and maintained by the council but also protected for public recreation and pastimes. She pointed out that, legally, it could not be restricted with “Keep Off the Grass” notices as suggested, though temporary fencing is installed during the winter for necessary maintenance.
“We appreciate the village can become very busy, especially on weekends and bank holidays,” said Ms Henley, recommending those seeking a quieter experience visit during weekday mornings or later in the afternoon. The council reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the area remains accessible and welcoming for all, provided visitors adhere to the bylaws.
The incident has highlighted the complex relationship between the villages of the Cotswolds and the millions of tourists they attract annually. As more people seek budget‑friendly ways to enjoy the countryside, village greens are increasingly doubling up as informal picnic sites, raising questions about sustainable tourism and the long-term impact on treasured landscapes.
The debate over how best to manage these pressures continues, with calls for both greater respect from visitors and more robust strategies from local authorities. Residents like Mr Taylor are urging action to protect the village’s character, while the parish council must navigate the legal obligations to keep spaces open. As the holiday season gets into full swing, Bourton-on-the-Water is once again facing scrutiny over how to balance its popularity with the needs of its local community.