The picturesque Arlington Row was built in the 14th century as a monastic wool store and converted into weavers’ cottages in the 17th century. It’s in the charming village of Bibury, on the banks of the River Coln, full of traditional stone cottages and green spaces. It was once described as 'the most beautiful village in England' by William Morris, the founder of the 19th-century Arts and Crafts decorative arts movement in Britain.
Arlington Row is one of the most photographed streets in the UK. At the end of the terrace, Number 1 has a private garden through which you enter the cottage, away from the street and its visitors. It's a cosy cottage, with original blackened beams and a traditional stone fireplace in the sitting room. There are tea-rooms and traditional pubs a short walk away, and other picture-perfect Cotswold villages nearby.
The cottage overlooks a wildlife-filled water meadow, known as Rack Isle, where wool was once hung to dry on racks after it had been washed in Arlington Row. This protected meadow is home to water voles, kingfishers and dragonflies.
You’ll be in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surrounded by countryside and special historic places to see. With free entry to National Trust places during your stay, you can visit Lodge Park and Sherborne Park Estate and Chedworth Roman Villa, which are both only a 15-minute drive away. The money you spend on your holiday contributes to the care of Arlington Row and other places nearby.
9 Arlington Row (sleeps three) is at the other end of the terrace and can be booked with Number 1 for a group of up to nine guests.
Layout
Ground floor: Small hallway. Sitting and dining room with woodburner. Kitchen with small breakfast bar. Utility room. Shower room. Toilet.
First floor: King-size bedroom with views into the back garden. Two single bedrooms. Bathroom with a bath with shower attachment.
Second floor: Double bedroom in the eaves with sloping ceilings.
Outside space
Garden, enclosed by a low stone wall, with a lawn and dining furniture for six.