Castle Combe visitors warned not to 'overwhelm' car park

Wiltshire Council is anticipating that large numbers of people could make their way to Castle Combe during the August Bank Holiday weekend, as they do most years.

The village is often named “one of the prettiest in England” and sits within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in the northern part of the county.

Both the council and the parish council have warned that the small community can become “overwhelmed by visitors” on peak days.

Parking in the village during these high volume days has previously been labelled a “disaster” with cars often blocking roads in the area or parking “dangerously and illegally.”

Villagers have also complained of their privacy being “invaded” by tourists and drones.

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Traffic and parking in Castle Combe last Easter (Image: John Mackelden)

Those visiting the village during the Bank Holiday have been urged to plan their trip responsibly by using designated parking spaces, not obstructing homes or businesses, and avoiding parking on single or double yellow lines.

The council added that enforcement officers will regularly patrol the area to monitor and deter illegal parking.

Parking will be available at the pay-and-display car park on Dunns Lane in Upper Castle Combe, while people can also travel by bus from surrounding towns like Chippenham.

Council leader Cllr Richard Clewer urged visitors to respect residents during their trip.

He said: “Castle Combe is one of the jewels in Wiltshire’s crown, and whilst we want to encourage people to visit, we also know that it can be very popular and can be quickly overwhelmed with visitors, especially on a bank holiday weekend.

“Therefore, we want to ensure the things that make Castle Combe special are protected, while ensuring people can enjoy the area responsibly and the local economy and community can thrive.

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Castle Combe last Easter (Image: John Mackelden)

“If anyone is planning to visit this weekend, all we ask is that you are respectful of the local community, plan ahead, and use the car parks provided in the area to ensure a successful visit.

“Visits could also be planned for other off-peak times, such as weekdays or non-bank holiday weekends.”

Cllr Clewer also reminded residents that, if the village is busy, they can explore other “beautiful locations” in the area.

These include nearby towns and villages like Malmesbury and Lacock.

More information on alternative destinations can be found through the council’s Explore Wiltshire app.