TikTok tourists ruin Bourton-on-the-Water, councillor says

TikTok tourists ruin Bourton-on-the-Water, councillor says

Bourton-on-the-Water, a quaint village known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, is facing a threat from what some are calling “TikTok tourists”. These visitors are accused of exploiting the village’s charm and heritage for social media content, rather than appreciating its cultural significance. Cotswold district councillor Jon Wareing raised concerns about the impact of these tourists on the village.

According to Wareing, the influx of visitors coming to Bourton-on-the-Water to capture content for platforms like Instagram and TikTok has led to issues such as congestion, littering, and even reports of residents facing verbal and physical abuse. The councillor expressed frustration at what he described as “hit-and-run tourists” who show little regard for the village’s history and natural beauty.

While Wareing acknowledged that tourism itself is not the problem, he highlighted the negative effects of “over-tourism and fast tourism” where people prioritize creating content over experiencing the destination. Despite his efforts to raise awareness about the challenges faced by Bourton-on-the-Water, Wareing’s motion addressing the issue was rejected by the council in May 2024.

The councillor emphasized the importance of addressing the negative impact of tourism on the village, especially during busy periods like bank holidays. Wareing expressed concern over the impact of social media-driven tourism on the community, calling for a more sustainable approach to preserving Bourton-on-the-Water’s heritage and environment

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