The Spirit of Bibury, Reimagined
The Spirit of Bibury, Reimagined
Eleven Bibury is a celebration of craftsmanship, authenticity and community. It is inspired by its location, which is at the centre of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds, opposite historic Arlington Row, our thoughtfully restored spaces bring new purpose to centuries old buildings whilst honouring their historical past. Whether you’re savouring our seasonal food, discovering an artisan made treasure, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, every visit connects you to Bibury’s story-past, present and future.
What’s to Come
As Eleven Bibury prepares to open it’s doors, here’s a glimpse of what’s to come.
The Café and Tearooms will provide a takeaway service or a welcoming space to sit, relax and enjoy delicious seasonal fare crafted on site by our Head Chef, alongside specially blended teas and coffees. The Garden Café will be open throughout the year. Immerse yourself in a private contemporary/romantic space to discover and enjoy.. The Post Office will open Monday-Friday, and Saturday mornings. The Provisions Area will provide a curated selection of fresh produce and pantry essentials. The Retail Area will provide that perfect gift or homeware. We are proud to announce that in collaboration with The Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen, we will be showing and selling a curated selection of artisan pieces, both functional and decorative from their talented Makers, respecting the rich aesthetic heritage of our shared Cotswold location.
Be the first to know! Sign up with your email to receive an exclusive invitation to our Special Opening Event this Spring.
The Past
Bibury is a quintessentially beautiful English Village situated on the River Coln. The location is steeped in history and receives international recognition. Arlington Row, now owned by the National Trust, was originally built as monastic wool stores in the late 14th century, converted later to a series of cottages in the late 17th, early 18th century.
Famous Visitors
William Morris was one of the most significant cultural figures of the 19th century. A pioneer of modern design, he is widely regarded as the founder of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Having a Manor House in Kelmscott, just 12 miles away from Bibury, he knew the village well, famously describing it as “the most beautiful village in England”. Bibury’s charm has captivated many over the years. In 1921, Hirohito before becoming the Emperor of Japan, visited and stayed in the village, enchanted by the picturesque charm of Arlington Row, while in 1930, L.S Lowry visited inspired to create a pencil drawing of this iconic scene.
The Present
The buildings, which were in a perilous state, have now been saved and repurposed as Eleven Bibury. They have served the community and village in a commercial function for at least the past 200yrs. We are continuing that tradition. The facade of the buildings has remained unchanged, unlike the interior which evolved over time to meet each new business’s needs. In restoring Eleven Bibury, we have preserved the remaining original period structure, safeguarding it for the future, whilst overlaying a contemporary layer of function and purpose. We honour the past and welcome the future. As Morris said, “Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” This is our approach to all aspects of Eleven Bibury, to meet our customers needs and to make it pleasurable for all.
The Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsman at Eleven Bibury
It is a pleasure to support The Guild and its Makers and to share their work with all visitors to Eleven Bibury. The Cotswolds and The Guild are at the heart of fine craftsmanship. The Guild was founded in 1933 to support specialised Makers, turning Guild philosophy into reality through creative vision and skill. Traditional craftsmanship is a part of cultural heritage. At Eleven Bibury, see how this has evolved in the 21st century to create desirable contemporary pieces priced to suit all pockets!
Interiors by
Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen
The interiors of Eleven Bibury have been designed by Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, whose distinctive style brings a bold yet harmonious vision to the spaces. Known for his passion for craftsmanship and artistic detail, Laurence has created an environment that feels both luxurious and inspired.
“As a designer I’ve always worked to balance the traditional and the contemporary. The minute I saw the building I could see immediately that a refined and modernised design scheme which drew respectful inspiration from the Arts and Crafts movement would be hugely successful. Using materials, colours and finishes to rhyme with the original structure, I sought out makers who could create bespoke elements that combine the best of old and new. “
