Gloucestershire's oldest shop shuts for good as 'awful and unbearable' tourists turn village life into hell

Bourton-on-the-Water, the picturesque 'Venice of the Cotswolds', has lost its oldest shop as the village's historic ironmongers closed permanently. The closure follows a massive surge in tourism that has transformed the village, with nearly 20 gift shops, 11 restaurants, and 10 cafes now dominating the high street instead of essential services. Locals describe the situation as 'awful and unbearable' as visitor numbers have overwhelmed the small community. The ironmongers, which served residents for generations, could no longer sustain operations amid rising costs and changing demographics. The village now faces the challenge of balancing its tourism economy with preserving essential services for remaining residents, as property prices soar and long-time residents are priced out by holiday lets and second homes.