Broadway and Beyond: A Cotswold Journey Through Timeless Villages
Nestled at the foot of the Cotswold escarpment, the picturesque village
of Broadway is often described as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds” — and
for good reason. With its wide, honey-stone High Street lined with art
galleries, tearooms, and boutique shops, Broadway offers visitors a
quintessential taste of English countryside life. But the magic doesn’t
stop there — the surrounding villages and landscapes are equally rich in
beauty, heritage, and charm.
Explore Broadway: Heart of the Cotswolds
Broadway’s timeless appeal lies in its combination of natural beauty,
elegant architecture, and cultural depth. Key highlights include:
- Broadway Tower: Perched on a hilltop just outside the village, this
iconic 18th-century folly offers panoramic views across 16 counties
on a clear day. It’s also home to a nuclear bunker, now a
fascinating visitor attraction.
- Broadway High Street: A gentle stroll reveals a range of
independent shops, cosy pubs, and artisan bakeries — perfect for
an afternoon amble.
- Gordon Russell Design Museum: Celebrate the village’s heritage of
craftsmanship and innovation at this museum dedicated to one of
Britain’s most influential furniture designers
Villages Worth Visiting Nearby
The beauty of staying in or visiting Broadway is its proximity to a
cluster of idyllic Cotswold villages — each with its own unique character
and attractions.
Snowshill
Just a few miles from Broadway, Snowshill is known for its enchanting
hilltop setting and:
- Snowshill Manor: A National Trust property filled with an eclectic
collection of objects gathered by eccentric collector Charles Wade.
- Lavender Fields (seasonal): In summer, the surrounding fields burst
into colour — a spectacular sight and a photographer’s dream.
Chipping Campden
Famed for its terraced High Street and arts and crafts heritage, this
vibrant market town boasts:
- Hidcote Manor Garden: A world-renowned National Trust Garden,
full of secret rooms and beautifully curated spaces.
- St James’ Church: One of the finest wool churches in the
Cotswolds, reflecting the area’s medieval prosperity.
Stanton & Stanway
These two small villages, just a short drive (or walk) from Broadway,
offer quintessential Cotswold charm:
- Stanway House & Fountain: This stunning Jacobean manor is
home to the tallest gravity-fed fountain in the UK.
- The Mount Inn, Stanton: Enjoy a pub lunch with one of the best
panoramic views in the region.
Bourton-on-the-Hill
Often overlooked in favour of the more tourist-heavy villages, Bourton-
on-the-Hill is a peaceful gem:
- Batsford Arboretum: A haven for tree lovers and a perfect
seasonal escape, especially in spring and autumn.
- Sezincote House: A remarkable Indian-inspired estate that feels
worlds away from rural England.
Day Trips to Villages Worth the Journey
Bourton-on-the-Water (Approx. 25 minutes’ drive)
Often dubbed the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” this riverside village is
postcard-perfect.
- Model Village and Cotswold Motoring Museum for fun, nostalgic
attractions.
- Pretty bridges arching over the River Windrush and plentiful cafés for riverside
refreshments.
Stow-on-the-Wold (Approx. 20 minutes’ drive)
Once the highest of the Cotswold market towns, Stow boasts antique
shops, art galleries, and characterful pubs.
- Don’t miss St Edward’s Church, with its famous tree-framed north
door.
- The Porch House claims to be the oldest inn in England — ideal
for a historic lunch stop.
Upper & Lower Slaughter (Approx. 30 minutes’ drive)
Two of the most unspoilt and peaceful villages in the region.
- A gentle walk between the two is perfect for an afternoon stroll.
- Lower Slaughter’s Old Mill Museum offers a glimpse into the
village’s past — and delicious homemade ice cream.
Winchcombe (Approx. 20 minutes’ drive)
A Saxon town with narrow lanes, stone cottages, and a real sense of
heritage.
- Sudeley Castle is the crown jewel — home to Queen Katherine
Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII.
- Ideal for walking — the Cotswold Way passes right through.
Burford (Approx. 35 minutes’ drive)
Gateway to the southern Cotswolds, with sweeping views down its
medieval high street.
- Burford Church is grand and atmospheric, while antique lovers will
find plenty to browse.
- Visit nearby Cotswold Wildlife Park if travelling with family.
Painswick (Approx. 50 minutes’ drive)
A little further south, but worth the journey for its timeless beauty.
- Famous for its 99 yew trees and Rococo Garden, the only
surviving garden of its kind in the UK.
- The village is quieter than others — a hidden gem for those
seeking tranquillity.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re strolling the golden streets of Broadway or exploring the
peaceful lanes of Stanton and Snowshill, the northern Cotswolds offers
an abundance of charm, history, and natural beauty. Perfect for
weekend getaways, romantic retreats, or a quiet escape from the
everyday — this corner of England invites you to slow down and soak
in the serenity of timeless villages and rolling hills.
Broadway is the perfect base from which to explore — offering excellent
dining, luxury stays, and easy access to the region’s most beloved
sights.