When a village is nicknamed ‘The Jewel Of The Cotswolds’, you’d expect a place of beauty, and Broadway won’t disappoint. Located in the Western Cotswolds, in the county of Worcestershire, this village was once an important stagecoach stop, and also the home of important literary figures, such as Elgar and J.M Barrie.
Art and crafts now play an important part in village life, with many delightful independent shops showcasing local jewellery designers, antiques, and artwork. The village was also once home to celebrated furniture designer Gordon C Russell, and the site of his original workshop now houses a museum dedicated to his work.
The honey coloured cottages and the long tree lined high street that gave the village its name are also a big draw, while walkers can explore the famous Cotswold Way. One of the attractions along this walk is the Broadway Tower, a mock castle built for Lady Coventry in 1799, which also once served as a retreat for artist William Morris. The Vale of Evesham, where Broadway lies, is also ideal for cycling and other sports, with horse riding available at nearby Stanton.
As an important tourist hub, visitors will be spoilt for choice with the range of hotels, holiday cottages, old pubs, bed and breakfast, and caravan accommodation available in Broadway, though be warned, it gets very busy during the Cheltenham Gold Cup race meeting.
Along with the famous racecourse at Cheltenham, other attractions within reach include the Steam Railway at Toddington, Cotswold Farm Park, and Chedworth Roman Villa. There’s also Hidcote Gardens, near Hidcote Boyce, Stanway House and Fountain, and for those who fancy a drive, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwick, and Bath could provide the ideal setting for a day trip.
All in all, Broadway is a place steeped in history and tradition, packed full of creativity, aimed at serving the visiting tourist, and at the heart of one of the most beautiful areas of the country. With so many things to see and do, and a whole host of events in the village and surrounding area, such as farmers markets, concerts, and classic car events, fun will be had by all on a visit to this ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’.
