Broadway

Introducing Broadway

Quintessentially English, absurdly pretty and little changed since medieval times, Broadway is another stunning Cotswold village firmly on the tourist trail. The graceful golden-hued cottages set at the foot of a steep escarpment have inspired writers, artists and composers in times past, but today it’s tearooms, antique shops, boutiques, art galleries and coaches that line the village green.

The tourist office (852937; 1 Cotswold Ct; 10am-1pm & 2-5pm Mon-Sat) is in a shopping arcade off the northern end of High St.

Beyond the charm of the village itself there are few specific attractions to visit. If you’re feeling energetic the lovely, 12th-century Church of St Eadburgha is a signposted 30-minute walk (1 mile) from town. Near here, a more challenging path leads uphill for 2 miles to Broadway Tower (852390; www.broadwaytower.co.uk; adult/under 14yr £3.80/2.30; 10.30am-5pm Apr-Oct, 11am-3pm Sat & Sun Nov-Mar), a crenulated, 18th-century Gothic folly on the crest of the escarpment. It has a small William Morris exhibition on one floor and stunning views from the top.

The best of the B&Bs in town is the Olive Branch Guest House (853440; www.theolivebranch-broadway.com; 78 High St; s £40-58, d £68-8; ), a lovely 16th-century home with bright, spacious rooms decked out in cosy, country-style fabrics and pine furniture. Another good bet is Milestone House (853432; www.milestone-broadway.co.uk; High St; s/d £45/68; ), a 17th-century coaching inn with exposed beams, an inglenook fireplace and subtle florals.

For food, head for the Broadway Brasserie (858435; 20A High St; mains £7-11), which serves a classic range of brasserie-style food, or sleek and stylish Russels (853555; www.russellsofbroadway.com; 20 High St; mains £9-17; lunch & dinner) for more upmarket modern British fare. Russels also has a selection of slick, modern rooms (£105 to £245) with simple, contemporary design, flatscreen TVs and lots of little luxuries.

For a glimpse of the splendour of the medieval Lygon Arms(852255; www.thelygonarms.com; High St, Broadway; mains £9-20) and its barrel-vaulted, oak-panelled Great Hall of a dining room, you could drop in for a modern British meal, or alternatively just order a drink at the bar.

Last updated: Sep 21, 2008