Broadway by Bruce Wilson
Broadway
Broadway, often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, sits near the boundary between Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, enveloped by the gentle beauty of the rolling Cotswold Hills. Renowned for its broad High Street—lined with honey-coloured limestone buildings—this village exudes the classic charm that so many associate with the Cotswolds region. Over the centuries, its pastoral setting and iconic architecture have drawn artists, writers, and visitors eager to immerse themselves in idyllic English countryside surroundings.
One of Broadway’s most famous landmarks is Broadway Tower, perched on Beacon Hill just a short distance from the village centre. Designed by the architect James Wyatt in the late 18th century, the tower stands as a testament to the era’s fascination with romantic Gothic-revival structures. Today, it rewards walkers and sightseers with sweeping views of the surrounding counties, a panorama that illustrates precisely why this part of the country is so beloved.
Back in the heart of Broadway, boutique shops, traditional tearooms, and country inns provide a warm welcome throughout the year. Art galleries also flourish here, reflecting the village’s historical connections with influential painters, such as John Singer Sargent, who were captivated by Broadway’s golden hues and tranquil ambiance. With its rich heritage, inviting atmosphere, and quintessential Cotswold scenery, Broadway continues to be a magnet for those seeking a taste of timeless English village life.
Broadway is in Cotswolds AONB, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Created: 22 December 2024 Edited: 22 December 2024
Broadway
Shopping in Broadway
Kingsland Shopping Centre The Broadway, Thatcham
Kingsland Shopping Centre mall
Waitrose 48-53, The Broadway
Waitrose supermarket
Co-op Food 54-55, The Broadway
Co-op Food supermarket
Morrisons Broadway, Bridgwater
Morrisons supermarket
Local History around Broadway
There are some historic monuments around including:
Willersey Hill CampVillage cross at StantonShenbarrow Hill campHailes Wood camp, HailesVillage cross at the crossroads north of Saintbury villageTaddington medieval settlementVillage cross 170m north west of St Mary's ChurchSnowshill round barrows (SW of village)Churchyard cross in St Michael's churchyardTithe barnBeckbury camp, HailesHailes Abbey and ringworkDeserted village of Norton Sub Edge SE of White's Farm (now Norton Sub Edge Farm)Willersey Hill CampWayside cross at Stumps CrossKiftsgate StoneMoated siteBowl barrow, known as Woad round barrow, 450m north east of Cutsdeanhill BarnDeserted village of PodenMoated site immediately south west of St Mary's ChurchTwo bowl barrows known as Stumps Cross round barrows, 280m and 330m north of Upper Coscombe.