Broadway is situated at the heart of the Cotswolds. It got its name because of the wide street and has been a traditional coaching stop for centuries. The town is extremely pretty and so very English. The buildings are made from local honey-coloured stone so characteristic of the area.
The main street consists of many curiosities and antique stores. It is very popular amongst tourists and during the summer months it can be bursting at the seams! With a range of excellent accommodation and restaurants, Broadway provides an ideal base to tour the surrounding area.
Lygon Arms
One of the best known inns in Broadway you will not be disappointed if you stay here. The inn dates back to the sixteenth century and is set in three acres of gardens. You can dine in the superb Great Hall with barrel-vaulted ceiling surrounded by oak panelling and heraldic artefacts all lit by the great open fire. Take afternoon tea on the veranda and sleep in a four poster bed.
This is luxury accommodation with prices to match. Famous guests include Oliver Cromwell and Charles 1.
Abbots Grange
Towards the centre of Broadway is a triangular green overlooked by Abbots Grange. Built in the fourteenth century it retains some of the features from that period.
In the late eighteen hundreds American artist Francis Millet lived here and converted the building into a studio. It was frequented by many English and American artists during the 'Arts and Crafts' movement. They wanted a retreat away from the grimy cities where they could capture the romantic surroundings on canvas. Writings at the time tell us that they led a bohemian lifestyle that was tolerated if not encouraged by the locals!
Broadway Tower
Overlooking the town is Broadway Hill. This is the highest point in the Cotswolds. The view is magnificent and on a clear day you can see thirteen counties.
Sitting on top of the hill is Broadway Tower, a magnificent English folly. Built by Lord Coventry in 1797, it was used by the leader of the Arts and Crafts movement, William Morris. You can see some of his famous designs which are still housed in the tower.
Dormy House
This seventeenth century building was originally named 'Willersy Hill Farm'. Originally a farmhouse it was bought by Broadway Golf Club in the 1940's. The name comes from the golfing term for 'unbeatable'.
Today this fantastic building is a hotel and conference centre but it has retained all its charming features. It is worth visiting the iron-age burial ground nearby.
Broadway and the surrounding areas prospered as a result of sheep farming and the rise of the woollen industry. The demand for wool changed the character of the English countryside from forest and woodland to enclosed grassy fields with dry stone walls.
The Cotswolds has a unique beauty with Broadway being the jewel in the crown!
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