Spend a storybook getaway in ‘The Jewel of The Cotswolds’, the dreamy land of honey-colored cottages, rich artistic heritage and picture-perfect scenery.
Welcome to Broadway, a quintessentially Cotswolds’ village nestled in the heart of one of the UK’s most loved national landscapes. Famous for its blend of historical narratives, strong local culture, independent shops, cafes and swoon-worthy views, Broadway is an idyllic location to retreat to.
This carefully curated itinerary features everything you need for a slow and restful 72 hours.
Day One: Postcard-Perfect Broadway
There’s nothing quite like walking through Broadway. Step into the magic of its postcard-perfect atmosphere and tree-lined high street and discover why this village is so adored.
Broadway High Street
Spend the morning indulging in a bit of retail therapy as you browse Broadway’s host of independent shops. Find automobile-inspired gifts and memorabilia at ‘The Man Cave’, shop beautiful homeware and quirky gifts in ‘Cotswold Trading’, purchase classic country clothing pieces in ‘Landmark Broadway’ and find antiques and collectables at ‘Betty and Violet’. For those of you with a sweet tooth, wander into Cotswold Court Arcade and re-discover your favorite traditional sweets and luxury chocolate in ‘Hamilton’s Chocolates.
Broadway Deli
Visit Broadway Deli and gather everything you desire for a wholesome picnic. Expect to find a wonderful array of local cheeses, chutneys, savory dishes, quiches, fresh pastries, cakes and sweet treats.
With your perfectly curated picnic, the next stop is Broadway Tower.
Broadway Tower
Did you know that walking is one of the best ways to explore Broadway? The walk from Broadway Village to Broadway Tower is approximately 2 miles each way. We recommend allowing between 4 and 5 hours for this trip. This provides time to take the journey at a slower pace to truly appreciate your surroundings and enjoy a picnic break.
Start your hike on Broadway high street and follow the footpath signs through the fields and countryside. Continue uphill through the stunning woodland scenery and enjoy the breathtaking hillside panoramic views from Broadway Tower. You can either return the way you came or continue the circular route along The Cotswold Way.
If you would prefer to reach Broadway Tower via car, it is approximately a 10-minute drive away from the high street, and there is parking available at Broadway Tower Country Park.
The Lygon Arms
Return to Broadway for the evening and treat yourself to the outstanding menu at James Martin’s The Grill, set within the legendary Lygon Arms. Famed for hosting a multitude of iconic public figures such as Oliver Cromwell, King Charles I, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton and dating back to 14th century, The Lygon Arms is a place of huge historical significance. Wind down with a wonderful meal in this unique setting before heading back to your cottage stay for the night.
Day Two: All Aboard!
Step back in time and spend a day exploring The Cotswolds by steam train. Arrive at the iconic Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway station in the morning and enjoy experiencing the station’s attractions including its gift shop, café and traditional atmosphere. Talking to the volunteers and watching steam locomotives is all part of Broadway Station’s charm. Unlike the trains you may take on your usual commutes, the steam train operates at a slow pace, allowing ample time to soak up the stunning scenery from your window.
To Winchcombe
For a slightly shorter route, travel to Winchcombe, a lovely Cotswolds’ town home to an array of delightful independent shops, cafes and beautiful architecture. If your schedule allows, we recommend visiting one of The Cotswolds’ most legendary historic landmarks, Sudeley Castle. Famous for its rich heritage and for being the final resting place of Catherine Parr, this is a must-visit for history lovers.
To Cheltenham Racecourse
Travel to the iconic Cheltenham Racecourse for a slightly longer journey and admire the spa town’s regency architecture and bustling high street. The journey usually takes around one hour.
Day Three: Snowshill Village and Countryside Walks
Spend your third day visiting Snowshill, a charmingly timeless village adored for its classically Cotswolds’ countryside atmosphere. The former home of the eccentric collector Charles Wade, Snowshill Manor is only a short 10-minute drive away from Broadway Village.
Snowshill Village and Snowshill Manor.
Begin your day in Snowshill Village, admiring its quaint stone cottages, quiet lanes and village green.
Make your way to Snowshill Manor, Charles Wade’s theatrical and architectural stage of thoughtfully collected objects. Charles Wade’s story is a fascinating one; not only was Wade a prolific collector, but he was also a poet, artist, architect and craftsman with a strong passion for great craft. Snowshill was Wade’s creative haven and exhibition of his dedication to preserving his found treasures. Now owned by the National Trust, this is a must-visit location for fellow creatives, lovers of unique things and delightful gardens.
There is a café at Snowshill Manor selling a range of light meals, hot and cold drinks and various snacks. Enjoy lunch out on the lawn or seated patio area, surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Manor’s garden scenery.
Whilst in Snowshill, you can also visit the famous Cotswold Lavender fields, open from early June to early August.
Countryside Walk and Pub Pit-Stop
After lunch, take a scenic walk through the Snowshill countryside. Leave the manor entrance, head through the kissing gate into the field, walk across the field downhill to the open countryside and soak up the atmosphere of the rural scenery. Continue through the wooded area before looping back to Snowshill. You could even stop off at old world pub, Snowshill Arms, for a classic pub meal before heading back home.
Escape to this charming cottage set near idyllic Broadway, the perfect backdrop for a storybook countryside getaway.-
Broadway Box Cottage
4.6/5Traditional Cotswold retreat in the heart of Broadway with a fabulous courtyard garden. -
A pretty Cotswold stone cottage in a sleepy village close to Broadway with a sun-trap garden and lovely views.