Broadway

Broadway is reputed to be one of the most beautiful villages in the country – the beautiful honey-coloured stone of the houses have attracted visitors for centuries. The village stands at the foot of the Cotswold Hills immediately adjacent to the base of the 1026ft high Fish Hill which is the highest point of the northern end of the hills. The superb skyline is dominated by Broadway Tower, a folly built by the sixth Earl of Coventry in the 18th century. It is situated in a 30-acre country park and from the top of its 65ft tower spectacular views can be enjoyed over 12 counties.

Set on an ancient beacon site, Broadway Tower was built by the 6th Earl of Coventry as a token of love to his wife Peggy. In 200 years it has enjoyed a colourful history as - amongst others - home to the renowned printing press of Sir Thomas Phillips, country retreat for the Pre-Raphaelite artist William Morris, location for the studies of the distinguished archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans and farmhouse. Broadway has long been a favourite of the coach-tour brigade, and hordes of tourists descend upon its attractive, wide, main street every summer.

Yet for all that, Broadway is an attractive place, and if you can visit in off-peak season you'll find a lot to recommend the town. Above Broadway proper is Broadway Tower (sometimes called Beacon Tower or Fish Inn Tower) a striking folly built by Lady Coventry in the 1790s.

The Tower was once the home of Arts and Crafts Movement founder William Morris, and today is is the centrepiece of an extensive country park. It is said that on a clear day you can see 14 counties from the tower, and certainly the view over the surrounding countryside is superb.

Of the numerous lovely buildings in the town itself, perhaps the most notable is Abbot's Grange, a 14th century manor that once belonged to the abbots of nearby Evesham Abbey. The original hall, abbot's study, and chapel can still be seen, though the building was remodeled in the Tudor period. The town is a popular antique centre - not surprising given the number of tourists who visit every year.