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Referred to as "the jewel of the Cotswolds" and overlooked by its unique tower |
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New York's Broadway is a collection of the best theatres in the world. Here in the hills of Worcestershire, there's a show of a completely different kind. This Broadway is a performance of the prettiest scenery that England has to offer. It's sometimes referred to as "the jewel of the Cotswolds". |
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 Cottages in the High Street. Photo stevecadman |
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The village's title actually refers to its high street, which is a literal "broad way". In truth, the road isn't that wide compared to the main thoroughfares of other towns. It's lined with trees and grass, giving it a quiet, subdued atmosphere. Nevertheless, this has always been a well-used route. According to archaeologists, the settlement has a history more than 5000 years long. The first residents were the prehistoric human beings, who went hunting with primitive flint weapons. |
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 Broadway Deli |
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Of course, Broadway has moved on, but it's still far from modern. The Georgian houses are made from ageing Cotswolds stone. The inns used to host historical figures like Oliver Cromwell and King Charles. Even the shops are well-stocked with antiques and classic art. |
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 Grand Georgian houses in Broadway |
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Furniture is another of the local specialities, and no-one has contributed more to this reputation than Sir Gordon Russell. For 60 years in the 20th century, he created hundreds of high quality pieces in his busy workshop. The building has since been converted to a museum. It contains many examples of his work, all the way from the design stages to the finished products. |
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Overlooking the village is the Broadway Tower. It's a mile away, so getting there requires a bit of a walk. Nevertheless, the view is worth it. The 17-metre structure stands on the second-highest point in the entire Cotswolds. On clear days, you can see 13 different counties from its summit. The other floors contain various exhibits on the structure's previous functions. It has served time as an artists' retreat, a scholar's study and a printing press. |
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 Broadway Tower. Photo Rob Tillier |
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The tower is part of Broadway Country Park, a popular destination for walkers. Within its borders are colourful wild flowers, a red deer enclosure and plenty of good picnic spots. |
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Together with its surrounding scenery, the village has provided inspiration for some of Britain's greatest artists, authors and composers, including Edward Elgar and J.M. Barrie, the creator of Peter Pan. |
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Broadway Tower is open daily, 10.30am to 5pm. Entry costs around £4.50 for adults, £2.50 children. Middle Hill, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7LB . Tel: 01386 852 390 |
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Snowshill Manor & Garden is open April to October, Wednesday to Sundays (plus Bank Holidays), 11am to 5pm. Entry costs around £10. Snowshill, near Broadway, WR12 7JU. Tel: 01386 852 410 |
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