Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

Broadway is often called the Jewel of the Cotswolds, and it is easy to see why. Sitting at the northern edge of the Cotswolds, this elegant village combines grand architecture, flower filled gardens, historic inns, and sweeping countryside views.

Unlike smaller villages nearby, Broadway feels lively yet refined. Independent shops, cafes, art galleries, and traditional pubs line its wide High Street, while peaceful footpaths and scenic viewpoints lie just minutes away. It is an ideal stop on any Cotswolds itinerary and a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area!

If you only have a few hours in Broadway, this guide covers the prettiest spots you should make time for. If you want to see Broadway along with other standout Cotswolds villages in a single day, I highly recommend joining a guided tour such as the one offered by Go Cotswolds. I have personally gone on this tour, and it is an excellent way to experience multiple highlights without the stress of planning or driving!

5 Prettiest Spots in Broadway, Cotswolds

1. Broadway High Street

Broadway High Street is one of the widest and most impressive high streets in the Cotswolds. Lined with honey colored stone buildings, boutique shops, historic inns, and colorful flower displays, it feels both grand and welcoming.

Walking along the High Street is one of the best free things to do in Broadway. Take your time browsing independent shops, stopping for tea, and admiring the architecture that dates back several centuries.

This area is especially beautiful in spring and summer when flowers cascade from windows and garden walls.

2. Broadway Village Green

The Village Green sits at the heart of Broadway and plays an important role in local life. It regularly hosts farmers markets, seasonal fairs, and community events.

Surrounded by cafes and pubs, it is a popular spot for picnics and people watching. Benches around the green offer excellent views of the surrounding buildings and countryside beyond.

Families will appreciate the open space, while photographers will enjoy capturing the village atmosphere from this central location.

3. The Lygon Arms

The Lygon Arms is one of the most famous hotels in the Cotswolds and a true Broadway landmark. This historic coaching inn dates back over 600 year s and has hosted royalty, political figures, and writers throughout its long history.

Oliver Cromwell is said to have stayed here during the English Civil War, and the building itself feels like a living museum.

Even if you are not staying overnight, it is worth stepping inside to admire the interiors or enjoying a drink in the bar or courtyard.

4. The Lygon Arms Garden

Behind the Lygon Arms, accessed via Back Lane, you will find a series of beautifully maintained gardens. These peaceful spaces offer a welcome escape from the busier High Street.

Each garden area has a slightly different design, with manicured lawns, stone paths, and carefully chosen plants. Benches throughout the gardens invite visitors to sit and relax.

This is one of the most underrated spots in Broadway and ideal for a quiet break during your visit.

5. The Bridal Room Square

The Bridal Room boutique is located just off the High Street at 4 Keil Close. The small square surrounding it is one of Broadway’s hidden gems.

With its traditional stone buildings, soft colors, and tucked away feel, it offers a more intimate and less crowded view of the village. It is a lovely place to pause and soak in Broadway’s charm away from the main thoroughfare.

More Things to Do in and Around Broadway

Visit Broadway Tower

Broadway Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the Cotswolds and sits just outside the village. Built in the eighteenth century, it offers panoramic views across up to sixteen counties on clear days!

You can walk to the tower from Broadway village or drive to the nearby parking area. The surrounding parkland is ideal for walks and picnics. You can also visit while on a tour, such as this one!

Walk the Northern Cotswolds

Broadway is the official starting point of the Cotswold Way, a long distance walking trail that stretches to Bath. Even if you are not tackling the full route, shorter walks around Broadway offer stunning countryside views.

Popular routes include walks to Snowshill, Broadway Tower, and through nearby farmland and woodland.

Explore Nearby Villages

Broadway is perfectly located for visiting other beautiful Cotswold villages. Snowshill is only two miles away and offers a quieter, more secluded atmosphere. Chipping Campden, Winchcombe, and Stanton are also easy to reach by car.

Broadway Filming Locations

Broadway and the surrounding Cotswolds have appeared in numerous film and television productions. The village’s historic inns and streets fit perfectly into period dramas.

Nearby locations have been used in productions such as Downton Abbey, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and Father Brown, making Broadway a great stop for fans of British film and television!

How to Get to Broadway Village

You can reach Broadway from London in several ways.

By car, the journey takes just under two hours, depending on traffic.

By train, travel to Moreton in Marsh station, then take a local bus or taxi to Broadway. Total travel time is approximately three hours.

By coach, you can take a service from London Victoria to Cheltenham and then transfer to a local bus. This is the longest option and can take around five hours.

Where to Stay in Broadway

Broadway offers accommodation for a wide range of budgets and travel styles.

You will find luxury hotels, historic inns, self catering cottages, and family friendly stays both in the village and nearby.

Staying in Broadway is ideal if you want easy access to the North Cotswolds while enjoying a lively village atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Broadway

Spring and summer are the most popular seasons, thanks to blooming flowers and outdoor events. Autumn offers beautiful colors and fewer crowds, while winter brings festive decorations and cozy pub experiences.

Broadway is a year round destination, with each season offering a different perspective on village life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Broadway

How many people live in Broadway
According to the 2011 census, Broadway had a population of 2,540.

Is there parking in Broadway
Yes. There are several car parks in and around the village, all reasonably priced and easy to use.

Can I walk to another village from Broadway
Yes. Snowshill is only two miles away and can be reached on foot.

Is Broadway worth visiting
Absolutely. Broadway combines history, scenery, shopping, and excellent food, making it one of the best villages to visit in the Cotswolds!

To get a more thorough view of the village, refer to this map for your visit.