Tag: Countryside

4 Wonderful Things to Do in Lacock Village, England (2026 Guide)

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of my links, at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support my website and allow me to continue creating free travel guides and resources.

Lacock is one of the most beautifully preserved villages in England and a true hidden gem in Wiltshire. From medieval streets and historic abbey ruins to famous film locations and cozy tearooms, Lacock feels like stepping into another century. It is no surprise that this village has been used as a filming location for Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, Pride and Prejudice, and many more productions.

Whether you are planning a day trip from Bath, Bristol, or London, or staying overnight in the Cotswolds area, Lacock is a wonderful place to slow down and explore!

  • The cottages of Lacock Village

1. Visit Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot Museum

One of the most important places to visit in Lacock is Lacock Abbey. Founded in 1232 by Ela, Countess of Salisbury, the abbey began as a nunnery and was later transformed into a country house. Today, it is managed by the National Trust and is open to visitors.

Lacock Abbey is also famous as the former home of William Henry Fox Talbot, the inventor of the photographic negative. The Fox Talbot Museum, located on site, tells the story of early photography and displays some of the oldest surviving photographs in the world.

Inside the abbey, you can explore medieval cloisters, Gothic and Tudor rooms, grand Victorian interiors, and the very space where the first photographic negative was created.

  • The dining room at Lacock Abbey

There is no need to book tickets in advance, tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit from visitor reception. You can find more information on the Abbey’s opening days and times here

Discover the Harry Potter Filming Locations at Lacock Abbey

Lacock Abbey is one of the most recognizable Harry Potter filming locations in England. Several rooms and passageways were used to represent Hogwarts interiors. You can explore the abbey on your own, or find Harry Potter themed tours via GetYourGuide, Viator, or Tripadvisor.

The Cloisters

Used as Hogwarts corridors in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Scenes include Harry walking with his invisibility cloak, students moving between classes, and Professor McGonagall recruiting Harry for the Quidditch team.

  • The cloisters at Lacock Abbey, also known as Hogwarts corridors

The Chapter House

Used as the room of the Mirror of Erised and later as a classroom where students discuss the Heir of Slytherin.

  • The Chapter house room

The Warming Room

Featured as Professor Quirrell’s Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, complete with its historic cauldron.

  • The Warming Room—or, should I say, Professor Quirrel’s classroom

The Sacristy

Transformed into Professor Snape’s Potions classroom.

Explore the Abbey Gardens and Greenhouse

After touring the abbey, take time to wander through its beautiful grounds. The gardens have existed for centuries and blend woodland paths, open parkland, and formal historic spaces.

One of the highlights is the Botanic Garden and greenhouse, created by Henry Fox Talbot in the nineteenth century. The greenhouse is filled with colorful plants and offers a quiet place to pause and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The grounds also feature an orchard, rose garden, and riverside walks that are especially beautiful in spring and summer.

  • Partial view of the greenhouse
  • Wild garlic growing on Lacock Abbey grounds

2. Wander the Streets of Lacock Village

Lacock village itself is just as special as the abbey. The village layout has remained largely unchanged for centuries, with timber framed cottages, stone houses, and historic inns lining four main streets.

As you wander, you will find independent shops, small museums, cozy tearooms, and traditional pubs. Lacock feels wonderfully untouched by modern development, which is why it is so often chosen for period dramas.

  • One of the lovely cottages in Lacock Village

Stop for a freshly baked treat at Lacock Bakery or enjoy a coffee and homemade cake at The Stables Cafe. For a sit-down meal, the historic Sign of the Angel and The George Inn are perfect choices for classic English fare, while The Bell Inn offers more refined dining just outside the main thoroughfare. The village also has delightful places to browse local crafts and gifts, including the National Trust Gift Shop, Barty’s of Lacock, Quintessentially English, and Lacock Shop & Deli, making a slow stroll through Lacock feel like a step back in time with plenty of inviting stops along the way.

3. Harry Potter filming locations in the village

The Cottage with the Blue Door

The blue door cottage on Church Street appears briefly in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

  • The day I visited, some Harry Potter themed jewelry and keychains were for sale right outside the cottage

Sign of the Angel Pub

The Sign of the Angel pub was used as the Babberton Arms. You can even book a stay here!

  • The Sign of the Angel pub, also known as Barberton Arms in the sixth Harry Potter movie

Harry Potter Parent’s House

A house at the end of Church Street was used as James and Lily Potter’s home.

  • James and Lily Potter’s house in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

Horace Sluggorn’s Hideaway

A large house on Church Hill appears as Horace Slughorn’s hideaway.

  • Horace Sluggorn’s Hideaway

4. Visit St Cyriac’s Church and Churchyard

St Cyriac’s Church dates back to the fourteenth century and stands at the heart of Lacock. The church features beautiful stonework, medieval details, and impressive stained glass. Settlement in Lacock originally developed around the church, which is still reflected in the shape of Church Street today.

The peaceful churchyard is a lovely place for a quiet stroll and offers beautiful views of the surrounding village.

  • St Cyriac’s Church, a 14th Century medieval church

Where to Stay in Lacock

If you want to extend your visit, Lacock is a wonderful place to spend the night. One of the most popular options is the Sign of the Angel, a historic inn located right in the village.

You can also find charming cottages, boutique hotels, and countryside stays nearby through Booking.com and Expedia.

Getting to Lacock

Lacock is located in Wiltshire, about thirty minutes from Bath and under two hours from London.

By car: easy access from Bath, Bristol, and the Cotswolds. Click here for car rental options.
By train: Chippenham station is the closest, followed by a short taxi ride. You can check private transfers through Welcome Pickups and Kiwitaxi.

By tour: many small group tours include Lacock with Bath and the southern Cotswold

Final Thoughts

Lacock is one of those rare places that truly feels frozen in time. Whether you are visiting for its history, gardens, photography heritage, or famous filming locations, the village offers a peaceful and unforgettable experience. It is the perfect destination for a slow day of wandering, exploring, and soaking in English village life.

If you are planning a trip to Wiltshire or the Cotswolds, Lacock absolutely deserves a place on your itinerary!

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10 Lovely Things to Do in Grasmere, Cumbria (2026 Travel Guide)

Paola Tambo2 Comments

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you make a booking through my links, at no extra cost to you.

The village of Grasmere is one of the most beloved destinations in Cumbria and the Lake District. It is especially famous as the home of English Romantic poet William Wordsworth, who lived here in the early nineteenth century. Today, Grasmere draws visitors from all over the world thanks to its breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, independent shops, cozy tearooms, and unique places to stay.

Although many of Grasmere’s village buildings date from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the surrounding farms and St Oswald’s Church are much older, giving the village a timeless, storybook feel. From the moment you arrive, you are surrounded by green fields, stone cottages, and sweeping fell views.

Early spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit, when daffodils begin to bloom, the air is crisp, and the crowds are lighter than in peak summer.

  • A beautiful Grasmere farmhouse

10 Lovely Things to Do in Grasmere

Grasmere is full of quiet beauty and gentle experiences. Here are some of the most popular and rewarding things to include in your Grasmere itinerary.

1. Wander Around the Village Centre

Grasmere’s village centre is lined with charming stone buildings, gift shops, cafés, and traditional inns. It is the perfect place to begin exploring. One popular stop includes the Chocolate Cottage for handmade treats. Near the centre, you will also find a lovely wishing well whose proceeds support local and national charities.

To find accommodation nearby, check these options through Booking.com, Vrbo, and Expedia.

  • Grasmere’s Village Center

2. Visit the Peter Rabbit and Friends Shop

A visit to Grasmere would not be complete without stopping at the Peter Rabbit and Friends Shop. This is a must for fans of Beatrix Potter and her timeless stories.

Inside, you will find a wide range of gifts, books, toys, and outdoor themed products inspired by Peter Rabbit and his friends. It is especially popular with families, but also lovely for collectors and literary fans.

If you are interested in a Beatrix Potter tour or a Lake District experience, check these ones out on Viator and GetYourGuide. You can also pay a visit to the village and house where Beatrix Potter lived. You can find more information about it in this article I wrote.

  • The Peter Rabbit and Friends shop

3. Explore St Oswald’s Church

St Oswald’s Church is one of the most historically significant sites in Grasmere. It is named after St Oswald, the seventh century Christian king of Northumbria, who is believed to have preached on this site.

The church is best known today for its strong connection to the poet William Wordsworth, who worshipped here regularly. The interior is peaceful and welcoming, and the surrounding churchyard is one of the most atmospheric spots in the village.

  • St. Oswald’s Church

4. Visit the Wordsworth Family Graves

Within St Oswald’s churchyard, follow the small sign pointing “To the Wordsworth Graves.” This leads you to the resting place of William Wordsworth, his wife Mary, his sister Dorothy, and several of their children.

The graves lie beneath the shade of ancient yew trees, some of which were planted by Wordsworth himself. It is a quiet and moving place to reflect on the poet’s life and legacy.

  • The graves of the Wordsworth family

5. Walk Through the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden

Nestled between St Oswald’s churchyard and the River Rothay is the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden. It was opened in 2003 in honour of Wordsworth’s famous poem “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.”

Entrance is free, but the garden raises funds to support Grasmere’s heritage. Visitors can sponsor engraved Lakeland slate stones, shrubs, or wild daffodils. In spring, this is one of the most beautiful spots in the entire village.

  • View of the village from the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden

6. Stop at the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop

This tiny shop is one of Grasmere’s biggest attractions and the only place in the world where authentic Grasmere Gingerbread is made.

Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread has been baked here since 1854. Its closely guarded recipe is reportedly stored in a bank vault. The gingerbread is somewhere between a biscuit and a cake, and its warm, spicy aroma alone is reason enough to visit.

Expect queues, especially in peak season, but they move quickly and are well worth the wait.

  • The Grasmere Gingerbread shop

7. Stroll Along the River Rothay

The River Rothay flows gently past the churchyard and through the edge of the village. A walk along its banks offers some of the prettiest views in Grasmere.

The footpaths here are easy, peaceful, and ideal for photography. You will see stone bridges, grazing sheep, and classic Lakeland scenery that changes beautifully with the seasons.

  • Partial view of the River Rothay

8. Visit Dove Cottage

In 1799, William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy settled in Dove Cottage after years of travelling. Wordsworth famously described it as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found.”

Here he wrote some of the most important poetry in the English language, and many leading Romantic writers and artists visited him.

Today, Dove Cottage is open to the public as a museum. You can explore the rooms, gardens, and exhibitions and gain a deeper insight into Wordsworth’s life and work.

You can book your visit to Dove Cottage here

  • Dove Cottage

You can also book a William Wordsworth morning half-day tour with an expert guide HERE!

9. Walk Through Grasmere Town End

Grasmere Town End is a small hamlet that has changed very little since Wordsworth’s lifetime. Cobblestone paths, stone cottages, and traditional details such as old style lamp posts make this one of the most atmospheric areas of the village.

It is a wonderful place for slow wandering, photography, and imagining what life was like here two centuries ago.

  • Grasmere Town End

10. Photograph the Surrounding Landscape

The natural setting of Grasmere is just as special as the village itself. Green meadows, dry stone walls, grazing sheep, and dramatic fell backdrops surround the village in every direction.

Popular walks include Red Bank Road and the footpath along the western shore of Grasmere Lake toward Rydal Water. These routes offer stunning scenery and gentle walking suitable for most visitors. If you are looking for guided hikes, scenic tours, and Lake District day trips, click here.

  • View from Grasmere’s parking lot

Where to Stay in Grasmere

Grasmere offers a wide range of accommodation options, from historic inns and family run guesthouses to luxury hotels and countryside cottages.

You can find and compare hotels, B and Bs, and holiday rentals in and around Grasmere using Booking.com, Vrbo, or Expedia.

How to Get to Grasmere

By car
Grasmere is easiest to reach by car and sits just off the A591 between Windermere and Keswick. Click here for car rental options.

By bus
Bus 599 runs between Bowness, Windermere, Rydal, and Grasmere, with frequent services in spring and summer, including open top buses.
Bus 555 runs from Lancaster and Kendal to Keswick via Grasmere.

By bike or on foot
The Grasmere Trail links Ambleside and Grasmere via Rydal Water and Grasmere Lake and is a beautiful option for walkers and cyclists.

By guided tour
Many Lake District tours include Grasmere as a stop. This is ideal if you prefer not to drive. You can find a tour that suits you through Viator, GetYourGuide, or Tripadvisor.

Nearby Villages to Visit from Grasmere

One of the best things about staying in Grasmere is its central location in the Lake District. Several beautiful villages and small towns are only a short drive or bus ride away, making Grasmere an excellent base for exploring the region.

Ambleside

Just ten minutes south of Grasmere, Ambleside is one of the Lake District’s most popular villages. It is known for its lively town centre, independent shops, cosy cafés, and historic landmarks such as Bridge House and Stock Ghyll Force waterfall. Ambleside is also a major hub for lake cruises and walking routes.

Rydal and Rydal Water

Only a few minutes from Grasmere, Rydal is a tiny village set beside one of the most peaceful lakes in the district. Rydal Water is perfect for gentle walks, photography, and quiet picnics. Nearby highlights include Rydal Mount, another former home of William Wordsworth, and scenic walking paths linking Grasmere and Ambleside.

Hawkshead

About twenty five minutes away, Hawkshead is a beautifully preserved medieval village with whitewashed cottages, cobbled streets, and a strong literary history. Both William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter have close connections to Hawkshead, and it is home to the Tabitha Twitchit’s Bookshop and the Old Grammar School where Wordsworth studied.

Bowness on Windermere

Around twenty minutes from Grasmere, Bowness on Windermere sits on the shores of England’s largest lake. It is the best place for lake cruises, boat hire, waterfront walks, and family attractions such as the World of Beatrix Potter. It also offers one of the widest selections of hotels, restaurants, and shops in the Lake District.

Elterwater and Little Langdale

For a quieter village experience, Elterwater and the Little Langdale valley are beautiful options. These small villages are surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and offer some of the most rewarding short walks in the central Lake District, including routes to waterfalls, tarns, and historic slate workings..

Final Thoughts

Grasmere is one of those villages that invites you to slow down. Whether you are following in the footsteps of William Wordsworth, tasting the famous gingerbread, walking beside the river, or gazing across the surrounding fells, the village offers a peaceful and deeply memorable Lake District experience.

If you are planning a trip to Cumbria, Grasmere deserves a place at the very top of your itinerary!

Discovering the Village of Bibury in the Cotswolds, England | 2026 Travel Guide

Paola Tambo1 Comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links

Bibury is one of the most visited and photographed villages in the Cotswolds, England, and it is easy to understand why the moment you arrive. Often described as one of the most beautiful villages in England, Bibury feels like a place frozen in time, where honey colored stone cottages, gentle rivers and rolling countryside create a scene straight out of a painting.

Located in Gloucestershire within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bibury attracts visitors year round who are searching for classic English charm, peaceful countryside walks and historic architecture. In this guide, I will take you through the highlights of Bibury, share lesser known experiences, and help you plan a well rounded visit for 2026 and beyond.

Experiencing the Peaceful Atmosphere of Bibury

Stepping into Bibury feels like stepping away from modern life. The village has a calm and unhurried rhythm that encourages visitors to slow down and truly take in their surroundings. Despite its popularity, Bibury still manages to feel serene, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

The River Coln gently winds through the village, adding to the sense of tranquility. Walking along the riverbank is one of the simplest and most rewarding things to do in Bibury. Many visitors choose to sit quietly by the water, while others enjoy photographing the reflections of cottages and stone bridges.

Bibury is also a wonderful place to explore on foot. Short countryside walks lead out of the village into open fields and peaceful lanes. If you prefer cycling, the surrounding Cotswolds villages can be reached via scenic back roads. For travelers staying overnight, booking a countryside hotel or traditional inn through Booking.com or Expedia allows you to enjoy Bibury when day trippers leave.

  • Facing the River Coln

Must See Attractions in Bibury

Bibury is compact, but it is filled with historic landmarks and charming details that make it one of the most rewarding villages to explore in the Cotswolds.

Arlington Row

Arlington Row is without question the most iconic sight in Bibury and one of the most photographed locations in England. This row of stone cottages dates back to the fourteenth century and was originally built as a wool store before being converted into weavers’ cottages in the seventeenth century.

The steep roofs, mullioned windows and ivy covered walls make Arlington Row feel like a storybook scene, especially in spring and summer. It is managed by the National Trust, and visitors can walk freely along the path while respecting the fact that some cottages are still privately owned.

If you want to explore similar villages without the crowds, guided Cotswolds village tours from GetYourGuide or Viator often include Bibury alongside Bourton on the Water and Stow on the Wold.

  • View of Arlington Row

Church of St. Mary

The Church of St Mary sits quietly near Arlington Row and is one of the oldest buildings in Bibury. Dating back to the twelfth century, the church features beautiful stonework, historic memorials and stained glass windows.

The churchyard is also worth exploring, offering lovely views across the River Coln and surrounding countryside. It is an ideal stop for visitors interested in English history and architecture.

Bibury Court

Bibury Court is a striking Jacobean manor house that now operates as a hotel. Even if you are not staying there, it is worth admiring the exterior and gardens.

For travelers looking for a unique overnight experience, booking a stay at Bibury Court or a nearby countryside retreat through Booking.com or Vrbo adds a special touch to a Cotswolds itinerary.

  • Bibury’s Cottages

Bibury Trout Farm and Local Experiences

One of the most popular attractions in Bibury is the Bibury Trout Farm, the oldest working trout farm in England. It offers a mix of hands on experiences and educational insight into traditional fish farming.

Visitors can feed the fish, learn about trout breeding or even catch their own trout, which can be cooked on site. The café is a convenient lunch stop, especially for families. Tickets and experiences like this are often bundled into Cotswolds day tours available through Tripadvisor.

Seasonal events also play a role in Bibury village life. The Bibury Duck Race, held on the River Coln, is a long standing tradition that brings together locals and visitors in a light hearted community celebration.

For more information, you can visit the Bibury Trout Farm website here!

Exploring the Surrounding Countryside

Bibury is an excellent base for countryside walks and gentle hikes. Footpaths lead into nearby meadows, farmland and woodland, offering views of classic Cotswolds scenery. Popular walking routes connect Bibury with Coln St Aldwyns and Quenington, making it easy to turn a village visit into a half day or full day experience.

Wildlife is abundant in this area. Birdwatchers may spot swallows, buzzards and finches, while quieter paths sometimes reveal deer or rabbits in the early morning. For visitors without a car, guided walking tours like this one and transfers from nearby towns can be arranged through Welcome Pickups or Kiwitaxi.

  • A tranquil view of the village

Suggested Bibury Half Day Itinerary

Arrive early and walk along Arlington Row before crowds build
Visit the Church of St Mary and stroll along the River Coln
Explore Bibury Trout Farm and enjoy lunch at the café
Walk into the surrounding countryside or relax by the river
Finish with a drink or dinner at a traditional Cotswolds pub (I suggest The Catherine Wheel)

For those traveling from London or nearby cities, day trips to Bibury and the Cotswolds are widely available through Viator and GetYourGuide and often include transportation and commentary.

To book a stay in Bibury, consider making a reservation with Vrbo or Booking.com!

Exploring the Village of Stow on the Wold in the Cotswolds (2026)

Paola Tambo1 Comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

Perched on one of the highest points in the Cotswolds, Stow on the Wold is a village that feels both timeless and welcoming. Once an important market town, today it draws visitors with its honey colored stone buildings, antique shops, historic inns such as this one, and relaxed village atmosphere.

Walking through Stow on the Wold feels like stepping into a quieter rhythm of life. Cobblestone streets curve gently past centuries old cottages, independent shops, and cozy tearooms. It is a place that encourages slow travel, whether you are browsing antiques, enjoying a long lunch, or simply wandering without a plan.

  • A cobblestone lane in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold

Exploring the Streets of Stow on the Wold

One of the best things to do in Stow on the Wold is simply to wander. The village center is compact, yet full of character.

The winding streets are lined with antique shops, independent boutiques, cafes, and galleries. Many of these buildings date back several centuries and retain their original stone facades, giving the village its unmistakable Cotswold charm.

Take your time here. This is the kind of place where popping into one shop easily turns into an afternoon of exploring!

If you would rather explore Stow on the Wold with a tour, then click here and check this one out!

  • The quaint shops of Stow-on-the-Wold

Stow on the Wold High Street and Market Square

The High Street and Market Square form the heart of Stow on the Wold. Historically, this square hosted large sheep markets and fairs that brought traders from across England.

Today, it is surrounded by antique shops, traditional pubs, and tearooms. The atmosphere is lively but never overwhelming. A relaxed afternoon route through the village could include:

  • Start with brunch or cream tea at Huffkins, a classic Cotswolds institution
  • Browse nearby shops such as The Curated Store or Fosse Gallery
  • Explore antique favorites like Durham House Antiques and Tara Antiques
  • Pick up local cheese from the Cotswold Cheese Company
  • Finish with coffee or cake at Lucy’s Tearoom or the New England Coffee House.
  • View of the shops from High Street – Market Square
  • A fairytale-like corner in the village

Visit St Edward’s Church

St Edward’s Church is one of the most atmospheric churches in the Cotswolds. Its famous north door, framed by ancient yew trees, has become an iconic image of Stow-on-the-Wold and is often likened by Tolkien fans to something from Middle-earth—reminiscent of the hidden doors of Moria watched over by ancient trees!

The church dates back to the eleventh century and features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stonework. The setting feels almost mythical and is frequently linked to inspiration for fantasy literature. Needless to say, this is a must-see stop when visiting the village!

  • It is widely rumored that the North door to St. Edwards Church inspired Tolkien for the ‘Doors of Durin’, which appear in the Lord of the Rings

Walks and Nature Around Stow on the Wold

Stow on the Wold is surrounded by classic Cotswold countryside. Rolling hills, open fields, and quiet footpaths begin just beyond the village streets.

The Cotswold Way long distance walking trail passes nearby, offering opportunities for short scenic walks or longer countryside hikes. Each season brings a different feel, from spring wildflowers to golden autumn landscapes.

Where to Stay in Stow on the Wold

Stow on the Wold offers a wide range of accommodation options, making it a popular place to stay in the Cotswolds. You will find charming bed and breakfasts, historic coaching inns, boutique hotels, and self catering cottages. Many accommodations are within walking distance of shops and restaurants, which makes evenings especially enjoyable.

  • The quaint cottages of Stow-on-the-Wold

Click here to visit Booking.com to book your cottage or accommodation in Stow-on-the-Wold!

Getting to Stow on the Wold

By Car

  • From London, the drive takes about two hours via the M40 and A424.
  • From Oxford, the journey is just under one hour.
  • From Birmingham, allow around one hour and fifteen minutes.

Parking is available in and around the Market Square, though spaces can fill quickly. A free car park near the Tesco on the edge of town is a useful alternative.

You can rent a car here with Booking.com!

By Train

  • The nearest train station is Moreton in Marsh, approximately four miles away.
  • Direct trains run from London Paddington in about one hour and thirty minutes.

From the station, you can take a taxi or local bus to Stow on the Wold.

By Bus

  • Local bus services connect Stow on the Wold with Moreton in Marsh, Bourton on the Water, Cheltenham, and other Cotswold towns.
  • Services are less frequent on Sundays, so checking timetables in advance is recommended.

Visiting Broadway from Stow on the Wold

Broadway is an excellent addition to a Stow on the Wold itinerary. Located to the north, it is known as the Jewel of the Cotswolds and offers a wider High Street, excellent shopping, and access to Broadway Tower.

Many visitors combine Stow on the Wold and Broadway in a single day, either by car or on a guided Cotswolds tour. The village of Broadway also makes a great base if you want to explore Snowshill and the northern Cotswolds.

I wrote an article about the village of Broadway here, and Snowshill here. I highly recommend taking a look and seeing if they are a good fit to add to your itinerary!

Stow on the Wold in Film and Television

Stow on the Wold and the surrounding Cotswolds have been featured in numerous British television shows and films. Nearby villages have appeared in productions such as Downton Abbey, Father Brown, and Bridget Jones’s Diary.

The timeless streets and historic buildings of Stow on the Wold make it a natural fit for period dramas and countryside scenes.

Best Time to Visit Stow on the Wold

Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit, thanks to pleasant weather and blooming gardens. Autumn offers fewer crowds and warm countryside colors, while winter brings festive decorations and cozy pub interiors.

Stow on the Wold is a year round destination, with each season offering a different atmosphere!

Excited to visit Stow-on-the-Wold? Then click here to find your accommodation today!

5 Prettiest Spots in the Village of Broadway, Cotswolds (2026)

Paola Tambo1 Comment

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.

  • View of the village from High Street

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.

  • View of High Street from The Green
  • View of some of the cottages next to The Green

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.

  • The Lygon Arms, a 600-year-old inn
  • Lygon Arms’ back area

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.

  • View of one of the gardens

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.

  • The Bridal Room in The Cotswolds
  • The charming little square with shops to explore

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.