A Journey from Bibury to Broadway
After an amazing time exploring the hidden gem of Sheepscombe, we set off for one of the Cotswolds' most iconic spots, "Broadway." But first, we couldn’t resist making a detour to the charming village of Bibury. This picture-perfect location has caught the eye of filmmakers over the years, featuring in films like Bridget Jones's Diary and Stardust. With its honey-colored stone cottages and meandering stream, it’s no wonder Bibury is a favorite of directors and tourists alike.
Pro-tip: If you're planning a visit, aim for a weekday at the crack of dawn to beat the crowds. We stopped by for an early breakfast at The Swan Inn—a lovely location but, unfortunately, not the best experience for us that morning. Our server seemed to be having an off day, forgetting half of our order and then us altogether! Still, breakfast mishap aside, we enjoyed exploring the village’s quaint charm, though I would have preferred even more of an early start to avoid the sea of tourists.
While photo ops were scarce due to the crowd, I seized the moment and turned my lens toward the local wildlife—capturing some graceful swans and playful ducks swimming along the River Coln, which winds its way through the village. A serene and unexpected delight amidst the bustling scene.
Next, we continued our journey through the Cotswolds' winding roads toward Broadway. On the way, we spotted the majestic Broadway Tower, standing tall on a hill, keeping watch over the town below. Broadway itself is a bustling little hub, yet its charm feels organic. We were welcomed into a cozy home right in the heart of the village, greeted with a selection of locally-made jams, honey, and delicious treats—a lovely touch that made us feel instantly at home.
Broadway's shops are irresistible, offering everything from British-made clothing to quirky gifts. And, of course, we couldn't pass up a stop at the town's famous chocolate shop, where, as the locals say, “it’s always chocolate o’clock!” We indulged and treated ourselves to some delectable sweets before heading to Broadway Tower. One of my favorite memories was photographing the deer that live near the tower—such a peaceful and beautiful spot to unwind with nature.
For anyone visiting Broadway, don’t miss a trip to Bourton-on-the-Water. Known as the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this village is famous for its ancient stone walking bridges that crisscross the River Windrush, providing perfect photo opportunities. The highlight, though, had to be a visit to The Bakery on the Water. Their pastries were among the best we tasted during our time in the Cotswolds—flaky, fresh, and absolutely delicious.
A short drive from Bourton are the picturesque villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter. These small villages are the essence of rural tranquility and are more than worth a visit if you’re after a quiet escape from the busier tourist spots.
One of the highlights of our trip was a day spent at Sudeley Castle, a place filled with centuries of history. We were enchanted by its sprawling gardens, impressive grounds, and the castle itself. There’s so much to see and learn that I could go on forever, but I’ll let the photos speak for themselves!
One of the highlights of our time was a spontaneous trip to the Cotswolds Distillery. My wife and I had been curious to see what all the buzz was about, and we were not disappointed! Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, the distillery offers an intimate and welcoming experience. We took part in a guided tour, learning about the process behind their award-winning gin and whisky. Of course, the best part was sampling the goods. We left with a bottle of their signature dry gin, a wonderful souvenir to remember the day—and perhaps bring a bit of the Cotswolds spirit home with us!
On our final day in Broadway, my daughter, Ebba, joined us after her adventures in Bath. We made one last visit to Broadway Tower before ending our day with a hearty meal. Our favorite dining experience had to be at The Horse and Hound, where the service was outstanding and the food simply delicious. Donning our newly acquired British sweaters and vests, we fit right in at this cozy pub, soaking in the warm, friendly atmosphere.
Next, we’ll be picking up my son, Aidan, and heading off to the grand finale of our adventure—Castle Combe, the crown jewel of the Cotswolds.
Here are a few photos I managed to take of some of the birds visiting our backyard in Broadway :)
