Broadway Claims Top Spot Among Cotswolds Villages Over Rivals

The Cotswolds, famous for its scenic beauty, has sparked a lively debate among locals and visitors alike regarding the best villages to explore. Recent discussions highlight Broadway as a leading contender, with some claiming it surpasses both Castle Combe and Chipping Campden as the region’s most charming village.

Broadway is often referred to as the “jewel” of the Cotswolds, attracting tourists to its iconic sights. The village is home to the historic Broadway Tower, a notable family-run attraction located within a sprawling 200-acre parkland estate. Here, visitors can enjoy a stroll through a deer park, explore various shops and cafés, and admire the 227-year-old tower, originally built for the Earl of Coventry. This vibrant community boasts an eclectic mix of independent shops, galleries, and boutiques, catering to diverse interests with offerings that range from local crafts to high-quality homewares.

In contrast, some online reviews advise prospective travelers to avoid certain Cotswolds villages, including Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Castle Combe. Comments on a popular social media platform suggest these locations are often overcrowded with tourists. One user bluntly stated: “AVOID Bourton on the Water AVOID Castle Combe,” highlighting concerns over the visitor experience in these areas.

Castle Combe, despite its picturesque appeal, has faced scrutiny for its lack of activities compared to Broadway. Fred Winup, who has served as Chairman of the parish council for over two decades, noted that the village does not offer the same variety of attractions. He described Castle Combe as a lovely place to live but indicated that it might only hold visitors’ interest for a short while. “It’s a quiet place to come and visit, maybe spend an hour here, and that’s it,” Winup remarked, suggesting that winter might be the ideal time for a visit due to fewer crowds.

Broadway is frequently considered superior to Chipping Campden, a market town known for its honey-colored limestone buildings and medieval architecture, including the historic St. James’ Church. While Chipping Campden’s official website promotes it as “one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the UK,” some locals have expressed differing opinions.

A Reddit user shared, “Broadway has better restaurants and slightly less pretentious people,” adding that they often prefer Broadway to Chipping Campden. Another user reinforced this sentiment, stating, “100% go to Broadway! Chipping is a place that old people go to die.”

As tourism continues to shape the Cotswolds, Broadway stands out with its rich offerings and vibrant atmosphere. This ongoing conversation not only emphasizes preferences among visitors but also reflects the unique characteristics that define each village in this renowned region.