Beautiful UK village with independent shops loved by Simon Cowell | UK | Travel

The charming UK village has been visited by Simon Cowell and other A-listers (Image: Getty Images )
Nestled among the enchanting Cotswolds is a picture-perfect village that attracts A-listers from their Hollywood abodes for an idyllic escape to the country.
Brimming with independent shops, art galleries, cosy cafés, and traditional inns, the charming village of Broadway is frequently dubbed the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’. It’s famously broad high street, which inspired the village’s name, is lined with golden-hued stone cottages that boast mullioned windows, striking chimneys, and characteristic steep rooflines dating back to medieval times.
While the village in Worcestershire, close to the Gloucestershire border, reportedly houses around 3,000 inhabitants, it holds some impressive celebrity links. Music mogul Simon Cowell has famously been spotted wandering the delightful streets of Broadway during a countryside day out with his wife and son.

The village is famed for its broad street (Image: Getty Images)
Adding to its A-list status is The Lygon Arms, which houses the exquisite Grill restaurant, helmed by celebrity chef James Martin. Over the years, the luxury four-star hotel has welcomed high-profile guests such as the Beckhams, Kylie Minogue, and even members of the Royal Family.
Those dining at the celebrity restaurant can expect to “Indulge in the very best of Cotswolds dining”, serving up “seasonal, local, and artisanal dishes alongside James’ signature creations, while Tavern by James Martin offers small plates, local ales, and seasonal delights in a cosy setting,” as stated on the website.
Some of its dishes have included Blythburgh Farm Pork Chop, West Country Lamb, Faroe Island Salmon, Ox Cheek Bourguignon and Creste di Gallo Pasta. Knowing that one of Britain’s most celebrated chefs has crafted the thoughtfully designed menu is enough to warrant a visit.
Adding to its thriving culinary scene are numerous eateries throughout the village. Among them are The Broadbean for tapas, Flipside Gastro Burgers, and The Shed at the magnificent Dormy House hotel.

James Martin runs a restaurant at The Lygon Arms Hotel (Image: Getty Images)
Enhancing its allure is the collection of inviting pubs scattered throughout Broadway, delivering that authentic rural atmosphere and a cosy haven to savour a glass of red wine. Notable establishments include the Swan Inn, The Horse & Hound, Crown & Trumpet Inn and Snowshill Arms.
Additionally, there’s an array of welcoming cafés, including Leaf & Bean, Morris & Brown Cafe, and Hunters Tea Room. Alternatively, you can grab a treat from The Cotswold Larder Cakery or grab some scotch eggs and pork pies from the Broadway Deli, which offers a nostalgic experience with its interiors.
But its food scene isn’t the only draw, as Broadway excels as a shopping destination. Its streets are lined with independent retailers selling everything from gifts at Whatever The Weather, to clothing at ROYLE COLLECTIVE and 69b Boutique Sustainable Style.

There are cosy pubs, independent shops, art galleries to explore in Broadway (Image: Getty Images)
Among its pictureque setting and timeless charm, Broadway is well worth a day out, and you might even spot a celebrity while you’re there. It’s easy to spend hours strolling along the iconic wide street, before settling into one of the traditional country pubs or treating yourself to a tempting dish from James Martin.
One visitor to the village shared on TripAdvisor: “Broadway is a very nice town, different from all the other small Cotswolds villages. It’s tidy, peaceful and well designed. Its high street is perhaps its main landmark, with plenty of restaurants, coffee shops and souvenir shops, but well organised. Highly recommendable.”
Another commented: “Just beautiful, lots of shops and places to eat and drink. Best visited out of season so you can appreciate the buildings and old world charm.”
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