Broadway, Broadway Tower Country Park and Fish Hill

Start at the junction of the main street, Station Road and Snowshill Road and walk along the footpath south past lovely stately houses to Broadway Church before leaving the tarmac footpath to east, then south then east again across lovely pasture fields before beginning the climb to Broadway Tower Country Park. You could follow a path directly to Broadway Tower but don't be tempted for you would miss out on the country park and a sighting of the herd of red deer.

On the climb to the country park you will probably be distracted to keep an eye on Broadway Tower. It is a magnificent sight. Broadway Tower, a Capability Brown Folly is one of England's outstanding viewpoints and at 1024 feet (312m) above sea level, it is the second highest point on the Cotswold escarpment. Extensive views from the country park and the tower give a lovely picture of such and on a clear day you can see as far as 16 counties. It is a breathtaking sight and worth the effort taken in making the 220 metre climb from the village which can be clearly seen down below.

I first visited Broadway Tower while doing the fantastic Cotswold Way Long Distance Path. Not knowing what it was at the time it captivated me from first sight after clearing the woodland on Armley Bank. This walk took me in the opposite direction so instead of looking forward to the tower I looked back. From the tower I crossed Broadway Hill to the woodland and then carefully negotiated myself over the busy A44 at Fish Hill.

Fish Hill is a haven of peace for while being so close to the main road it is thickly stocked with trees that shield the noise of traffic. Many car goers stop here to rest, take in the beauty and picnic. If you have brought sandwiches on your walk then the picnic area is the ideal place to stop and take a refreshment break. Despite its name Fish Hill has no water, let alone any fish. Instead there are wild flowers, colourful woods, an old quarry and plenty of open spots to take that picnic. There are also lots of information boards to read extolling the virtues of the Cotswolds.

After taking your leave of Fish Hill follow the Limestone Trail through a wood before reaching a road. Cross it and leave the woodland to track due west on a descent through fields before passing under the A44 before following a minor road back into Broadway. The final section of the walk is along the main street and past the cafes and coffee shops often frequented by day trippers. Take a break in the lovely village and explore a while before returning to the start point.