If we set out to explore the roads of the Cotswolds region in the south of England, we'll come across incredible landscapes and views at every turn. It's no wonder this picturesque corner of the countryside is often called the English Tuscany.
A succession of hills tinted in different shades of green, winding streams crossed by ancient medieval bridges, and those small villages with limestone houses and slate roofs so often depicted on English porcelain.
Here, atop a hill and dominating the landscape, Broadway Tower stands proudly, just six kilometers from the village that shares its name, in the county of Worcestershire. Standing 17 meters tall in an elegant Georgian style, it's the result of a whim of Barbara, wife of George William, sixth Earl of Coventry, who wanted to find out whether a beacon placed atop one of the two hills near the village could be seen from her mansion.
To satisfy this wealthy lady's whim, landscape architect Capability Brown worked on its design, while construction was overseen by the famous architect of the time, James Wyatt. Work began in 1797 and was completed the following year.
Touring its three floors, visitors can see exhibits on the history of William Morris and appreciate the tower's ties to the Arts and Crafts movement. Before reaching the turrets to enjoy pleasant views from the battlements, there's an exhibit on the Royal Observer Corps, who kept watch during the German raids of World War II and remained on alert throughout the Cold War years.
