Broadway Coppice and Broadway Tower Country Park via Cotswold Way

Starting near Worcestershire, England, this 11 km (approximately 6.8 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With an elevation gain of around 400 meters (about 1,312 feet), the trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards Broadway, Worcestershire, and look for parking options near the village center. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Evesham, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to Broadway.### Trail Overview The trail begins in the picturesque village of Broadway, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Cotswolds." From here, you will follow the Cotswold Way, a renowned long-distance footpath that stretches across the Cotswold Hills.### Key Landmarks and Sections#### Broadway Tower Approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) into the hike, you will reach Broadway Tower, an iconic folly standing 312 meters (1,024 feet) above sea level. Built in 1798, the tower offers panoramic views of up to 16 counties on a clear day. It's a perfect spot for a short break and some photography.#### Broadway Coppice Continuing along the trail, you will enter Broadway Coppice, a serene woodland area rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. This section is particularly beautiful in the spring when wildflowers carpet the forest floor.### Elevation and Terrain The trail features a mix of gentle slopes and steeper inclines, with the most significant elevation gain occurring as you approach Broadway Tower. The terrain varies from well-trodden paths to more rugged sections, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended.### Historical Significance The Cotswolds region is steeped in history, and this trail is no exception. Broadway itself is a historic village with roots dating back to Roman times. The Broadway Tower was designed by renowned architect James Wyatt and has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a home for the Arts and Crafts movement.### Navigation For navigation, it's advisable to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.### Wildlife and Flora The trail offers ample opportunities to observe local wildlife and flora. In addition to the animals mentioned earlier, you may also encounter badgers and various species of butterflies. The flora is equally diverse, with ancient oak and beech trees dominating the woodland areas.### Final Stretch As you loop back towards Broadway, the final stretch of the trail offers stunning views of the Cotswold countryside. The descent is gradual, allowing you to take in the scenery at a leisurely pace before arriving back in the village.This trail provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.