The Olive Branch Guest House
Broadway, England

A Family-Friendly Home Base in the Cotswolds

 

Just two hours from London is one our favorite European destinations, the Cotswolds.  Imagine yourself in rolling pastures dotted with sheep, stone walls, village churches and picturesque towns with names like Moreton-on-the-Marsh and you’ve found the right spot. 
This past year we made our way back for the third time and although we explored many new things, we also found ourselves returning to some of the places that have hung in our memories like freshly baked scones.   One of those places is the Olive Branch Guest House in Broadway.  It has now been our home-away-from home on three different occasions and it’s hard to imagine staying anywhere else in the area. 

The first time we stayed, it was years before kids.  We were traveling with another couple and came across this quaint Inn with raving reviews.  We liked that it was centrally located in the Cotswolds area and would make a convenient home base for seeing the area.  We thoroughly enjoyed our stay!  So years later when we returned with our two young sons, it seemed like the right choice again.  We were so pleased with the hospitality of the hosts, Pam and David Talboys, and their genuine welcome of our young family.  Then exactly ten years later, as we were planning to visit the Cotswolds again, there was no question in our minds, we had to stay at the Olive Branch again.  It truly has become our home-away-from-home when staying in the Cotswolds.  

Location
The excellent location is one of the things we love about the Olive Branch.  Not only is Broadway centrally located in the Cotwolds, I love the exact location of the Inn in Broadway.  Don’t let the sound of Broadway mislead you.  This is a small, one street and incredibly beautiful village.   A few shops and pubs are located a short walk away making it possible to walk to dinner and explore the area by foot.   The Inn itself was built in 1592 and was first built as a coaching house.  Original Cotswold stone can be seen throughout. 

Guest Rooms
The guest rooms are comfortable with luxurious linens and everything needed for a relaxing stay.  Each room has bath robes, basic amenities like hair dryers and toiletries, and tea-making provisions.


Breakfast
The breakfast is quite amazing!  When you first arrive for breakfast you’re greeted with fresh juices, yogurt parfaits, homemade breads, cereals, fruit and my absolute favorite, Muesli Squares.  These are freshly baked granola-type bars (Pam will give you the recipe if you ask nicely).  And just when you think you’ve had plenty, the Talboys come out and take your ‘hot order’ breakfast for eggs, sausage, bacon etc.

Hospitality
All of the reasons mentioned above are reason enough to choose the Olive Branch, but what really sets this place apart are the hosts, Pam and David Talboys.  They go out of their way to make you feel welcomed.  And that’s true whether you’re 47 or 7 years old!  They spent time each morning and afternoon helping us choose our activities, driving route and restaurant reservations.  They looked for ways to make our stay more enjoyable and we all felt truly welcomed.  Each time we drive away from this lovely spot and wave goodbye to the Talboys, we dream of when we’ll be able to return.


12 Family-Friendly Activities near the Olive Branch Guest House:

 

The Model Village
Cotswolds Farm Park
Motoring Museum & Toy Collection
Warwick Castle

Follow this link to our full review of Warwick Castle
Cotswold Falconry Centre
Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum
Abbey Home Farm
Blenheim Palace
Gloucestershire Warsickshire Steam Railway
Cotswolds Wildlife Park and Gardens
Tewkesbury Heritage Centre
The Bird and Deer Park

 

 

Books for Kids - United Kingdom

Check our suggested reading list for kids before, during and after your trip to England.

 

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Add Comment
Debbie says... (Reply)
"Absolutely breathtaking and looks so relaxing ♥" (4/10/17)
Dianne Sivulka says... (Reply)
"Thank you! It's a wonderful place to explore and take in the beauty!" (4/11/17)