Hill Croome

This 18th-century limestone structure rises 65 feet from Broadway Hill, the region's second-highest point, and its unusual hexagonal form with three round turrets, battlements and gargoyles makes it instantly recognisable across the landscape.

The tower rewards a visit because it's genuinely worth exploring inside rather than just admiring from afar. Four storeys of rooms are open to visitors, with the upper three floors functioning as a museum covering the building's history. The climb to the top offers expansive views across the Cotswolds—on clear days you can see a remarkable distance, which makes the effort well spent.

The village sits in an excellent position for getting to know this corner of the region. Broadway itself lies just below the hill and functions as the main hub, with a good selection of shops, restaurants and places to stay. From Hill Croome you're equally well-placed to reach Chipping Campden and Moreton-in-Marsh without much effort. The elevated setting makes this a particularly good base for walking, as numerous routes fan out through the countryside in all directions. The combination of the tower visit, the village facilities and the walking opportunities makes it a useful stop rather than a passing glance.