Blockley sits on the side of a slope in the north west region of the Cotswolds. Despite the usual Cotswold beauty on display, the town does in fact have an industrial background. Until 1931 Blockley was actually part of Worcestershire, which is perhaps how we missed it in our guidebook from 1905.

Even in Roman times, the value of lots of fresh running water was deeply appreciated and Blockley has it in abundance – several springs gush from the hills just to the south of the village and their water runs through it as the Blockley brook without ever failing. Water of course means power, and several mills have existed on this stream certainly from times.

The sheep grazing was good on the hills, so it’s no surprise that the town has thrived since medieval times. Today, viewers of the hit TV series Father Brown will of course recognise Blockley as Kembleford, where the fictional series is set.

The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul is a great piece of work, built on Saxon foundations, this church that befit the status of this valuable part of the bishop of Worcester’s estate was started in 1180. Needless to say there were huge alterations through the centuries and several wonderful treasures have been added and indeed taken away.

The pulpit is built of Jacobean panels as many in this part of the world are, and the windows are mostly 19th century. The cafe next door to the church offers great refreshment – it’s clear to see why the crew of Father Brown honed in on a village like Blockley.