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Stratford-upon-Avon

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About Stratford-upon-Avon

 

Discover this beautiful town, steeped in history dating back to the time of the Romans.

Stratford-upon-Avon is best-known as being the birthplace and home of William Shakespeare but also boasts many other historical places of interest including the Guild Chapel and Clopton Bridge, which spans the River Avon, both of which date back to Medieval times. Wander through the town’s cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the history of this picturesque town which has many cafes and tearooms to enjoy, along with plenty of welcoming pubs and taverns.

Full Day Tour Itinerary

  • Stratford-upon-Avon
  • Shakespeare’s Birthplace
  • Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
  • Shakespeare’s New Place
  • Royal Shakespeare Company
  • Riverside walks and boat trips

Half Day Tour Itinerary

  • Stratford-upon-Avon
  • Shakespeare’s Birthplace
  • Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
  • Shakespeare’s New Place

Favourite attractions

Shakespeare's Birthplace

Be transported back to Shakespearian England as you walk through the rooms of Shakespeare’s Birthplace.

Built in the early to mid-14th century, this Tudor house is a must-visit site for any visitor to Stratford-upon-Avon. Born in 1564, William Shakespeare was the third of eight children born to John Shakespeare and his wife Mary (formerly Mary Arden) and he lived in this house throughout his childhood. After William married Anne Hathaway in 1582, the couple continued to live here with William’s parents, and their own children – Susanna, Judith and Hamnet – were also born in the house. In 1847, after a public campaign to save the building (supported by Charles Dickens), the house was bought at auction for £3,000 by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, who continue to care for this hugely important historic building to this day. 

Shakespeare's New Place

Walk in Shakespeare’s footsteps and connect to the man himself at the site of his grand Stratford home.

Shakespeare’s New Place was once the site of Shakespeare’s family home where he lived from 1597 until his death in 1616. Although the house, which would have been one of the grandest in the town, was demolished in 1759, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust has developed the site to include gardens and landscaping which show the footprint and scale of New Place and commemorate the importance of the site. Admire specially commissioned artwork inspired by Shakespeare’s family life and his works that were written at the time he owned this property, and discover the tranquil Great Garden which houses sculptures inspired by the Bard’s writing.

Riverside Walks & Boat Trips

Take a stroll along the banks of the River Avon or cruise along the river to enjoy the sites of Stratford-upon-Avon from a unique viewpoint.

Stratford-upon-Avon is situated next to the River Avon and, as such, boasts many lovely riverside walks and a host of boat trips and cruises for visitors. From the banks of the river, you can view the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Holy Trinity Church where Shakespeare is buried. Surrounded by beautiful nature and wildlife, the riverside at Stratford-upon-Avon is a lovely way to pass your time during a visit to the town. For more information on walking routes and what boat trips are on offer, please speak to Nickie who will be happy to recommend something suitable.

Royal Shakespeare Company

Immerse yourself in the world of the Royal Shakespeare Company at their home on the banks of the River Avon.

This world-renowned theatre is home to the Royal Shakespeare Company who perform here throughout the year. Discover exhibitions about the history of theatre-making in Stratford and view historic paintings from the RSC Collection which are displayed around the building. Visitors can also climb the tower (or take the lift) which is thirty-two metres tall and boasts views over Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding countryside, as far as Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Worcestershire on a clear day! For an extra charge, why not take a guided tour of the theatre itself. Depending on what is going on in the theatre on the day will determine what your tour will include.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage

Discover the family home of Anne Hathaway, future wife of William Shakespeare, and stroll through the beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces.

Although the cottage has been extended many times over the years, much of the original farmhouse, built in 1463, has survived and can be visited today. Anne Hathaway was born in this house in 1556 and would have been visited here by her betrothed, William Shakespeare, before their marriage in 1582. Today, visitors can still view pieces of original furniture, including the Hathaway bed, and discover stories of this place which was home to thirteen generations of the same family. The outside space at this beautiful location is not to be missed, featuring a cottage garden filled with colourful plants and flowers, as well as orchards, meadows, woodland trails, lavender maze and a sculpture walk.

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