Best known as Shakespeare’s birthplace, the pretty medieval market town of Stratford-upon-Avon—lined with characteristic Tudor half-timbered buildings—has become a bustling pilgrimage point for devotees of the Bard. Visiting Shakespeare’s Birthplace, where the writer lived in his youth, is perhaps the top thing to do in Stratford-upon-Avon, although assorted landmarks around town are also important landmarks of his life, from the Holy Trinity Church (where he’s buried) to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage (his wife’s former home). Meanwhile, at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company brings his masterworks to life.
The summer holidays are the high season in Stratford-upon-Avon, when families and tourists descend on Shakespeare’s birthplace to walk in the Bard’s footsteps, see where he and his family members lived and worked, and watch the Royal Shakespeare Company perform. Spring is also an excellent time to visit: Shakespeare’s birth (and death) day falls on April 23, while the Stratford Literary Festival takes place in early May.
Stratford-upon-Avon is a small and walkable town that’s best explored on foot. It is also served by the mainline Stratford-upon-Avon railway station as well as a coach station, both of which connect it to other destinations around the country. If you wish to venture into the surrounding countryside or explore beyond the town center, there are a number of local taxi companies.
While Stratford-upon-Avon is indisputably Shakespeare’s town, there’s more to do locally once you’ve had your fill of the Bard. Other highlights include the River Avon, where you can go rowing to soak up the scenery; the Mechanical Art & Design Museum (MAD Museum), which has interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages; plenty of historic pubs where you can enjoy a pint of ale; and Salt, a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Attractions 4 | Tours 31 | Reviews 37 |
Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and one of England’s quaintest historic market towns. Find thatched-roof houses, traditional pubs, museums about Shakespeare’s life, and plenty of highly-rated places to eat. It’s also famous for its picturesque riverbanks, boat rides on the Avon, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
...MoreFirst, get yourself a delicious full English breakfast and then stroll through the markets. After that, enjoy a cream tea and take a walk to a museum to see where William Shakespeare lived and worked. Explore the river, and then drink a pint of local beer in a traditional pub.
...MoreStratford-upon-Avon’s traditional Charter Market has existed since 1553, and it still features street food, crafts, and vintage treasures—you can find it set up in the center of the town every Friday. Every Saturday, the Urban Mix market focuses on local food and produce, while every Sunday, the UpMarket showcases jewelry, arts, and street performers.
...MoreGet a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus ticket on a rainy day and explore the town without experiencing the puddles. Have lunch at a restaurant in town, and be sure to enjoy the local produce. Then, visit a heritage museum and catch a play at the Swan Theatre.
...MoreStratford-upon-Avon is just over 100 miles (161 kilometers) northwest of London. By car, the trip takes around three hours, at most; there are many bus companies that can make this journey convenient and comfortable. By train, the trip takes around two hours—there are a number of changes involved, however.
...MoreYes. Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to get a deeper sense of English history and heritage. It’s right in the middle of the rolling green hills of the English countryside, and its winding, cobbled streets are lined with independent boutiques, shops and cafés, and well-preserved Tudor buildings.
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