All Things Shakespeare In Stratford-Upon-Avon

There are so many fascinating things to do in Stratford-Upon-Avon, so as its most famous resident would say, to go or not to go… that is the question.

Stratford Upon Avon is and will forever be the town of Shakespeare. Everywhere you turn, a rich history embraces resident and visitors, whether it’s through the architecture or something as simple as a street name. It is here that poetry, prose, and plays bring things to life, but beauty goes beyond the page and romance is the anthem of the medieval market town.

While some trips leave you in awe of nature’s beauty or leave you rejuvenated, a weekend getaway to Stratford leaves your mind buzzing with a love for English Literature – and if you live your life believing that “the world’s mine oyster, which I with sword will open”, it’s about time you take on this journey! What’s the point of exploring England if you don’t make time for the cities that connect with people on a more profound level?

Find out why Shakespeare and Stratford go hand in hand like Romeo and Juliet.

Travel and Accommodation In Stratford-on-Avon 

The best way to get to Stratford Upon Avon is by National Rail from any major city such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Considering the size of the town, you do not need a car to explore, but that is also another transport option if you prefer. 

Hotels range from 3* to 5*, independent and chains, all located close to the main attractions and buzzing town centre. Some of the most popular places include:

• The White Swan Hotel
• Hotel Du Vin Stratford
• Mercure Shakespeare Hotel

Seven Wonderful Things To Do In Stratford-Upon-Avon 

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Most people’s first stop in this iconic town would be, of course, Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Is there any other perfect way to start your trip? Complete with 16th-century furniture, Shakespeare’s Birthplace is a beautiful and fascinating building providing insight into the early life of the legendary writer. As you walk out into the gardens, you can also stand on a small stage and re-enact his plays if you are up for it!

Often, professional actors also bring the place to life as they act out scenes, reflect Tudor life and explain fascinating origins of common English expressions.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

Not far from where Shakespeare grew up, lived the love of his life, Anne Hathaway. The 500-year-old architectural wonder that is Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is a marvel and is one of the most stunning places in an already beautiful town. You can walk across creaking, centuries-old floor boards, understand the lifestyle of Shakespeare’s time and best of all, frolic through the orchard and flower garden that surround the estate.

I might be so bold as to that spending time here is the best thing to do in Stratford Upon Avon.

Shakespeare’s New Place

This is where Shakespeare and Anne raised their children and where he took his last breath. Unfortunately, what you will stand on is not the original house because it was destroyed centuries ago. Still, it is worth a visit as you can enjoy the museum of his later life and the gorgeous gardens.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Shakespeare’s New Place are closed in the winter, so to fully enjoy everything thing there is to do in Stratford Upon Avon, visit in spring and summer.

Buying the Full Story Ticket gives you access to most Shakespearean attractions in the city and works out much cheaper than buying individual tickets. If you choose to do this, you will have to book a time slot for visiting Shakespeare Birthplace, but you can explore all other attractions at any point during opening hours.

Holy Trinity Church 

Holy Trinity Church is a magnificent and dominating structure with lovely stained-glass windows and of course, has a long history with Shakespeare. This is where the writer was baptised and is also his final resting place. During his time, grave robberies were extremely common, and so in true Shakespeare fashion, his grave reads something equally poetic and haunting: 

Good friend for Jesus’ sake forbear, / To dig the dust enclosed here: / Blest be the man that spares these stones, / And curst be he that moves my bones.

Honestly sounds like something you’d read in Macbeth. 

Watch a Shakespeare Play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre

Enjoying a Shakespearean performance in his hometown is a bucket list worthy experience and is a truly surreal but magical thing to do in Stratford Upon Avon.

If you care to dive deeper into the world of the dramatic arts, backstage tours are conducted by the Royal Shakespeare Company so you can gain a full appreciation of the spectacle that is putting on a play. The costume workshop is the highlight of this tour and a beautiful demonstration of the importance of art and fashion in Shakespeare’s fictional worlds.

The original theatre was built in memoriam to the playwright in 1879, but sadly it burnt down a few decades later. What stands before us today is a replacement theatre referred to as the New Shakespeare Memorial Theatre that was constructed in 1932.

Take a Canal Cruise Along River Avon (or don’t)

Honestly, this is a hit or miss. Every travel blog and website I read said this was a must-do activity and I was excited to see the incredible town from a new perspective, Unfortunately I only found myself underwhelmed, and hating how much we disturbed the swans and ducks. You can also barely see any attractions from the water, so save your £6 and donate it to a wildlife rescue organisation instead.

Bancroft Gardens 

Bancroft Gardens is the perfect place to enjoy the slow-paced life of a small town. Even in the summer when the park is bustling with carnivals and markets, it retains a laidback vibe. 

Average Cost For A Day Trip To Stratford-on-Avon Per Person

Transport (train from London + local travel): £15

Accommodation: £0

Attractions: £40

Food and amenities: £40

Discovering Stratford through Shakespeare’s lens has been one of my favourite trips in England. The company, the tranquil small-town life and the beauty of my surroundings was unforgettable and an experience I will cherish forever. The love people have for Shakespeare and Stratford is so genuine, and I completely understand why.

Practical Information About Stratford-Upon-Avon

Locations: England, United Kingdom

National Languages: English 

Currency: Sterling Pound

Neighbouring Countries: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland