Stratford-upon-Avon Travel Guide: Explore Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Welcome to Stratford-upon-Avon, the picturesque English town where the world’s greatest playwright, William Shakespeare, was born. Nestled along the banks of the River Avon, this historic market town is a living museum of Tudor architecture, dramatic heritage, and riverside charm.
 

As your local tour guide, I’m here to help you experience the best of Stratford-upon-Avon—from literary landmarks to peaceful gardens, traditional pubs, and unforgettable theatre performances.

📜 A Brief History of Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford’s origins date back to the 12th century, when it was granted a market charter. Its name means "street by the ford on the River Avon". However, the town’s true global fame began in 1564, with the birth of William Shakespeare.

Today, Stratford is visited by over 2.5 million tourists each year, many coming to walk in the footsteps of the Bard, enjoy performances by the Royal Shakespeare Company, and soak up the atmosphere of this charming riverside town.

🏡 Top Attractions in Stratford-upon-Avon

1. Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Where the Bard was born in 1564

Located on Henley Street, this half-timbered house brings his early life to life

Explore exhibits, original furnishings, and costumed guides

🎭 Insider Tip: Watch live performances by resident actors in the garden!

2. Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

The thatched farmhouse of Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway

A romantic 500-year-old home with a stunning English garden

Located in Shottery, a short walk or bus ride from the town center

🌿 Don’t Miss: The Love Bench, orchard walk, and sculpture trail.

3. Royal Shakespeare Theatre

Home to the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC)

Catch world-class performances of Shakespeare’s plays in modern and traditional interpretations

Take a theatre tour or dine at the rooftop restaurant overlooking the Avon

🎫 Planning tip: Book performances early—shows often sell out.

4. Shakespeare’s New Place

The site of Shakespeare’s final home

The original house no longer stands, but the beautifully landscaped garden includes sculptures inspired by his works

Interactive installations, storytelling areas, and artistic tributes

5. Hall’s Croft

The elegant Jacobean home of Shakespeare’s daughter, Susanna, and her physician husband

Showcases 17th-century medical instruments, period furniture, and tranquil gardens

6. Holy Trinity Church

Shakespeare’s final resting place

See the Bard’s grave inside this lovely parish church, along with the font where he was baptized

Peaceful riverside location and beautiful stained glass

📸 Top photo spot: Outside the church with the river and weeping willows in view.

🚶 Best Walking Routes in Stratford

🏞️ 1. The Bancroft Gardens & River Walk

Stroll along the River Avon past moored canal boats and swans

Street performers near the theatre, plus riverside cafés and sculptures

🌸 2. The Historic Town Centre Trail

Explore Henley Street, Sheep Street, and Chapel Lane

Tudor façades, independent shops, and historic inns

🍂 3. The Avon Valley Footpath

Peaceful route following the river through nature reserves and meadows

Ideal for a morning jog or afternoon wander

🛶 Enjoy the River Avon

Take a boat tour with commentary about Stratford’s history and Shakespeare’s legacy

Hire a rowing boat or traditional punt

Watch the Swan Theatre and RSC buildings reflect in the water as you glide past

🦢 Bonus: Spot graceful swans, a symbol of Stratford for centuries.

🎭 Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC)

The Royal Shakespeare Company is a cornerstone of Stratford life and one of the world’s greatest theatre companies.

Three venues: Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Swan Theatre, and The Other Place

Attend backstage tours, talks, and costume exhibitions

Family-friendly matinees and summer workshops

🎟️ Insider tip: Look out for open-air performances in warmer months.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Stratford-upon-Avon

Traditional English Cuisine

The Garrick Inn – Oldest pub in town, dating back to the 1400s

Lambs of Sheep Street – Modern British menu in a 16th-century building

Riverside Dining

The Countess of Evesham – Floating restaurant on a barge (dinner cruises available)

RSC Rooftop Restaurant – Fantastic views and seasonal dishes

Tea Rooms

Hathaway Tea Rooms – Scones, cream tea, and light lunch

The Fourteas – A 1940s-themed café with nostalgic charm

🛍️ Shopping in Stratford-upon-Avon

Henley Street – Souvenir shops, local crafts, and literary gifts

Rother Street Market – Weekly street market (Fridays and Saturdays)

The Nutcracker Christmas Shop – Open all year, magical decor

Waterstones Bookshop – Ideal for picking up a Shakespeare volume

🛏️ Where to Stay in Stratford-upon-Avon

Luxury

The Arden Hotel – Stylish and directly opposite the RSC

Ettington Park Hotel – A neo-Gothic mansion in the countryside

Mid-Range

Hotel du Vin Stratford – Elegant rooms in a converted Victorian school

Mercure Shakespeare Hotel – Full of character and literary references

Budget-Friendly

YHA Stratford-upon-Avon – Hostel with gardens and great atmosphere

Premier Inn – Central location, great value

🎉 Annual Events & Festivals

Shakespeare Birthday Celebrations (April) – Parades, performances, and wreath-laying at his grave

Stratford Literary Festival (April & November) – Talks from top authors

Stratford River Festival (July) – Music, fireworks, and boat parades

Christmas Market (December) – Carol singing and seasonal stalls

📅 Best Time to Visit Stratford-upon-Avon

Spring (March–May): Gardens bloom, festivals begin

Summer (June–August): Best for outdoor theatre and boating

Autumn (September–October): Crisp weather and fewer crowds

Winter (November–February): Cosy pubs, Christmas markets, and atmospheric mists

🎬 Stratford in Pop Culture

Films inspired by Shakespeare’s life have used the town for settings and scenery

Documentaries and travel shows often feature Stratford’s half-timbered streets

Featured in episodes of “Midsomer Murders”, BBC Shakespeare adaptations, and more

🚆 Getting to Stratford-upon-Avon

By Train: ~2 hours from London Marylebone via Leamington Spa

By Coach: National Express from London Victoria

By Car: About 2 hours from London; parking available near the river and town center

🗺️ Once there: Everything is walkable. No need for taxis unless traveling to outlying attractions.

🌟 Fun Facts About Stratford-upon-Avon

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre’s tower is 36 meters tall, symbolizing Shakespeare’s 36 published plays.

The town has over 800 listed buildings, many of which are Tudor or Elizabethan.

Shakespeare’s baptism, marriage, and burial all occurred in Holy Trinity Church.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage features a “courting bench” where young Shakespeare is said to have wooed her.

You can see a mulberry tree supposedly grown from one planted by Shakespeare himself.

🧳 Why Visit Stratford-upon-Avon?

Stratford-upon-Avon is not just for Shakespeare fans—though his presence is woven into the town’s DNA. It’s a place of tranquil river walks, cobbled streets, timeless pubs, and extraordinary theatre. Whether you’re discovering literary history or just relaxing in the countryside, Stratford offers a perfect escape into England’s cultural soul.