Things To Do
in Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is a centuries-old market town set on the River Avon, famed as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Its timber-framed streets, riverside views, and world-class theatres create a quintessential English town experience. Visitors can wander the birthplace trusts properties, stroll along the Bancroft Gardens, and enjoy traditional pubs and cafes.
The town blends cultural heritage with the nearby Warwickshire countryside for a compact, walkable escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the charming streets of Stratford-upon-Avon, soaking in the Tudor architecture that lines the roads. Visit the iconic Shakespeare's Birthplace, where you can explore the exhibits that detail the life and works of the famous playwright. Don't forget to grab a traditional English breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your day's adventures.
After lunch, head over to Hall's Croft, the beautifully preserved home of Shakespeare's daughter, Susanna. Wander through the lovely gardens and learn about the medical practices of the time, as Susanna's husband was a physician. Conclude your afternoon with a leisurely walk along the River Avon, taking in the serene views and watching the swans glide by.
As evening falls, enjoy a theatrical performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, a true highlight of Stratford. Immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare as the talented actors bring his works to life on stage. After the show, unwind at a cozy pub and indulge in some local ales and traditional pub fare.
Dedicate your morning to exploring the enchanting Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the romantic home of Shakespeare's wife. Take a guided tour of the property, which includes stunning gardens filled with fragrant blooms, and learn about their courtship. Enjoy a light snack at the café on site, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
In the afternoon, visit the Shakespeare Centre to dive deeper into the Bard's literary contributions. Discover fascinating artifacts and manuscripts that provide insight into his genius. Spend some time in the nearby Bancroft Gardens, relaxing by the river and enjoying the lush greenery.
For dinner, savor the flavors of the region at a fine dining restaurant that specializes in seasonal dishes. After your meal, take a scenic boat ride along the River Avon, watching the sun set over the water. Cap off the night with a visit to a local pub for some live music, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Stratford's nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a pub | $5-8 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $120-220 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Shakespearean heritage and theatre making it a cultural haven
- Compact, walkable town with scenic riverside scenery
- Can be crowded in peak season and during market days
- Some attractions have admission fees and limited opening hours
Places to Visit in Stratford-upon-Avon
Visit one of these nice places.
The timber-framed exterior and surrounding lanes provide classic Shakespearean atmosphere and warm light in the morning.
Gothic architecture and Shakespeare's grave set against tranquil churchyard views.
Modern riverside silhouette and lively activity; great for architectural shots and evening performances.
Wide riverfront with swans, footbridges, and colorful seasonal plantings—excellent for sunset photography.
Historic facades along narrow lanes offer quintessential Stratford street scenes.
Food in Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty, slow-cooked pie with tender beef in a rich ale gravy, often served with mashed potatoes or roast vegetables at pubs around the town center.
Must-Try!
Crispy battered fish with chunky chips and tartar sauce, a staple at riverside chippies and pubs.
A indulgent sponge cake with toffee sauce, popular for dessert in many Stratford pubs and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly Market Place market offering local produce, breads, pastries, and occasional street food stalls; best for seasonal goodies and souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British people value orderly queues; join and wait your turn politely.
Arrive on time, turn off devices, and avoid talking during performances at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Offer greetings like hello or good afternoon when entering shops or pubs; say please and thank you.
Check signs before photographing inside historic properties or certain venues.
Safety
Tipping in Stratford-upon-Avon
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, tips are voluntary. If service charge is not included, a gratuity of 10–15% is common in pubs and restaurants.
Cards (contactless preferred) are widely accepted, along with cash. Small venues may occasionally prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, warm days, and abundant outdoor events; carry a light layer for cooler evenings and expect occasional showers.
Pleasant temperatures with autumn foliage; comfortable for walking tours and market visits; plan for shorter daylight hours.
Cooler weather and possible rain; Christmas lights and theatre productions add festive charm; outdoor sights may be quieter.
Blooming gardens and longer days; ideal for garden visits and canal walks; expect crisp mornings and occasional showers.
Stratford-upon-Avon at Night
Hiking in Stratford-upon-Avon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rural 2–4 mile hike through Warwickshire countryside with farm scenery and a chance to see Mary Arden's Farm.
Flat, scenic waterside route suitable for walkers and cyclists, connecting Stratford with Wilmcote and beyond.
Airports
How to reach Stratford-upon-Avon by plane.
Main nearby international airport; about 45–60 minutes by road, with frequent train connections to Stratford-upon-Avon via Birmingham New Street and other routes.
Alternative option about 1.5 hours by car or rail connections through Birmingham and Nottingham; useful for flights to Europe and some long-haul connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A steady stream of Shakespeare enthusiasts and families exploring the town year-round.
Residents of Stratford and nearby Warwickshire communities who work locally or in Birmingham and Coventry.
People attending theatre productions at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or studying in Warwickshire.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Warwickshire County Cricket Club plays in nearby Birmingham; cricket is a popular summer sport in the region.
Local and regional leagues are common; visitors can catch matches in nearby towns or watch professional teams in nearby cities.
Rugby union is widely played in Warwickshire; local clubs offer friendly matches and facilities for spectators.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stratford-upon-Avon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and restaurants in Stratford offer vegetarian options; look for clearly labeled mains or request a vegetarian substitute. Cafés typically have veggie pastries and salads.