One of my favourite weekend getaways in England has to be to Stratford-upon-Avon. It is best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, but there is so much more to do and discover here. This quick guide will help you get the most out of your stay here and includes all the top things that you just have to do.
Hotel Options in Stratford-upon-Avon
As a big tourist town in England there are plenty of places where you could stay during your weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon.
As usual, I’ve compiled a short list of hotels depending on your style, budget and interests.
| Accommodation Type | Hotel |
| Budget Traveller | The Queen’s Head |
| All-Rounder | The Swan’s Nest |
| A Bit of Luxury | Hotel du Vin Stratford |
Day 1: Shakespeare’s Legacy and Riverside Strolls
Morning: Step into Shakespeare’s World 📖🏡
To begin your weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon, you of course need to visit the world of Shakespeare. Along the Main Street is the unmissable 16th-Century house that was the birthplace of the famous poet. For £20.00 per adult (£10.00 per child), you can explore the famous house and see the incredible collection that has been amassed about his life. You can get your tickets here.
📍 Tip: If you’re a big Shakespeare fan, consider the Shakespeare’s Story Ticket, which includes entry to multiple Shakespeare-related sites in town. This includes the original family home, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Shakespeare’s New Place. This last one was the site of the former family home, which is now a stunning garden and an interactive exhibition.
Lunch: A Cosy Pub Meal 🍽️
For your first lunch there are plenty of options. For a cheaper deal, I’d recommend a stop at The Garrick Inn, Stratford’s oldest pub, which dates back to the 1400s! Alternatively, you have the One Elm, or the Dirty Duck.
Afternoon: Explore the Town & Enjoy the River Avon 🚶♀️🌿
After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the banks of the River Avon. Along the river you’ll see some of the prettier parts of the town, along with some key landmarks. You can also have a go at some activities!
Here are some of the options I’d recommend:
- First up is a visit to Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare is buried. A must-see for any Shakespeare fan.
- If you fancy seeing more of the river, then take a boat ride on the Avon, There are some tours that run river cruises in the town or, alternatively, take a paddleboat or rowing boat down to immerse yourself in the history. Whatever way you choose, you’ll get some of the best views around.
- Take a wander through the Bancroft Gardens, where you’ll see local flower displays and even some performers.
Evening: A Shakespearean Theatre Experience 🎭
No trip to Stratford-upon-Avon is complete without a visit to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the home to the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). If it were down to my recommendation, make sure that you see a true classic!
📍 Tip: Book tickets in advance, as shows often sell out quickly! You can buy these here.
Day 2: Gardens, History, and Hidden Gems
Morning: Anne Hathaway’s Cottage & Gardens 🏡🌸
Start your second day of your weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon with a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Entry prices are included with the Shakespeare’s Story Ticket, and I’d definitely recommend buying one. The cottage is just outside the town centre and is walkable from any of the hotels above. The cottage has some really special gardens and even original Tudor furniture. The best part has to be learning about the love story and how it links with the writing of Shakespeare.
Brunch: Relax at a Unique Café ☕
For something a bit different, but still within the historical theme, check out the Fourteas. The tea room is themed around the 1940s, with memorabilia to make you feel like you have been transported to a bygone age. The food is fantastic and, whilst it may not be for everyone, it is certainly a unique and memorable place for brunch or lunch.
Afternoon: More Shakespeare and Local History
Before you leave, there are some other parts of Stratford that you need to see. Here are my top options:
- Hall’s Croft is the home of Shakespeare’s daughter. It is from the Jacobean Period and has interiors to match, alongside some more fantastic gardens.
- If you haven’t already done so, check out Shakespeare’s New Place, which is included in the Shakespeare Story Ticket.
- The MAD Museum is an interactive museum which specialises in mechanical art and design. It is a little bit quirky, but is great for families.
- The Butterfly Farm has so much more than butterflies; it is more like a zoo dedicated to rainforest animals. You’ll see plenty of butterflies too, but also snakes, lizards and even a caiman! It was the perfect reminder of my two weeks in Costa Rica.
Final Thoughts | A Weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon
A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon is a perfect short break. You have plenty of history and culture, alongside a quiet place to retreat and enjoy some quiet. I think that my quick guide has covered most of the main attractions, but if I’ve missed anything out just let me know. I always love hearing from you.
