Shakespeare Country, Stratford-Upon-Avon
It seemed an absolute shame that we’d never been to Stratford-Upon-Avon, the home of one of Britain’s greatest treasures - William Shakespeare. Brad and I took a trip here in early March and so I thought I’d compile up my notes in case anyone else fancied a trip there.
Getting There
If you aren’t driving, then catching the train is your best option. There is a ticket called the Shakespeare Explorer which costs £30 for a one day pass or £45 for a four day pass. If you can stretch your trip out over four days, it is quite good value but if you are doing a shorter trip, it’s probably cheaper to get two single tickets.
Where to Stay
Brad and I stayed at the Church St Townhouse, which we found through Mr & Mrs Smith. The hotel is located in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon and the rooms are very well fitted out, some even have roll top baths. Double rooms start from £110 a night.
What to See
If you are here for Shakespeare, the best thing to do is start at The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon. You can buy one tickets for all of the houses and there is a nice exhibition which gives a good overview of the history. Alternatively, if you are super organised, you can buy them online at a discount.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
The house where Shakespeare was born is part of the Birthplace Trust mentioned above. It is where he was born and where he spent the first years of his married life. It’s probably the best of all the houses.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
Once home to Shakespeare’s wife, Shakespeare apparently wooed his wife to be at this very location. It is a quintessential English cottage, with thatching and a beautiful farmyard garden. It is located a 30 minute walk from Stratford-upon-Avon. There are directions if you need them and the route is well sign-posted.
Hall’s Croft
Home of the Doctor, who married Shakespeare’s daughter - Susanna. It’s interesting to see the comparison between this house and where Shakespeare was born.
Nash’s House
and New Place
The story ends in Nash’s House, where Shakespeare died. After his death, the property has a rather turbulent history. Below shows the Mulberry tree, which is claimed to be from a cutting of the one Shakespeare originally planted.
Mary Arden’s Farm
Home to Shakespeare’s Mother and Grandparents, this is only open during the Summer. Unfortunately it was closed when we went there.
Holy Trinity Church
The current building dates from 1210 and it’s famous for being the burial place of William Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway (as well as other members of the Shakespeare family).
Tower Platform
Rising 36 metres above the River Avon, you can get great views of Shakespeare’s home town.
A lift takes you to the 32 metre high viewing platform and, as you descend via the stairs, you will discover an exhibition installed on the walls and in the alcoves.
Tickets cost: £2.50 for adults. Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II was opening the refurbished building when we visited.
Warwick Castle
Established since before 1000AD, we had planned to stop at Warwick Castle on the way back but decided to skip it in favour of seeing the Queen. You can get a discount if you buy tickets online in advance.
Where to Eat
The Church Street Townhouse serves food most of the day and we particularly enjoyed our breakfast (complimentary with the room). Other options which looked good are:
