Home › Destinations › Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom - Things to Do in Stratford-upon-Avon

Things to Do in Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom - Complete Travel Guide

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming market town in Warwickshire, England, renowned as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, the world's greatest playwright. This picturesque Tudor town along the River Avon seamlessly blends literary heritage with medieval architecture, offering visitors a journey through 400 years of history. The town's half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic churches create an enchanting atmosphere that has captivated millions of visitors from around the globe. Beyond its Shakespearean connections, Stratford-upon-Avon boasts world-class theatre productions, beautiful riverside walks, and quintessentially English countryside. The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the Cotswolds and Warwick Castle, while its compact size makes it perfect for leisurely exploration on foot. With its combination of cultural significance, architectural beauty, and theatrical excellence, Stratford-upon-Avon offers an authentic taste of English heritage in one of the country's most beloved destinations.

Top Things to Do in Stratford-upon-Avon

Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Family Homes

Explore the house where William Shakespeare was born in 1564, now a museum showcasing Tudor life and the playwright's early years. The experience includes visits to other Shakespeare family properties including Anne Hathaway's Cottage, Mary Arden's Farm, and New Place where Shakespeare spent his final years.

Booking Tip: Purchase a Full Story Ticket (£25-30) for access to all five Shakespeare houses, valid for one year. Book online for discounts and skip-the-line access, especially during summer months and school holidays.

Attend a Royal Shakespeare Company Performance

Experience world-renowned theatre at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or Swan Theatre, home to the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company. These venues offer an unparalleled opportunity to see Shakespeare's works performed by leading actors in the playwright's hometown.

Booking Tip: Book tickets 2-3 months in advance for popular shows (£15-80). Look for same-day lottery tickets or standing room options for budget-friendly alternatives. Tuesday and Wednesday matinees often have better availability.

Take a River Avon Boat Trip

Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the historic River Avon, offering unique perspectives of the town's architecture and surrounding countryside. These scenic boat trips provide a relaxing way to see Stratford-upon-Avon from the water while learning about its history and wildlife.

Booking Tip: 45-minute trips cost £8-12 for adults, with departures every 30 minutes during peak season. Evening cruises offer romantic sunset views, while afternoon trips are ideal for photography.

Explore Holy Trinity Church

Visit the beautiful parish church where William Shakespeare was baptized and buried, featuring stunning medieval architecture and the famous grave with its curse inscription. The church sits picturesquely beside the River Avon and contains fascinating historical artifacts spanning centuries.

Booking Tip: Entry to the church is free, but viewing Shakespeare's grave requires a £3 donation. Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.

Stroll Through Historic Old Town

Wander the charming streets lined with Tudor and Elizabethan buildings, browsing independent shops, galleries, and traditional pubs. The town center features beautiful architecture, street performers, and the historic market square that has been trading for over 800 years.

Booking Tip: Join a guided walking tour (£8-12) to learn hidden stories and historical details. Self-guided tours are free - pick up maps from the tourist information center on Henley Street.

Getting There

Stratford-upon-Avon is easily accessible by train from London Marylebone (2 hours direct) or Birmingham (45 minutes), with regular services throughout the day. By car, the town is well-connected via the M40 motorway, approximately 100 miles northwest of London and 22 miles southeast of Birmingham. National Express coaches provide budget-friendly connections from major UK cities, while Birmingham Airport (30 miles away) offers the nearest international flights with onward bus or train connections to Stratford-upon-Avon.

Getting Around

Stratford-upon-Avon's compact town center is best explored on foot, with most attractions within a 10-minute walk of each other. The town offers several Park & Ride services and central car parks, though spaces fill quickly during peak season. Local bus services connect the town center with Shakespeare family homes in nearby villages, while bicycle rentals provide a pleasant way to explore the surrounding countryside. River taxis operate during summer months, offering scenic transport along the Avon between key attractions.

Where to Stay

Old Town Center
Waterside Theatre District
Shottery Village
Welcombe Hills
Bishopton
Tiddington

Food & Dining

Stratford-upon-Avon's dining scene combines traditional English fare with international cuisine, featuring everything from historic coaching inns serving hearty pub meals to elegant restaurants offering modern British cooking. The town boasts several award-winning establishments, cozy tea rooms perfect for afternoon treats, and riverside dining with scenic views. Local specialties include traditional Sunday roasts, Warwickshire cheese, and locally brewed ales, while the town center offers diverse options from Italian and Indian to contemporary gastropubs and artisanal coffee shops housed in beautiful Tudor buildings.

Top-Rated Restaurants in United Kingdom

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Makars Mash Bar

4.8 /5
(8718 reviews) 2
bar

Rules

4.6 /5
(3333 reviews) 4
bar

St. John

4.5 /5
(2955 reviews) 3
bar

Berners Tavern

4.5 /5
(2632 reviews) 3

Rabbit British Bistro

4.6 /5
(2482 reviews) 3

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

4.6 /5
(2366 reviews) 4
all dining options →

When to Visit

The best time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon is late spring through early autumn (May to September) when the weather is warmest and the Shakespeare birthday celebrations, outdoor performances, and river activities are in full swing. Summer months offer the longest days and most vibrant atmosphere, though they're also the busiest and most expensive. Winter visits have their own charm with Christmas markets, cozy pub atmospheres, and fewer crowds, plus indoor theatre performances continue year-round, making any season suitable for Shakespeare enthusiasts.

Insider Tips

Book restaurant reservations well in advance, especially for weekend dining, as the town's popularity means tables fill quickly
Purchase a Stratford-upon-Avon Explorer Pass for discounts on attractions, dining, and shopping throughout the town
Visit Shakespeare's grave early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups and enjoy peaceful moments in Holy Trinity Church

Explore Activities in Stratford-upon-Avon