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A mini guide to
Stratford-upon-Avon: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Book the houses ahead
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust recommends booking in advance for Shakespeare's Birthplace, New Place and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.
Hall's Croft and Mary Arden's Farm
Both are now learning centres for schools, and Hall's Croft is under conservation work. Check the trust's site for tours before you go.
Getting to Shottery
Anne Hathaway's Cottage is about a mile west of the centre. There is a pay car park on Cottage Lane that takes app or card payment.
Eat at the theatre
The RSC's Rooftop Restaurant on the top floor of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre opens daily for lunch and dinner, and The Other Place has a café bar.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Stratford-upon-Avon?
Stratford-upon-Avon is in Stratford & Warwickshire, England. Shakespeare's birthplace, his family homes and the Royal Shakespeare Company beside the Avon. Nearby stops and stations include Stratford-upon-Avon station, Park & Ride, Windsor Street coach park.
How long do I need in Stratford-upon-Avon?
One to two days. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Shakespeare's Birthplace, Shakespeare's New Place, Anne Hathaway's Cottage. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Stratford-upon-Avon station (West Midlands Railway, with some Chiltern Railways services); Park & Ride (Signposted from the A46); Windsor Street coach park (Coach drop-off). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 38 places to eat and drink in and around Stratford-upon-Avon, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 12 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Stratford-upon-Avon accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Stratford-upon-Avon
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Holy Trinity Church
Grade I listed riverside parish church where Shakespeare was baptised and buried, often called Shakespeare's Church.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
The Royal Shakespeare Company's main riverside theatre, a thrust stage with more than 1,000 seats, reopened in 2010 after rebuilding.
Swan Theatre
Smaller RSC theatre built into the Victorian Gothic shell of the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre, which burned down in 1926.
Stratford & Warwickshire
More areas to explore
Warwick
Warwickshire's county town, with its castle above the Avon and medieval streets
Open the mini guide →
Royal Leamington Spa
A spa town of parks along the River Leam, the Royal Pump Rooms and the Parade
Open the mini guide →
Kenilworth
A market town with the ruins of Kenilworth Castle and the open space of Abbey Fields
Open the mini guide →Photo credits
- Hall's Croft: Mango salsa, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Holy Trinity Church: DeFacto, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Royal Shakespeare Theatre: David Dixon, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Swan Theatre: Tony Hisgett, CC BY 2.0, source
- Warwick: DeFacto, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Royal Leamington Spa: David Dixon, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Kenilworth: DeFacto, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring Stratford & Warwickshire