Stratford upon Avon

Stratford upon Avon's link with a certain bard are what make it a must-see destination for many hop-on-hop-off tours of the UK. But in addition to the world class offerings of the Royal Shakespeare Company, the beautifully kept museums in his homes, the survival of Tudor buildings dating from his lifetime, Stratford upon Avon is also a lively little market town and a good base for exploring the Cotswolds. Some of the best places to stay in Stratford upon Avon are actually country house hotels just outside the town where you can take refuge from the bustle of the weekend visitors.

Stratford upon Avon does very well out of Shakespeare and each beautifully preserved half timbered building helps to add to the town's charm and encourage in the crowds.

The 'main event' of any proper trip to Stratford upon Avon must be a play, this is something you really need to organise in advance. Even if you're visiting in a quieter time of year it still pays to book to make sure that they're playing something you fancy!

The town's other main sights are mostly Shakespeare themed, but Stratford upon Avon is also supposed to be rife with ghosts and there are plenty of interesting historical walking tours you can join to hear some good tales - this is also a great way to meet jobbing actors. 'Ghost central' is probably The Falstaff Experience which is a Tudor Museum and famously haunted building.

Shakespeare's birthplace was a house on Henley Street, 16th Century, kept in good 'working order'. The same can be said of Ann Hathaway's Cottage where Shakespeare would have done his wooing. The Bard is buried in the Holy Trinity Church - surprisingly this church is very definitely a working church, not a tourist attraction, so be respectful.

As well as the Tudor and theatrical themed highlights of the town, Stratford upon Avon is close to the magnificent turrets of Warwick Castle, the romantic ruins of Kenilworth Castle and the rolling hills and meadows of the Cotswolds. It has a Butterfly Farm for something a bit different.

What not to miss:

• Attend a performance at the famed Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
• Embark on a historical walk and hear tales of the town's supposed ghosts.
• Visit Shakespeare's birthplace and Ann Hathaway's Cottage.
• Explore the impressive Warwick Castle and the ruins of Kenilworth castle.
• Head out of the town and take long walks through the picturesque Cotswolds countryside.

With all this history the little town is a popular spot and the best places to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon do get booked up fast so be sure to plan your trip in advance.

For country house grandeur

• Ettington Park Hotel is a gloriously grand Neo-Gothic mansion turned country house hotel, beautiful on the outside and comfortable on the inside.

For a central location

• Church Street Townhouse is in the heart of the bustling, timber framed Stratford where you will find this beautifully restored hotel. Rooms have a modern twist on classic boutique style with pale walls, plush red curtains, black and white tiled bathrooms some with roll top baths.
• The Arden Hotel is set in the centre of the historical town. Rooms are spacious yet cosy with crisp cotton sheets and luxurious throws. The Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre is just opposite so the bar and terrace are full of atmosphere.

For slightly further afield

• The Howard Arms is a lovely old traditional inn on a village green overlooking the Stour Valley. Easy going with plenty of character, this inn has comforting dishes and eight comfortable rooms at comfortable prices.
• The Malt House is a carefully put together B&B in a charming ancient house in a charming Cotswolds village.
• For a fresh stylish feel, try Dormy House, a recently refurbished country house hotel with enough privacy to accommodate both families and couples comfortably.

For an apartment or cottage

• If you're travelling with family or a group of friends it may be a better option to book a villa or apartment. For a wide range of properties for all tastes and budgets we recommend you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Birmingham Airport which serves both national and international destinations. Another major airport is Gloucestershire Airport, located just 38 miles from the town. By train, travel to Stratford-upon-Avon station, which is well connected across the UK.
• Stratford-upon-Avon is a year round destination with each season offering its own charm. However, for the best chance of bright sunny days plan your trip in the summer months (June - August).
• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Stratford upon Avon.
• Alternatively widen your search and view all our recommendations in the Warwickshire.
• Or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Stratford upon Avon