Stratford-upon-Avon Itinerary: An Incredible Weekend in Shakespeare’s England
Looking to plan the perfect Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary? I’ve got you covered. Here’s how to spend a beautiful weekend in Shakespeare’s hometown, from historic houses and riverside walks to theatre, cosy pubs and where to stay.
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Stratford-upon-Avon quickly gained its claim to fame as the birthplace of one of Britain’s most iconic writers—Shakespeare, of course!—and is a lovely place to spend a weekend in Warwickshire.
If you’re into chocolate-box houses, cobblestoned streets and places steeped in history, you’ll absolutely love it here.
I first visited Stratford-upon-Avon for a weekend trip and have since been back for a second visit, which gave me an even better feel for how to plan your time here right.
Now you can do Stratford-upon-Avon in one day, especially if you’re visiting as a day trip from London.
But if you want to see the Shakespeare sights, enjoy the River Avon, have a theatre evening, pop into a few pubs, and have a proper Warwickshire escape, I’d plan for two days or a long weekend if you can.
With that said, here’s everything you need to know to take a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon for yourself, including:
- How many days to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon
- How to get to Stratford-upon-Avon from London
- Where to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon
- The best things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon
- How to plan a 2-day Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary
- Extra things to do if you have more time
- Tips for seeing a Shakespeare show
- Where to eat and drink during your trip
Shall we?
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting?
In my opinion, yes. Stratford-upon-Avon is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you love history, theatre, pretty market towns and literary travel (on that note, here’s how to visit the Hay-on-Wye Book Festival in Wales next!).
It’s most famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, but I think the town is lovely even beyond the Shakespeare connection.
Stratford-upon-Avon is a historic market town in Warwickshire, with more than 800 years of history behind it.
Set on the River Avon, it grew into the town we know today long before Shakespeare was born here in 1564, although his life and legacy are now very much woven into almost every corner of it.
You’ve got the River Avon, an incredible theatre scene (okay that is a bit thanks to Shakespeare…), pretty Tudor-style buildings, historic streets, cosy pubs, independent cafés, gardens, and enough to fill a very full weekend.
It’s also compact, which makes it a lovely place to explore on foot, wander, stop for a drink, follow the river, pop into a museum, see a show, and still have time to mooch around the town centre.
How Many Days Do You Need in Stratford-upon-Avon?
I’d personally recommend spending 2 days in Stratford-upon-Avon if you can.
One day in Stratford-upon-Avon is enough to see the highlights, especially if you’re focused on Shakespeare’s Birthplace, the town centre, Holy Trinity Church, the River Avon and maybe a quick visit to New Place Gardens.
A weekend on the other hand, gives you a bit more breathing room in the town—which is always nice!
With a weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon, you can visit the Shakespeare family homes properly, walk along the river, see a Royal Shakespeare Company show, have a Sunday roast, fit in the Stratford Butterfly Farm or Shakespeare Distillery, and enjoy the town without watching the clock the whole time.
If you’re planning a 3-day Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary, even better. You can add nearby places like Warwick, Royal Leamington Spa, parts of the Cotswolds, or simply have a slower final morning before heading home.
How to Get to Stratford-upon-Avon
Now I won’t go too deep on this section, considering I have a full and very helpful guide on how to get from London to Stratford-upon-Avon by train, car or coach as it’s important to consider your options based on the type of Shakespeare trip you’re after.
With that said, I’d take the train for a simple weekend break, drive if you’re adding nearby Warwickshire or Cotswolds stops, or book a coach tour if you want the easiest day trip option.
If you’re travelling from London by train, London Marylebone is usually the main station to check first for Stratford-upon-Avon routes. You can get your tickets here. 🚆
Read More: How to Get from London to Stratford-upon-Avon by Train, Car & Coach
Getting Around Stratford-upon-Avon
Once you’re in Stratford-upon-Avon, the town centre is very walkable and puts you next to all the best bits.
Most of the main things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon are either in the town centre or around the River Avon, including Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Place Gardens, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Bancroft Gardens, Holy Trinity Church, Cox’s Yard and plenty of cafés, pubs and restaurants.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is a little further out in Shottery, so you’ll either want to walk, drive, or take a taxi or local bus depending on your plans.
🏛️ P.S. – You can also take a walking tour through most of the town’s top sights if you’d like to visit each with a history expert!
Quick Tips & Fire Questions for Visiting Stratford-upon-Avon
What’s the best time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon?
Spring or summer!
How long should I spend in Stratford-upon-Avon?
I’d personally recommend a 2 based on how much there is to see in Stratford-upon-Avon. You can also do a day trip if you’re short on time.
Where to Stay in Stratford-upon-Avon
Hotel Indigo, it’s a 4-star boutique hotel in a 16th century Tudor building, in other words—fabulous!
Can you do Stratford-upon-Avon as a day trip?
Yes, you can do Stratford-upon-Avon as a day trip, especially if you’re coming from London and mainly want to see the big Shakespeare sights. I suggest taking a day trip tour from London to Stratford-upon-Avon in this case.
What’s the weather like in Stratford-upon-Avon?
Similar to the rest of the UK, expect mild temperatures during your visit with a slight chance of rain.
What should I pack for Stratford-upon-Avon?
As you’ll probably be taking tons of Stratford-upon-Avon cottage pictures, I suggest bringing a few nice dresses and sweaters/shirts, plus comfortable walking shoes.
Don’t forget to bring a jacket!
Any destinations I could pair a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon with?
If you have the time, consider pairing your trip with a visit to Warwick or Royal Leamington Spa, both less than 30 minutes from Stratford-upon-Avon.
If you’re driving, you could also use Stratford-upon-Avon as part of a longer Warwickshire or Cotswolds itinerary.
Where to Stay in Stratford-upon-Avon
I stayed at Hotel Indigo during my trip, and it really tied the trip together well.
The whole place looks like a chocolate-box cottage on the outside, completely decorated with nods to Shakespeare inside.
You can read my review of Hotel Indigo Stratford-upon-Avon or check here for the best options for your trip.
Another reason I’d recommend Hotel Indigo is unlike many ‘sleep and dip’ stays it’s not just a nice place to sleep—but a lovely place to spend time in during your trip.
On my most recent visit, I had a really lovely dinner at The Woodsman, the hotel’s on-site restaurant (where lots of locals frequent too), and if you’re visiting on a Sunday, their Sunday menu is worth having on your radar too.
Not to mention fabulous breakfast, a sunny courtyard and a library.
🏨 If you’re looking for more of a countryside stay near Stratford-upon-Avon, Ettington Park Hotel is another one to have on your radar. It’s outside the town centre, so I’d mainly consider it if you’re driving or planning a slower country-house weekend rather than a walk-everywhere town break.
Stratford-upon-Avon Itinerary: How to Spend 2 Days:
Day 1: Shakespeare’s Birthplace, New Place, Town Centre & Theatre
For your first day I’d start with Shakespeare’s Birthplace, especially if it’s your first time in Stratford-upon-Avon. It’s right in the town centre, across from Hotel Indigo and makes for a great starting point.
From there, wander through the town centre towards Shakespeare’s New Place Gardens (included in your Birthplace ticket), Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall and the Guild Chapel.
Afterwards, give yourself time to explore the town streets, and an independent shop, cafés or pub that catches your fancy around the town centre and Sheep Street. More recommendations to come!
Sweet pit stop at Hooray’s Gelato Kitchen near Shakespeare’s New Place
In the evening, I’d see what’s on at the Royal Shakespeare Company. Even if you don’t book a show, it’s worth walking around the theatre and riverside area, especially around sunset.
Day 2: Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, River Avon, Holy Trinity Church & Sunday Roast
On your second day, head to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage in Shottery, a stunning classic thatched-cottage.
Afterwards, return to the town centre for a walk along the River Avon. You can also take a short river cruise from Bancroft Gardens if the weather is on your side, visit their weekend market or have a lovely afternoon at the Stratford Butterfly Farm.
Then make your way towards Holy Trinity Church to see where Shakespeare was baptised and buried.
If your visit falls on a Sunday, finish with a Sunday lunch at The Woodsman or a pint by the river before heading home.
If You Have 3 Days in Stratford-upon-Avon
If you’re planning a 3-day Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary, I’d use the extra day to slow things down or add a nearby trip.
You could visit Warwick Castle, spend time in Royal Leamington Spa, explore nearby Cotswolds villages if you’re driving, or add more Stratford sights like the MAD Museum, Welcombe Hills or afternoon tea.
Things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon
1. Visit the Shakespeare’s Family Home
You can’t visit Stratford-upon-Avon without visiting Shakespeare’s family homes.
Between Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Place and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, there’s so much history and stories to be found and enjoyed here.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
Shakespeare’s Birthplace sits right in the middle of Stratford-upon-Avon and is the best place to start your journey into the world of the famous playwright.
Not only will you learn about his family life and upbringing in his childhood home, but’s tons of exclusive collections and pieces here you could never find anywhere else.
One thing I loved on my most recent visit was catching a small Shakespeare performance while I was there.
When I went, there was a Romeo and Juliet scene being performed in the courtyard/garden area, hopefully you catch them on your visit!
Shakespeare’s New Place
Once he left his family home Shakespeare relocated to what we now know as Shakespeare’s New Place (right across the street from Hotel Indigo and included in your Shakespeare’s Birthplace ticket).
This was Shakespeare’s family home from 1597 until he died in 1616, and it’s believed he wrote some of his later works while living here.
The main thing to know before visiting is that you can’t actually go inside Shakespeare’s house anymore—the original New Place was demolished in 1759 and they’ve since turned it into an educational centre.
But I still think it’s worth visiting, especially as it’s part of your Shakespeare’s family homes ticket, and the gardens are lovely to see.
P.S. — While you’re here, you’re also right across from Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, where you can visit the room where Shakespeare is believed to have studied as a boy. You can also have a quick pop into the Guild Chapel next door, right across from New Place and an impromptu gelato stop at Hooray’s Gelato Kitchen.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
Shakespeare’s love, Anne Hathaway (and not the Anne Hathaway you’re thinking of) didn’t live far off from Shakespeare, calling a beautiful cottage home when she and Shakespeare met.
Nowadays, you can roam the acres of orchards and country-escape, along with a tour of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage filled with original furnishing and the story of how she and Shakespeare came to be.
A little history before you go…Anne Hathaway’s Cottage was originally a farmhouse, built in 1463, and Anne was born there in 1556.
The cottage was originally just three rooms, two of which still survive today: the kitchen and the parlour. It was once a working farm too, with Anne’s grandfather John Hathaway living there as a tenant sheep farmer.
So as you’ll see a visit here is more than just peeking at a pretty thatched cottage, you’re quite literally stepping into Shakespeare history!
P.S. — If you’d like a nice pub stop before or after your visit I recommend The Bell in Shottery.
See a Show at Royal Shakespeare Company
As you can imagine, there’s a huge love of theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, and it can all be found in none other than the Royal Shakespeare Company
Here you’ll catch some of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays and the chance to experience his work right in the town where his story began.
If you want a more intimate viewing, you can also go to The Swan Theatre nearby.
Although there’s an ever-rotating Shakespeare play on here—you can also see a range of classic theatre, new writing, exhibitions, events and theatre tours too.
I’d recommend booking tickets in advance, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend or planning your trip around a specific show and pairing it with a riverside dinner at Cox’s Yard!
Admire the Holy Trinity Church & See Shakespeare’s Grave
The Holy Trinity Church is where Shakespeare was baptised and buried, so of course it’s worthy of a visit.
It’s an active place of worship set on the beautiful River Avon, and very welcoming to guests. I suggest having a dip inside to admire the beauty of the parish before exploring the rest of Stratford-upon-Avon.
If you’d like to see Shakespeare’s grave, you’ll need to go into the chancel area of the church.
Entry to the church itself is free, but there is a charge to access the chancel, where Shakespeare’s grave and memorial can be seen (just a few pounds).
Do a Gin Tour at the Shakespeare Distillery
Although it can’t be confirmed whether Shakespeare liked his gin (i.e. “Strong Water” in that time), that’s no excuse not to visit the Shakespeare Distillery.
It’s completely family-owned with intimate tours taking place daily. We went the morning of our first day—what a way to start a trip!
Not only will you learn the fascinating history behind gin itself in the world and the UK, but you’ll get to try just about the best gin you’ll ever have.
Admire Butterflies at the Stratford Butterfly Farm
Spotted one!
One of the only attractions in Stratford-upon-Avon not connected to William Shakespeare is the Stratford Butterfly Farm.
Home to hundreds of butterflies, it truly felt like we were in another world here.
The owner Clive Farrell was basically “a kid who loved bugs and insects and never stopped” and it’s clear from the moment you walk in.
Not only can you see beautiful butterflies flying about here (and live hatching too!), but there’s lizards, birds and rare insects to discover too.
Stroll along the River Avon & Take A River Cruise
A day in Stratford-upon-Avon can simply be spent strolling along the River Avon and thinking back to what it would’ve been like to live here in Shakespeare’s time.
The River Avon stretches for miles across the area, filled with a friendly-people zone of locals and tourists alike soaking in the town and delicious riverside views.
For a local pub close to the river, I recommend the Rose & Crown, they have a great beer garden!
Take a River Avon Cruise
If you want to see Stratford-upon-Avon from the water, you can also take a short river cruise along the River Avon.
Avon Boating runs 30-minute public river cruises from Bancroft Gardens, next to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, with boats usually running regularly throughout the day in season.
Afterwards, I’d leave time for a drink by the river or around town before carrying on with your Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary.
Visit the Stratford-upon-Avon Markets
If your Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary falls on a market day, it’s worth leaving a little time for a browse…
The town’s historic Charter Market has been trading since 1196, and today you’ll usually find Rother Street Market in the town centre on Fridays and Saturdays, with local traders selling everything from street food, fresh fruit and vegetables, artisan bread, cheese, olives, coffee, cakes and patisseries to clothing, jewellery, flowers, gifts and crafts.
On Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from March to December, you can also visit Waterside Upmarket by the River Avon, right near the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
This one is especially lovely if you’re already planning a riverside walk or theatre visit, with independent traders, artisan food, gifts, handmade bits and street food stalls along the water.
Have a pint at Cox’s Yard
During our walk along the River Avon we made a delicious pi(n)t stop to Cox’s Yard.
Founded over 160 years ago by the timber merchant James Cox, you’re sure to feel like you’ve found a proper local Stratford spot here.
The idyllic pub is also set right on the riverside, offering plenty of choice with fresh food, local beers and wines and great views of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Have a Sunday Roast at The Woodsman
If you’re doing your Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary on the weekend, be sure to try the Sunday Roast at The Woodsman.
The contemporary British restaurant is located inside Hotel Indigo (but you can come here whether you’re a guest or not) and serves the best of seasonal and locally sourced UK cuisine, with a twist of course.
Check out their Sunday menu!
Other Things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon
If you’re staying in Stratford-upon-Avon for longer than 2-3 days or just want to try something a bit different for your Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary, I suggest having a walk through The Welcombe Hills, visiting the MAD Museum, or having an Afternoon Tea at the Hathaway Tea Rooms & Bakery.
Final Thoughts on Spending a Weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon
There’s truly an incredible time to be had in Stratford-upon-Avon, no matter how long you visit.
Between the history of the area, the charm of the town and frankly feeling like you’ve stepped back in time, I’d highly suggest it for a weekend in the UK.
As Shakespeare would say, “Parting is such sweet sorrow, That I shall say good night till it be morrow.”
Enjoy your trip!
Happy travels,
Candace x
Thanks for reading my Stratford-upon-Avon Itinerary. If it helped your trip, let me know on Instagram!
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Happy Travels,
