There are several reasons why Stratford – Upon- Avon is popular. But whatever the reason maybe, nothing trumps the fact that Shakespeare lived here and some of the best Cornish pastries can be found here.
Well, the historic buildings are a great tourist magnet and so is the stunning riverside location of this town. It is what the Anglophiles call the Quintessential English Town and I am in agreement.
A shrine for Shakespeare lovers
S-U-A is a shrine for Shakespeare fans. Here, you can actually wander the rooms where world famous playwright, poet and actor was born and grew up. This home has been welcoming visitors for over 250 years.
It is said that in 1844 PT Barnum aka The Greatest Showman tried to buy the building and move it brick by crick to his New York Museum – a plan that was foiled by a group of English gentlemen, including novelist Charles Dickens.
While here, there is more for Shakespeare fans to do – watch a show at the world famous Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). Tickets can be found here.
If you are a cat lover, here is something for you. Enjoy some time with the cats at Shakespaw Cat Cafe (a concept you’ll find very popular in Japan) or take a Tudor lesson, have a go at dressing up and quill writing and take a family trail around the place where William Shakespeare spent his school years at the Shakespeare’s School Room and Guildhall.
Pasties to die for
When I arrived, I didn’t know about the Cornish Bakery, in fact I found it by chance. Not enough is said about this I am sure, but this place has stuck in my mind and if there is one reason I’d return to Stratford-Upon-Avon, it could easily be this.
The Cornish Bakery has a window that’s simply irresistible. I took a peek inside and was met with a sight that I will never forget. The warm flaky croissants, pasties, sausage rolls were flying off the shelves and despite having eaten just a couple of hours before, I couldn’t resist the temptation. Well, I challenge anyone to walk past without giving in to temptation! I didn’t have much time to take a picnic by the river, so ended up eating it right there – plus it was getting cloudy again and rain was suggested, but luckily I managed a table in this little bakery.
There are all different flavours to choose from, including bacon and leek, spiced cauliflower and onion, chicken masala and, of course, traditional. I went traditional, of course! At 6 GBP, it was a small price to pay for this award-winning Cornish pasty.
It was nice and hot and came loaded with big chunks of beef, layered with swede, onion and potato.
Visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
A brisk walk of a mile and a half from the town centre brings you to this beautiful thatched house where Anne Hathaway lived. Anne was William Shakespeare’s wife and this was the farmhouse where she grew up. The place is filled with romance and history and has a magical garden.
Other interesting things to do
Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm
This large greenhouse had hundreds of exotic butterflies. Plus there are pretty ponds ad waterfalls to indulge in.
Boat hire on the River Avon
Explore the River Avon on your own. You can rent rowing boats, self drive motor boats, punts and canoes.
Canal and River Tours
Discover the history of Stratford, the wildlife of the river and things you never knew about Shakespeare on these 45 minute tours that include an audio narrated by leading actors. You can experience travel through a working lock on this tour.
The canal basin is centrally located between the world famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre and main shopping areas of the town.
Stratford Town Ghost Walk
If you are staying the night, a good idea would be to take the ghost walk along the ‘haunted’ streets of Stratford upon Avon. your ‘ghost-guide’ will regale you good old stories of ghouls and spirits, witches and thrown n some good old murder mysteries while at it. Please note that the ghost walk happens on Saturday evenings.
Places to stay
Stratford upon Avon offers plenty of stay options – from hotels to Airbnb and glamping sites. If you are looking for something quirkier, there are Hobbit huts in Riverside Park too.
How to get there from London
This town is well connected to London with many options for travel, including train, bus, motor or tours. The train is the fastest way to get here, although tours are preferred for people short on time.
By Train: Trains run from London Marleybone Station to Stratford-upon-Avon. There are a few direct trains throughout the day, but most trains involve a change either at Leamington Spa, Dorridge or Birmingham Moor Street. Marleybone is accessible from any location in central London.
By Bus: The bus is a good alternative to the train and rather cheap. Buses depart from London Victoria Coach Station on the National Express service.
By Tour: This is perhaps the most popular way of getting to Stratford upon Avon – besides being cost effective, it is convenient and tours often include visits to nearby attractions such as Warwick Castle or Oxford.
