Stratford-upon-Avon is known for being the birthplace of the 16th-century playwright William Shakespeare. It is a charming market town near Birmingham in the county of Warwickshire. Literature and theater enthusiasts come from all over the world to visit the writer’s birthplace and watch productions by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Stratford-upon-Avon was formed during the Anglo-Saxon era and its market became increasingly important in the medieval age. The town today is still a market hub purchase fresh, local produce at the Farmer’s Market and charming homemade wares at the Arts and Crafts Market. The two markets are held on alternating Saturdays near Stratford-upon-Avon Railway Station.
Marvel at the Clock Tower in the town center. The Gothic design is decorated with engravings of lions and eagles. Learn about life in the 16th century at the nearby Tudor World Museum off Sheep Street, an area full of restaurants.
Take a tour of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Swan Theatre where the Royal Shakespeare Company acting group is based. Find out about the history of the writer nicknamed "The Bard," bard being the Gaelic word for poet. See a production of one of Shakespeare’s plays and then dine at one of the site’s restaurants. Enjoy panoramic views of the town and River Avon from the 118-foot (36-meter) tower.
Make your way to Shakespeare’s Birthplace along Henley Street. The house has been renovated to resemble the original Tudor farmhouse. Admire the traditional timber-and-white façade and thatched roof. Browse the boutiques and cafés that line the street.
Visit the nearby town Shottery to find the cottage where Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway lived as a child. Shottery is a small village 1-mile (1.6 kilometers) west of Stratford-upon-Avon. Anne Hathaway’s Cottage has a typical Tudor design with redbrick chimneys along the thatched roof and a quaint cottage garden.
Stratford-upon-Avon is 22 miles (35 kilometers) south of Birmingham and 100 miles (160 kilometers) northwest of London. The nearest city is Warwick, just 8 miles (13 kilometers) northeast of the town. Fly to Birmingham Airport and take the 90-minute train to Shakespeare’s hometown or take a 2.5-hour train ride from London Marylebone.
