Stratford-Upon-Avon Tourist Information

Beautifully situated on the River Avon, Stratford-Upon-Avon has a number of attractions linked to the famous Bard. Explore this historic market town and its surroundings and discover where Shakespeare was born and grew up, where he gained inspiration for his work, enjoyed a "few" drinks and even where he used to poach deer!

There are five houses linked to Shakespeare and his family - all around Stratford-upon-Avon - where he was born, lived, worked and lies buried. In town visit Shakespeare's Birthplace. Hall's Croft where his daughter lived and Nash's House the home of his granddaughter. In the neighbouring village of Wilmcote visit Mary Arden's House - a rambling Tudor farmhouse which belonged to Shakespeare's mother. Anne Hathaway's Cottage nestles in the village of Shottery, on the edge of Stratford, and was the family home of Shakespeare's wife.

In Stratford Old Town by the River Avon is Holy Trinity Church - one of the most beautiful parish churches in England - where you can visit Shakespeare's grave. An easy way to find your way around the Shakespeare Properties is to take a tour on the hop-on, hop-off tour bus.

Shakespeare country is also special because it is home to the internationally renowned Royal Shakespeare company (RSC). The RSC has long been recognised as the world's leading classical theatre company and its annual repertoire of productions features plays by Shakespeare, his contemporaries, other classical playwrights as well as many new plays specially commissioned by the RSC.

There are three very different RSC theatres in Stratford offering a magical mix of classical and modern drama with some of the best actors and directors in the world. Take in an epic performance of a tragedy in the main Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Enjoy a comic masterpiece in the galleried Jacobean style Swan Theatre. Or sample a cutting-edge new play at The Other Place, the RSC's small scale studio theatre.

Most famous for its literary connections, Stratford is alive with culture and history. Superb shops, restaurants, a Friday market and floral displays complement its river setting, three theatres and wealth of other attractions. Besides Shakespeare there is much to enjoy, from a day at Stratford Races to a guide Friday open top bus tour or boating on the River Avon.

Families are in for a treat. A children's trail links the Shire horse centre, Butterfly Farm and Teddy Bear Museum with other attractions including the famous Ragdoll shop.