Stratford-upon-Avon: see and eat in the city of Shakespeare

Stratford-upon-Avon owes its fame to its most famous citizen, William Shakespeare, who was born, lived and died here. The whole city is dedicated to him and every corner hosts memorabilia about him. Despite what may seem like an obsession tourist (and partially it is), Stratford is a city that is worth a visit. Here a few information on what to do and where to eat in Stratford-upon-Avon but do not forget to have a look at the guides of Oxford and Cambridge.

Stratford-upon-Avon: things to see and do

William Shakespeare is the great protagonist of the city and there are many things to do to the discover the writer much in depth. None of the attractions related to Shakespeare are free and the prices are quite high; you can buy single tickets for individual attractions or a combined ticket with which you will visit all the Shakespeare’s family houses.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

The birthplace of Shakespeare is located on one of the main streets of Stratford and it’s the most visited destination for those coming to the city to discover the myth. The emotion that causes the view from the outside of the house is great if you love the work of Shakespeare but if you want to learn more you can visit the building inside for memorabilia and artifacts. Next to the house of Shakespeare you can also visit the Shakespeare’s center where to buy tickets, and the Shakespeare’s gift shop

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

The Cottage of the wife of Shakespeare is located slightly outside Stratford-upon-Avon and it is a pilgrimage for those wanting to take home a Shakespeare related souvenir.

Hall’s Croft

The home of Shakespeare’s daughter, Susanna, where you can also visit the garden in which her husband, Dr. John Hall, used to plant herbs for his medicinal potions.

Holy Trinity Church

The church where Shakespeare was baptized, married and buried. To access to the writer’s grave you’ve to pay (3 pounds per person) while the garden and the main church are free. The Church is located on a beautiful place directly on the River Avon.

Royal Shakespeare Company

A modern theater where plays are held each day: most plays are related to Shakespeare but there also other types of shows. Beautiful location on the River Avon.

Walking on the River Avon

The Avon runs along almost the entire city of Stratford and defines some of its characteristic features: if the central area is overrun by tourists hunting for relics of Shakespeare, the river and the park are the ideal places to get away and find calm and quiet, maybe watching the canoes on the river or by renting one. On the river you will notice many boat-houses that also make this place incredibly quiet and romantic landscape.

Eating in Stratford-upon-Avon

The density of restaurants and places where to eat is proportionate to the number of visitors arriving in Stratford-upon-Avon, about 4 million each year. This means that often the choice affects the quality and it is good to make informed choices. Here is a list of proven places to eat in Stratford-upon-Avon with the certainty that the final price will reflect how much eaten and its quality.

The Fourteas

A short walk from the river Avon, The Fourteas is a tea room in the style of the 40’s where you can be groped by an old-style afternoon tea. All dishes are freshly prepared and the variety of tea and coffee is huge.

Church Street Townhouse

Two bars and a restaurant serving English cuisine in a back and relaxed atmosphere. Open from morning to night, it hosts music sessions from the King Edward VI school.

The Old Thatch Tavern

The Medieval The Old Thatch Tavern is located at the entrance of Stratford-upon-Avon and serves traditional English food in a very special atmosphere. Very small, you can sit both in the restaurant and the bar and order one of the dishes on the menu. On Sunday, the english roast is the dish to choose.

Have a look at our on the road trip to Brighton, Stonehenge, Oxford, the Costswolds, Stratford and Cambridge:

[All photos have been taken and are owned by Giuseppe. The trip was organized in collaboration with VisitBritain].