Why go?

A meandering river, half-timbered Tudor facades and olde worlde pubs – this medieval market town could easily be compared to a summer’s day. It is also the cradle of England’s literary heritage and this April marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, so expect thespians, poets and culture lovers all coming to pay tribute to the Bard in various events.

What to do

Pay a pilgrimage to the house where Shakespeare was born, coo over the cottage where he courted Anne Hathaway shakespeare.org.uk and ponder the epitaph on his grave at Holy Trinity Church. A parade through town on 23 April also celebrates his life. With its crooked roofs and beamed buildings, Stratford- upon-Avon feels like an insight into a lost world. However, to really get a taste of Tudor life, you need to visit quirky museum Tudor World tudorworld.com especially on one of its candlelit ghost tours. The 16th-century building is reputedly haunted. If you prefer your culture without a helping of spirits and scariness, Compton Verney comptonverney.org.uk has a wide variety of paintings and sculpture, including the largest collection of British folk art in the land. Located in countryside just a few miles out of town, it is set in 48ha of lush landscaped gardens designed by Capability Brown. Make the most of the spring weather with a cruise along peaceful stretches of the River Avon in an Edwardian riverboat avon-boating.co.uk or enjoy the quiet of the footpaths along the riverbanks. Some of the world’s finest actors have trodden the boards at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre rsc.org.uk so don’t miss the chance to catch a play. The Royal Shakespeare Company’s upcoming programme includes Hamlet, Cymbeline and the eternally enchanting A Midsummer Night’s Dream. After the show, head to the Dirty Duck, a raucous inn by the river that has a wide selection of bitters and is popular with actors.

Where to stay

Stratford-upon-Avon’s options ooze an eccentric English charm. Next to the river and theatre, The Arden Hotel 01789 298682, theardenhotelstratford.com is the stylish choice for Shakespeare lovers and is set in a gracious brick building amid gardens once owned by his father. All 45 rooms are supremely comfortable, especially the Master bedrooms thanks to plush seating areas and deep bathtubs. The Church Street Townhouse 01789 262222, churchstth.co.uk is housed in a 17th century building. Its 12 bedrooms are lavishly furnished, and some have views over the almshouses and historic King Edward VI School where a young William was most likely a pupil. Ettington Park Hotel 0845 072 7454, handpickedhotels.co.uk is a Hogwarts-worthy mansion that combines period living with all the trappings of the modern age. Relax in the indoor pool or wander the sprawling grounds before retiring to the Grand Drawing Room for a glass or two of champagne with your afternoon tea.

Where to eat and drink

Venison sausage and mash is on the menu at popular neighbourhood bistro Lambs of Sheep Street 01789 292554, lambsrestaurant.co.uk served up under cosy beams. No9 Church Street 01789 415522, no9churchst.com has an excellent value pre-theatre menu, while The One Elm 01789 404919, oneelmstratford.co.uk is a smart gastropub with a sunny courtyard and tempting selection of Sunday roasts. Marlowes 01789 204999, marlowes.biz began life as an Elizabethan townhouse and is now a silver service restaurant that attracts celebrities whose autographs line the walls.

Time running out?

Warwick Castle is but a 20-minute drive and has stunning towers and battlements. warwickcastle.com

Travel Information

Travel Information

See our Getting There information box for travel options.

Getting There

Chiltern Railways has regular services from London Marylebone to Stratford-upon-Avon taking 2 hours. chilternrailways.co.uk

National Express runs a regular coach service from London Victoria. The fastest journey takes three hours. nationalexpress.com

Resources

Visit Stratford-upon-Avon is the official website for the local tourist board and is packed full of ideas for your trip, from restaurants to guided walks. visitstratforduponavon.co.uk

Photo by Visit England / James Kerr Co UK