Top 10 Things to do in Stratford upon Avon

Things to do in Stratford upon Avon

Welcome to Stratford upon Avon, a charming town located in the heart of England. This beautiful destination is not only famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare but also offers an array of exciting activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

1. Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Shakespeare’s Birthplace is a must-visit attraction for any literature lover visiting Stratford upon Avon. This half-timbered house located on Henley Street is where the world-renowned poet and playwright was born in 1564 and spent his childhood years.

Visitors can explore the rooms where Shakespeare lived, wrote, and dreamed up some of his most famous plays such as “Hamlet” and “Romeo and Juliet”. The house has been carefully restored to its original state, with furniture, paintings, and other objects from the period giving an insight into what life was like during Shakespeare’s time.

The knowledgeable guides at Shakespeare’s Birthplace offer informative tours that delve deeper into the life of this literary icon. They share fascinating stories about Shakespeare’s upbringing, family life, education, work experiences as well as insights into how he became one of history’s greatest writers.

Don’t forget to visit the beautiful gardens behind the house which are filled with fragrant flowers and plants. Here you’ll find costumed actors performing scenes from different plays by William Shakespeare throughout summer weekends – it’s an experience not to be missed!

2. Hall’s Croft

Hall’s Croft is a magnificent building that dates back to the sixteenth century. This house was once home to William Shakespeare’s daughter, Susanna and her husband John Hall. The architecture of the house has been preserved over centuries and it now forms part of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

As you enter Hall’s Croft, you will be struck by its stunning interiors which are beautifully decorated with antique furniture, paintings and tapestries from the seventeenth century. You can take a self-guided tour of this fascinating house and explore each room at your own pace.

One of the highlights of visiting Hall’s Croft is discovering more about John Hall, who was not only an accomplished physician but also a botanist with his own herb garden in Stratford-upon-Avon. He treated patients using herbal remedies which were popular during his time.

The gardens surrounding Hall’s Croft are equally impressive as they feature beautiful flowers, trees and even have a medicinal herb garden which replicates John’s original garden design. Take some time out to relax in this tranquil space or enjoy a picnic on one of the benches provided.

If you are interested in history or simply want to experience life from another era then make sure that a visit to Hall’s Croft is on your list when exploring Stratford-upon-Avon!

3. Stratford Butterfly Farm

One of the most unique and delightful attractions in Stratford upon Avon is undoubtedly the Stratford Butterfly Farm. This indoor tropical paradise features a variety of exotic butterflies and other insects, all housed within a beautiful landscaped environment.

Visitors can wander through the various habitats, watching as hundreds of butterflies flit about their business among the lush foliage.
One highlight is undoubtedly the impressive display of colourful birds that call this place home, including parrots and finches.

The farm also boasts an informative exhibition area where visitors can learn more about butterfly life cycles and conservation efforts. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer any questions you might have.

For families with children, this attraction provides an ideal opportunity for education and fun. Kids will love spotting different species of butterfly as they explore this magical world. And for adults seeking peace and tranquillity amidst nature’s beauty, few places could be more relaxing than Stratford Butterfly Farm.

4. The Welcombe Hills

The Welcombe Hills is a beautiful nature reserve located on the outskirts of Stratford upon Avon. It boasts stunning views of the town and its surrounding countryside. The hills are covered in lush greenery, wildflowers, and ancient woodland.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along well-marked trails that take them through the heart of this picturesque landscape. There are also picnic areas for those who want to relax and soak up the natural beauty around them.

One of the highlights of The Welcombe Hills is undoubtedly its panoramic view from Shakespeare’s monument. From here, visitors can see all across Stratford upon Avon and beyond, providing an unforgettable experience for anyone lucky enough to witness it.

The area is home to many species of birds, making it a popular spot for bird watchers. Keep your eyes peeled for woodpeckers, jays, buzzards, and even peregrine falcons!

The Welcombe Hills offers a tranquil escape from city life with breath-taking views over one of England’s most historic towns.

5. Holy Trinity Church

Holy Trinity Church is a popular tourist destination in Stratford upon Avon, known for being the final resting place of William Shakespeare. The church’s stunning architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows make it an attraction not to be missed.

Upon entering Holy Trinity Church, visitors are greeted by the impressive 500-year-old tower that stands tall at 156 feet. This tower has become one of the most recognizable landmarks of Stratford upon Avon.

The interior of the church is equally breath-taking with its intricate wood carvings and elaborate tombs. Visitors can see where Shakespeare himself was baptized and buried as well as view other notable graves such as those belonging to Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife, and John Hall, a physician who married into the Shakespeare family.

In addition to its historical significance, Holy Trinity Church also boasts an active congregation that welcomes visitors to attend services or participate in various events throughout the year. It truly offers a unique experience for both history buffs and spiritual seekers alike.

Holy Trinity Church is a must-visit destination when exploring Stratford upon Avon. Its rich history combined with stunning architecture makes it worth taking some time out of your trip to explore this iconic landmark.

6. The MAD Museum

The MAD Museum is a unique and quirky museum that celebrates mechanical art. It’s an interactive experience that delights visitors of all ages. As soon as you step inside, you are transported into a world of wonder and creativity.

One of the highlights of the museum is the extensive collection of kinetic art pieces on display. From marble runs to automata, there is something for everyone here. The exhibits are designed to spark your imagination and show you what’s possible with gears, pulleys, and other mechanical parts.

What makes this museum so special is how hands-on it is. Visitors are encouraged to touch everything and even create their own machines using LEGO bricks or K’NEX sets in designated areas throughout the space.

If you’re looking for a fun day out in Stratford upon Avon, be sure to add The MAD Museum to your itinerary! It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you feeling inspired and amazed at what human ingenuity can achieve through mechanics.

7. The Barn

If you’re looking for a unique and quirky shopping experience in Stratford upon Avon, be sure to check out The Barn. This charming shop is located just steps away from Shakespeare’s birthplace and offers a wide variety of handmade crafts and gifts.

As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff members who are more than happy to help you find that perfect souvenir or gift. The store itself is beautifully decorated with rustic wooden shelves lined with all sorts of treasures.

The Barn specializes in locally made products such as pottery, jewellery, candles, soaps, and homemade jams. You’ll also find an array of vintage items like old-fashioned postcards and antique tea sets.

One thing that sets The Barn apart from other shops in the area is their commitment to sustainability. Many of their products are made using eco-friendly materials or recycled goods.

Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery or a delicious jar of homemade jam, The Barn has something for everyone. Don’t miss this hidden gem while exploring all the things Stratford upon Avon has to offer!

8. Bancroft Gardens

Bancroft Gardens is a beautiful park located in the heart of Stratford upon Avon, adjacent to the River Avon. This picturesque spot offers visitors stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

The gardens are perfect for those who love walking or jogging as there are designated paths and trails that offer scenic routes throughout the park. You’ll also find several benches where you can sit back and relax while taking in the breath-taking views.

If you’re visiting with children, they will surely enjoy playing on the playground equipment that’s available at Bancroft Gardens. There are slides, swings, and climbing frames that guarantee hours of fun for kids of all ages.

In addition to its natural beauty and recreational amenities, Bancroft Gardens offers cultural experiences as well. The gardens feature a number of sculptures that pay tribute to famous literary figures such as William Shakespeare and his characters like Hamlet.

Bancroft Gardens should definitely be included on your list when exploring things to do in Stratford upon Avon. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, this lovely park has something for everyone!

9. The American Fountain

The American Fountain in Stratford upon Avon is a beautiful and historic landmark. It was presented to the town by George W Childs, an American philanthropist, in 1887.

Located at the intersection of Bridge Street and High Street, it features a statue of a Native American holding a bow and arrow atop its central column. The fountain itself is surrounded by four smaller columns topped with urns overflowing with water.

It’s said that Childs gifted the fountain as a tribute to his mother who was born in Warwickshire. The Native American figure represents friendship between America and Britain.

Visitors can admire the intricate details of the fountain’s design while enjoying views of charming Tudor buildings surrounding it. Whether you’re wandering through town or stopping for lunch at one of the nearby cafes, make sure to take some time to appreciate this unique landmark.

10. Harvard House

Harvard House is a historic house located in Harvard, Massachusetts. The house was originally built in 1753 by John and Susanna Temple, who were among the earliest settlers of Harvard. It is one of the oldest houses in town and has been continuously occupied since it was built. The house has been owned by several generations of the same family, although its current owner is not related to the original builders.

The building is an excellent example of Georgian architecture and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976. It features a balanced five-bay facade with two large chimneys on either side and a central entrance with a fanlight above it. Inside the house there are period furniture, artwork, and artifacts from its long history that reflect its changing occupants over time.

Harvard House also serves as an educational facility for local schools and organizations, hosting programs such as school field trips and historical reenactments. These activities help preserve both the history and beauty of this historic structure for future generations to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in literature or architecture or simply enjoying beautiful gardens, Stratford upon Avon has it all. So why not plan your visit today? You won’t be disappointed!