We may receive a commission if you make purchases through affiliate links (at no extra cost to you). Read why our approach to travel is different.
For many of us, the name Shakespeare evokes long days in the classroom reading Hamlet or Macbeth in a language which seems so distant from our day-to-day speech. But if you aren’t a Shakespeare fan, I beg you, don’t be put off by the thought of a day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, the most important city in Shakespeare’s life.
In my opinion, that’s exactly why you should visit Stratford-upon-Avon. On a lovely little day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, you will gain a whole new appreciation for why Shakespeare is so important in the English-speaking world and beyond. This day trip is so much more than Romeo & Juliet and ‘to be or not to be’.
Rather, you’ll learn about how Shakespeare’s writings influenced English literature for centuries, from Dickens to Lord Tennyson to contemporary authors, musicals and television dramas. After only a few minutes, you will feel the unparalleled weight of Shakespeare in our ordinary lives.
Architecture lovers will adore Stratford-upon-Avon, a time capsule of the Tudor era. Cities like Manchester, Chester or parts of London may still have Tudor architecture. But in Stratford-upon-Avon, the iconic black and white stripes are the very soul of this historic city.
Beyond being one of the best free things to do in Stratford-Upon-Avon, walking the streets, having a cup of coffee and admiring the architecture makes for one of the most gorgeous day trips in the UK.
Skip to...
Planning your day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon: FAQs
How do I get to Stratford-upon-Avon?
Unless you’re coming by road, the best way to do a day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon is by train. If you’re new to the UK’s rail system, it’s fairly straightforward but don’t miss our expert tips to train travel in the UK.
London to Stratford-upon-Avon
Getting from London to Stratford-upon-Avon is extremely easy with regular trains taking just over two hours (usually with a short transfer at Leamington Spa). This makes for an easy day trip from London to Stratford-upon-Avon.
Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon
A day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon is easily one of the best day trips from Birmingham. Getting from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon couldn’t be easier with trains twice an hour taking around 50 minutes.
Oxford to Stratford-upon-Avon
Visitors are often surprised to learn that Stratford-upon-Avon is an easy day trip from Oxford. With regular trains taking just over 1.5 hours (usually with a short transfer at Leamington Spa), you could even pop over for the afternoon!
Do I need to to pre-purchase any tickets or tours?
Tickets: Shakespeare’s Family Home
If you are visiting during summer months, there can often be lines to visit any of Shakespeare’s family homes. On the official website, you’ll find a number of ticket packages which can save you almost 60%. However, do note that Shakespeare’s school is a separate entry ticket (which you’ll need to book here).
If you’re overwhelmed by the options, it probably makes sense to just wait in line and buy when you’re in Stratford-upon-Avon. The extremely friendly staff do an excellent job of explaining all the different options to you.
Tours
I appreciate there isn’t much time for countless tours on a quick day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon. However, if you are only going to do one tour in Stratford-upon-Avon, I strongly recommend joining this two-hour walking tour. I gives you a quick snapshot into just how important this small town was.
Many travelers also enjoy the Stratford-upon-Avon hop on hop off bus. It’s especially helpful if you’re planning to visit the handful of sites (including Anne Hathaway’s house) which are located just outside the town centre.
Shows: Royal Shakespeare Company
There’s nothing more magical than seeing Shakespeare come to life in Stratford-upon-Avon itself. To make sure you don’t miss out, I recommend pre-purchasing your tickets beforehand and planning your day around your show tickets.
How to plan your day trip to Stratford
Morning: Birthplace of Shakespeare
If you started early, stop for coffee at Box Brownie.
Easily the best cup of coffee in Stratford-upon-Avon, this central café makes for a great first stop just a few doors down from Shakespeare’s birthplace. Box Brownie also sells some great cakes if you skipped breakfast (hence the name).
After coffee, your first stop is a few doors down: Shakespeare’s birthplace. At this site, you’ll learn all about the bard’s family history and humble background.
I personally find this spot to be perhaps the best museum in Stratford-upon-Avon. In many ways, it really gives an excellent contextualization to Shakespeare’s greatness. In particular, I love how most rooms in the historic home have guides. Thankfully, these guides don’t overwhelm you with information, but rather simply provide a few sentences to assist with bringing the historic home to life.
In the backyard of Shakespeare’s birthplace, you’ll usually find actors playing short scripts of Shakespeare’s pieces.
Brunch in Stratford-Upon-Avon
If you didn’t stop on your way in, Box Brownie has a small food menu with great brunch options.
Otherwise, head toward MOR Bakery, a cute sourdough bakery and cafe which wouldn’t be out of place in East London. I love MOR because it really feels like a local secret. Just off the main street drag, you wouldn’t find MOR unless you know where you’re heading.
You’ll find lots of baked goodies here, including the famous flatbreads topped with everything from chilli to honey to fresh fennel seeds. If you arrive early enough and the kitchen is still open, don’t miss the cheese and chutney toastie (we know a thing or two about good toasties) .
Early afternoon: Shakespeare’s life
After lunch, continue to Shakespeare’s New Place. This is the site of the manor Shakespeare lived in for many years with his wife and children, and where many of his famous plays were written.
While the original historic home is no longer standing, the New Place has been made up to take you on a historic journey. You’ll usually find a guide offering a short 15-minute introductory talk at the entrance.
If the weather is nice, the gardens at Shakespeare’s New Place are a beautiful spot to sit and ponder the life of Shakespeare.
From Shakespeare’s New Place, continue to the Guild Hall just next door which is full of historic frescos. From here, its only a short walk along some beautiful Tudor streets to Shakespeare’s school room. Reminder: this is a separate entrance ticket (which you’ll want to pre-buy here).
Once again, this is not simply a historic building, but rather an immersive experience into the Tudor education system, the system which shaped the young Shakespeare.
Once you’ve finished with the museums, I’d recommend taking a walk along the Avon until you reach the Holy Trinity Church. This is Shakespeare’s final resting place and offers yet another set of beautiful gardens (and, if you’re lucky, an ice cream van).
Late afternoon: As you wish
Congratulations – you’ve now visited all the major sites of Stratford-upon-Avon! For the late afternoon, we’re leaving this one open to you. This is your ideal day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon after all.
If you’ve booked a late afternoon show at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, you’ll probably have to get moving. However, if you’ve got some more time up your sleeve, head over to Anne Hathaway’s cottage for insight into how people lived during the Tudor period. You’ll also find more beautiful gardens where you can have a cup of tea.
To reach Anne Hathaway’s cottage, many travelers take the very popular hop on, hop off bus. Otherwise, take an Uber for about £5 from the city centre. Alternatively, it’s about a 30-minute walk each way from the city.
And if you’re looking for another alternative, why not treat yourself? One of the best things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon is a classic British afternoon tea at The Fourteas.
Dinner in Stratford-upon-Avon
A day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon is truly one of the most classic British days out. What better way to end the day than with a quintessential pub meal?
Our favorite pub in Stratford-upon-Avon is The Old Thatch Tavern. Stratford-upon-Avon’s original brewery, this historic pub has been serving locals since 1470! Beyond its historic and charming character, the pub also happens to serve some of the best fish and chips in the UK.
The Old Thatch Tavern also happens to be only a six-minute walk from the train station, making this an ideal end to your day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon.
If you’re visiting Stratford-upon-Avon for a special occasion
If you’re visiting Stratford-upon-Avon for a special occasion or celebrating a birthday or anniversary weekend, you’ll want to be organized and make sure you have a reservation at salt restaurant. Unquestionably the best restaurant in town, the unpretentious yet Michelin-starred salt offers both set lunch and dinner menus.
If you’re curious about the price, remember – I said this is for a special occasion.
Best hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon
Thinking you may need more than a day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon? Why not spend a relaxing weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon, or even just an overnight escape?
Most of the central hotels are housed in extremely photogenic and atmospheric centuries-old Tudor buildings. I personally recommend the Hotel Indigo (their on-site restaurant, Townhouse, is one of the best restaurants in town). The White Swan Hotel makes for a reliable, central option too.
Share This Article
Traveling soon? Subscribe to The Insight below and get exclusive access to our personalized travel advice community via WhatsApp so you can ask all your burning travel questions.
Looking for the best comprehensive travel insurance? SafetyWing has you covered.
And for your eSIM in every country, there is only one option we recommend: Airalo.
Read more of our best insights from around the world
- The 6 Best Restaurants in Corfu Old Town Right Now
- How to Visit Turkmenistan: Everything You Need to Know for 2025
- These 8 Best Restaurants in Vilnius Showcase All Sides of the Lithuanian Food Scene
- 9 Lithuanian Desserts, Cakes and Sweets You’ll Want to Try
- Traditional Lithuanian Food: 8 Foods of Lithuania You Must Try
- The 7 Best Pubs in Cornwall for A Pint: A Local’s Guide
