For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to spend a weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon. There’s something Shakespearean about it.

Known as the birthplace of Shakespeare this Elizabethan market town is beautiful brimming with rich history and heritage.

From strolling along the River Avon that tons of swans call home to marvelling at half-timbered Tudor houses and following in the footsteps of Shakespeare, there are a whole bunch of incredible things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon within just one charming weekend.

I hope you find this itinerary helpful and full of inspiration on where to go, what to see, what to eat and where to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Start your day with a wander around the Old Town that is home to many houses related to Shakespeare and lots of historic Tudor buildings. 

There’s even an all year-round Christmas shop inside one of them!

You’ll only need an hour or two to wander at a relaxed pace all around the town. But keep your eyes on the lamp posts as you do. It sounds weird but go with me.

The reason why you should keep an eye out is because there are tons of lamp posts dotted all around Stratford that have been donated by various towns and cities from the UK and from around the world. 

SHAKESPEARE’S HOUSE

Your weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon simply has to include a stroll to Shakespeare’s Houses. Thought to have been the birthplace of him in 1564, is now a museum.

Within the Old Town, you’ll find three houses related to Shakespeare: his birthplace, the first home he bought (New Place) and his daughter’s house that she lived in with her husband (Hall’s Croft).

And they’re all within a few minutes walk of each other, so it’s easy to see them all in one day. You could even join a walking tour if you want to learn some history along the way too.

If you’re a big Shakespeare fan, you may also want to check out his mother’s (Mary Arden’s) working Tudor farm or his wife’s (Anne Hathaway’s) childhood home. Both are a short walk away from town. Just follow the sign posts.

WHERE I STAYED

I stayed at the 4* DoubleTree by Hilton which is a 7 or 8 minute walk from the town centre. It was comfortable and served perfectly for my stay not far at all for the canalside walks, Shakespeare’s House and Ann Hathaway’s house.

WHERE TO EAT?

You are literally spoilt where to eat and drink in Stratford. Venues from quaint tea shops serving pastries and coffee, old Tudor-style pubs, and more up-to-date venues serving pizza and pasta. You won’t go short of somewhere to stop and recharge.

The Old Thatch Tavern

Known as the oldest pub in Stratford offers great food, generous portions within a friendly atmosphere. The old Thatch serves great pub food, beers and crisp ales. The Old Thatch is located on the corner of Greenhill Street

The Red Lion

This 18th Century pub offers a very generous beer garden and great food at affordable prices. Located on Warwick Road it’s located near the River Avon which is probably a reason why it’s so popular.

All Bar One

This is a more stylish venue offering great food and a separate drinking area at the bar. Located at Bell Court, you will find other eateries here too.

WARWICK CASTLE

If you can spare half a day in your itinerary take the 10 mile journey to Warwick Castle. It is a superb day out! I spent around four hours navigating the corridors and courtyards.

At Warwick Castle discover action packed live shows and experiences including – the UK’s largest birds of prey show and live arena jousting performances. Warwick Castle brings the past to life like nowhere else making it a must visit for those looking for an extraordinary historical escape.

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