A guide to Stratford-upon-Avon

Did you know?

  • 1.
    In Roman times the ford, from which the town takes its name, was used as a crossing point.
  • 2.
    Until the end of the 19th century the town was a major centre for the processing, marketing and distribution of sheep and wool, a significant percentage of which came from the Cotswolds.
  • 3.
    The river and the proximity to the old Roman Roads – Fosseway and Icknield Street – bolstered trade in the region.

Stratford-upon-Avon Area

Stratford-upon-Avon is known as a town synonymous with William Shakespeare, many visit the birthplace of Shakespeare to tour the house where the world’s most famous playwright was born and grew up to discover more about his early years. Shakespeare's birthday celebrations are one of many renowned events to attend, and there are a variety of family events being staged throughout the year. In the town centre there is a variety of shops, restaurants and accommodation. With so many great places to visit in Stratford-upon-Avon, why not spend a weekend there as a day is simply not enough!

Surrounding Villages

  • Ilmington
    The village is situated 12 miles to the south of Stratford-upon-Avon with the principal part of the settlement arranged around a well maintained village green. There is a pub and an active village hall, whilst the popular town of Stow-on-the-Wold is half a mile to the south.
  • Honington
    A stunning, rural hamlet with the majority of the property set either side of wide grassed verges, with easy access to Shipston-on-Stour for most everyday needs. There are plenty of family activities including indoor and soft play areas, museums and art galleries, and parks and playgrounds for outdoor activities.
  • Hampton Lucy
    This pretty village situated four miles to the north-east of Stratford-upon-Avon, with an active village pub and close to Charlecote Park, the ancestral home of the Lucy family, where the name of the village derives from, to whom Queen Mary granted the manor.
  • Cherington and Stourton
    16 miles south-east of Stratford-upon-Avon, and set on the edge of the Cotswolds, these are two villages situated seamlessly side by side with a reputation for community spirit. There is an annual flower show and a recently constructed village hall which hosts events every week.

Lifestyle

  • Shopping

    There is a wide variety of stores including most household names alongside independent boutiques, as well as well-known fashion brands.

    There are many pubs, restaurants and cafes - both independent and chains. On the north edge of the town is the Maybird shopping centre, whilst to the south is a Waitrose supermarket.

  • Eating

    The Vintner

    Locally sourced and seasonally adjusted menu delivered in a 500 year old building, together with an extensive range of fine wines and beers from all around the world.

    Salt

    A fine dining restaurant, and the first to win a Michelin Star in the town. There is also an attached cookery school and a private dining room.

    The Bower House

    An independent restaurant set in the centre of this historic market town. Expect warm, welcoming staff and quality food and cocktails.

  • Drinking

    The Norman Knight

    Overlooking the village green, this pub combines being a pub for locals as well as a destination for delicious food with a great selection of real ales.

    The Bell

    A former 18th century coaching inn with a number of different areas to sit and eat – cosy for small groups and larger areas for bigger parties, including a private dining room.

    The Fuzzy Duck

    Innovative and classic dishes created with seasonal produce set in exquisite surroundings, with a menu which caters to every diner.

Travel

  • Trains

    Trains to London Marylebone depart from Stratford-upon-Avon every 60 minutes, the average journey time to London is 2 hours and 17 minutes. The average journey time to Birmingham is 51 minutes.

  • Other transport

    Good access to M40 and M42, with Birmingham Airport 22 miles from centre of town.