Tourist Information

Shakespeares Birthplace

 

The half timbered house where William Shakespeare was born in 1564 is Stratford's most cherished historic place; his descendants lived there until the nineteenth century. Opens daily, tours start in the Birthplace which contains an exhibition of the poet's life, William Shakespeare: His Life & Background.  Then carry on through the house, which is furnished in Tudor period style with many historic manuscripts and books.

 

Ann Hathaways Cottage

The perfect tudor English cottage.  Before marrying Shakespeare in 1582 Ann lived here. Set beside a small stream in Shottery, this house shows how people in Tudor England lived, also has superb gardens, a maze and gift shop.

 

New Place/Nash's House

Shakespeare's home from 1597 until his death in 1616, was pulled down in the eighteenth century but its foundations and grounds can be seen, including a beautiful Elizabethan-style knott garden.  Entry is via the Tudor Nash's House, which contains exceptional furnishings of Shakespeare's period.  Upstairs, there is an exhibition dealing with the history of Stratford-upon-Avon before and after Shakespeare.

 

Hall's Croft - one of the best preserved Tudor houses in Britain

An impressive tudor house where Shakespeare's eldest daughter (Susanna) lived with her doctor husband. It is near to Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare is buried.  On display are outstanding sixteenth and seventeenth- century furniture and paintings, and an exhibition about Dr Hall and the medicine of his time. A beautiful garden and cosy tea room.

 

Holy Trinity Church

On banks of the River Avon, a grand medieval church where Shakespeare is buried.  A beautiful and tranquil place to sit, relax and watch the boats on the river.

 

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre

On the riverside with lovely gardens and gift shop, probably the world's most important and best known Theatre. Interesting for everyone, even if they didn't know much about Shakespeare.

 

Harvard House

A must see for all American visitors, this was the home of John Harvard founder of the famous Harvard University.  A lovely Tudor house with an interesting exhibition of pewter.

 

Other Places of Interest nearby

Cotswolds, Broadway, Snowshill, Chipping Campden, Evesham.

Warwick Castle, Charlecote Manor, Compton Verney Art Gallery.

Mary Arden's House, Hidcote Gardens, Ragely Hall.