When packing your bags for a Stratford-Upon-Avon get-away, be ready for a fun-filled experience. There are literally hundred ways to enjoy your stay in this historic little English town. You can amuse your family at a top theme park, explore the places Shakespeare had dwelt in, enjoy British cuisine at a mouth-watering food fair or simply soak up British heritage at a historic castle.
Wherever you go in Stratford-Upon-Avon, there awaits non-stop entertainment suitable of every type. No matter which of the Stratford-Upon-Avon hotels you have chosen, all you have to do is to decide which Stratford activity will be first on your ‘to-do’ list. For your convenience, here is a short list of fun things to do in Stratford-Upon-Avon:
The Royal Shakespeare Theatre
There is no better place to experience performing arts than in The Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Majestically located on the Avon River, The Royal Shakespeare Company has been able to keep Shakespeare alive. Founded by Peter Hall in the year 1960, The Royal Shakespeare Company puts on a number of plays throughout the year, and is known for its exceptional cast and crew. This 1,040 seater auditorium is based on a Renaissance model. It has a thrust stage that allows the audience to be seated along three sides. You can also enjoy regular performances by some of the top classical actors in the country.
The River Avon
For a romantic afternoon, let the River Avon give you a nice treat! The river is surrounded by green parkland and flower filled gardens on either bank. The Holy Trinity Church, which houses Shakespeare’s tomb, and The Royal Shakespeare Theatre stand amidst the lavish willow trees reflected in its shimmering water. The River Avon is definitely one of the finest reaches for boating in the UK, and another good thing about it is that it has remained virtually unchanged in all this time. You will surely enjoy one perfect Stratford experience if you go boating on its tranquil waters.
Heart of England Balloons
Based near Stratford-Upon-Avon, Heart of England Balloons’ centre offers hot air balloon flights. You may choose from a variety of launch sites throughout the stunning Heart of England, including Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Worcestershire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire. With Stratford’s outstanding beauty, rolling green hills, quaint villages and interesting history – riding a hot air balloon can be the most romantic way to enjoy all of these in a bird’s eye view.
Nash’s House and New Place
New Place was Shakespeare’s home for the last 20 years of his life. Although the house was demolished in the 18th century – its foundations, grounds and lovely garden can still be seen. On the other hand, Nash’s House next door had been more fortunate as it still contains period furniture of his day in the downstairs rooms. Upstairs is a museum which features a general history of the town.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
Located in Shottery (about 1.5km from Stratford) lies this picture-perfect cottage – where Shakespeare’s wife had lived while they were still courting. It is a wonder that this property has not fallen down under the sheer number of visitors. When visiting the cottage, you can view some of Anne’s original furniture and take a look at the rooms that have been hung in time. Furthermore, the cottage’s garden is a must-see. When you want to grab a bite, there is a restaurant and tea garden in Cottage Lane.
The Falstaffs Experience
Located in Sheep Street, The Falstaffs Experience takes the visitor through the history of Stratford and England in an unusual way. It exceptionally has been voted as “The Best Visitor Attraction in Warwickshire 2009″. It enables you to go through history from a recreated Stratford slum to the haunted chambers, days of witches, the plague, the English civil war and finally – England of last century complete with penny arcade and olde Curiosity shoppe.
The Teddy Bear Museum
Situated in 19 Greenhill Street, The Teddy Bear Museum is a delight for children, as well as, for the older ones. The museum offers thousands of stuffed, painted and ceramic bears from all around the world – some being very old, unusual and rare examples. Additionally, the museum hosts a Teddy Bear picnic, library, ornate Victorian dolls house and Teddy Bear hall of fame. So, there’s definitely no room for solitude in this wonderful place.