How I spent two days in Statford Upon Avon.
If you’re looking for a literary‑inspired getaway just two and a half hours from London, you need to visit Stratford‑upon‑Avon.
Known for its links to the famed poet and playwright William Shakespeare, Stratford‑upon‑Avon is one of the most well‑known literary staycation or day‑trip spots in the UK for literary buffs.
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Follow @fashioneyesta2012I recently visited the town for two days to explore its Tudor buildings, history and how this town played such a significant role in William Shakespeare’s life.
But alongside that, I also explored ways to make my own trip to this historic town accessible as a visually impaired traveller with a guide dog.
I stayed at Hotel du Vin, a modern, French‑inspired hotel located within a ten‑minute walk of all the main attractions and the River Avon.
The hotel is dog‑friendly, with dog beds and water bowls provided, meaning I didn’t have to worry about taking a dog bed with me on my travels.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with a huge double bed, smart TV, air conditioning and a walk‑in shower.
As for the food, the restaurant serves a menu of French‑inspired dishes at the Bistro, including steak frites, coq au vinand crème brûlée. Breakfast, served between 7:00 am and 10:00 am, features both cooked and continental options like Eggs Benedict, French Toast and a classic Full English Breakfast.
This is a really great location if you want to be within walking distance of everything, and it’s also very close to lots of great pubs.
Of course, one of the town’s main allures is its links to William Shakespeare, along with its popular Royal Shakespeare Theatre on the riverfront, which is currently playing the much‑anticipated production “The Mad King”.
One of the must‑do attractions here is Shakespeare’s Birthplace, the historic house where the playwright was born and spent much of his childhood and younger years.
The experience begins with a small exhibition showcasing artefacts like early manuscripts of his work, as well as the altar where he was baptised. This then leads into the garden before you head into the house, which is very small, so only small groups are permitted at a time — do expect a wait.
The house is set up just as it would have been during the time William lived there with his siblings and parents. It features plenty of things to touch, including a collection of replica gloves similar to those his father would have made when he worked as a glover.
The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, and all gave detailed descriptions of the rooms I was in as a visually impaired person.
If you visit, you may also be lucky enough to catch a live re‑enactment of Romeo and Juliet from the courtyard.
Your ticket also includes entry to Shakespeare’s New Place, the affluent mansion he built as he became more established and wealthy on the back of his works. Whilst you can’t go inside the house, you can roam the gardens, which have a lovely view of the nearby Holy Trinity Church, where you can relax and even take a picnic on a warm day.
Of course, you also have to carve out time to visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, where Anne lived with her family before moving in with William at the age of 25.
The house has been expanded over the years, with some parts dating back to the 15th century, featuring oak beams and original flagstone flooring. It’s an absolutely stunning property, and again the staff are very descriptive and enthusiastic about telling you everything you may want to know about the Hathaways, who lived there for generations, and about Tudor life.
You can also take a stroll down to Holy Trinity Church, where William and his family are all buried, along with records of his baptism.
The River Avon is a beautiful place to walk, with plenty of places to stop off for a drink or an ice cream, and a number of river cruises vying for your attention.
I took a Canal and River Tour costing £11 per person, where you pass Holy Trinity Church and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre on your way. The tour lasts around 30 minutes.
Aside from that, the town is well worth walking around, with everything pretty walkable. You’ll find a plethora of pubs, restaurants and cafés to stop off at.
A highlight of mine was The Fourteas Tea Room, a nostalgic 1940s‑themed tea room decorated with memorabilia and objects from World War II.
Stratford‑upon‑Avon is within close driving distance of the Cotswolds, meaning it’s a great place to make a base if you fancy exploring the beautiful countryside.
It’s also within reach of a number of historic properties, including Charlecote Park, a historic estate and Tudor house dating back to the 16th century.
Stratford‑upon‑Avon is well worth visiting, whether you plan on staying for a couple of days or passing through on a trip. The history and links to Shakespeare, along with its Tudor buildings and scenic walks, make it well worth visiting.
AD – PR Invite: My stay at Hotel du Vin Stratford-upon-Avon was complimentary as part of this press trip. Fancy your own stay? Use my code INFLSUM when booking directly with Hotel du Vin for up to 25–30% off selected prepaid stays.
