Perfect Day in Stratford-upon-Avon Guide | Click Travel Tips
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How to Spend a Day in Stratford-upon-Avon
Step into the enchanting world of Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare's legacy intertwines with charming streets and ...
Feb 6, 2024
Nat C
Stratford-upon-Avon is a picture postcard town in Warwickshire, located just two hours north of London. This makes it a perfect day trip for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Shakespeare has firmly put Stratford on the map, and it’s hard to escape his influence here. While there’s plenty to see related to the Bard, there are also many other attractions and activities to enjoy.
Brunch at MOR Bakery
To kick off your day of exploration, you'll want a hearty breakfast. If you have a soft spot for sourdough, make a beeline for MOR Bakery.
This bakery had a jilted start, first 'opening' its doors to a closed world in March 2020.
The ethos here is quality sourdough in a Danish style of baking.
MOR is actually the Danish word for 'Mother,' which is the name of their sourdough starter.
Tucked away on a side street in the new pedestrianized area of Bell Court, this tiny café has limited seating, so it’s best to arrive early.
Pro tip: If the sun is shining, enjoy your brunch al fresco at one of the outdoor tables. If not, they also offer pastries, cakes, and top-notch coffee to take away.
After grabbing your food, take a short walk down the river to enjoy your brunch while watching the world go by. If you can’t find a table or nothing appeals to you, consider heading over to Yorks Cafe on High Street.
This independent café serves excellent cake and coffee.
They also offer unique brunch options with Middle Eastern spices and interesting lattes, like beetroot and rose.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
After a fabulous start to your day, head over to Henley Street, steeped in Tudor history.
At the bottom of the street is Shakespeare's Birthplace, which is worth a visit even if you’re not a fan of the Bard.
The museum is centered around the original house where Shakespeare was born in 1564.
Trained staff explain how each room was used at the time, giving you a glimpse into Tudor life.
The Shakespeare's Birthplace Trust has built a new center adjoining the house, which provides a brief history of Shakespeare and Tudor England, along with some historical artifacts.
This house has been well preserved and is one of the best examples of Tudor buildings in the country. It became a museum back in 1847, thanks in part to calls from Charles Dickens to preserve it for future fans.
You can buy either a single house ticket or a multi-property ticket for the Shakespeare's Birthplace Trust, which is only a couple of pounds more and worth it if you plan to visit other sites.
Lunch on Sheep Street
Stratford offers plenty of great places to eat, and you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to lunch.
Sheep Street has a good concentration of eateries, running down to the park and river.
Here, you’ll find restaurants serving everything from traditional English food to wood-fired pizza, fish and chips, and sandwiches.
You can wash it all down with a good glass of wine, making for an idyllic meal.
Another popular spot is Lamb's, known for traditional English mains and a few fusion dishes. They also offer a well-priced set menu and a decent gluten-free menu.
Visit Mary Arden’s House/Butterfly Farm
After lunch, use your Shakespeare's Birthplace Trust combi ticket to visit Mary Arden's Farm in Shottery, a small village just outside Stratford.
Mary Arden was William Shakespeare's mother, and while the Shakespeare link is strong, the farm is a fun experience even for those unfamiliar with him.
The farm brings to life what life was like in the 1500s, with plenty of hands-on activities that are family-friendly.
You can walk around the house and get a feel for Mary Arden's life.
The butterfly farm is an indoor experience, perfect for kids, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Important warning: If it rains, the butterfly farm offers a great alternative to outdoor activities.
Grab an Ice Cream and Take a Stroll Along the River
If the weather is clear, head down to Bancroft Gardens by the river.
Grab an ice cream from the ice cream boat or nearby shops.
Find a spot on the grass or a bench to enjoy your treat while taking in the scenery.
This area is in front of the RSC, so you might even catch some buskers reciting a soliloquy or two.
Have Dinner at the RSC
After a day of exploring, it’s time to relax and enjoy a delicious meal with a view.
The RSC's Rooftop Restaurant offers fantastic food and jaw-dropping views at reasonable prices.
They serve English cuisine made with local, seasonal ingredients, with a small set menu of 4-5 choices (£29 for two courses, extra for three).
They are very accommodating for allergies, so be sure to give them a heads-up before you go.
If you want to splurge, consider dining at salt, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for simple food cooked well with playful combinations.
Important warning: This place can be pricey, and booking in advance is essential.
Catch a Show
To truly experience the essence of Stratford, consider catching one of Shakespeare's plays at the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC).
The RSC is renowned for its creative and innovative interpretations of Shakespeare's works, making them feel relevant to today’s audience.
Famous actors like Judi Dench, David Tennant, and Ian McKellen have graced the stage here.
Tickets are reasonably priced, starting as low as £16 for a restricted view, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a show.
Stratford-upon-Avon is a vibrant town filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore. With its picturesque scenery and historic architecture, it’s a place where you can enjoy a day of culture and relaxation. If you find yourself in this charming town, make sure to take the time to explore and enjoy all it has to offer.
About the Author
Nat C
Natalia has traveled the globe with a backpack and a budget, visiting over 50 countries to date. Now, she has swapped her backpack for a babypack and is enjoying the world of family-friendly travel.
