Avon

The Shakespeare connection runs deep through the town's identity, and you can explore it properly at Shakespeare's Birthplace on Henley Street, a timber-framed house preserved as a museum, or visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage just outside town where his wife lived before they married.

But there's plenty to do beyond the literary heritage. The town center has a proper market square surrounded by medieval streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Holy Trinity Church, one of England's finest parish churches, sits by the river where Shakespeare was baptized and buried, and it's worth spending time inside. The riverside itself is pleasant for walking, with a theatre and gardens offering good spots to rest and take things in.

Stratford was formally established as a town back in 1196 and developed into an important market center over the centuries. It's conveniently positioned for exploring other Cotswolds attractions, and Warwick is only eight miles away if you want to venture further. Whether you're genuinely interested in Shakespeare or simply want to spend a day or two in a lively historic town with good food, pleasant surroundings, and real character, you'll find enough to keep you occupied.