Shakespeare Country
Shakespeare Country embraces historic Warwick and Kenilworth, Royal Leamington Spa, Stratford-upon-Avon and a collection of other unique towns and villages.
All set amid rolling English countryside, separated by the criss-crossing of rivers and canals. Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of the world’s greatest poet and playwright William Shakespeare. It’s also where he lived, worked and lies buried. Magnificent castles, historic houses, glorious gardens and a wealth of attractions and events combine to make this an essential excursion, a visit to remember.
Stratford-upon-Avon
This is where the Bard was born and created his greatest works, renowned across the globe. So much so they named a theatre in London after him, called, aptly enough, The Globe. More of that later, but here in Stratford, there are five fascinating Shakespeare houses which are open to visitors all year round.
Step back in time and enter the building where William Shakespeare was born in 1564. You can re-live the Tudor world as it was then in this newly refurbished house in Henley Street, which now offers visitors a fascinating insight into life as it was when Shakespeare was a small child.
Another of the houses that is well worth a visit is Hall’s Croft, named after Dr John Hall, who married Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna. It is one of the finest half-timbered gabled houses in the town. This impressive 16th century dwelling, with Jacobean additions, includes outstanding furniture and paintings.
There is also an exhibition of medicine the doctor used in Shakespeare’s time, with references to remedies and potions as mentioned in many Shakespearean plays. Once more, there is a large peaceful garden which is home to an ancient mulberry tree and a herbal bed.
There is a wealth of history to uncover at Nash’s House, the home of his grand-daughter and her husband Thomas Nash. It contains an exceptional collection of 17th century oak furniture and tapestries. There are also displays of the history of Stratford. This house lies next to the foundations of New Place, where William Shakespeare spent his final years. Find out why it was demolished.
Village Life
The other Shakespeare houses lie in two picturesque villages that are just out of town. Mary Arden’s House, a rambling Tudor farmhouse, which belonged to Shakespeare’s mother, is in Wilmcote. The farmhouse has many outbuildings featuring a number of displays about life and work on the land. You will find a working blacksmith, falconers, livestock and Glebe Farm. A great day out for all the family.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the thatched cottage and garden belonging to Shakespeare’s wife, nestles in Shottery. This cottage continued to be owned by Anne Hathaway’s descendants until the late 19th century. It still contains the Hathaway bed and many other items of furniture owned by the family. Outside lies the most beautiful cottage garden and there are many walks leading from the cottage.
Back in Stratford-upon-Avon, a stroll along the River Avon leads to Shakespeare’s grave in the Holy Trinity Church. This is one of the most beautiful parish churches in England.
It is on stage that Shakespeare comes to life and nowhere more so than at a performance by the world’s leading classical theatre company, the Royal Shakespeare Company. The RSC has three very different theatres in Stratford, offering a magical repertoire of classical and modern drama. Contact the booking office for production details and availability of seats.
While in town, do go to Cox’s Yard. Listen to ‘The Stratford Tales’ and hear the legends and witness events through the centuries. Explore the workings of the Stratford Canal through interactives and games, and experience a live, bird’s-eye view of Stratford as it is today.
Another house well worth a visit is Harvard House. A fine example of an Elizabethan town house. Rebuilt in 1596, it was the home of Katherine Rogers, mother of John Harvard, founder of Harvard University. The setting is perfect for the nationally important Neish Collection of Pewter, which ranges from Roman times to the 19th century.
Something that will appeal to all the family is a day out to Ragley Hall, the home of the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford. Set in 400 acres of parkland and gardens, the Hall contains Baroque plasterwork, the stunning 20th century mural ‘The Temptation’ and a collection of paintings, china and furniture. There is a great adventure playground for the children, a lakeside picnic area and woodland walk.
If you like butterflies a trip to the Butterfly Farm must be on your agenda. Enjoy watching the most spectacular and colourful butterflies flying in a lush landscape of exotic blossom, rolling waterfalls and fish-filled pools. Also visit Insect City where you can see deadly and dangerous spiders - this is Europe’s largest exhibit of its kind. For a trip back to your childhood, go and see hundreds of enchanting teddy bears at the Teddy Bear Museum. Situated in a building once owned by Henry VIII, you can join the teddy bear wedding party, and even visit the Princess Diana Memorial Bears. Children will be given a fun quiz sheet while looking around.
After seeing all this you may just want to sit down and enjoy the view, however, you might just fancy a trip on the Shakespeare Express. This is a steam train excursion between Stratford and Birmingham on Sundays throughout the summer. The trip lasts around 50 minutes each way. The Shakespeare Express is pulled by one of the great express steam trains of yesteryear. Fully restored to its former glory and complete with a piercing whistle, hissing steam and authentically styled carriages, this is a must for children and their parents alike.
If you are looking for something a little quieter then why not take a half hour cruise on the River Avon in a vintage passenger boat.
Bar services are provided on board. Or alternatively get out your sea legs and hire a rowing boat to see the sights for yourself. Shakespeare’s Country lives and breathes antiques and at Barn Antiques Centre there is a wonderful collection. A huge old barn crammed full of antiques, bygones and collectables. The Barn shop also offers an ever-changing range of gifts and furnishings.
Do take some time out of your holiday to visit Shakespeare Country. We assure you that you won’t be disappointed. This area is easy to reach by road or rail or you could even fly and get there faster.
Other excursions outside London
South West England / Cambridge / Oxford