The area around Stratford-upon-Avon, where the fine countryside of Warwickshire borders with Oxfordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, is a popular choice for visitors. Not only is there access to the very best of the Bard, with the RSC celebrating the works of William Shakespeare at Stratford, but its proximity to the beauty of the Cotswolds and to the glorious spa town of Bath, makes it a magnet for anyone searching for all things quintessentially English.
To the north, Britain’s second city, Birmingham, is host to several world-class theatres, a new Symphony Hall and the wonderful Birmingham Art Gallery, housing some of the finest in Pre-Raphaelite paintings; indeed, Birmingham has the largest public collection of Pre-Raphaelite art found anywhere in the world. Free lunchtime concerts are regularly held in the Round Room and galleries within Birmingham Museum. To the south of Shakespeare Country, Evesham, Banbury, Oxford and Cirencester offer visitors further historic and cultural delights.
Things to do in Shakespeare Country The literary connections are perhaps the most obvious attraction for visitors, but the countryside around Warwickshire is also amongst some of the most beautiful in England, and is well worth a visit. The Grand Union Canal and its connecting Oxford Canal run through the area, and although the industrial uses of such waterways are largely long since gone, the canals are now particularly popular with holidaymakers and recreational users. Cyclists and walkers also make the most of the wonderful, flat towpaths.
Top Destinations
Stratford-upon-Avon – Pay a visit to the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and its grand, newly-renovated Royal Shakespeare Theatre, together with the neighbouring Swan Theatre, on the banks of the beautiful River Avon. The recently-constructed, and already iconic RSC Theatre Tower is open to visitors, although advance booking of tours is recommended. Nearby, enjoy a boat trip along the river, join a race day outing at Stratford Racecourse, or perhaps spend a day visiting Mary Arden’s House and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, both of which are located just outside the town.
Kenilworth – Once home to Robert Dudley, the first Earl of Leicester, and favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, the historic mediaeval fortress and ruins of Kenilworth Castle are built of striking red sandstone, and are set in fine grounds; the estate also includes the recently re-created Elizabethan Gardens.
Royal Leamington Spa – Although the healing properties of the local waters had been know about since Roman times, it was during the Victorian era that the town really began to exploit its location, culminating with the opening of the Royal Pump Rooms in 1875. Leamington Spa still holds on to some of its Georgian and Victorian grandeur, with the Pump Rooms reopened as a cultural centre, and now containing the local Art Gallery and Museum.
Coventry – The amazing spectacle of Coventry Cathedral, a centre for international reconciliation since the destruction of its mediaeval brickwork in 1940, contrast the ancient, jagged and burnt-out ruins with the modernist walls of the new cathedral which was consecrated in 1962. Coventry Transport Museum houses the most extensive collection of British-made road transport in the world, and its location reflects the city’s former role at the heart of the British car industry.
Evesham – A fine old market town, Evesham is situated in the ‘fruit and vegetable basket of England’: the Vale of Evesham runs from the banks of the tranquil River Avon into the undulating hills and slopes of the Cotswolds. The Bell Tower in the town is the only remaining remnant of the once great abbey, destroyed following the Dissolution of the Monasteries, although visitors to Evesham should also note the fine 14th century Almonry building.
Oxford – Whether you are visiting to inspect the ‘City of Spires’, enjoying Kelmscott Manor - the idyllic Cotswold former home of William Morris, or venturing out to the stately grandeur of Blenheim Palace, Oxford is a city of international importance. The Ashmolean was the world’s first public museum and has recently been extensively refurbished for the 21st century. Meanwhile, the Pitt Rivers Museum houses a unique and world-class display of anthropology and archaeology.
Cirencester – Founded as the Roman town of Corinium, this market town owes much of its early success to a thriving wool trade and industry. Cirencester lies on the lower slopes of the Cotswold Hills, with the River Thames rising just to the west. In the centre of Cirencester, the mediaeval Church of St John the Baptist is renowned for its stunning Perpendicular porch. Meanwhile, just beyond the reaches of the main town, Cirencester House is the site of one of the finest landscape gardens in England.
Banbury – Best known for its nursery rhyme associations with the goings on in ‘Ride a Cock Horse’, Banbury does indeed still have a cross; although the original cross was pulled down at the end of the 16th century, a new one was erected in 1859, in celebration of the wedding of Queen Victoria’s daughter, the then Princess Royal, to Prince Frederick of Prussia. On a more prosaic level, Banbury Cakes combine fruit and pastry, to create a world-famous local delicacy.
The Writing Room, Barford, near Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
This cosy and stylish detached holiday property is located in the charming village of Barford, just 15 minutes from Stratford-upon-Avon and 5 minutes from the historic town of Warwick. The Cotswolds, famed for rolling ...
This delightful Grade II listed cottage is situated just a few minutes’ walk from the magnificent castle, within the heart of historic Warwick. Dating back to the 1500s, the cottage has been carefully modernised to ...
Peaceful, riverside settingA very spacious, comfortable and well furnished house in a tranquil setting with a relaxing outlook over the River Avon. In season, keen anglers can try coarse fishing from a platform partially ...
Nestling in the village of Harvington, adjacent to the owners’ home, Cottage Retreat is a delightful, detached, period conversion bursting with character and charm. Outside there is a gated driveway providing off road ...
Heritage Mews, 42 New Street, Old Town, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Heritage Mews is a beautifully appointed cottage with an official Visit England 5 Star rating and Gold Award for 'exceptional quality of accommodation and customer service'. It enjoys a superb central yet peaceful location ...
Lavender Cottage is a delightful Victorian cottage in a quintessential English village on the Oxfordshire/Warwickshire border. It makes an ideal base for guests visiting Stratford, Warwick, Oxford and the North Cotswolds. ...
Set in a lovely location on the edge of the charming market town of Shipston-on-Stour, in a quiet residential area and within ½ mile of a great selection of independent shops, pubs and restaurants. It’s a lovely ...
The Cart Hovel, Exhall, near Alcester, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
All on ground floor: Living room with beams and French doors/dining room/kitchen. 1 double bedroom with z-bed (for child) and en-suite bathroom with bath, shower cubicle and toilet.NSH inc. M/wave. W/machine. Rollaway bed ...
The Coach House, Aston Cantlow, near Stratford, Warwickshire, Alcester
Nestling down a quiet country lane next to the church where Shakespeare’s parents were married, this 18th-century detached coach house has been sensitively restored to an exceptionally high standard. Next to the ...
The Old Workshop, Crimscote, near Newbold, Warwickshire, Stratford-Upon-Avon
Situated on a working farm only six miles away from Stratford-upon-Avon, these holiday properties are excellently located for guests who wish to really explore the local area, and are perfect for walkers, families, couples ...
Adjoining the owner’s 17th century Grade II listed home, this first floor holiday cottage-style apartment is furnished and equipped to a very good standard and is accessed from the ground floor. Well converted but with ...
Many attractions nearbyThis stylish, well-equipped, first floor holiday apartment in Stratford-upon-Avon is 11/2 miles away, approximately a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive, from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Walk into ...
Just three miles away from Stratford-upon-Avon, this detached holiday barn conversion is in the perfect location for visitors wishing to really explore, enjoy a romantic break for two or a get-away with friends. ...
Alls Well, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, Stratford-Upon-Avon
In a superb location, right at the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, this pretty mid-terraced cottage is tucked away in a small courtyard, with all the town’s attractions on the doorstep. Welcoming and comfortable, it has ...
Batsford Cottage, Willicote, near Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, Stratford-Upon-Avon
This delightful holiday cottage in a private courtyard offers bright, well-presented accommodation just 4 miles from historic Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare. Set in the beautiful Warwickshire ...
Bunkers Cottage, Pillerton Hersey, near Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, Stratford-Upon-Avon
This beautiful and picturesque character cottage is set in the pretty south Warwickshire village of Pillerton Hersey. Dating back to the 1800’s, Bunkers Cottage is a large, semi-detached cottage which has retained many ...
An ideal base for whether you’re visiting family, friends or just relaxing. Canal View is a contemporary, semi-detached home set on the Wyrley and Essington Canal which borders the property. The location creates a ...
Many attractions nearbyThis stylish, well-equipped, first floor holiday apartment in Stratford-upon-Avon is 11/2 miles away, approximately a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive, from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Walk into ...
Set in a lovely location on the edge of the charming market town of Shipston-on-Stour, in a quiet residential area and within ½ mile of a great selection of independent shops, pubs and restaurants. It’s a lovely ...
Set in a lovely location on the edge of the charming market town of Shipston-on-Stour, in a quiet residential area and within ½ mile of a great selection of independent shops, pubs and restaurants. It’s a lovely ...
Nestling in the village of Harvington, adjacent to the owners’ home, Cottage Retreat is a delightful, detached, period conversion bursting with character and charm. Outside there is a gated driveway providing off road ...
Set in glorious farmland down a tree-lined private drive close to Shakespeare’s River Avon, each of these delightful adjoining properties (Cressida Ref: NMA and Troilus Ref: NMB) has been restored by professional ...
Located just minutes from the centre of Stratford this attached property would make an excellent holiday base for exploring this fascinating town with all its Shakespeare associations. As well as literary connections there ...
Ground Floor:2 steps to...Open plan living space.Living area: With wood burner, Freeview TV and DVD player.Dining area: With tiled floor and patio doors leading to garden.Kitchen area: With electric oven, gas hob, ...
Heritage Mews, 42 New Street, Old Town, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Heritage Mews is a beautifully appointed cottage with an official Visit England 5 Star rating and Gold Award for 'exceptional quality of accommodation and customer service'. It enjoys a superb central yet peaceful location ...
Heritage Mews, 42 New Street, Old Town, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Heritage Mews is a beautifully appointed cottage with an official Visit England 5 Star rating and Gold Award for 'exceptional quality of accommodation and customer service'. It enjoys a superb central yet peaceful location ...
Jumbo's Stable, Crimscote, near Newbold, Warwickshire, Stratford-Upon-Avon
Situated on a working farm only six miles away from Stratford-upon-Avon, these holiday properties are excellently located for guests who wish to really explore the local area, and are perfect for walkers, families, couples ...
Lavender Cottage is a delightful Victorian cottage in a quintessential English village on the Oxfordshire/Warwickshire border. It makes an ideal base for guests visiting Stratford, Warwick, Oxford and the North Cotswolds. ...
A recently refurbished, spacious, two bedroom bungalow in a fabulous village centre location in Welford-on-Avon. The property has beautiful front gardens and a lovely courtyard garden to the rear to enjoy the evening sun ...
Set in Shakespeare’s wonderful Stratford-upon-Avon, within close proximity to the town centre and all its attractions, this beautifully presented semi-detached cottage is furnished to a good standard throughout. The ...
Ground Floor:Open plan living space.Living area: With wood burner, 40' Freeview TV, DVD player and beams.Dining area: With beams.Kitchen area: With electric oven, electric hob, microwave, fridge, tiled floor and patio ...
Just a stroll away from the heart of Studley, yet surrounded by beautiful countryside, this lovely detached property nestles behind the owners’ farmhouse – once a 12th-century Augustinian priory. The holiday cottage ...
The Apple House, Crimscote, near Newbold, Warwickshire, Stratford-Upon-Avon
Situated on a working farm only six miles away from Stratford-upon-Avon, these holiday properties are excellently located for guests who wish to really explore the local area, and are perfect for walkers, families, couples ...
The Cart Hovel, Exhall, near Alcester, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
All on ground floor: Living room with beams and French doors/dining room/kitchen. 1 double bedroom with z-bed (for child) and en-suite bathroom with bath, shower cubicle and toilet.NSH inc. M/wave. W/machine. Rollaway bed ...
The Coach House, Aston Cantlow, near Stratford, Warwickshire, Alcester
Nestling down a quiet country lane next to the church where Shakespeare’s parents were married, this 18th-century detached coach house has been sensitively restored to an exceptionally high standard. Next to the ...
The Coach House, Aston Cantlow, near Stratford, Warwickshire, Alcester
Nestling down a quiet country lane next to the church where Shakespeare’s parents were married, this 18th-century detached coach house has been sensitively restored to an exceptionally high standard. Next to the ...
The Cottage, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, Stratford-Upon-Avon
The Cottage is situated in a fantastic location, right in the heart of historic Stratford-Upon-Avon. This comfortable terraced cottage has two double bedrooms, one with an en-suite shower room, making it a great property ...
The Granary, Bidford-on-Avon, Warwickshire, Alcester
Set on a working arable farm on the outskirts of the pretty Warwickshire village of Bidford-on-Avon, The Granary is a lovely semi-detached barn conversion and sits overlooking the surrounding countryside and farmland. This ...
The Lodge, Bishops Itchington, near Southam, Warwickshire
A perfect getaway for a keen fisherman, family and friends with the lodge set alongside one of three coarse fishing lakes. This two bedroom lodge is in a tranquil setting just outside the village of Bishops Itchington near ...
This Grade II listed holiday cottage is situated adjacent to the owners’ home in the centre of the village. During the conversion, many original features have been retained to create a modern but cosy atmosphere. An ...
Adjoining the owner’s 17th century Grade II listed home, this first floor holiday cottage-style apartment is furnished and equipped to a very good standard and is accessed from the ground floor. Well converted but with ...
The Old Workshop, Crimscote, near Newbold, Warwickshire, Stratford-Upon-Avon
Situated on a working farm only six miles away from Stratford-upon-Avon, these holiday properties are excellently located for guests who wish to really explore the local area, and are perfect for walkers, families, couples ...
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