In Stratford-upon-Avon, every cobblestone feels like it has a story to tell - and probably a sonnet too. Nestled in the heart of Warwickshire, this charming market town really has it all. While it’s best known as Shakespeare’s birthplace,  its magic goes far beyond the Bard.

Over the course of two delightfully laid-back days, you’ll wander through thatched cottages, sip lattes in cat cafés, unravel tales in curious museums, and float your way into the town’s heart via the River Avon. Let’s dive into the guide!
 


Day 1: From the Bard to butterflies

Morning: Step into Shakespeare’s early life

Start your journey where it all began: Shakespeare’s Birthplace. This charming timber-framed house on Henley Street is where the world’s greatest playwright spent his early years. Wander through the rooms where William lived with Anne Hathaway, peek into his father’s glove-making workshop, and explore the fragrant garden filled with plants mentioned in his plays.

It’s not just a museum – it’s a portal to Elizabethan England, curated by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. Look out for rare artefacts including a 400-year-old Folio, and enjoy live performances that bring the Bard’s words to life right in the courtyard.

Mid-morning: Have your mind blown at the MAD Museum

Now for something a little left-field: the MAD Museum. It’s all moving parts, rolling marbles, mechanical wonders, and pure joyful chaos. This hands-on haven of kinetic art is endlessly fascinating for both kids and grown-up tinkerers.

Lunch: Tea and tails await

Time for lunch with a twist. The Shakespaw Cat Café is a feline-filled paradise right in the town centre. Book a slot and enjoy barista coffee, sandwiches, and afternoon tea in the company of adorable rescue cats. It’s peaceful, purrfectly quirky, and very Stratford.

Afternoon: From Shakespeare’s family home to fluttering fun

Post-lunch, wander over to Shakespeare’s New Place, the site of his final residence. Though the original building is gone, the reimagined gardens and sculptures evoke the spirit of the man and his stories. This is where he wrote many of his later plays, and you’ll feel the creative pulse as you walk through the Tudor Knot Garden and Great Garden, both beautifully restored.

Next, add some colour to the day with a trip to the Stratford Butterfly Farm. Hundreds of butterflies and birds fly freely among lush tropical plants, waterfalls, and ponds. It’s a tropical oasis right by the River Avon, ideal for all ages and guaranteed to lift your spirits.

Evening: Dining and drama

As the night falls, head to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre for a pre-show dinner with a view. Their Rooftop Restaurant serves elegant modern British fare with panoramic views of the River Avon.

Then, take your seats. Whether it’s Hamlet, Much Ado About Nothing, or a bold modern adaptation, watching a performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford is the theatrical equivalent of a pilgrimage. It’s magic on stage, made in the Bard’s backyard.


Day 2: Gardens, markets, boats and big views


Morning: Step back in time and shop ‘til you drop

Begin your second day with a short walk or drive to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Set within idyllic gardens and orchards, this is the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife. It’s romantic, rustic, and rich with history. The 500-year-old building still holds original furniture – including the Hathaway bed – and the surrounding sculpture trail adds a touch of poetry to the grounds.

On your way back into town, swing by Rother Street Market (Fridays and Saturdays) for handmade goods, artisan bites, and friendly chats with local traders. If it’s a Sunday, the Waterside Upmarket offers riverside charm and an eclectic mix of crafts, food, and street performers.

From here, take a short stroll to Magic Alley, a spellbinding emporium of wizards, dragons, and mysterious artefacts. It is home to mind-boggling escape rooms, seasonal experiences, and enough quirky finds to enchant even the most sceptical Muggles.
 

Midday: School's in session (Tudor style)

Ever wondered what it was like to study in the 16th century? Head to Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, where young William sat through Latin lessons and first fell in love with words. Join a Tudor classroom experience, brush up on your Latin, and explore one of the few surviving medieval Guildhalls in the country.

Just around the corner, stop for a hot drink break at Coffee Clouds or grab a sweet treat from The Cookie Cottage. You’ve earned it – and you’ll need the energy.
 

Afternoon: Boats and big wheels

Next up, the River Avon is calling. Grab a rowing boat, motor boat, or even a Cambridge punt from Avon Boating and enjoy a leisurely cruise past weeping willows and riverside gardens. It’s a must-do on a sunny day.

Back on dry land? Finish your afternoon with a ride on the Stratford Big Wheel. The views are stunning – rooftops, rivers, and rolling countryside as far as the eye can see. A perfect spot for sunset selfies and panoramic pics.

Evening: Dinner is calling

Wrap up your weekend at Giggling Squid, a Grade II listed gem dishing out vibrant Thai cuisine just a stone’s throw from the theatre. It’s colourful, flavourful, and packed with personality. Try the Salt and Pepper Squid or the Chicken Massaman Curry - you won’t be disappointed.

Another popular dinner spot is Lambs. Housed in one of the oldest buildings in town (dating back to the days of Henry VIII), this beautifully preserved 16th-century spot combines exposed beams, a warm, stylish interior, and a menu that more than lives up to the setting. Whether you’re indulging in fresh local fare or simply soaking up the ambience, Lambs delivers a truly memorable dining experience.

And if you're not quite ready to call it a night, take a short stroll over to The Vintner for post-dinner drinks. This cosy wine bar and restaurant is a local favourite, known for its relaxed vibe, historic character, and carefully curated selection of wines. With its heritage-rich setting and inviting atmosphere, The Vintner is the perfect place to toast a day well spent in Stratford-upon-Avon.
 


Where to stay

Hotel Du Vin Stratford

Boutique elegance in the heart of town. This 18th-century building is packed with character – think luxurious sheets, roll-top baths, and an extensive wine list. The bistro is top-tier, and the courtyard is a perfect summer hangout.

Hotel Indigo Stratford-upon-Avon

Style, heritage, and Shakespeare-inspired design come together in this beautiful hotel, right opposite New Place. Rooms blend 16th-century charm with modern luxury, and The Woodsman restaurant offers sustainable, seasonal fine dining that’s worth writing home about.
 


Getting around

Stratford-upon-Avon is a delight to explore on foot, with charming streets and scenic riverside walks at every turn. For those venturing further, the town offers excellent public transport links, making travel simple and convenient. From parking options to local transport tips, everything you need to get around is right at your fingertips.

Stratford is also committed to being accessible for all visitors, with many routes, attractions, and transport services designed to support those with additional needs.
 


Until next time…

From Shakespearean landmarks to quirky cafés, riverside strolls to market treasures, this little town packs a lot into two days. And chances are, you’ll leave already plotting your return.

Discover more things to see and do in Stratford-upon-Avon.