The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour

Stratford-upon-Avon , United Kingdom

The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour

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About this experience

Be entertained on this walk around the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon to hear tales of plague, murder, ghosts, beatings, witches, sewage and grave-robbing.

This is a circular walk, with a professional tour guide telling mysterious and grizzly tales from the history of Stratford-upon-Avon & William Shakespeare.

Available options

The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour

What's included

A circular walk, telling mysterious and grizzly tales from the history of Stratford-upon-Avon.

Detailed itinerary

We start at the start - the start of the Bubonic Plague outbreak that is!

Still on the corner of Sheep Street and High Street, learn about the ghost from the Civil War days.

Stop 3 Pass by

We will stand here and marvel at a building that hasn't been there or hundreds of years and hear the story of how a murder was committed to get ownership of the building.

You might think you had a hard time at school, but it's nothing compared to what you have had to endure in the 16th Century, and oh my word, what a view you'd have had out of the window....

Stop 5 Pass by

Shakespeare's eldest daughter married the only doctor in town, but would treatment from John Hall kill or cure you?

Stop 6 Pass by

Enter the churchyard? Or should we just stand outside to hear some of the most gruesome tales of the residents?

As we pass by the River Avon, please remember the Health and Safety briefing and don't fall in! But if you do, you won't be the first to have met a watery grave in Stratford....

Stop 8 Pass by

We walk along the banks of the Avon and you'll hear stories of the river and learn about the special local significance of September the 21st!

Peer down the ancient court and hear one final tragic tale of witchcraft and murder.

And we're back at the start point, well done if you made it all the way around!

Passby Tudor World. They claim to be the most haunted building in England, but there are terrors all around.....

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

108 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

166 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the TOP corner of Sheep Street (CV37 6EE) and High Street (CV37 6FD), opposite the Town Hall, the Old Bank and the Garrick Inn, next to a red phone box, a red pillar box and Red Hot Mammas Pizzeria. There are pins on Google Maps for Sinister Stratford and the Platinum Jubilee Tree

Important notes

Meet your guide by the Platinum Jubilee Tree, a tree planted in 2022 as part of the "Queens Green Canopy" to celebrate Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. It is on the corner of Sheep Street (CV37 6EE) and High Street (CV37 6FD), opposite the Town Council, next to a red phone box and a red pillar box.

About Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming market town in the West Midlands, famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. This picturesque town is rich in history, culture, and beautiful Tudor architecture, making it a must-visit destination for literature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Top Attractions

Shakespeare's Birthplace

The childhood home of William Shakespeare, now a museum offering insights into his life and works.

Historical 1-2 hours £18.50 (adult ticket)

Royal Shakespeare Theatre

A world-renowned theatre hosting performances of Shakespeare's plays and other classic works.

Theatre 2-3 hours (performance length) £15-£65 (depending on the performance and seating)

Anne Hathaway's Cottage

The childhood home of Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway, featuring a beautiful thatched cottage and gardens.

Historical 1-2 hours £10.50 (adult ticket)

Stratford-upon-Avon Canal

A scenic canal offering picturesque walks, boat tours, and a peaceful escape from the bustling town center.

Nature 1-2 hours (walking or biking) Free (walking and biking), £10-£20 (boat tours)

Holy Trinity Church

The final resting place of William Shakespeare, this beautiful church is a must-visit for literature lovers.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish and Chips

Crispy battered fish with thick-cut chips, often served with mushy peas and tartar sauce.

Main Course Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian options available.

Ploughman's Lunch

A hearty meal featuring cheese, pickles, bread, and sometimes ham or other cold cuts.

Lunch Vegetarian options available.

Sticky Toffee Pudding

A moist sponge cake filled with dates and covered in a rich toffee sauce, often served with custard or ice cream.

Dessert Can be made gluten-free and vegan options available.

Pork Pie

A savory pie filled with seasoned pork and a jelly glaze, often served cold.

Snack Contains pork and gluten.

Popular Activities

Boat tours on the River Avon Hiking in the Cotswolds Cycling along the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal Picnics by the canal Afternoon tea at a local cafe Strolling through the town's gardens and parks Attending a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre Visiting historic sites related to Shakespeare

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with pleasant weather and numerous outdoor events. The town is vibrant with open-air theatre performances and festivals.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Stratford-upon-Avon is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.

Getting there

By air

Birmingham Airport • 30 miles (48 km)

By train

Stratford-upon-Avon Station

By bus

Stratford-upon-Avon Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around. The main bus station is located in the town center.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Town Centre Old Town Shottery

Day trips

Warwick Castle

10 miles (16 km) • Half day to full day

A magnificent medieval castle with a rich history, offering tours, exhibits, and live performances.

Cotswolds

20 miles (32 km) • Full day

A picturesque region known for its charming villages, rolling hills, and historic sites.

Birmingham

30 miles (48 km) • Full day

A vibrant city with a rich industrial heritage, offering museums, shopping, and dining.

Festivals

Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival • May Shakespeare Festival • April and September Christmas Market • Late November to early December

Pro tips

Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Book tickets for Royal Shakespeare Theatre performances in advance, especially during peak season.
Explore the town on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and scenic spots.
Take a boat tour on the River Avon for a unique perspective of the town.
Visit the Stratford-upon-Avon Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.