PRIVATE Guided tour of Shakespeare's Stratford Upon Avon
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a guided tour introducing Stratford upon Avon's city history and its most famous son- William Shakespeare. Your guide will introduce the most famous sights and the life and times of Shakespeare & describe what may have influenced Shakespeare and his works & the historical era which he lived in.
Available options
PRIVATE Group bookings
PRIVATE Group bookings
What's included
Tour does visit inside Holy Trinity Church, whenever church is open with some freetime to stop there
Detailed itinerary
1
Tour meeting point is flexible and can be negotiated but meets at agreed meeting point in Stratford upon Avon city centre. The default start point is to meet outside the Shakespeare birthplace house. Tour typically ends at Holy Trinity Church but end point is flexible for private group bookings only.
Enjoy a guided tour introducing Stratford upon Avon's city history and its most famous son- William Shakespeare. Your guide will introduce the most famous sights and the life and times of Shakespeare & describe what may have influenced Shakespeare and his works. This tour visits inside Holy Trinity Church but it does not visit inside his birthplace or the other Shakespeare homes. You will however have time to visit inside one or more of the Shakespeare homes before or after the tour. Some of our guides are themselves actors and so can add extra insight and character into highlighting the development of the theatre and acting industry in the time of Shakespeare. We also introduce events in English history such as the Reformation & persecution of the Catholics which relate to his era.
What's not included
The tour doesn't include the tomb at church but the option exists if you wish to, to pay to see tomb
Tour does not include entry inside Shakespeare birthplace house
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.0
1 reviews
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3★
1
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Tripadvisor
4.5
2 reviews
5★
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4★
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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
The current setting is 24 hours advance notice to book these tours. Tour group sizes listed here are up to 15 persons only but we can offer tours for larger groups, if you request viator to ask for a quote. Likewise, if you wish to book us at shorter notice, please consult viator to request them to check availability to book at shorter notice. Tours are currently only conducted in English but we are familiar also with guiding non native speakers and communicating slowly and simply, where requested.
Meeting point
Departure Point: Default designated meeting point more detailed address and contact number for the guide will be supplied after you book.
Post code CV37 6EE
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
