Stratford upon Avon
Stratford upon Avon
Where do you begin to describe this town, which is known all over the world, thanks to its most famous son William Shakespeare indeed as you enter the county, you are greeted by signs advising you are in Warwickshire Shakespeare country.
In the summer months the town is full of visitors from very part of the globe all wanting to soak up the atmosphere and experience of a visit to the home of the Bard.
This celebration of the bard was largely due to one man David Garrick an actor and manager who organised a jubilee in 1769.
Stratford is full of period buildings so don’t forget your camera or make sure your smartphone is suitably charged because there are interesting photo opportunities at every turn. A pleasant stroll around the town enables you to take in all things connected to the great man, the church and the town sit on a charming stretch of the River Avon, amidst lovely countryside even though the huge city of Birmingham is quite nearby, having taken in the view you can return to the town and explore some more.
Places that are a must see:
New Place Shakespeare’s home and museum.
The Falcon hotel on Chapel street a magnificent timer framed tavern now a hotel.
Holy trinity church where Shakespeare was christened and his final resting place.
His father’s house on Henley Street reconstructed in the 19th century.
Nash House the home of his son in law.
Other interesting buildings include the 1930's RSC building on the Avon designed by Elizabeth Scott.
Just a short drive away in Shottery is Ann Hathaway’s cottage.
The Harvard House on the high street opposite New Place was built in 1596 by the butcher Thomas Rogers look for the bulls head carved on the façade. John Harvard was the son of Thomas and Katherine Rogers who lived here he studied at Cambridge became a clergyman and emigrated to America when he died he left money and books to a recently established college who subsequently named it in his honour.
In 1909, the novelist Marie Corelli suggested to the American millionaire Edward Morris of Chicago that he should purchase the house in Stratford. Morris did indeed buy it, he renovated the property and then donated it to Harvard University, and thereafter the house became known as Harvard House.
To really embrace all things Shakespearian, why not visit on the 23rd April his birthday and join in all the celebrations that take place there.
Activities in Stratford upon Avon
Visit abcbritain's profile on Pinterest.