Top 10

Stratford and the surrounding area has many attractions to visit and for everyone to enjoy.  Here are just a few of them, for a full list visit the Shakespeare Country website. 

1. Shakespeare Houses
   There are five Shakespeare Houses in and around Stratford; Shakespeare's Birthplace, Nash's House & New Place, Hall's Croft, Mary Arden's Farm and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.  See where Shakespeare and his family lived and enjoy a informative tour with one of the experienced guides
   
2. Royal Shakespeare Company
   Experience the largest classical theatre company in the world.  The great works of Shakespeare and other classic and contemporary writers are performed throughout the year in the Courtyard Theatre.
   
3. Warwick Castle
   Britain's Greatest Mediaeval Experience!  This is history that you live for yourself.  Experience a mediaeval household preparing for battle in 'Kingmaker'.  In the newest attraction "Dream of Battle" witness the drama and terror of mediaeval battle through the dreams of 12 year old page William.  There's also a dungeon, magnificent Towers and Ramparts, the Great Hall and State Rooms, 'Royal Weekend Party', Mill & Engine House and 60 acres of grounds to explore.
   
4. City Sightseeing
   Tickets are valid for 24 hours and passengers can hop on and off at 14 stops including each of the Shakespeare Houses.  A live guide or audio commentary in seven languages is available, including a child's commentary.
   
5. Stratford Butterfly Farm
   Enjoy the unique pleasure of watching hundreds of the most spectacular and colourful butterflies flying in a lush landscape of exotic blossom, splashing waterfalls and fish filled pools.  See fascinating and strange creatures in Insect City and deadly and dangerous spiders in Arachnoland.
   
6. Blenheim Palace
   Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is one of the finest stately homes in England.  Visit the room where Churchill was born and special exhibitions on his life.  Surrounded by 2000 acres of parkland and lovely gardens.
   
7. Compton Verney
   An innovative art gallery in a Grade I Robert Adam Mansion House set in 120 acres of 'Capability' Brown landscape.  The collections include: Naples 1600-1800, German 1450-1600, China, British Portraits, British Folk Art and the Marx-Lambert Collection.
   
8. Royal Pump Rooms
   The historic Royal Pump Rooms have been redeveloped to create a cultural complex worthy of the 21st century.  The multi-million pound restoration houses the Art Gallery & Museum, Assembly Rooms, Tearooms, Tourist Information Centre and Library.  Visitors can explore life in a Victorian spa town and discover the water treatments which were used at the Royal Pump Rooms.
   
9. Kenilworth Castle
   Experience the past in a place that is steeped in history, grandeur and royalty.  Discover the stunning Elizabethan gatehouse as it opens its doors for the first time in decades.  Explore major new exhibitions that chart the turbulent 900 year history of this magnificent mediaeval castle and tell the story of a very royal romance.
   
10. National Trust Properties
    There are a number of National Trust properties in the area including Charlecote Park, Coughton Court, Snowshill Manor and Upton House.  View the magnificent gardens and historic houses that are all beautifully kept.
    
    
    

    For more information click here for the official Stratford visitor website: www.shakespeare-country.co.uk