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obody knows exactly how many plays Shakespeare wrote, in which order, or even what he looked like. But one thing we know for sure: he was born, raised and buried in Stratford.

The picturesque market town is home to several historic buildings associated with Shakespeare, including his birthplace and the spot where he first put quill to parchment.

You can also visit the farm where his mother, Mary Arden, grew up, the cottage where his wife Anne Hathaway lived and New Place, the site of the house where Shakespeare died in 1616.

As you retrace Shakespeare’s life from cradle to grave, you begin to get an insight into the man behind those immortal words. When you eventually head to his final resting place at the Holy Trinity Church, it’s hard not to be moved.

After the sites, it’s essential to remind yourself what Shakespeare is all about by catching a play at the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre. You’ll be amazed at just how much resonance Shakespeare’s words retain as the actors breathe new life into them while recreating those classic scenes.

Once the performance is over head to the Dirty Duck to grab a pint, rub shoulders with the actors, and raise a glass to the world’s greatest playwright.