Relaxation and romance in Stratford upon Avon

Snoop inside the humble – yet beautiful – home where baby William Shakespeare was born in 1564, and where he continued to live as an adult. When you step into Shakespeare’s Birthplace, you’ll see how it looked in the great playwright’s formative years – a colourful introduction to Stratford’s famous son. 

Mozzarella-stuffed paninis, freshly made pasta, chunky baguettes with cheese and charcuterie: it’s all on the menu at Marco: Italian Delicatessen. Stock up on picnic supplies, then hop on board the Jennifer May boat for a 40-minute cruise with Canal and River Tours. As you munch your lunch, you’ll spot Stratford’s famous theatre, Holy Trinity Church and more. 

Stratford hits differently when you’re dressed up in Tudor clothes, or learning how to write with a quill and ink – so head to Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall for a hands-on history lesson. See where he wrote his first works, and get a glimpse of school life in the 1500s. Then, explore the sculpture garden at Shakespeare's New Place, whose art-and flower-filled landscape is based on designs the Bard would have known. For culture lovers, these are two of the top things to do near Birmingham.

With its wine-filled cellars, cosy French restaurant and central location (within walking distance of everything), Hotel du Vin is a fabulous spot for pre-theatre dining. We recommend staying here tonight too – some of the suites even have standalone roll-top baths. If you’re looking for places to park in Stratford-upon-Avon, the hotel has a few private spaces available for guests.

There’s something transformative about seeing Shakespeare’s plays performed on-stage. His words – which yes, can be tricky when you read them – seem to leap from the page, rich in humour, drama and emotion. So tonight, catch a show at RSC Stratford, where the UK’s leading performers bring the Bard’s plays to life – whether true to his original, or with a modern twist. One of the best things to do near Birmingham.

After breakfast in Stratford-upon-Avon, hit the Stratford Greenway for a wildlife-filled walk – or bike ride – to Long Marston village. Crossing the Avon and Stour rivers, this traffic-free trail is filled with birdsong and wild flowers, and weaves through meadows and woodland for 5.3 miles (8.5km). Whether you retrace your steps or catch the number 27 bus back to Stratford, grab lunch at Bobby’s – the old train carriage café on the Greenway. 

With its beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforest and thousands of exotic butterflies, Stratford Butterfly Farm is like stepping into another world. Here you can witness the life-cycle of a butterfly up-close, walk through indoor zones filled with free-flying butterflies, and meet the chameleons and caimans of the Rainforest Realm – complete with a Mexican-style cenote (watering hole). 

Love rum? You can create your ultimate spiced rum blend at Judith’s rum school – so-called for its location, in Shakespeare’s daughter’s home. You’ll have your own miniature copper still and a range of botanicals to choose from, alongside expert tuition to help you craft, blend and bottle your perfect rum recipe. Sessions start from 3pm; for foodies, this is one of the top things to do near Birmingham.

It’s been a busy two days, so this afternoon’s second option is a well-earned retreat to the spa at Macdonald Alveston Manor Hotel – for a soothing dip in its hydrotherapy pool, an indulgent ELEMIS massage, and the option of a champagne afternoon tea. Take your pick from its treatment menu, or book an afternoon pass for full use of its facilities. Bliss!

You’ve explored Stratford’s cultural past – now look to its future. Stratford Playhouse is a hotspot for new jazz, comedy and folk music talents, at its high-spirited (but low-cost) Playhouse Sessions. Its Comedy Club will have you rolling in the aisles, and on its Musician Nights local maestros celebrate the likes of Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Carole King and other icons.