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Stratford-upon-Avon Cottages

Stratford upon Avon is set in the picturesque countryside of Warwickshire. Birthplace of William Shakespeare, it is one of the most important tourism centres in the United Kingdom. Despite its popularity many people opt for hotel accommodation instead of Stratford holiday cottages, which immediately limits their enjoyment and appreciation of such a wonderful town.

A collection of five buildings celebrate Shakespeare, Stratford's most famous son. His birthplace, a half-timbered 16th century building in Henley Street is the most visited - his descendants lived there until the 19th century. Nash House, Hall's Croft, Anne Hathaway's cottage and Mary Arden's house are also notable attractions and celebrate the great playwright with walk-through exhibitions and a variety of small museums.

The town's rich heritage is also showcased through other sites, such as the beautiful Holy Trinity Church. Overlooking the River Avon it was the site of Shakespeare's baptism and also contains his Tomb. The red brick Royal Shakespeare Theatre, built in 1932 is located on the West Bank and is next to Clopton Bridge which was constructed by Hugh Clopton.

Many of the buildings in Stratford have been renovated in the accepted half-timbered style, which is prevalent throughout the town. And the buildings that form part of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust have been carefully restored to their original colour. This attention to detail serves the town well and pays homage to its illustrious past. For Stratford upon Avon cottages see below.

Rent Stratford-upon-Avon Cottages with Cottages 4 You

Courtyard Cottage - Stratford upon Avon cottages with Cottages 4 You
A 19th century cottage, 1 mile from Stratford and a good base from which to explore nearby places like Warwick and the Cotswolds. It has a beamed living room/dining area with wood-burner and inglenook fireplace. The kitchen is modern and well-equipped and there's also a library. There's a large double bedroom on the first floor with elm floorboards and large wardrobe. Available for short break rentals all year. See above for a wider choice of self catering holiday cottages in Stratford.

Rose Cottage - Stratford cottages from Cottages 4 You
Situated within 200 yards of Anne Hathaway's house, this listed self catering cottage retains many classical features such as a flagstone floor, inglenook fireplace and wooden beams. The living room has a small dining area with a woodburning stove. The kitchen has a scullery and the bathroom has shower over bath. A Double and twin bedded bedroom can accommodate up to 4 people and the exterior features an eclosed garden area. This cottages is available to rent through the cottage rental agent above.

Stratford-upon-Avon self-catering attractions

This section provides further details of the most popular visitor attractions, activities and historical sites of interest that can be found in the region of Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire. Links have been included where possible.

Outdoor activities
Stratford is situated on the Avon where boating and canoeing prove ever popular. Avon Boating and Bancroft Cruises hire out a range of craft to enable visitors to enjoy the river. Walking, hiking and cycling are also popular - Stratford Bicycle Hire offers free delivery of bikes in and around the town. Alternatively, open-top buses can be caught at The Pen and Parchment and allow visitors to see the many sights in comfort – a running commentary is included in the summer months.

The Brass Rubbing Centre on the riverside is a fun place for both adults and children. Entrance is free and your completed rubbing will cost between 98p to £15. Other popular venues are the Shakespeare Centre and the Falstaff Experience – one of the town’s most innovative visitor attractions.

Food and drink
Visitors will find a variety of good eateries within the town. The Salmon Tail Inn on the Evesham Road serves traditional fare and ales. For a special night out, try the award- winning Bensons Restaurant in Bard’s Walk. Or enjoy an informal meal at George’s bistro in the High Street.

A drink at the famous Dirty Duck is a must where you can rub shoulders with actors from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. At present the theatre is closed until 2010 when it will have a new 1000 seat thrust-stage auditorium. Until then, visit The Swan Theatre nearby or the Courtyard Theatre, the temporary home of the RSC.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage

History and Culture
The most important historical attractions are Shakespeare’s birthplace and Ann Hathaway’s cottage in Shottery. Holy Trinity Church, on the banks of the Avon, contains the Bard’s remains – free to enter with a small charge for viewing the burial place. The Grammar School, which Shakespeare is said to have attended is next to the 13th century Guildhall and Hall’s Croft, the home of his daughter, Susanna, is close by. New Place in Chapel Street is the site of the house where Shakespeare died in 1616.