Bancroft Gardens: Riverside Serenity in Stratford-upon-Avon
A tranquil riverside retreat in Stratford-upon-Avon blending Shakespearean heritage, lush gardens, and vibrant waterways beside the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Bancroft Gardens is a scenic riverside park in Stratford-upon-Avon, nestled beside the River Avon and adjacent to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The gardens feature lush lawns, historic statues including the Gower Memorial with Shakespeare and his iconic characters, a commemorative fountain, accessible bridges, and lively waterways with swans and canal boats. It offers a peaceful yet culturally rich setting ideal for relaxation and gentle strolls.
A brief summary to Bancroft Gardens
- Stratford-upon-Avon, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on a sunny day to fully enjoy the wide lawns, riverside views, and open-air performances.
- Bring appropriate food for feeding ducks and swans; avoid bread to protect their health.
- Explore the nearby Royal Shakespeare Theatre and take a riverside walk extending beyond the gardens.
- Look out for the Gower Memorial and the Country Artists Fountain, which celebrate Stratford’s history and Shakespeare’s legacy.
- Use the accessible bridges to enjoy the canal basin and lock views, suitable for all visitors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Stratford-upon-Avon town bus services, such as routes 1 or 2, which connect the town center to Waterside near Bancroft Gardens. The journey typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, with frequent departures during the day. Tickets cost around £2-£4 GBP. Note that bus stops are a short walk from the gardens.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Stratford-upon-Avon railway station, then enjoy a 20-minute walk along the river or through the town center to Bancroft Gardens. The walk is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Train fares vary depending on origin but typically start from £10 GBP within the region.
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Taxi
Local taxi services offer direct transfers from the train station or town center to Bancroft Gardens in approximately 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £6 to £12 GBP. Taxis are wheelchair accessible on request.
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Car
Driving to Bancroft Gardens is possible, but parking near Waterside is limited and often busy during peak tourist seasons. Nearby public car parks in Stratford town center are available, with a 10 to 15-minute walk to the gardens. Parking fees range from £2 to £5 GBP per hour.
Bancroft Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Bancroft Gardens
Historical Roots Along the River Avon
Bancroft Gardens occupies land once used by Stratford’s townspeople for grazing animals and sits on the site of former canal wharves and basins that linked Stratford to Birmingham in the early 19th century. The Canal Basin, completed in 1816, and a second basin built in 1826, shaped the area’s industrial past before being transformed into the verdant gardens seen today. This history is subtly woven into the landscape, blending the town’s working heritage with its modern cultural identity.Celebrating Shakespeare’s Legacy in Stone and Steel
The gardens prominently feature the Gower Memorial, a Victorian statue of William Shakespeare seated with four characters from his plays—Hamlet, Lady Macbeth, Falstaff, and Prince Hal—symbolizing philosophy, tragedy, comedy, and history. Created by Lord Ronald Sutherland Gower and gifted to the town in 1888, this monument anchors the gardens’ literary significance. Nearby, the Country Artists Fountain commemorates Stratford’s 800th anniversary of market rights granted by King Richard I, unveiled by the Queen in 1996, adding a modern artistic touch to the historic setting.A Vibrant Natural and Cultural Oasis
Bancroft Gardens offers wide grass lawns and flowerbeds that bloom with plants evocative of the Elizabethan era, reflecting the flora familiar to Shakespeare’s time. The riverside location brings lively scenes of swans, ducks, and canal boats navigating the lock system, while open-air performers and nearby cafes contribute to a festive yet relaxed atmosphere. The gardens serve as a popular spot for picnics, family outings, and quiet moments by the water, blending natural beauty with cultural vibrancy.Architectural and Landscape Features
Two fully accessible bridges span the canal basin and lock, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the gardens’ scenic waterways. The human sundial honoring the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service adds a unique interactive element. Seating areas scattered throughout invite rest and contemplation, while the proximity to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre creates a seamless cultural experience, linking outdoor leisure with theatrical heritage.Community and Visitor Experience
Locals and tourists alike cherish Bancroft Gardens for its peaceful ambiance and family-friendly environment. Children delight in feeding the ducks (with appropriate food), and the presence of life-sized sculptures such as 'Young Will' encourages playful interaction. The gardens’ manageable size makes it ideal for a leisurely stroll or as a tranquil pause amid Stratford’s bustling Shakespearean attractions.Integration with Stratford’s Cultural Landscape
Situated on Waterside, the gardens complement Stratford-upon-Avon’s rich tapestry of historic sites, including Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Holy Trinity Church. The riverside walk extending from Bancroft Gardens connects visitors to other landmarks, enhancing the sense of place. The gardens’ blend of natural beauty, history, and art embodies Stratford’s identity as a town where literature and landscape intertwine.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Countess of Evesham
0.1 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Stratford Waterside Market
0.1 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
Tramway Bridge
0.1 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
0.2 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Sinister Stratford
0.2 km
Explore the darker side of Stratford-upon-Avon with Sinister Stratford's captivating tours of haunted history and folklore.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council
0.2 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon and its rich heritage at the Town Council, your gateway to local culture and events in Shakespeare's hometown.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall
0.2 km
Elegant Palladian landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rich history, Shakespearean heritage, and civic tradition since 1767.
Garrick
0.3 km
Step into Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, where medieval charm meets hearty fare and centuries of captivating history.
Statue Of Shakespeare Stratford-upon-Avon
0.4 km
A bronze tribute to the Bard in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, where literature and history come alive on Henley Street.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop
0.4 km
Discover the essence of Shakespeare's legacy at The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop, a unique gift shop in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Shakespeare Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
A Victorian Gothic tribute in Stratford’s marketplace celebrating Shakespeare, Queen Victoria, and Anglo-American friendship.
Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home
0.7 km
Discover the enchanting Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home in Stratford-upon-Avon, where history and comfort blend seamlessly for an unforgettable stay.
Anne Hathaway's Cottage
1.9 km
Discover the enchanting Anne Hathaway's Cottage, a historical museum celebrating Shakespeare's beloved wife in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford Fountains
2.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Stratford Fountains, a must-visit tourist attraction in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Stratford Armouries
4.4 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Stratford-upon-Avon at Stratford Armouries, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
William Shakespeare
0.0 km
Step into the childhood home of William Shakespeare and explore the Tudor house where the world’s greatest playwright was born and raised.
Young Will statue
0.0 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Shakespeare’s youth, inviting visitors to connect with the Bard amid Stratford’s tranquil Bancroft Garden.
Swan Fountain
0.0 km
Celebrate 800 years of Stratford’s market heritage at the shimmering Swan Fountain in scenic Bancroft Gardens.
Stratford Town Walk and Stratford Ghost Walk
0.1 km
Discover Shakespeare’s hometown by day and its haunted secrets by night on engaging guided walks through Stratford-upon-Avon.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
0.1 km
Experience Shakespeare’s world at the iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre, where history, innovation, and the River Avon converge in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Canal River Cruises
0.1 km
Relax and explore Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic waterways on a scenic canal and river cruise featuring working locks and lively commentary.
Bancroft Basin
0.1 km
Historic canal basin and marina at Stratford-upon-Avon’s heart, blending scenic beauty with rich Shakespearean heritage and lively community events.
Gower Memorial
0.1 km
A captivating bronze monument in Bancroft Gardens celebrating Shakespeare’s genius through iconic characters and timeless artistry.
The Swan Theatre
0.1 km
An intimate Victorian-Gothic theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending historic charm with modern design to celebrate Shakespeare’s contemporaries and theatrical heritage.
Tudor World
0.1 km
Step into Tudor England’s vibrant past with immersive exhibits and historic charm in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford-upon-Avon Tourist Information Centre
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to Stratford-upon-Avon’s rich Shakespearean heritage and local discoveries.
Stratford Big Wheel
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Stratford-upon-Avon from the accessible and family-friendly Stratford Big Wheel.
The Old Slaughterhouse
0.2 km
A charming heritage and arts centre in Stratford-upon-Avon blending history, creativity, and community spirit in a peaceful setting.
New Place Gardens
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil gardens marking Shakespeare’s family home site, where history, art, and nature intertwine in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Clopton Bridge
0.2 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon's iconic 15th-century Clopton Bridge, a historic stone crossing with 14 arches and scenic River Avon views.
Essential places to dine
The Rooftop Restaurant at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre
0.1 km
Savor seasonal British cuisine with stunning river views atop Stratford’s iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Thespians
0.1 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, blending tradition with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Barge and Quarterdeck
0.1 km
Charming waterside restaurant and bar in Stratford-upon-Avon, famed for wood-fired pizzas and scenic canal views.
Zizzi - Stratford-upon-Avon
0.1 km
Italian flavours in the heart of Shakespeare’s Stratford, with wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a rooftop terrace for al fresco dining.
Carluccio's
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors in a charming riverside setting at Carluccio's Stratford-upon-Avon.
Café Rouge - Stratford Upon Avon
0.1 km
Classic French bistro charm with authentic cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic center.
Coffee Clouds
0.1 km
A cozy Stratford-upon-Avon café serving expertly crafted coffee and homemade treats in a charming, intimate setting.
No 44 Restaurant
0.1 km
Elegant dining by Stratford’s Waterside with seasonal British-European cuisine and two AA Rosettes for excellence.
The Opposition
0.1 km
Historic bistro in Stratford-upon-Avon offering seasonal, hearty dishes in a cozy 16th-century setting, perfect for pre-theatre dining.
Encore Stratford Upon Avon
0.2 km
A stylish British pub and restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon offering classic dishes, waterfront views, and a lively yet welcoming atmosphere.
Lambs
0.2 km
Historic Tudor charm and classic English cuisine combine at Lambs, Stratford-upon-Avon's beloved cozy restaurant.
Wildwood Restaurants Stratford-upon-Avon
0.2 km
Contemporary Italian dining in Stratford-upon-Avon with standout vegan options and a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
The View
0.2 km
Enjoy fresh British fare with stunning panoramic views over Warwickshire countryside at The View, a charming farm-based restaurant near Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Vintner
0.2 km
A historic Stratford wine bar and restaurant serving seasonal British fare in a warm, traditional setting, ideal for pre-theatre dining.
Loxleys Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
A family-run modern British restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, famed for innovative cuisine, cozy ambiance, and an exceptional wine selection.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Italy's Little Secret
0.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Italy's Little Secret, a charming boutique restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for food lovers.
Boutique Jsk
0.1 km
Discover unique women's fashion and local craftsmanship at Boutique Jsk, a stylish independent shop on historic Sheep Street in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Vinegar Hill Wardrobe
0.2 km
Discover elegant ladies’ fashion in the historic charm of Stratford-upon-Avon’s Vinegar Hill Wardrobe boutique.
Auburn Fox Home
0.2 km
Discover unique furniture and homewares with personalized service in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Jigsaw
0.2 km
Discover timeless British womenswear and accessories at Jigsaw, Stratford-upon-Avon's elegant fashion boutique on Bridge Street.
Marks and Spencer
0.2 km
A trusted British retail destination offering quality food, clothing, and convenience in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Jack Wills
0.2 km
Discover timeless British fashion and contemporary style at Jack Wills in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic High Street.
Accessorize
0.2 km
Discover stylish accessories, clothing, and jewelry at Accessorize in Stratford-upon-Avon, where fashion meets Shakespearean charm.
Lush Cosmetics Stratford Upon Avon
0.3 km
Discover fresh, handmade, and ethical beauty products at Lush Stratford Upon Avon, where sustainability meets vibrant community spirit.
Wilfreds of Stratford
0.3 km
Discover timeless sweets and local charm at Wilfreds of Stratford, a beloved confectionery shop on Stratford-upon-Avon's historic High Street.
Any Witch Way
0.3 km
A mystical boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering crystals, candles, tarot, and witchcraft treasures in a charming antique centre setting.
White Stuff Stratford Upon Avon
0.3 km
Contemporary, sustainable fashion for all ages in the heart of historic Stratford-upon-Avon.
Razzle Dazzle
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique costume treasures in the cozy charm of Razzle Dazzle, Stratford-upon-Avon’s beloved boutique.
Ivy'ss Vintage Decor & Gifts
0.3 km
Explore a charming vintage shop in Stratford-upon-Avon, featuring unique decor and gifts that offer a glimpse into the past.
Daisy Chain Gift Company Ltd
0.3 km
Award-winning boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering unique contemporary gifts, design-led cards, stylish stationery, and premium gift wrap.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Officers Mess - 1940's Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Step into the 1940s at Officers Mess, Stratford’s premier cocktail bar blending vintage charm, world-class drinks, and vibrant live entertainment.
That Little Gin & Prosecco Bar
0.1 km
A cozy, intimate gin and Prosecco bar tucked away in Stratford-upon-Avon, offering an extensive spirit selection and warm, friendly vibes.
Rose & Crown
0.1 km
Classic English pub charm with hearty fare, friendly service, and a spacious garden in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Cox's Yard, Stratford-Upon-Avon
0.1 km
Lively riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon blending casual dining, sports, and scenic views by the River Avon.
The Bear
0.3 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon serving classic ales and comforting British fare in a warm, cosy setting with scenic river views.
The Phoenix
0.3 km
A vibrant independent bar in Stratford-upon-Avon offering craft beers, authentic Neapolitan pizza, and a leafy rooftop terrace for a lively social experience.
The Keys
0.3 km
A friendly and inviting pub in Stratford-upon-Avon with a quirky garden, great drinks, and classic pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
Windmill
0.4 km
A welcoming traditional British pub in Warwickshire serving classic dishes and local brews in a cozy, community-focused setting.
The Avon Lounge
0.5 km
A lively cocktail bar in Stratford-upon-Avon known for friendly hosts, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for evening socializing.
The Stratford Alehouse
0.6 km
A cozy micropub in Stratford-upon-Avon celebrated for exceptional real ales, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon
0.6 km
A lively fusion of Spanish tapas and English pub charm in Stratford-upon-Avon, serving exceptional food and drink in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Avenue Club
1.5 km
A friendly and affordable bar with live music and games, offering a relaxed social scene in Stratford-upon-Avon’s industrial heart.
Unicorn
10.8 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Warwick offering excellent British fare, accommodating service, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Howard Arms Ilmington
11.1 km
A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.
The Castle Inn
12.1 km
A historic Warwick pub with quirky charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming beer garden for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Caz Bar Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
The Cavern
13.4 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Neon
15.6 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
15.9 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
Smack
16.0 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
Club PST
33.5 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
Disco Wonderland
33.8 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
VOID Nightclub
33.8 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
The Night Owl
33.8 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Quantum Vnues
33.8 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
Next Door & Spotlight
33.9 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Nightingale Club
33.9 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
Mango Night Club
34.0 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Sector 57
34.1 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
