Holy Trinity Church, Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespeare’s Historic Parish Church
Historic riverside church where Shakespeare was baptized and buried, blending medieval architecture with literary heritage in tranquil surroundings.
Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon is a Grade I listed Anglican church renowned as the baptismal and burial site of William Shakespeare. Dating back to 1210 on the site of a Saxon monastery, it is the town’s oldest building and one of England’s most visited churches. Set beside the River Avon, it features stunning medieval architecture, rare pre-Reformation stone altars, intricate stained glass, and 15th-century misericords, offering visitors a serene and historic atmosphere steeped in literary and religious heritage.
A brief summary to Holy Trinity Church
- 1 Old Town, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6BG, GB
- +441789266316
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:45 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:45 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:45 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:45 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:45 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:45 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-3:15 pm
Local tips
- Entry to the church is free, but there is a small fee to visit Shakespeare’s grave and family tombs.
- Visit the sanctuary knocker on the porch, a rare medieval artifact offering sanctuary rights in the past.
- Take time to admire the 15th-century misericords and stained glass windows inside the church.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk along the River Avon nearby to appreciate the church’s picturesque setting.
- Check opening hours in advance, especially on Sundays when visiting times are shorter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Stratford-upon-Avon railway station, it is a pleasant 15 to 20-minute walk to Holy Trinity Church through the town centre and along the River Avon. The route is mostly flat and accessible, with no entry fee for the church but a small charge to access Shakespeare’s grave.
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Bus and Walk
Local buses from Stratford town centre stop near the Royal Shakespeare Theatre; from there, it is a 10-minute walk along the river to the church. Bus services run frequently throughout the day with fares typically around £2 to £4.
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Car and Walk
Visitors arriving by car can park in nearby public car parks in Stratford town centre, about a 10 to 15-minute walk from the church. Parking fees vary but generally range from £3 to £6 for a few hours. The church grounds are pedestrian-only.
Holy Trinity Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Holy Trinity Church
Ancient Roots and Architectural Heritage
Holy Trinity Church stands on a site with over a millennium of Christian worship, originally granted to monks in the 9th century. The current structure dates primarily from the early 13th century, built atop the remains of a Saxon monastery, making it Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest surviving building. Over the centuries, it has undergone various restorations, notably in the 15th century when Dean Thomas Balshall rebuilt the chantry and added the chancel, and in the 18th and 19th centuries with the addition of a tall spire and sensitive Victorian restorations by architects like G.F. Bodley. The church’s slightly slanted architecture, including the famously 'weeping chancel,' adds unique character and historical intrigue.Shakespeare’s Spiritual and Final Resting Place
The church is famously known as Shakespeare’s Church because it is where the Bard was baptized in 1564 and where he was buried in 1616. Shakespeare’s burial in the chancel was due to his status as a lay rector, having leased tithes from the church. His grave lies alongside his wife Anne Hathaway, daughter Susanna, and other family members. The grave is marked by a memorial commissioned by his widow, reputed to be a good likeness of Shakespeare. A famous curse inscription on his grave slab warns against disturbing his resting place. The church remains a pilgrimage site for literary enthusiasts and history lovers alike.Artistic Treasures and Religious Significance
Inside, Holy Trinity Church houses remarkable medieval features including twenty-six 15th-century misericord seats carved with religious, secular, and mythical imagery. The sanctuary knocker on the porch, dating from the 1200s, historically offered sanctuary to those who touched it. The church boasts some of the rarest surviving pre-Reformation elements, such as the stone altar slab (mensa) reinstated as the high altar, and exquisite stained glass windows depicting scenes like the Resurrection and Pentecost. Numerous memorials and chapels, such as the Clopton Chapel, enrich the church’s interior with historical and artistic significance.Serene Riverside Setting and Visitor Experience
Set on the banks of the River Avon, the churchyard and surrounding grounds provide a tranquil environment for reflection and quiet enjoyment. The picturesque riverside views and peaceful churchyard gardens complement the solemnity of the site. Visitors can explore the church’s rich heritage, admire its architectural details, and pay respects at Shakespeare’s grave. While entry to the church is free, a modest fee is charged to access the burial area, helping maintain the site and manage visitor services.Living Parish and Cultural Landmark
Beyond its historical and literary fame, Holy Trinity remains an active parish church serving the local community. It hosts regular worship services and special events, continuing a tradition of Christian worship for over a thousand years. The church’s role as a cultural landmark is enhanced by its proximity to other Stratford attractions, including the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, making it a cornerstone of the town’s heritage tourism.Preservation and Accessibility
The church is a protected Grade I listed building, reflecting its exceptional architectural and historic importance. Efforts to preserve its fabric and features are ongoing, supported by visitor contributions. The church is accessible to visitors daily with varying opening hours, and while the grounds are generally accessible, the historic interior may present some challenges for mobility-impaired visitors. The church advises contacting them directly for specific accessibility information.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
0.5 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council
0.5 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
0.5 km
Elegant Palladian landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rich history, Shakespearean heritage, and civic tradition since 1767.
Sinister Stratford
0.6 km
Explore the darker side of Stratford-upon-Avon with Sinister Stratford's captivating tours of haunted history and folklore.
Garrick
0.6 km
Step into Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, where medieval charm meets hearty fare and centuries of captivating history.
Tramway Bridge
0.7 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Countess of Evesham
0.7 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
0.7 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
The Shakespeare Memorial Fountain
0.7 km
A Victorian Gothic tribute in Stratford’s marketplace celebrating Shakespeare, Queen Victoria, and Anglo-American friendship.
Statue Of Shakespeare Stratford-upon-Avon
0.8 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
0.8 km
Discover the essence of Shakespeare's legacy at The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop, a unique gift shop in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home
1.1 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
1.7 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
2.3 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
4.8 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
Shakespeare's Funerary Monument
0.0 km
A solemn tribute to Shakespeare’s legacy, this limestone monument in Holy Trinity Church marks the final resting place of England’s greatest playwright.
Hall's Croft
0.2 km
Explore the Jacobean home and medicinal heritage of Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna in Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic Old Town.
The Recreation Ground
0.3 km
A lively riverside park in Stratford-upon-Avon with family play areas, scenic walks, and vibrant community events throughout the year.
The Other Place
0.3 km
An intimate, innovative studio theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, The Other Place champions experimental and contemporary theatre as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Chain Ferry
0.3 km
Experience a charming, hand-cranked crossing on Britain’s last chain ferry, linking Stratford’s cultural heart with tranquil riverside meadows.
The Stratford Chain Ferry
0.3 km
Step aboard the last manually operated chain ferry in Britain and glide across the River Avon in the heart of Shakespeare’s Stratford.
Shakespeare's England
0.4 km
Explore the heart of Shakespeare’s world with immersive exhibitions, live performances, and rich heritage in Stratford-upon-Avon’s cultural hub.
Almshouses
0.4 km
Historic almshouses in Stratford-upon-Avon offering a glimpse into centuries of community care and architectural heritage.
Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall
0.4 km
Step back into Tudor England where Shakespeare learned, played, and was inspired in this immersive medieval schoolroom and guildhall.
The Guild Chapel
0.4 km
A 13th-century chapel in Stratford-upon-Avon famed for medieval murals and Shakespearean connections.
Shakespeare's New Place
0.5 km
Explore the historic site and gardens of Shakespeare’s final family home, where his legacy comes alive through art and history.
The Swan Theatre
0.5 km
An intimate Victorian-Gothic theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending historic charm with modern design to celebrate Shakespeare’s contemporaries and theatrical heritage.
New Place Gardens
0.5 km
Explore the tranquil gardens marking Shakespeare’s family home site, where history, art, and nature intertwine in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
0.5 km
Experience Shakespeare’s world at the iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre, where history, innovation, and the River Avon converge in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
0.6 km
Experience lively stand-up comedy and emerging UK talent in the heart of historic Stratford-upon-Avon at Fat Cat Comedy Club.
Essential places to dine
Dirty Duck
0.4 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon offering quality British fare, vegan options, and a lively atmosphere loved by locals and theatre actors alike.
salt
0.4 km
Experience modern British fine dining in Stratford’s charming timbered setting, where seasonal flavors and artistic dishes create an unforgettable tasting journey.
Pick Thai Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Thai flavors freshly cooked in a cozy, welcoming setting at the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
No 44 Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant dining by Stratford’s Waterside with seasonal British-European cuisine and two AA Rosettes for excellence.
The Woodsman Restaurant
0.5 km
Savor sustainable British wild game and wood-fired cuisine in a stylish, modern setting at Stratford-upon-Avon’s acclaimed Woodsman Restaurant.
Edward Moon
0.5 km
A modern English brasserie in Stratford-upon-Avon offering fresh, flavorful dishes with attentive service in a stylish yet relaxed setting.
The Rooftop Restaurant at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre
0.5 km
Savor seasonal British cuisine with stunning river views atop Stratford’s iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Loxleys Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.5 km
A family-run modern British restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, famed for innovative cuisine, cozy ambiance, and an exceptional wine selection.
The View
0.5 km
Enjoy fresh British fare with stunning panoramic views over Warwickshire countryside at The View, a charming farm-based restaurant near Stratford-upon-Avon.
Lambs
0.5 km
Historic Tudor charm and classic English cuisine combine at Lambs, Stratford-upon-Avon's beloved cozy restaurant.
Sorrento Restaurant...a taste of Italy
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian and Neapolitan cuisine in elegant surroundings with attentive service in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Café Rouge - Stratford Upon Avon
0.5 km
Classic French bistro charm with authentic cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic center.
The Vintner
0.5 km
A historic Stratford wine bar and restaurant serving seasonal British fare in a warm, traditional setting, ideal for pre-theatre dining.
Wildwood Restaurants Stratford-upon-Avon
0.6 km
Contemporary Italian dining in Stratford-upon-Avon with standout vegan options and a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
The Opposition
0.6 km
Historic bistro in Stratford-upon-Avon offering seasonal, hearty dishes in a cozy 16th-century setting, perfect for pre-theatre dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Daisy Chain Gift Company Ltd
0.5 km
Award-winning boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering unique contemporary gifts, design-led cards, stylish stationery, and premium gift wrap.
Vinegar Hill Wardrobe
0.6 km
Discover elegant ladies’ fashion in the historic charm of Stratford-upon-Avon’s Vinegar Hill Wardrobe boutique.
Razzle Dazzle
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique costume treasures in the cozy charm of Razzle Dazzle, Stratford-upon-Avon’s beloved boutique.
Gothsteamstratford
0.6 km
Discover steampunk magic and gothic charm in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon at Gothsteamstratford’s unique gift emporium.
The Pewter Room
0.6 km
Discover handcrafted pewter treasures in the heart of Shakespeare’s hometown – a unique gift shop with timeless charm and local character.
Ivy'ss Vintage Decor & Gifts
0.6 km
Explore a charming vintage shop in Stratford-upon-Avon, featuring unique decor and gifts that offer a glimpse into the past.
Boutique Jsk
0.6 km
Discover unique women's fashion and local craftsmanship at Boutique Jsk, a stylish independent shop on historic Sheep Street in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Any Witch Way
0.6 km
A mystical boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering crystals, candles, tarot, and witchcraft treasures in a charming antique centre setting.
Italy's Little Secret
0.6 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Italy's Little Secret, a charming boutique restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for food lovers.
Lush Cosmetics Stratford Upon Avon
0.6 km
Discover fresh, handmade, and ethical beauty products at Lush Stratford Upon Avon, where sustainability meets vibrant community spirit.
Jack Wills
0.6 km
Discover timeless British fashion and contemporary style at Jack Wills in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic High Street.
Wilfreds of Stratford
0.7 km
Discover timeless sweets and local charm at Wilfreds of Stratford, a beloved confectionery shop on Stratford-upon-Avon's historic High Street.
Accessorize
0.7 km
Discover stylish accessories, clothing, and jewelry at Accessorize in Stratford-upon-Avon, where fashion meets Shakespearean charm.
Mosaique
0.7 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion in a charming boutique nestled in Stratford-upon-Avon's historic Wood Street.
Jigsaw
0.7 km
Discover timeless British womenswear and accessories at Jigsaw, Stratford-upon-Avon's elegant fashion boutique on Bridge Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon
0.2 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.
Windmill
0.4 km
A welcoming traditional British pub in Warwickshire serving classic dishes and local brews in a cozy, community-focused setting.
The Keys
0.6 km
A friendly and inviting pub in Stratford-upon-Avon with a quirky garden, great drinks, and classic pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
Rose & Crown
0.6 km
Classic English pub charm with hearty fare, friendly service, and a spacious garden in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Officers Mess - 1940's Cocktail Bar
0.6 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
0.6 km
A cozy, intimate gin and Prosecco bar tucked away in Stratford-upon-Avon, offering an extensive spirit selection and warm, friendly vibes.
The Avon Lounge
0.7 km
A lively cocktail bar in Stratford-upon-Avon known for friendly hosts, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for evening socializing.
The Bear
0.7 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon serving classic ales and comforting British fare in a warm, cosy setting with scenic river views.
Cox's Yard, Stratford-Upon-Avon
0.7 km
Lively riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon blending casual dining, sports, and scenic views by the River Avon.
The Stratford Alehouse
0.8 km
A cozy micropub in Stratford-upon-Avon celebrated for exceptional real ales, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Phoenix
0.8 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 Avenue Club
1.8 km
A friendly and affordable bar with live music and games, offering a relaxed social scene in Stratford-upon-Avon’s industrial heart.
The Howard Arms Ilmington
10.7 km
A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.
Unicorn
11.4 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Warwick offering excellent British fare, accommodating service, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Castle Inn
12.7 km
A historic Warwick pub with quirky charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming beer garden for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
0.3 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.
Caz Bar Nightclub
0.8 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 Cavern
14.0 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Neon
16.1 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
16.5 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
16.6 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
Club PST
33.9 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
Disco Wonderland
34.2 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
VOID Nightclub
34.2 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
34.2 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Quantum Vnues
34.2 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
34.2 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
34.3 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
34.4 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
34.4 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
