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Stratford-upon-Avon Visitor Information Centre

Your essential gateway to exploring Shakespeare’s historic town with expert advice, tickets, and local insights in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Located in the heart of historic Stratford-upon-Avon at Bridgefoot, the Visitor Information Centre offers comprehensive services for tourists and locals alike. Open daily from 9am to 5pm, it provides expert advice, maps, tickets, and local insights to enhance your visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace and the surrounding Warwickshire region.

A brief summary to Visit Stratford-upon-Avon

  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid the lunch closure from 12:30pm to 1:30pm.
  • Ask about discounted 'queue-buster' tickets for popular Shakespeare attractions.
  • Use the Shop Mobility service nearby if you require mobility scooter hire.
  • Pick up detailed walking maps to explore Stratford’s historic streets and riverside.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Regular local bus services connect Stratford-upon-Avon town centre with surrounding villages and towns, with stops within 200 meters of the Visitor Information Centre. Typical travel times from nearby areas range from 15 to 45 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£5 depending on distance.

  • Train

    Stratford-upon-Avon railway station is about 1.5 km from the centre, a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Trains from Birmingham and London take approximately 45-90 minutes. Taxi fares from the station to the centre typically range from £6 to £10.

  • Car

    Driving to the centre is straightforward via the A46 or A3400. Bridgefoot car park nearby offers accessible parking and Shop Mobility services. Parking fees range from £3 to £10 depending on duration. Note that town centre streets can be busy during peak tourist seasons.

  • Walking

    The centre is easily accessible on foot from most parts of Stratford-upon-Avon town centre, with flat, paved routes suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Walking times from central hotels or attractions typically range from 5 to 15 minutes.

Visit Stratford-upon-Avon location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Visit Stratford-upon-Avon

A Gateway to Shakespeare’s Stratford

The Stratford-upon-Avon Visitor Information Centre stands prominently at Bridgefoot, close to the scenic canal basin and the River Avon, serving as the essential first stop for visitors exploring this historic market town. Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned worldwide as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and this centre acts as a hub for discovering the rich cultural heritage and vibrant community life of the area.

Comprehensive Services and Local Expertise

Operated in partnership with Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Stratford-upon-Avon College, the centre is staffed by knowledgeable professionals and apprentices who provide personalized assistance. Visitors can access a wealth of information including detailed maps, guided tour bookings, tickets for local attractions, and up-to-date event listings. The centre also offers discounted 'queue-buster' tickets, helping visitors save time and money while experiencing the town’s main highlights.

Accessibility and Visitor Comfort

Designed with accessibility in mind, the centre features flat access entrances, ample circulation space, and a dropped counter for wheelchair users. A loop system supports those with hearing impairments. Nearby Bridgefoot car park includes accessible parking and a Shop Mobility centre offering scooter hire, ensuring ease of access for all visitors.

Location and Surroundings

Situated near key landmarks such as the Royal Shakespeare Company theatres and Shakespeare’s historic homes, the centre is ideally placed for exploring on foot or by local transport. The surrounding area offers charming Tudor architecture, quaint streets, and vibrant markets, providing a quintessential English town experience. Nearby amenities include cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient base for planning your day.

Community Collaboration and Cultural Significance

The centre exemplifies community partnership, combining local government, educational institutions, and business support to promote Stratford-upon-Avon’s cultural tourism. It plays a vital role in welcoming visitors, preserving the town’s heritage, and supporting its economy through sustainable tourism initiatives.

Planning Your Visit

Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, the centre closes daily for lunch between 12:30pm and 1:30pm. It provides up-to-date information on seasonal events, including the famous Victorian Christmas Market and theatre schedules. Whether you seek historical insights, practical travel advice, or local recommendations, the Visitor Information Centre is your trusted companion in Stratford-upon-Avon.

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