The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (281 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Experience 14 centuries of history, see buildings dating back to 1210 and chart shakespeare's life

Meeting Point

Meet just below the main entrance steps to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre [also known as RSC] at the base of The Tower - unmissable. Please remain outside the building or you could miss us. If it is crowded your Guide will be holding a RED umbrella aloft to help you locate them.

Meeting point

Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BB , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

Meet just below the main entrance steps to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre [also known as RSC] at the base of The Tower - unmissable. Please remain outside the building or you could miss us. If it is crowded your Guide will be holding a RED umbrella aloft to help you locate them.

Meeting point

Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BB , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

Royal Shakespeare Theatre

The first of about a dozen stops that are included in our 1.4km guided tour. The world famous RST has a rich history and is viewed by many actors as the pinnacle of their career. This iconic theatre is our meeting point and from here we overview the origins of this world famous town.

Duration 10 minutes
2

Stratford-upon-Avon

At Market Cross you will see one of the original Market Halls - dating back to 1500AD and the place that John Shakespeare often used to trade his artisan gloves.

Duration 5 minutes
3

Shakespeare's Birthplace

This is our third stop and here we showcase the living conditions of the very fortunate young William Shakespeare, born as he was into a prosperous Tudor family. The house dates from the early 1500's and is a living museum.

Duration 5 minutes
4

The American Fountain

At this historically important site the Town's livestock market was located from 1196 when the settlement first became a Market Town. Two pubs that have survived from the Tudor period are also located on this important junction.

Duration 5 minutes
5

Stratford-upon-Avon

Our next visit is Bell Court where you can see the Bell that was used to draw people to the towns artisan markets hanging in the main entrance. Bell Court houses a wide range of drinking and dining venues.

6

Town Hall Stratford upon Avon

At the top of Sheep Street is a junction we call History Corner - as within sight are buildings that span five centuries. These include the birthplace of John Harvard, the founding father of Harvard University, as well as another Tudor era pub, now called The Garrick Inn.

Duration 10 minutes
7

Shakespeare's New Place

Originally built in 1483, Shakespeare bought his huge retirement pad in 1597. The largest house in town with a history almost as colourful as that of William's father, John.

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
8

Stratford-upon-Avon

Nearing the end of our tour you will visit the Guild Chapel - part of the towns original seat of power which dates back to 1269. The Guild Chapel is Free to enter and has its own absolutely fascinating history. Shakespeare's schoolroom is right next door and we'll see that too!

Duration 5 minutes
9

Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall

The Guild, itself founded in 1269, started a school in 1295 that exists to this day. William Shakespeare attended it in the late 1500's, gaining a superb education. It is now a living museum.

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
10

Stratford-upon-Avon

We stop briefly on Chapel Lane to take in King Edward the Sixth Grammar School, this large, modern, grammar school is today's version of the original Guild school that started in 1295; the same school that Shakespeare attended.

11

Swan Theatre

Here we describe the history of the Theatre complex and explain why the facade of The Swan is all that survives of the original Shakespeare Memorial Theatre.

Duration 10 minutes
12

Royal Shakespeare Theatre

We finish back at our our original starting point, the RST. Your Guide will be happy any questions you may have to help you to optimise your visit to our wonderful town.

Duration 5 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by WalkTalkShow.co.uk

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try a local pub near the Town Hall.
  • icon
    Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace after the tour.
  • icon
    Check out nearby shops for unique gifts.
  • icon
    Enjoy a coffee at the RSC café post-tour.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning architecture.

More About this Experience

Introduction

The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon takes you on a captivating journey through the rich history of this charming town, known as the birthplace of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare. From its humble beginnings in the 7th century to its vibrant present, this tour provides essential information and context to fully appreciate the significance of Stratford upon Avon.

What to expect?

During this immersive experience, you can anticipate delving into 14 centuries of history, exploring iconic buildings dating back to 1210, and uncovering the life of William Shakespeare. The tour comprises approximately a dozen stops, each carefully chosen to highlight key historical details about both the Bard and his hometown. From the Guild of the Holy Cross, founded in 1269, to the enigmatic figure of Hugh Clopton, you'll gain insights into the influential forces that shaped Stratford upon Avon.

Who is this for?

This guided tour is designed for history enthusiasts, literature lovers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the world-renowned playwright and his surroundings. Whether you're a devoted Shakespeare fan or simply curious about the fascinating history of Stratford upon Avon, this experience caters to a wide range of interests and preferences. All are welcome to embark on this captivating journey through time.

Why book this?

The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon stands out with its unique selling points and advantages. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an immersive experience that brings history to life. You'll have the opportunity to visit Harvard House, the family home of the founder of Harvard University, as well as the surviving taverns frequented by Shakespeare himself. Through captivating storytelling, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the greatest writer in history and the influential forces that shaped not only his hometown but also the British Isles and the wider world.

Good to know

Before embarking on this tour, it's important to note that the meeting point is just below the main entrance steps to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, also known as RSC. Look out for your guide holding a RED umbrella to ensure you don't miss the group. The tour includes a comprehensive itinerary that covers the essential landmarks and historical sites, providing a well-rounded exploration of Stratford upon Avon's fascinating past.

Reviews

Previous participants of The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon have raved about the insightful and engaging experience. Many praised the knowledgeable guides who brought the history of the town and its famous resident to life. Visitors were particularly delighted with the opportunity to explore Harvard House and the surviving taverns, immersing themselves in the world that shaped Shakespeare's genius. Overall, participants felt that the tour provided a comprehensive and captivating journey through the history of Stratford upon Avon.

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