Warwickshire is located in the west midlands part of England. The country is made up of 5 districts namely Warwick, Stratford-upon-avon, North Warwickshire, Nuneaton & Bedworth and Rugby. Stratford-upon-avon and Warwick are a popular destinations for tourists.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
Stratford-upon-avon is popularly known as William Shakespeare’s birthplace. Shakespeare is one of the most well know English poet and writer of all time. Some of his popular works are Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth and Hamlet to name a few.
Warwick Castle
Warwick on the other hand is popular for its iconic 14th century castle. First raised by William the Conqueror during the Norman conquest. Also the beautiful Mill Garden sitting next to the castle grounds is a must visit. The castle is open for everyone to explore and learn more about its history.
TRANSPORT
The Chiltern railway from London Marylebone station is an option when planning to visit any of the districts of Warwickshire. It takes around 2 to 2.5 hours one way and is the quicker in comparison to coach. The cost is roughly around £15.00 – £50.00/ea way. Please check the Chiltern Railway website for up to date prices which may vary dependent on times.
National Express bus/coach is another option and cheaper compared to taking the train. Dependent on which London terminal you decide to take the journey may take 2.5-3.5 hours one way. The cost is roughly around £13.50 – £23.00/ea way. Please check the National Express website for up to date prices which may vary dependent on times.
Driving to Warwick from London is 98 miles which may take from 1.5 – 2hrs on the road. The two motorway/highway routes you can take from London is M1 and M40. Make sure to check your route before leaving London to get an update of the traffic.
FOLLOW THE TRAIL TO SHAKESPREARE’S BIRTHPLACE
COST:
Full story ticket £23.00 (Adult), £15.00 (Child) and £21.50 (Concession) this gives you a 12 months of unlimited visits to all 5 properties.
Single property ticket £18.00 (Adult), £12.00 (Child) and £17.00 (Concession) this gives you access to one property only and one visit only.
TIPS:
If you are a huge fan of history, culture and Shakespeare getting the full story ticket is worth it as you get to visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, Mary Arden’s Farm, Shakespeare’s new place and Hall’s croft all located close to each other at Stratford-upon-Avon centre as well as Anne Hathaway’s cottage 10 minutes drive from Shakespeare’s Birthplace.
DROP BY AT ANNE HATHAWAYS COTTAGE
COST:
Full story ticket £23.00 (Adult), £15.00 (Child) and £21.50 (Concession) this gives you a 12 months of unlimited visits to all 5 properties.
Single property ticket £13.00 (Adult), £8.50 (Child) and £12.00 (Concession) this gives you access to one property only and one visit only.
TIPS:
If you are a fan of Shakespeare and would love to know more about his other half Anne Hathaway’s cottage is worth every penny. Unlike the other properties located near each other, Anne Hathaway’s cottage is 10 min drive from Shakespeare’s Birthplace and 7 min drive from Mary Arden’s farm. This beautiful cottage was originally built in 1463 and housed 13 generation of Anne Hathaway’s family.
STROLL AROUND STRATFORD UPON AVON’s TOWN
COST:
FREE!!!
TIPS:
Whether you choose to take Shakespeare’s Full Story tour or not, Stratford-upon-Avon is still a beautiful and lovely place to visit. Perfect for couples, singles, friends and family. The town itself is rich in History dating back 800 years ago (click here for more info).
Canal & River Tour
The town sits beside the River Avon, which hosts the perfect Canal and River tour experience during Spring and Summer season. (click here for more)
STOP BY AT HOLY TRINITY CHURCH AND CROSS THE RIVER AVON VIA CHAIN FERRY
COST:
FREE!!!
TIPS:
Visiting the Church is free. However, getting close to Shakespeare’s grave located inside the church will cost you a pound or more. Make sure to have change ready with you.
The church limestone building dates back 1210 and is built in a cross-like shape. For opening times please click here.
The Butterfly Farm
COST:
Adults £7.25, Seniors (60+) and Students £6.75, Children 3-16 years £6.25. Children under 2 Free. Family (2 adults & 2 children) £22.50
The Butterfly farm is the largest attraction of its type in Europe. For more details click here. This is a perfect experience to people of all ages and especially if you are a fan of Butterflies.
Boat Tours
COST:
1/2 hour Rowing boats £14.00 maximum 3 person per boat. Chain Ferry Crossing £0.50p each way per person.
Rowing Boats and Chain ferry’s are a popular attraction especially during the summer period. Enjoy the views with friends and family by hiring a rowing boat or cross the river via chain ferry from the Cathedral towards the park.
UNLOCK THE HISTORY OF WARWICK CASTLE
COST:
First off there are two options when purchasing a ticket. 1st option is online which is usually 30% much cheaper compared to the 2nd option which is on site/on the day.
Castle: £13.00 (online) or £20.00 (on the day)
Castle + Dungeon: £18..00 (online) or £25.00 (on the day)
Opening times from 10:00am – 16:00pm. However, this is dependent on the season and weather make sure to check online.
For more info check their website here for more info.
TIPS:
Before visiting Warwick castle check out their website if there are any events coming up. Usually there are various live shows available The Falconer’s Quest and Wars of the Roses.
Apart from live shows they also hold events especially during school holidays and public holidays. Check them out below
Medieval Banquet available on selected dates
History Exhibition for Easter Holiday
Zog & The Quest for the Golden Star for Easter Holiday,
May half term special
Halloween at Warwick Castle
Christmas at Warwick Castle.
DRIVE BY BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM
COST:
£14.50 for Adults, £9.00 for Children (5-16), £12.50 for Concessions (incl 60 yrs+, unemployed, student & service personnel)
Also, when travelling with family they also offer a Family ticket for £40.00. Includes 2 adults and 3 children. Other family ticket are also available learn more here.
TIPS:
British Motor Museum also offer special show days every year. For the year 2020 please find list below:
Classic & Vintage Commercial Show
Retro Truck Show
Great British Model Railway Show
For more details please click here.
Have you visited any of the places mentioned above? If so, which was your favourite spot and why? Please share them at the comments section below.
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