What can you do with 3 days in Stratford-upon-Avon & the Cotswolds?
Stratford-upon-Avon has long been a weekend getaway destination, and it’s proximity to the Cotswolds makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region. But what can you do with 3 days in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds? Is it all about Shakespeare??
We might be biased (seeing as we live and work here!) but we love this part of the world. We think everyone should experience this magical part of the UK!
Here’s how to spend an unforgettable 3 days in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds
Day 1: Discover Stratford-upon-Avon
Welcome to the birthplace of the Bard! Stratford-upon-Avon is steeped in literary history, and there’s no better place to kick off your adventure.
If you need suggestions on where to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon, see our recommendations here. If you’re travelling without a car and don’t want to rely on taxis to get around, be aware there are a few outlying hotels, so check the location before you book! Some accommodation providers also sneak under the banner of ‘Stratford-upon-Avon’, but are really located in nearby villages.
If you arrive before check-in time, it’s handy to know there is a Stasher luggage storage facility at the Premier Inn Central Hotel – you can use this even if you’re not a hotel guest.
Morning
Start your day with a Stratford Town Walk. This amazing guided walking tour is led by passionate, local, fun guides who really know how to bring the town’s stories to life. The 1.5-2 hour walking tour is perfect for getting your bearings and diving into the history behind the half-timbered houses and Tudor remains.
Refuel with lunch at one of the many riverside pubs or tea rooms in Stratford.
Afternoon
Dressing up in traditional attire: an essential part of visiting Shakespeare’s Schoolroom!
Take your pick from a number of Shakespeare-related attractions, such as:
- Shakespeare’s Birthplace – A must for literature lovers! Located on the pedestrianised Henley Street, this museum gives fascinating insights into Shakespeare’s life.
- Anne Hathaway’s Cottage – Stroll through gorgeous gardens and explore the thatched childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife. It’s located in the nearby village of Shottery, a pleasant walk or short bus ride from the town centre.
- New Place – Shakespeare’s adult home for 19 years is no longer there – discover why in the fascinating museum, and explore gorgeous Tudor inspired gardens
- Holy Trinity Church – Visit the church where Shakespeare was baptised, and buried. Memorials to his family are also located in the churchyard here.
- Shakespeare’s School Room – Go Cotswolds’ director and founder Tom went to the same school as Shakespeare (though he hastens to add, not at the same time!)! Tom sat his exams in this very room, which is now open as a fun experience of Tudor school life.
If Shakespeare isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there is plenty more to do!
Ride the Hop-on-Hop-Off City Sightseeing bus to discover more than just Shakespearean history. Explore the beautiful Waterside area with a stroll along the River Avon, enjoy a rowing boat adventure with Avon Boating, or a boat trip with Canal & River Tours.
Travelling with kids? Stratford-upon-Avon’s Butterfly Farm is the largest in the UK! The MAD (Mechanical Art & Design) Museum is a fun diversion, and older kids will love the escape-room style fun at Magic Alley. The Recreation Ground across the bridge has wonderful play areas for children of all ages – including a paddling pool in summer!
Evening
Round off the day with a live performance at one of The Royal Shakespeare Company theatres. There’s the main RSC Theatre, The Swan Theatre, and “The Other Place”. Whether it’s a classic Shakespeare play or a bold new interpretation, it’s always an inspiring experience.
Hint: if you can’t get tickets at the RSC, try one of Stratford’s other small, independent theatres. There’s The Bear Pit, The Attic and performances by the Stratford Musical Theatre Company (Go Cotswolds’ team members Elaine and Sue are often found ‘treading the boards’!).
Day 2: Explore the North Cotswolds – Cotswolds in a Day
Rise and shine for a countryside adventure! Today, you’re heading out with Go Cotswolds on our signature Cotswolds in a Day small-group tour!
First, make your way to our pick up point, conveniently located in the centre of town at Shakespeare’s Birthplace Coach Terminal. The tour departs at 8.50am.
On this 8 hour tour, you’ll visit 6 different locations in the Cotswolds, including:
- Chipping Campden – Honey-coloured stone buildings and charming shops on “the most beautiful High Street in England”
- Stow-on-the-Wold – Quaint and packed with character (don’t miss the Tolkien-esque church door!)
- Bourton-on-the-Water – Often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds” for the stone bridges crossing the river running through the village
- And more – see the full itinerary and book online here!
Your friendly, local guide will share stories, history, and hidden gems along the way, all while navigating tiny country lanes a big coach couldn’t dream of reaching.
Return to Stratford-upon-Avon in the evening with your camera roll, and your heart, full of countryside charm. If you’re still craving adventure, why not book an evening Ghost Walk with Stratford Town Walk?
Day 3: Bath & Southern Cotswolds Tour
Make the most of your final day with another Go Cotswolds tour — this time heading south on the Bath & Southern Cotswolds tour.
Checking out of your hotel? Our spacious Mercedes minibuses have a fairly large, secure luggage storage compartment, so feel free to bring your bags on the tour if you need to!
What you’ll see:
- The city of Bath – Marvel at the Royal Crescent, Roman Baths, and stunning Georgian architecture.
- Castle Combe – Dubbed the “prettiest village in England.”
- Tetbury – a thriving market town where the shops and cafes are not to be missed
This day blends history, beauty, and culture with just the right amount of exploration time in each spot. Check out the full itinerary and book online here.
End of the Journey
After a wonderful day, the tour will bring you back to Stratford-upon-Avon by 5.30pm.
Alternatively, you can jump off at Moreton-in-Marsh railway station, which is handy if you’re heading to London, Oxford, or elsewhere by train for your next adventure!
Join us!
Whether you’re a Shakespeare buff, history lover, or countryside dreamer, our suggestion for three days in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds is the perfect escape. With great food, rich stories, and some of the most picturesque spots in the UK, it’s a long weekend that’ll linger in your memory forever.
Pro tip: Book your RSC tickets and Go Cotswolds tours in advance – they do fill up, especially in peak seasons!
Ready to walk in Shakespeare’s footsteps and wander Cotswold lanes? Let the adventure begin!