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.

10 minutes

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.

5 minutes

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.

5 minutes

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.

5 minutes

Stratford-upon-Avon (Pass By)

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.

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.

10 minutes

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.

5 minutes

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!

5 minutes

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.

5 minutes

Stratford-upon-Avon (Pass By)

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.

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.

10 minutes

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.

5 minutes