Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon – A Hub of Culture and History

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small market town in central England not far from Birmingham and within a day’s travel of London. It is over 1000 years old, initially settled by the Anglo-Saxons, but it is most famous as the birthplace of British playwright William Shakespeare. It is consequently a delight for those with an interest in theater or literature as it is home to the Royal Shakespeare Company and Stratford’s Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Combining your EPL soccer tour with a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon allows you to enjoy this town’s quaint beauty and artistic culture for an enriching vacation. The town’s architecture is particularly charming and mimics Tudor Britain, with white-walled timber houses making up the town’s recognizable high street.

Stadiums and Teams

Aston Villa

Aston Villa, one of the oldest and most successful clubs in English football history, offers a truly authentic matchday experience at the iconic Villa Park. As a founding member of both the Football League and the Premier League, the club boasts a rich heritage that is palpable the moment you approach the stadium.

Villa Park

Villa Park is home to Aston Villa and one of England’s most historic football grounds. Located in Birmingham, it can be easily incorporated into a Stratford-upon-Avon itinerary for visitors interested in English football. A stadium tour provides access to areas normally reserved for players and matchday staff, while the club’s long history adds context to the experience.

Birmingham City

Birmingham City Football Club, affectionately known as the Blues, provides a deeply traditional and fiercely passionate English football experience at St. Andrew's Stadium. Nestled in the heart of the country's second-largest city, the club has a proud working-class history and a fiercely loyal fanbase that creates a notoriously intimidating and electric atmosphere on matchdays.

St Andrew's

St Andrew’s is the traditional home of Birmingham City and offers a more local perspective on English football. The stadium has a long association with the city and its passionate supporters. Visitors can combine a football experience with time exploring Birmingham, making it a practical addition to a wider Midlands itinerary.

Unique experiences

Shakespeare's Birthplace

Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare and explore the historic Tudor house where the playwright was born. A guided experience can bring Stratford’s literary history to life while introducing visitors to the town’s historic streets, theatres and connection to Shakespeare.

River Avon Cruise

Take a scenic cruise along the River Avon and see Stratford-upon-Avon from the water. The relaxed journey provides views of the town, historic buildings and surrounding countryside, offering a different perspective on one of England’s best-known literary destinations.

Royal Shakespeare Theatre

Experience a performance or behind-the-scenes tour at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Located beside the River Avon, the theatre provides an opportunity to experience Shakespeare’s work in the town most closely associated with his life and legacy.