"A Mecca for all lovers of literature." That must be true, judging by all the "lovers of literature" signatures etched into the windows of the house on Henley Street. Years after William Shakespeare left the planet, his admirers came to say hello.

Charles Dickens, Sir Walter Scott, Thomas Carlyle, Lord Byron, Lord Tennyson, John Keats and last but not least, William Thackeray left their names. Here lived the Master of the English Language. What was it like, the house he grew up in? Was it rich, poor, middle class?

It is a very simple house today, but in Shakespeare's time it would have been thought a large dwelling. People were shorter, doors were lower, rooms were smaller. The house was effectively divided in two parts. One was for business and the other for living. Shakespeare's father, John, was a glove maker and a dealer in leather and wool.

It is a restored 16th century half-timbered house in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England. It is a museum now, but in 1564 it was where William Shakespeare was born. The house was constructed of wattle and daub around a timber frame. The fireplaces are of brick and stone and the ground floor is of flagstone.

William Shakespeare inherited the house but by then he had moved with his family to New Place on Chapel Street. Eventually the Henley Street house passed to other owners and by the 1800s it had fallen into a distressed state. In 1846 it was put up for sale. P.T. Barnum of circus fame tried to buy it and ship it "brick by brick" to the USA.

Not having any of that, the Shakespeare Birthplace Committee became the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust by an act of Parliament and stepped in to save the day. The Trust bought the property and restored it to its original state.

Next to the Birthplace is the Shakespeare Centre, a modern building which houses the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. The Centre contains a library, and a collection of Shakespeare paraphernalia. The Centre also provides admission to the Birthplace.

Why You Should Visit:
William Shakespeare is the heart of this town.

Tips:
Don't worry about driving, parking, etc. There is a tram (good one) and most places to be seen are within walking distance of each other.

The Market Cross in Stratford-upon-Avon reflects the town's rich historical and commercial heritage. Now serving as a quaint traffic roundabout, it is encircled by modern commercial edifices that contrast with its storied past. In the Middle Ages, this location was bustling as an open Market Hall, renowned among locals not just for trade but also as the prime hub for exchanging news and gossip. This spot has long been a focal point of community life in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Crucially, Market Cross is at the confluence of five streets, marking it as a significant junction within the town. This area is also notable for its architectural diversity, featuring several buildings of interest. Among these, Barclays Bank stands out with its distinctive clock tower, adding a layer of historical charm to the skyline. Similarly, the gabled Victorian edifice of Lloyd's of London Bank adds to the architectural tapestry, showcasing the blend of styles that characterizes the area.

Through the years, Market Cross has transitioned from a vibrant marketplace to a modern roundabout, yet it retains its role as a centerpiece of Stratford-upon-Avon's urban landscape. Its surrounding buildings, steeped in architectural beauty, narrate the evolution of this landmark from a medieval gathering place to its current status, intertwining commercial vitality with cultural heritage.

Bancroft Basin, nestled in the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon, represents a key feature of the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal, a 25-mile (40 kilometers) waterway that has been connecting the town to Birmingham since its opening in 1816. The canal itself, boasting 56 locks, one tunnel, four aqueducts, three embankments, and a reservoir, was a significant engineering achievement of its time.

Bancroft Basin, located at the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, serves as a picturesque gateway to the town's rich Shakespearean heritage and numerous attractions. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and the gently flowing River Avon, the basin is often described as a hidden gem, bustling with colorful boats that add vibrancy to the scenic views. It stands as a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its historical waterways while offering a unique space for locals and visitors alike to explore and enjoy.

Apart from being a starting point for exploring Stratford-upon-Avon, Bancroft Basin hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including floating and Christmas markets, making it a lively hub of activity. The welcome station aboard the ‘William James’ provides an opportunity for visitors to meet volunteers and gather information about the local area, further enhancing the basin's role in the community.

As the most photographed site in Stratford-upon-Avon, the basin offers unparalleled views of the Avon River, Trinity Church, the Shakespeare Royal Theater, and both the Tramway and Clopton Bridges. Its lock not only serves a functional purpose but also provides breathtaking views, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. The basin also serves as a marina for Avon boats and river trams, enhancing its role in the town's cultural and recreational scene.

The Shakespeare Memorial in Stratford-upon-Avon is a tribute to the legacy of William Shakespeare, celebrating his unparalleled contribution to literature. The initiative to erect a memorial in his honor began in 1877 when a committee was formed with the vision of commemorating the bard in the town of his birth. The memorial complex, envisioned to celebrate Shakespeare's genius, includes a theatre and statues, situated on land by the Avon River, within view of the church where Shakespeare is interred.

The centerpiece of the memorial, created in 1888 by Lord Ronald Gower, is located in Stratford’s Bancroft Gardens. This striking statue of Shakespeare depicts him seated on a pedestal, exuding a contemplative poise. Surrounding him at ground level are figures of some of his most memorable characters: Hamlet, Lady Macbeth, Prince Hal, and Falstaff. These characters were chosen for their symbolic representation of the broad spectrum of human experience that Shakespeare explored in his works-Philosophy, Tragedy, History, and Comedy. This arrangement showcases the bard's creative versatility and the depth of his understanding of the human condition.

Together, these elements of the Shakespeare Memorial in Stratford-upon-Avon not only honor the memory of William Shakespeare but also serve as a lasting testament to his enduring impact on literature and the arts. Through the thoughtful incorporation of symbolic statuary and the strategic placement of the memorial in a location imbued with historical significance, Stratford-upon-Avon pays homage to its most famous son, ensuring that the legacy of Shakespeare's genius continues to inspire and captivate for generations to come.

Bancroft Gardens in Stratford-upon-Avon is a picturesque and historically rich public space situated on the banks of the River Avon, adjacent to the iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre. This location is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, especially on sunny days when the wide grass lawns and meticulously maintained gardens serve as a serene backdrop against the flowing river.

The Gardens boast a variety of features that celebrate both the local heritage and the universal legacy of William Shakespeare. Notable among these is a unique human sundial that honors the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, highlighting the community's respect for its local heroes. A newly established performance area provides a stage for live events, enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the area.

Central to the Gardens is the magnificent swan fountain and the Gower memorial, which pays tribute to Shakespeare and four of his most memorable characters: Hamlet, Lady Macbeth, Falstaff, and Prince Hal. These figures represent the breadth of Shakespeare's work-philosophy, tragedy, comedy, and history. The memorial, created by Lord Ronald Sutherland Gower and presented to the town in 1888, is a testament to Stratford-upon-Avon's enduring connection to the Bard.

Another highlight is the Country Artists Fountain, sculpted by Christine Lee from stainless steel and brass for the 800th anniversary of the Charter for Market Rights granted by King Richard I in 1196. Unveiled by the Queen in 1996, this fountain adds a modern touch to the Gardens, marrying history with contemporary artistry.

The Bancroft area itself has a long history, initially serving as grazing land for the townspeople's animals. The Canal Basin, which marks the terminus of the Stratford-to-Birmingham canal completed in 1816, and a second canal basin built in 1826 and refilled in 1902, point to the area's industrial past. These elements underscore the transformation of Bancroft Gardens from a functional space into a place of leisure and cultural celebration.

"O for a Muse of fire, that would ascend the brightest heaven of invention...." That comes to mind upon seeing the house and stage of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre (RSC) after its transformation of 2010. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Swan Theatres reopened in 2010 after the extensive changes wrought by the Transformation Project.

This was a redo of the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre (SMT) which had been opened in 1932. The original theatre had been destroyed by fire six years earlier. The new SMT was designed by Elisabeth Scott. Ms Scott's theatre was renamed to Royal Shakespeare Theatre in 1961 after the creation of the Royal Shakespeare Company the previous year.

The RST is a 1,040 seat theatre with a thrust stage, bounded by the audience on three sides. The theatre is owned by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). The new theatre is referred to as a "one room" theatre. Actors and audience are close together in the same room, as in Shakespeare's time. The play is an intimate experience for all.

The Theatre has a Rooftop Restaurant and bar offering views of the river Avon. There are also a Riverside Cafe and Terrace. There is a colonnade linking the RSC and the Swan Theatre. There is a tower, 118 feet in height with dramatic perspectives of the town and countryside. A riverside walk reaches from Bancroft Gardens past the Theatre.

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip officially opened the Theatre in March 2011. An urn with the ashes of Actor Ian Richardson was placed in the foundation by his widow and son in 2007.

The Stratford-upon-Avon Chain Ferry, a manually operated pedestrian ferry, provides a unique and historical mode of transportation across the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. Owned by the Stratford-upon-Avon District Council, this ferry offers a direct link between Waterside-positioned midway between the iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Holy Trinity Church-and the serene water meadows located on the river's opposite bank. Named "Malvolio," after a character from William Shakespeare's comedy Twelfth Night, the ferry embodies a piece of the area's rich cultural heritage.

The ferry began operations in 1937, marking it as the last chain ferry of its kind to be constructed in Britain. By 2006, it had become a popular mode of transport, carrying around 100,000 passengers annually. Despite proposals in 2006 to relocate the ferry to accommodate the construction of a new bridge, it was ultimately restored to its original location in 2010. This decision came after significant overhaul and restoration efforts led by Avon Boating Ltd., a local boating firm.

Today, the ferry service is managed by Avon Boating Ltd., operating under a licence granted by the district council. It runs daily from mid-March until the end of October, continuing to serve as a charming and functional link for residents and visitors alike, while also preserving a piece of Britain's maritime history in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.

It is clear that Willam Shakespeare loved Stratford-upon-Avon. He was born in a house on Henley Street. The house was not far from Holy Trinity Church, where he was baptized, married and finally buried. He wanted to be always in the place where he arrived. He even has a plaque next to his burial place cursing anyone who would dare disturb his rest.

"...and cursed be he that moves my bones." To date, no one ever has. Many, many people have visited the Church, and looked at his effigy and read his plaque and wondered.

The Church dates from 1210. It stands on the site of an old Saxon monastery. It is, in fact, Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest building. John de Stratford founded a chantry here sometime in the 14th century. Dean Thomas Balshall rebuilt the chantry in 1491. Balshall is buried in the Church.

Within the church are several interesting items. There are: A 14th century porch knocker; more than twenty carved misericord seats in the chancel; The American window in Saint Peter's Chapel, donated by George Williams Childs, "The Gift of America to Shakespeare's Church"; and copies of Shakespeare's baptismal and burial certificates.

Nearby to New Place was the house that William Shakespeare never lived in. Hall's Croft was the home of Susanna Shakespeare, William Shakespeare's daughter, and her husband, Doctor John Hall. Like New Place, Susanna's house had a flagstone floor. A stone floor was a sign of status. Most houses had earthen floors. The Halls were wealthy and they didn't mind showing it.

They owned fine furniture, heavy and strong, hand made from oak and very expensive. When Patients and other visitors entered the house, they understood the homeowner was someone to be respected. An enormous amount of work has been done on the house. The furniture appears authentic. But none of the original furniture remains.

The home contains a fine collection of 16th and 17th paintings. Doctor Hall is represented by his medical paraphernalia. Interesting to compare Jacobean medical practices to modern science. In the back of the house is a walled garden. The garden is maintained and it holds herbs and plants Doctor Hall might have used in his practice.

Here is an interactive peek into William Shakespeare's childhood and schooling in the 16th century. The Guild of the Holy Cross built the Guildhall in 1420. Over the years more buildings were added, including a schoolhouse, a Chapel and Almshouses. The Guildhall was the headquarter of the Stratford Borough Council from 1553 and 1848.

When the Borough Council left for new digs at the Town Hall, they left the building to the school. The school, known as The King's New school, had been in the Guildhall since 1568. It later became the King Edward VI School (K.E.S.). Three years later seven-year-old William Shakespeare attended his first class. One may assume it was writing.

The school has been in continuous use by the local people since it first opened. The Guildhall has always been used and looked after and never neglected. Not only local students may study here, the school is also open to tourists. They may take an interactive class with William Shakespeare's teacher, Master Thomas Jenkins.

Adjoining the Guildhall is the Armoury. It was originally used a store place for arms, but after 1553 it became an administration center for the school. It also served as courtroom. On the first floor is the Master's chamber. In the center of the chamber is the prefect's table, bearing the names and initials of schoolboys through the years.

Students were mostly the children of wealthy middle class people. Williams' father, for instance, was the bailiff for the town. It was a public school and an entrance exam was required. Students did not pay fees, but they did have to provide their own firewood and candles. Classes frequently went from 6 am to 6 pm. There was a brief midday break.

Why You Should Visit:
to experience a bit how education used to be.

Tips:
When using the feather quill, be wary of ink blots.

In 1597 William Shakespeare was founder of the Lord Chamberlain's Men and a successful playwright. He had left his Birthplace House. He had moved to his newer, larger house, which he had bought for 129 pounds. The New Place (for so it was called) was located on Chapel Street, but a short walk from the Birthplace House on Henley Street.

New Place had been built in the 15th century by Hugh Clopton. The terms "New" or "Newer" as used in Britain are relative and not to be taken literally. One might say, "newer than the pyramids", for example. The New Place had a five gabled, three bayed, half-timbered frontage. Shakespeare rebuilt the frontage and added a gallery.

New Place was pulled down in the late 17th century by the Clopton family who had reacquired the property. The Clopton's newer New Place itself was demolished in 1759. Now New Place is occupied by a garden designed to memorialize Shakespeare's life and work and to allow visitors to develop their own connections with his legacy.

The Great Garden is behind the site where the house once stood. The garden shows sculptures based on Shakespeare's writings. The Knot Garden has been restored using designs which would have been familiar to Shakespeare himself.

The United Reformed Church in Stratford-upon-Avon, originating from the Congregational Church tradition, traces its roots back to a pivotal moment in 1662. This was the year Alexander Beane, the Vicar of Holy Trinity Church in Stratford, faced ejectment for his refusal to sign the Act of Uniformity. This act initiated the presence of congregationalism in the town, following a period of silence regarding Presbyterian practices until 1689, when licensed religious meetings, known as conventicles, started in private homes in Stratford.

By 1698, the movement had gained enough momentum to ordain John Letherland, and by 1714, a dedicated Meeting House was established on Rother Street, signifying a permanent home for the congregation. This site was notably chosen again in 1880 for the construction of a new church building, reflecting the congregation's enduring presence and growth in Stratford. The building that stands today, a small Gothic-style structure, is not just a place of worship but a family chapel that has witnessed the ebb and flow of community life since its inception. Located prominently at the junction of Rother Street and Ely Street, it serves as a local landmark, steeped in centuries of congregational records that chronicle the life events of its members.

The narrative of the church took a significant turn in 1972 with the amalgamation of the Congregational Church and the English Presbyterian Church, birthing the United Reformed Church as it is known today. This merger symbolizes a coming together of traditions and communities, fostering a unified Protestant congregation in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.

The Stratford-upon-Avon Canal is a historic waterway located in the south Midlands of England, stretching for 25.5 miles (41.0 kilometers) and connecting the region through two distinct sections. Constructed between 1793 and 1816, this canal has played a significant role in the area's industrial and recreational life. The canal's course is divided at Kingswood Junction, which serves as a critical link to the Grand Union Canal, marking a pivotal point in its navigational route.

In its early years, the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal thrived; however, after its acquisition by a railway company in 1856, it faced a gradual decline. By 1945, the southern section had become un-navigable, and the northern section was in a similar state of neglect. The canal's fortune began to turn in 1947 when the northern section became the focus of a landmark campaign by the Inland Waterways Association. The campaign notably included a dispute over the right of navigation under Tunnel Lane bridge, leading to a requirement for the Great Western Railway to adjust the bridge to allow for boat passage. This event was instrumental in saving the northern section from closure.

The southern section's revival was spearheaded by the National Trust in 1959, with significant restoration efforts led by David Hutchings and the Stratford Canal Society between 1961 and 1964. These efforts came after successfully preventing an attempt to close the canal, leading to its rejuvenation. The canal's restoration was honored by a reopening ceremony conducted by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, symbolizing its return to prominence.

In 1988, the stewardship of the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal was transferred to British Waterways, marking a new chapter in its history. Today, the canal stands as a testament to the enduring appeal and importance of Britain's waterways, serving both as a vital link in the nation's navigable canal network and as a cherished recreational resource, reflecting the successful preservation and restoration of an essential part of England's industrial heritage.