Local Attractions
Shakespeare Houses
The Shakespeare Houses are five properties owned and maintained by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. These properties are connected to William Shakespeare or his immediate family, and offer an insight into the famous playwright’s world. Three of the houses are located in the town centre (Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Nash’s House & New Place, and Hall’s Croft) and the others can be easily found just outside the town (Anne Hathaway’s Cottage in Shottery and Mary Arden’s House in Wilmcote). Tickets for the open-top bus tour which runs regularly between all the properties are available from The Hill Cottage.
The RSC (5 minutes)
No visit to Stratford is complete without taking in one of the Bard’s plays. Pre and after theatre dinners are available in a variety of restaurants in town. Please ask us at The Hill Cottage for our recommendations.
Stratford Armouries (5 minutes)
A world-class collection of arms and armour sourced from cultures across the globe including the Wellington Aviation Collection. The home of regular battle re-enactments by the Sealed Knot, SOSKAN and the Military Vehicle Trust.
Butterfly Farm (10 minutes)
The Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm is the largest in Europe, boasting some of the most spectacular and colourful butterflies in the world. The Farm also has a children’s adventure playground, making it ideal for families.
Hatton Country World (15 minutes)
Hatton Country World is home to Hatton Shopping Village, which boasts some 25 craft and specialist gift shops, an antique centre, and much more, all set in picturesque Warwickshire countryside. You’ll also find the Hatton Farm Village, a park full of adventures and activities for children and adults, from the petting zoo through to panning for gold.
Warwick Castle (15 minutes)
Warwick Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Britain. This fantastically preserved Castle dates back nearly a millennium, and is home to any number of attractions and activities; stroll through the Garden, or visit the Kingmaker Exhibit. Events are held at the castle all year around.
Charlecote Park (15 minutes)
Home to the Lucy family since 1247, the current house was built in the mid 16th century, and sums up the very essence of Tudor England. Elizabeth I visited it on a number of occasions, and after you’ve experienced the grandeur and beauty of this country estate, you’ll know why. Well worth the visit, if you can spare the time.
Coughton Court (15 minutes)
This finest of Tudor houses has been home to the Throckmorton family for over 600 years. Their fascinating story includes involvement in the infamous ‘gunpowder plot’ and took them from a position of high favour to one of fear and oppression post-Reformation. Coughton is still very much a family home with an intimate feel. The walled garden is stunning, not to be missed.
Baddesley Clinton (20 minutes)
This atmospheric house and interiors reflect its heyday in the Elizabethan era when it was a haven for persecuted Catholics – there are 3 priestholes! There is a delightful garden with stew ponds and a romantic lake and nature walk.
Heritage Motor Centre (20 minutes)
Visit the Heritage Motor Centre and you’ll find a fascinating collection, delving into Britain’s motoring history. The Centre houses the largest collection of classic, vintage and veteran British cars in the world, and has activities that will appeal to the whole family, from the off-road experience through to go-karts for kids.
Packwood House (25 minutes)
Originally 16th century, extensive restoration of the interiors was carried out between the wars to create a fascinating 20th century evocation of domestic Tudor architecture. Fine collection of 16th century textiles and furniture, and the gardens are renowned for their herbaceous borders and fine collection of yews.
The NEC (30 minutes/23 miles)
Birmingham Airport (30 minutes/24 miles)
The Hill Cottage also offers you easy access to Upton House & Garden, Snowshill Manor, Compton Verney, Stoneleigh Abbey, Blenheim Palace, Kenilworth Castle and Boughton Castle. For garden lovers, Hidcote and Kiftsgate are a real treat and only 20 minutes away. Golf, tennis, fishing, walking, cycle rides…The Hill Cottage is a well-situated base.
