Stratford upon Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is Shakespeare's birthplace, and that's obviously what draws most visitors to this charming market town in Warwickshire. But there's much more to this place than just the Bard himself.

The town sits on the banks of the River Avon, with lots of Tudor buildings that give the whole place a real historical vibe. The main attractions are Shakespeare's Birthplace, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The theatre puts on world-class performances all year round, drawing theatre fans from across the globe.

What many visitors don't realize is that Stratford was an important medieval market town long before Shakespeare made it famous. The town was granted a charter in 1196, and its history as a trading center helped it thrive. These days, the markets are still running, with a regular farmers' market that's worth checking out for local produce.

The town has a laid-back atmosphere despite the tourists, especially when you wander away from the main Shakespeare attractions. The canal basin is particularly pleasant, and there's something special about watching the swans glide past as people enjoy canal boat trips during summer months. Stratford makes for a perfect day trip from London or Birmingham, but it's worth staying longer to really soak up the atmosphere of this historic English town.