Stratford upon Avon isn’t just the birthplace of William Shakespeare; it’s a town brimming with character, stories, and surprises that make it an ideal place for guided tours. Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or a curious wanderer, you’ll find something to deepen your appreciation for this charming town. We’re big fans of the Cotswolds in a Day Tour—it offers a seamless way to explore the stunning villages and countryside that surround Stratford, especially since many spots like Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Camden are tricky to visit without help. Plus, the Shakespeare Distillery Tours give a fun, boozy twist to the history with tastings of Stratford Gin—something for those who enjoy spirits with a story. For a more immersive experience, the Guided WalkTalkShow introduces you to Stratford’s sights with humor and local insights.
From historic walking tours and ghost stories to hands-on baking and pasta classes, the variety of experiences here is vast. Some focus on Shakespeare’s life, while others dive into spooky tales or local flavors. Below, we’ve rounded up the 15 best tours in Stratford upon Avon, highlighting what makes each one special and helping you choose the right adventure.
1. Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon
At number 1, this full-day trip covers more of the Cotswolds than most travelers manage on their own. Picking up from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh, you’ll visit picturesque villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Camden, along with lesser-known spots often missed by travelers. The tour features a stop at Dover’s Hill, where you get sweeping views and colorful commentary about quirky Cotswolds traditions. The guided portions are complemented by plenty of free time for independent exploring, making this an excellent option for those who want a well-organized, hassle-free day in the countryside.
Guests consistently praise the guides—Wendy, Mark, and Martin—highlighting their enthusiasm and knowledge. With a small-group setting and relaxed pace, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, educational trip that leaves you with plenty of local tips and memories. The balance of guided insights and free exploration offers great value at around $109 per person for roughly 7 hours.
Bottom Line: This is perfect for travelers wanting to see classic Cotswolds villages comfortably in one day, with a friendly guide to enrich the experience.
2. Shakespeare Distillery Tour – 1pm Ticket
Number 2 on our list, the Shakespeare Distillery Tour blends history, craftsmanship, and tastings into a fun 1.5-hour experience. Located outside Stratford, the tour [] takes you behind the scenes of Stratford’s own artisan gin maker. You’ll learn about Tudor distilling techniques and see how the award-winning Stratford Gin is produced, all while sampling at least three spirits and ending with a gin and tonic.
The intimate small-group setting (up to 10 people) ensures personalized attention, and the tour includes a 10% discount on purchases. Visitors love the lively explanations and the chance to deepen their spirits knowledge—plus, a good complement after a morning sightseeing. The ticket price of about $26 makes it an affordable and memorable way to indulge in local craftsmanship.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for spirit enthusiasts and history buffs alike, with flavorful tastings and a fascinating story behind every sip.
3. The WalkTalkShow.co.uk – Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon
Number 3 features a 1.5-hour walking tour through Stratford with a lively local guide. This tour [] covers major sights like Harvard House and Shakespeare’s Birthplace, with engaging stories that bring the town’s past to life. The guide’s humor and personable style make history accessible and entertaining, providing a perfect overview for first-time visitors.
Guests rave about the enthusiastic guides—Marcus, Dwayne, and Zeb—who offer a well-paced, informative stroll. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing plenty of questions and personal interaction. For around $16, it’s a great value for anyone wanting a quick but rich introduction to Stratford’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors seeking a lively, personable introduction to Stratford’s sights and stories, with plenty of local color.
4. The Sinister Side of Shakespeare’s Stratford Walking Tour
At number 4, this 1.5-hour spooky walk explores Stratford’s darker tales—plagues, murders, ghosts, and witches—beyond Shakespeare’s legend. Starting at the start of the Black Death, the tour [] takes you past sites like Holy Trinity Church and the town’s historic buildings, sharing eerie stories that captivate both adults and children.
Participants praise the engaging storytelling and the variety of tales, such as the murder involving a historic building or the ghostly Civil War legend. The tour is flexible with multiple departure times, making it easy to slot into your day. At just under $14, it offers a fun, spooky alternative to standard sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Best for those who enjoy a mix of history and ghostly storytelling, offering a different perspective on Stratford’s past.
5. Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall Entry Ticket and Tour
Number 5 offers a chance to step inside Shakespeare’s childhood world. This interactive experience [] includes sitting in the actual schoolroom where young William learned Latin and participating in Tudor-style lessons. The nearby Guildhall, built in 1420, hosts exhibits about Stratford’s civic life and William’s family.
Guides share fun facts about Shakespeare’s early years, and visitors can dress in period costumes and take selfies. The tour also visits the town hall where William’s father served as mayor, adding a civic dimension to the story. It’s a hit with families and history buffs alike, priced at about $17.84.
Bottom Line: An engaging, interactive look at Shakespeare’s formative years, perfect for families and those interested in Tudor education.
6. Shakespeare Distillery Tour – 11am Ticket
Number 6 features a 1.5-hour morning distillery tour [], similar in scope to the 1pm version but with a focus on the early part of the day. The tour dives into the process of gin making, using historical techniques inspired by Tudor methods. As with the afternoon tour, you’ll sample three in-house spirits and conclude with a gin and tonic.
Guests note the passionate staff and the informative nature of the tour. It’s particularly suitable for those looking to start their day with a flavorful experience or combine it with other town sightseeing. The price of about $26 makes it a good value for a hands-on, educational tasting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for morning spirits aficionados or those wanting to get a behind-the-scenes look at Stratford’s local gin.
7. Daily Stratford Upon Avon Town Walking Tour with Local Guide
Number 7 is a 1.5-hour guided town walk [], ideal for a rundown. Your local guide covers everything from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre to the American Fountain, sharing lesser-known stories and insights along the way.
Reviewers mention the guide’s enthusiasm and humor, making this tour enjoyable for all ages. It’s priced at about $16.56, making it a budget-friendly way to deepen your understanding of Stratford’s sights and personalities, especially if your time is limited.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded introduction to Stratford, perfect for first-time visitors who want to learn and laugh.
8. Secret Cotswolds Tour from Stratford-on-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh
Number 8 offers an 8-hour trip exploring less-touristed corners of the Cotswolds. Starting from Stratford or Moreton-in-Marsh, the tour [] visits popular villages like Broadway and Burford, but also uncovers quiet lanes and landmarks such as ancient stone circles. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of popular sights and hidden spots, with a small group capped at 16 for a more personal feel.
Highlights include panoramic views, local lunch recommendations, and visits to secret village corners. At roughly $109, it offers a full-day experience with plenty of authentic, crowd-free moments.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a comprehensive, yet intimate, look at both classic and secret parts of the Cotswolds.
9. Ghost Tour by Lantern Light
For a spooky twist, number 9’s ghost tour [] takes you through Tudor World at night, led by lantern light. Learn about murder, plague, and spirits in this 55-minute tour that energizes the chilling stories with atmospheric lighting.
The guide’s narration is lively, and the tour is suitable for families and adults alike. The ticket costs about $12.71, making it a fun, budget-friendly option for evening entertainment that adds a layer of thrill to your Stratford visit.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who enjoy history with a side of ghostly storytelling and a touch of theatre.
10. Traditional Afternoon Tea Experience and Baking Class in Stratford-upon-Avon
Number 10 combines culinary skills with a quintessential British tradition. In this 3-hour private baking class [], you’ll learn to make scones, jams, and other treats, then enjoy your creations with afternoon tea—complete with sparkling wine if you like. The small-group setting ensures personalized coaching, and you leave with recipes and plenty of baked goods.
Guests describe the experience as relaxing, informative, and delicious, with some saying it reconnected them with their love of baking. For $175, it’s a memorable, hands-on way to indulge in local culinary traditions.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies and families wanting a unique, interactive experience with a delectable reward.
11. City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Number 11 provides a one-hour open-top tour around Stratford’s main sights []. You can hop on and off at stops like Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Holy Trinity Church, exploring at your own pace over 24 or 48 hours. This is a convenient way for visitors who want flexible sightseeing without walking the entire town.
Reviews note the helpful staff and the great views from the upper deck. At $23.33, it’s a practical choice for those wanting a quick, informative overview, especially on a rainy day or with limited time.
Bottom Line: Great for multi-stop exploration with minimal effort, especially if you prefer sightseeing from an open-air bus.
12. Pasta Making Experience – Cooking Class
Number 12 offers a 3-hour hands-on pasta class [], perfect for lovers of Italian food. You’ll learn to make ravioli and other pasta, using authentic equipment and organic ingredients, then enjoy a feast of your creations. The small group (up to six) ensures personalized attention, and the class is available at midday or dinnertime to fit your schedule.
Participants rave about the delicious results and the friendly, knowledgeable instructor. It’s an immersive culinary experience that’s as fun as it is tasty, ideal for foodies wanting a memorable, practical skill.
Bottom Line: Perfect for pasta lovers and those looking for an intimate, flavorful cooking adventure.
13. Warwickshire & Stratford-Upon-Avon Self-Guided Audio Tours
Number 13 features flexible audio-guided tours of Warwick and Stratford []. You’ll learn about Warwick Castle’s medieval defenses and Stratford’s connections to Shakespeare at your own pace, with downloadable guides perfect for independent explorers.
This is ideal for travelers who want to set their own schedule, skip group tours, and listen as they wander through historic streets. The cost of roughly $20 makes it a value for a personalized, self-paced experience.
Bottom Line: Best for independent travelers who prefer to explore with audio guides, combining flexibility with educational content.
14. One Day Cotswolds Walking Tour
This 8-hour walking-focused tour [] gets you into the countryside after a scenic minibus ride. Walking through Broadway Tower, Broadway, and Burford, you’ll enjoy up to three different walks, including a figure-of-eight trail through Windrush Country. The tour emphasizes regional scenery, with scenic viewpoints and nature along the way.
Guests appreciate the mix of guided walks and scenic stops, with some noting the leisurely pace allows plenty of time to absorb the landscape. The price around $116 is good value considering the length and active component.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers eager to see the Cotswolds on foot with expert guidance.
15. Museum Entrance Ticket
Last but not least, number 15 offers a visit to Stratford’s only Tudor museum [], where you can interact with exhibits, try on Tudor costumes, or write with a quill. Set within a historic 16th-century building, the museum gives a tangible feel for Shakespeare’s era without much walking.
Priced at just over $10, this is a simple, affordable option for a brief but immersive experience. Reviewers find it engaging and educational, especially for families or history buffs wanting a quick dive into Tudor life.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, enriching visit that brings Shakespeare’s world alive with hands-on activities.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Stratford upon Avon
When selecting a tour, consider your time, budget, and interests. For a comprehensive glimpse of Stratford’s Shakespeare-related sites, the WalkTalkShow or Town Walking Tour are excellent options. If you love gastronomy and spirits, the distillery tours provide a fun, flavorful experience. Want to escape town for a day? The Cotswolds in a Day or Secret Cotswolds Tour offer scenic countryside adventures, with options for those seeking crowd-free spots or classic villages.
For families or history enthusiasts, the Schoolroom & Guildhall tour, or the Tudor World Museum, deliver immersive, interactive experiences. Ghost stories and spooky tales are ideal for evening fun, while food lovers should consider the Afternoon Tea and Baking Class.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons like summer or holiday periods. Think about your travel pace—if you prefer active days, the walking tours and outdoor adventures suit you best. For a relaxed, flexible experience, the hop-on-hop-off bus or self-guided audio tours are practical.
To sum it up, Stratford upon Avon offers a range of engaging guided tours, culinary experiences, and scenic excursions that cater to every curiosity and schedule. From exploring the hidden corners of the Cotswolds to uncovering Shakespeare’s childhood or enjoying spooky ghost walks, there’s something for all. If you’re after a classic introduction, the Town Walking Tour or Cotswolds Day Trip are reliable picks. For a deeper dive into local flavors or history, try the Distillery Tour or Schoolroom Experience. Remember to book early—these popular experiences fill up fast, especially in peak season.
