Explore Stratford-upon-Avon's scenic walks
Stratford-upon-Avon is a dream for local walks, where history, nature, and riverside charm come together to create truly special trails. Whether you’re strolling along the Avon, winding through the picturesque streets, or venturing into the rolling countryside of Tiddington and beyond, every route offers something unique. Walk in Shakespeare’s footsteps, spot local wildlife, and take in breathtaking views that change with the seasons. With peaceful paths, hidden gems, and plenty of places to pause and soak it all in, there's no wonder why the Bard could create such magic here!
The Stratford River Walk
Start your riverside adventure at The Encore, once known as The Anchor. As you set off, notice the Bancroft Gardens and Waterside, which frequently flooded in the 18th century - keep an eye out for flood level markings. Across the way is The Bancroft, an open public space that has remained undeveloped due to its history of flooding. In earlier times, it was used as Common Land for grazing livestock.
The Royal Shakespeare Theatre stands proudly on the waterfront. Designed by Elisabeth Scott, it was opened in 1932 to replace the previous theatre, which was destroyed by fire in 1926. Continue past a row of grander 18th-century houses, including The Black Swan - better known as The Dirty Duck - The Ferry House, and The Malt House, which was once a granary. Cross the road and stroll through the Theatre Gardens and upon exiting, you'll walk towards Holy Trinity Church. Inside, you can visit the Clopton Family Chapel, admire the fascinating misericords, and of course, see Shakespeare’s grave.
Following Mill Lane, you’ll pass the remnants of the old mill race and weir. As you near the Tramway Bridge, look for the Stratford Boat Club. Originally gifted a couple of boat houses by Charles Flower in 1875, the current Boat House was built in 1897. Cross the river at the Tramway Bridge, constructed around 1826 for a horse-drawn tramway that once hauled coal, lime, and timber from Stratford’s wharfs to Shipston-on-Stour and Moreton-in-Marsh. From here, take in two iconic sights - the Clopton Bridge, built in the 1490s by Hugh Clopton, and the classic view of the river, theatre, and church.
Finally, pass by Cox’s Yard, once a bustling timber yard established in 1830. It remained in the Cox family until 1990, when Stratford-on-Avon District Council purchased it to preserve the last vestige of the town’s commercial waterfront. Your journey ends at The Gower Memorial, gifted to the town by Lord Ronald Gower in 1888. This striking sculpture features Shakespeare surrounded by some of his most famous characters - Hamlet, Prince Hal, Lady Macbeth, and Falstaff - each representing different themes of his plays: philosophy, history, tragedy, and comedy.
Welcombe Hills and Clopton Park Circular
Step into history and nature with this scenic walk through Welcombe Hills and Clopton Park. Spanning 60 hectares of rolling grasslands and ancient woodlands, this area is home to diverse flora and fauna, from the delicate adder’s-tongue fern to the lively great spotted woodpecker.
Your adventure begins at the parking area on Maidenhead Road, where a network of informal paths crisscross the reserve. Some sections are steep, but the effort is well worth it - at the highest point, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and the striking Welcombe Obelisk standing tall against the skyline. Wander past wildflower-strewn meadows, where yellow ants have sculpted small hillocks, and listen for the calls of sparrowhawks circling above.
As you meander through oak, horse-chestnut, and beech woodland, you may spot a treecreeper deftly climbing the bark or hear the rhythmic tapping of a woodpecker. Springtime brings an extra treat as brimstone butterflies dance in the sunshine. History lovers will be intrigued by the reserve’s connection to Shakespeare - legend has it that Margaret Clopton’s tragic fate in a historic well here inspired the character of Ophelia in Hamlet.
The walk is best suited to those comfortable with uneven ground, and access is via kissing gates. While dogs are welcome, be mindful of the grazing cattle from April to October.
Once you’ve completed your loop, why not pause beneath an ancient tree, take in the tranquillity, or enjoy a well-earned picnic with panoramic views?
Hampton Lucy Circular Walk
Lose yourself in the peaceful Warwickshire countryside on this 7.9km circular trail. Starting in the charming village of Hampton Lucy, this walk takes around two hours and offers a mix of farmland paths, quiet lanes, and stunning rural views. While moderately challenging, it’s a rewarding route for those who enjoy a blend of nature and history.
Begin your journey by heading north, where paved roads transition into farm tracks. The rolling fields are home to a variety of wildlife - keep your eyes peeled for deer grazing at the woodland edge and red kites soaring overhead. The path can become muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended, particularly where the trail winds through fields that may be overgrown in the summer months.
Midway through the route, a gentle ascent offers a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the pastoral beauty of the Warwickshire landscape. The walk also features sections along quiet country roads, so take care and be aware of passing vehicles.
Dogs are welcome but should be kept under control near livestock. The best time to enjoy this walk is between January and September, when the fields and hedgerows are bursting with life.
Once back in Hampton Lucy, you might choose to explore the village’s gorgeous streets or reward yourself with a drink at a local pub. A perfect countryside escape for any nature lover!
The Stratford Historic Walk
Step back in time with this two-mile circular walk through the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Winding through the town’s most historic streets, this route unveils centuries of history, from medieval markets to grand Victorian architecture, all while celebrating the legacy of William Shakespeare.
Starting at The Swan Fountain on Waterside, the walk takes you up Sheep Street, once the site of a bustling medieval sheep market. The charming timber-framed buildings here range from the 15th century to modern-day shopfronts, creating a unique blend of old and new. Keep an eye out for Shrieve’s House, a striking 17th-century merchant’s home with original outbuildings.
Reaching the Town Hall, you'll learn how David Garrick’s 1769 Shakespeare Festival helped establish Stratford’s reputation as a cultural landmark. Opposite, you’ll find Harvard House, built in 1596 by the grandfather of John Harvard, the founder of Harvard University.
A highlight of the walk is New Place Gardens, the site of Shakespeare’s grand retirement home. Though the original house no longer stands, the beautiful gardens and sculptures pay tribute to his legacy. Nearby, Nash’s House - once home to Shakespeare’s granddaughter - offers a glimpse into Tudor life.
Continuing along Chapel Street, you’ll pass the Falcon Hotel, a stunning example of early Tudor architecture. Many buildings here were rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1594, with brick structures replacing the original thatched cottages. Finally, the route brings you back towards Waterside, where you can reflect on the town’s incredible history while overlooking the tranquil River Avon.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the town’s past, this walk provides an unforgettable journey through Stratford’s rich heritage.