Stratford Upon Avon

The charming market town of Stratford Upon Avon, with its half-timbered, gabled houses and fragrant country gardens nestles in the gentle rolling countryside of rural Warwickshire in the heart of England. Being the birthplace of Shakespeare, it doesn't get much more English than this and anyone taking advantage of the many self-catering cottages or lodges in the area will find an abundance of delightful attractions on the doorstep that will appeal to the whole family.

Immensely proud of its heritage, it is no surprise that Stratford Upon Avon celebrates Shakespeare in a big way. No fewer than six character homes associated with his life are lovingly preserved for visitors here and allow for a fascinating insight into the life that he led in the 16th century. Shakespeare's story is inextricably linked to the town's history at a precarious time fraught with religious violence, plagues, famine and poverty. The half-timbered house where he was born and grew up is an amazing display of original features which evoke the true atmosphere of 16th century living. Anne Hathaway's cottage, the pre-marital home of Shakespeare's wife, is the epitome of Elizabethan rural England with its thatched roof, lattice windows and original open-hearth fireplace. For an equally fascinating view of medieval life, visit Halls Croft, the original home of Shakespeare's daughter and her husband, a highly respected physician of his time. Laid out with original apothecary jars, potions and early medical instruments it offers an intriguing view of medical practices at the time of the Bubonic Plague. Upon Shakespeare's death in 1616, his daughter took up residence in New Place, the impressive mansion where Shakespeare had spent his later years. Allegedly bought for around £120 at the height of his caree

r it was the second largest property in the town and testimony to his success. Shakespeare died on his own birthday and his tomb can be visited at Holy Trinity Church on the banks of the Avon, just a stone's throw away from Halls Croft. Each April his birthday is openly celebrated and Stratford comes alive with street processions, Morris Dancers and traditional period costumes. Of course, the highlight of a visit to Shakespeare's home town must be a viewing of his plays. Performances are held here all year round at the Royal Shakespeare Company, but on balmy summer evenings, open air theatre performances set in the gardens of Halls Croft and New Place make for a truly memorable occasion in an idyllic setting.

After your tour of Shakespeare's Stratford is complete take a relaxing boat trip along the Avon, get creative at the town's Brass Rubbing Centre, or enjoy the fluttering of tiny wings at the town's Butterfly Farm. Wherever you choose for your holiday home in the area you will find yourself in the vicinity of a multitude of fascinating attractions further afield, including the medieval charms of Warwick Castle, which hosts exciting interactive events throughout the year. For outdoor enthusiasts, walking and mountain biking opportunities abound in the lovely neighbouring counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire as well as the Malvern Hills to the West, and the Cotswolds draw visitors year round with the promise of cream teas and cosy country pubs. For a truly special occasion to remember, take a pleasure flight from Avon Air Centre over the rooftops of Stratford and the honey coloured villages of the Cotswolds and, if you want to push the boat out, celebrate afterwards with a champagne afternoon tea at an exclusive country hotel.