Pack Your Bags: Stratford-Upon-Avon

If you are looking to get out of London

and relax into the British country,

Stratford-Upon-Avon is a great day trip.

With it's short distance from London, friendly locals,

and gorgeous setting in the country-

Stratford- Upon-Avon really does leave you feeling quite inspired!

This little town revels in it's most famous (previous) resident,

Mr. William Shakespeare,

and has preserved much of the architectural atmosphere

of his days throughout the town.

I've been to Stratford-Upon-Avon twice.

The first time was a pleasant day in September,

and I left thinking the town was really charming.

I returned for a second time on April 30th

for Shakespeare's Birthday Celebration.

This time changed me into a Stratford-Upon-Avon fan for life.

Whether is was the sunshine, the parades, the multitudes of soft serve ice cream, 

or the free Shakespeare masks being handed out around town, I really can't be sure.

To celebrate Shakespeare's birthday

 (April 23rd, which is ironically- the same day he died),

Stratford-Upon-Avon devotes an entire day to celebrate the famous writer

with parades, performances, and half-price admission to visit his house.

Shakespeare's House is well preserved and furnished with period furniture

to recreate an authentic feel for a visit to the home as he actually would have experienced it.

Attached to the house, is a shop that recreated the glove workshop of Shakespeare's father 

which leads out to a gorgeous English garden

 scatter with costumed actors performing various excerpts of the writer's plays.

Enjoy the gorgeous walk along the River Avon 

where you'll see families playing on the grassy banks,

couple lounging in boats, 

and some of the prettiest trees you'll ever see.

Eventually, you'll make your way to Holy Trinity Church

where Shakespeare and his wife, Anne Hathaway, are buried.

The church, and it's grounds,

are simple and serene...

It really is a must-see for when your visit.

( a £2 donation is requested to see the graves)

Kirsty & Bess

If the sun is out,

rent a boat, soak up the sunshine,

and enjoy being a part of a cliche moment in England.

Sitting on the edge of the city's streets 

along the water's edge is The Encore.

The ambience is rustic with modern edges,

and the view of the River Avon out the windows are perfect,

and the food is light and well prepared.

Try the crispy duck pizza, the arancini risotto balls, or the mediterranean mezze.

Yum.

If you are lucky enough to come on a sunny day,

find a seat outside on the famous

 Dirty Duck Pub

on your walk to the Holy Trinity Church.

Afterwards, it's tough to choose something sweet

from all the delicious options this town has to offer.

So don't choose...

have two!

A milk shake from Moo Moo's

(coffee with oreo!)

we have a moo moo's in oxford. they start my milkshake when they see me coming. which is sad. and awesome.

Then grab a Cadbury Flake Cone

Please. Don't forget the strawberry drizzle... this is a very important part.

Have you ever been to Stratford Upon Avon?

Did you love it as much as I did?

What's an amazing day trip you have taken?