Stratford upon Avon is a town that practically breathes Shakespeare—and for good reason. Its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and lively theaters make it a perfect hub for exploring on guided tours. Whether you’re keen to see the Cotswolds, learn about Shakespeare’s history, or taste local spirits at the Shakespeare Distillery, this town offers a variety of experiences to suit different interests. We especially love the Cotswolds in a Day Tour, which combines stunning villages with personal exploration time, and the Shakespeare Distillery Tour for its intimate insight into Tudor-era spirits. Want something spooky? The Ghost Tour by Lantern Light adds a fun twist. With so many options, you’ll find memorable ways to experience Stratford that go beyond just wandering around.
Quick Overview
Our list includes full-day excursions, like the Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon, which give you a deep dive into charming villages. For those interested in local spirits and history, the Shakespeare Distillery Tours offer guided tastings and behind-the-scenes looks at gin making. We also recommend guided walking tours like The WalkTalkShow that explore Stratford’s landmarks with humor and insight. For a spooky twist, the Nighttime Ghost Tour is perfect. Finally, if you want a culinary experience, the Afternoon Tea and Baking Class combines hands-on baking with traditional treats.
1. Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon
This full-day trip offers a hassle-free way to see more of the picturesque Cotswolds without renting a car. Starting from Stratford or Moreton-in-Marsh, you’re whisked through charming villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Camden, with enough free time to explore on your own. The itinerary includes a short stop at Dover’s Hill, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the rolling countryside, and your guide shares entertaining stories about regional quirks. Rated a perfect 5/5 based on nearly 1,000 reviews, people praise the knowledgeable guides and well-organized day.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of guided commentary and independent exploration, perfect for travelers who want the best of both worlds. The trip’s value lies in its comprehensive itinerary and the convenience of door-to-door transport, leaving all planning to someone else. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a scenic, informative day with minimal fuss.
Bottom Line: A reliable, engaging tour for those who want to see top Cotswolds villages without the hassle of driving.
2. Shakespeare Distillery Tour – 1pm Ticket
If you’re curious about local gin-making traditions and the Tudor influences behind Stratford’s spirits, this Shakespeare Distillery Tour is a perfect fit. For about $26, you get a lively, guided look inside Stratford-upon-Avon’s only working distillery, plus tastings of at least three spirits including the acclaimed Stratford Gin. The guide shares stories about the distillery’s history and ingredients, connecting 16th-century techniques with modern craft.
Guests consistently praise the informative and friendly atmosphere, with many noting how the tasting enhances their appreciation of local craftsmanship. The small group (up to 10 people) makes it intimate, and the discount on purchases means you can take home a bottle of your favorite gin. It’s especially suited for those wanting a relaxed, behind-the-scenes experience paired with a fun tasting.
Bottom Line: An engaging, flavorful tour that combines history, spirits, and expert insights—ideal for spirit lovers or history buffs alike.
3. The WalkTalkShow.co.uk – Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon
For those who want a dynamic walking experience, this guided tour takes you through Stratford’s many landmarks in about 90 minutes. The route covers over a dozen stops, from Harvard House to Shakespeare’s Birthplace, with stories woven into the stroll. Led by a personable guide, the tour is praised for its entertaining storytelling and depth of local knowledge.
Guests love the mixture of historical facts and humorous anecdotes, making the town’s history come alive. The tour is suitable for all ages, and the small group size ensures plenty of interaction. Many reviewers comment that this tour offers a great introduction to Stratford, perfect for first-timers.
Bottom Line: A lively and informative walk that balances history, humor, and sightseeing. Best for those who enjoy storytelling and a relaxed pace.
4. The Sinister Side of Shakespeare’s Stratford Walking Tour
If you’re into ghost stories and the darker tales of Stratford-upon-Avon, this sinister tour is a must. Rated 5/5 by nearly 250 reviewers, it takes you beyond Shakespeare’s life to uncover murder, plague, witches, and ghostly legends. Led by an engaging guide, you’ll learn about events like the origins of the bubonic plague and ghostly sightings from the Civil War era.
The 55-minute lantern-lit walk is suitable for older children and adults alike, mixing history with storytelling. Visitors appreciate the balance of scary stories and historical facts, making it an entertaining yet educational experience. Notably, it explores Stratford’s haunted sites like Tudor World, which is also a living history museum.
Bottom Line: Perfect for fans of ghost stories and local legends, especially if you want an evening adventure with a spooky twist.
5. Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall Entry Ticket and Tour
Step into Shakespeare’s educational world with this interactive experience. The tour takes you inside his former schoolroom and the Guildhall, built in 1420. You’ll sit in the actual classroom where young William studied Latin and participate in Tudor-style lessons. Dress in period costumes for photos and explore the council chamber where Shakespeare’s father served as mayor.
Rated 5/5 by visitors, this tour combines hands-on activities with fascinating stories about Shakespeare’s early life. Guides are passionate, sharing insights about Stratford’s civic history and Shakespeare’s family. The opportunity to write with a quill and experience school life 500 years ago makes it especially engaging for families.
Bottom Line: An immersive peek into Shakespeare’s childhood, perfect for families and history enthusiasts wanting a tactile experience.
6. Shakespeare Distillery Tour – 11am Ticket
If mornings are better for you, the 11am Shakespeare Distillery Tour offers another chance to explore Stratford’s spirit scene. Like the 1pm tour, it includes a detailed behind-the-scenes look at how craft gin and rum are produced, emphasizing Tudor influences. The guided tasting features a minimum of three spirits and a gin & tonic to round out the experience.
Guests highlight the passion of the staff and the depth of knowledge shared, making this a favorite for both spirits aficionados and casual drinkers. The tour is outside town, but Uber makes it easy to get there and back.
Bottom Line: A great morning option for spirit enthusiasts wanting a personalized and educational tasting experience.
7. Daily Stratford Upon Avon Town Walking Tour with Local Guide
For a rundown of Stratford’s landmarks, this town walking tour is ideal. Over 90 minutes, a friendly local guide shows you sites like Shakespeare’s Birthplace, the Town Hall, and the American Fountain, sharing stories about the town’s fascinating past and lively present.
Rated 5/5, visitors mention the guide’s enthusiasm and humor, which make the history engaging for all ages. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a broad but detailed introduction to Stratford’s highlights, with the flexibility to ask questions and explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: An accessible, well-paced tour with a local flavor, perfect for those new to Stratford.
8. Secret Cotswolds Tour from Stratford-on-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh
For travelers eager to see less touristy villages, this Secret Cotswolds Tour offers a full-day journey into the quieter side of the region. Starting from Stratford or Moreton-in-Marsh, you’ll visit popular spots like Burford and Broadway, then explore hidden villages and landmarks like an ancient stone circle. The tour features climate-controlled transportation and small-group intimacy (max 16).
Rated 5/5, reviewers love the local guides’ stories and the chance to see off-the-beaten-path sites. The day ends with recommendations for local pubs or cafes for lunch (own expense), making it perfect for travelers who want a more authentic, crowd-free experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting to discover secret corners of the Cotswolds with expert local insight.
9. Ghost Tour by Lantern Light
If you’re a fan of ghost stories and the eerie, this Lantern Light Ghost Tour is a short but spooky experience. It takes you through Tudor World after dark, where your lantern-guided group learns about murder, plague, and supernatural sightings. The 55-minute walk is designed for those who enjoy a bit of fright in a historical setting.
Rated 5/5, visitors highlight the engaging guide and the atmospheric experience. It’s family-friendly and perfect for an evening out that combines history and haunting tales. The spooky stories and lantern-lit ambiance make it memorable.
Bottom Line: A fun, night-time adventure ideal for families and horror fans wanting a taste of Stratford’s haunted past.
10. Traditional Afternoon Tea Experience and Baking Class in Stratford-upon-Avon
For a culinary adventure, this Afternoon Tea and Baking Class combines hands-on baking with a traditional tea. Held in a charming cottage, you’ll learn to make scones, jam, and other treats with organic ingredients, then enjoy them with tea, coffee, and sparkling wine. It’s a personalized experience limited to small groups, making it ideal for couples or families.
Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the expert instruction and the delicious results. The class offers a memorable way to connect with local traditions and take home recipes—plus, you get to eat what you make! The experience is best suited for food lovers and those looking for a relaxing, interactive activity.
Bottom Line: A distinctive culinary experience perfect for aspiring bakers and anyone who loves afternoon tea with a homemade touch.
11. City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
If you want maximum flexibility, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a practical way to explore Stratford’s key sights from an open-top bus. Valid for 24 or 48 hours, this tour stops at major landmarks like Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and Holy Trinity Church. You can hop off to explore or stay on for the full scenic ride.
Rated 4/5, many reviewers praise the convenience and helpful staff, making it easy for first-time visitors to get the lay of the land. If you’re pressed for time or want to see many spots without walking, this is an ideal option.
Bottom Line: A flexible, easy way to see Stratford at your own pace, especially useful for those with limited time or mobility concerns.
12. Pasta Making Experience – Cooking Class
For lovers of Italian cuisine, this Pasta Making Class is a delicious hands-on activity. During around three hours, you’ll learn how to craft traditional ravioli and other pasta parcels using equipment and ingredients you might not have at home. The small group (up to six people) ensures personal attention. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a meal featuring your homemade pasta, paired with wine or soft drinks.
Rated 5/5, participants love the skill-building and the taste of their creations. It’s perfect for foodies or those seeking a relaxing, intimate activity. The experience works best for those who want to learn a new skill or enjoy a culinary treat in a cozy setting.
Bottom Line: A wonderful, tasty way to learn Italian pasta skills and indulge in a delicious meal—great for couples and small groups.
13. Warwickshire & Stratford-Upon-Avon Self-Guided Audio Tours
For travelers who prefer to explore independently, these self-guided audio tours let you discover Warwick’s castle and Stratford’s key sites at your own pace. The tours cover Warwick’s Celtic roots and medieval warfare, then shift to Stratford’s Shakespeare-related landmarks. You can download the audio files beforehand, avoiding the need for a tour guide or Wi-Fi.
The reviews highlight the flexibility and depth of content, making it ideal for curious travelers who enjoy self-directed discovery. It’s perfect if you want to control the pace and focus on your specific interests.
Bottom Line: A flexible, informative way to explore Stratford and Warwick with your own schedule and without a guide.
14. One Day Cotswolds Walking Tour
For those who love walking and landscapes, this One Day Cotswolds Walking Tour offers a full-day outdoor experience. From Broadway Tower to Burford, you’ll enjoy up to three walks, including panoramic views and scenic routes along the Cotswold Way. The tour combines gentle hikes with sightseeing in charming villages, all guided by a friendly local.
Rated 5/5, guests love the small-group atmosphere and the opportunity to see more rural beauty than a bus or car tour can provide. It’s well-suited for active travelers who want to enjoy the countryside.
Bottom Line: A scenic, outdoor-focused day for those who want to combine walking with sightseeing in the Cotswolds.
15. Museum Entrance Ticket
This museum dedicated to the Tudor era is a compact but engaging stop in Stratford. The exhibits include interactive elements like trying on Tudor costumes, watching videos, or writing with a quill. It’s housed in a 16th-century building once visited by William Shakespeare himself, adding authenticity.
Rated 4.5/5, visitors appreciate the hands-on approach and the chance to learn about Elizabethan life. It’s a good, quick visit for history enthusiasts or families wanting an interactive experience.
Bottom Line: A concise, engaging museum that brings the Tudor period to life through interactive exhibits.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re after a comprehensive day exploring the Cotswolds’ villages, the Cotswolds in a Day Tour offers excellent value with guided commentary and free exploration time. For those who love history and storytelling, the Guided Stratford Walking Tour or Small Guided Tour fit the bill. If you’re a spirits enthusiast, the Shakespeare Distillery Tours provide a tasty, intimate experience. And for something spooky, the Ghost Tour adds a fun night-time twist.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about your fitness level—walking tours are great if you’re comfortable on your feet, while hop-on-hop-off buses are better if mobility is a concern. Finally, consider combining a guided tour with a free exploration to get both expert insights and personal discovery.
Final Thoughts
Stratford upon Avon offers a wide array of tours that cater to history lovers, foodies, ghost hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The full-day Cotswolds trip remains a standout for its scenic villages and relaxed pace, while the Shakespeare-themed experiences allow you to step directly into the playwright’s world. Those wanting a spirited tasting should not miss the Distillery Tours, which combine history with delicious drinks.
No matter your interests or travel style, booking your preferred tour early will ensure a memorable Stratford experience. Get ready to walk, sip, explore, and learn about the charm of this historic English town.