Monuments to visit Stratford-Upon-Avon

So it was here that it all began: on April 26, 1564, the "Swan of the Avon" was born. His birthplace has been perfectly preserved and has copies of the first editions of his pieces, as well as manuscripts or birth certificates. Here we relive the daily life of the Shakespeare family by following in their footsteps within walls where everything evokes the Elizabethan era. Dickens, John Keats, Walter Scott and many others came before us to find inspiration. It is very difficult to go back to the 21st century after such a journey through time.

The construction of the theatre was the result of combined passions and energies, helped by private donations: until the 19th century, Shakespeare's birthplace and all the places where he had stayed were visited, he was worshipped, but not celebrated, because there was no theatre in Stratford. In 1870, Charles Flower donated the land. A circular theatre opened its doors in 1879. However, no troupe is yet permanently installed: performances take place in April (for Shakespeare's birthday) and in summer only. The building having been completely destroyed in 1926, the current theatre was built in 1932, thanks to a private donation, according to Elisabeth Scott's plans. A first company was established in 1950, including John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier, Vivien Leigh, among others... But the Royal Shakespeare Company was really founded in 1961, thanks to Peter Hall, who built a second theatre (The Swan) and set up a stage in London, the Barbican Theatre. Over the past 30 years, the company has been enriched by the work of Ben Kingsley, Vanessa Redgrave, Jeremy Irons and, more recently, Kenneth Brannagh. Curiously enough, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Swan Theatre work together behind the scenes, so that Falstaff can be found alongside La Mouette, Othello, La Duchesse de Malfi.... in all courtesy! Guided tours are regularly conducted by Shakespearean theatre enthusiasts who will teach you the history of backstage and rehearsals.

The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust looks after five buildings associated with William Shakespeare and his family (Shakespeare's Birthplace, New Place & Nash's House, Hall's Croft (temporarily closed), Anne Hathaway's Cottage and Mary Harden's House). The first three are located in the city center, while the other two are a little out of the way. You can buy a combined ticket for all five houses online, at a more attractive price.

This lovely 500-year-old farm cottage, surrounded by flowers and greenery, was Anne Hathaway's home until her marriage to William Shakespeare. The period furnishings, including Anne Hathaway's bed, provide a change of scenery, and the flower-filled gardens are ideal for pleasant strolls. Orchard, English garden and aromatic plants... It's a truly charming and picturesque place, not to be missed. You'll discover the history of the place and the 13 generations of the family who lived there. The visit takes 2 hours.