Free cancellation

Explore Shakespeare's Warwickshire Villages & Enjoy a 3-Course Carvery in Stratford

By The Alternative Shakespeare Tour

Step outside Stratford-upon-Avon and discover the lesser-known villages that inspired William Shakespeare. This tour takes you through eight charming spots, each with stories that connect directly to the Bard’s life and works. It’s a chance to see the countryside through Shakespeare’s eyes and uncover the social life that fueled his creativity.

Our comfortable minibus will pick you up from Market Square in Stratford every Sunday between 11:00 and 14:30. From there, you'll visit places like the historic Falcon Inn and the legendary village of Wixford, where Shakespeare is said to have spent many nights drinking and gambling. Along the way, you'll learn fascinating tales about his adventures and the villages that whispered inspiration into his ear.

Midway through the tour, enjoy a hearty 3-course English carvery at the historic Three Horseshoes Inn in Wixford. It’s the perfect way to relax, refuel, and soak in the atmosphere of Shakespeare’s Warwickshire. Afterward, we'll pass through more villages mentioned in his rhymes, ending the day with a deeper appreciation of the Bard’s social world outside Stratford.

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the tour?

The tour includes private transportation, an in-person English-speaking guide, a traditional 3-course English carvery lunch, and dinner.

How long does the tour last?

The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with additional time for meals and sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is suitable for children aged 12 to 17, as well as adults from 18 to 99. It’s accessible for all fitness levels.

Where does the tour start?

The pickup point is in Rother Market Square, opposite the One Stop shop, near the famous Stratford clock tower. The minibus will have 'The Alternative Shakespeare Tour' written on the side.

Can I cancel my booking?

Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Free cancellation

Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reserve now

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Duration 3 hours

Check availability to see start times.

Live tour guide

English

Key facts

Duration 3 hours
Language English
Group Size Up to 15 people
Ages Child 12–17; Adult 18–99
Accessibility Suitable for all fitness levels

What's included

Included

  • Private transportation
  • In-person English-speaking guide
  • Traditional 3-course English carvery lunch
  • Dinner

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    William Shakespeare's possible return to Stratford after a drink at the Bell Inn Welford, where he may have contracted pneumonia.

    10 minutes
  2. Stop 2 Pass by

    Visit Long Marston, known as 'Dancing Marston,' where Shakespeare and friends once held legendary drinking contests.

  3. Stop 3 Pass by

    Stop at St. Michael’s Church, a place Shakespeare is believed to have visited multiple times.

  4. Stop 4

    Explore the 13th-century Falcon Inn Pub, where Shakespeare spent nights drinking and gambling. The famous crab tree story is tied to this location.

    15 minutes
  5. Stop 5 Pass by

    Pass through the village near Bidford and Wixford, mentioned in his rhyme 'Beggerley Broom.'

  6. Stop 6

    Enjoy a 1.5-hour stop at the historic Three Horseshoes Wixford for a delicious homemade three-course English carvery, included in the tour.

    1.5 hours
  7. Stop 7 Pass by

    On the return journey to Stratford, pass through Exhall, referenced in Shakespeare’s rhyme 'Dodging Exhall.'

  8. Stop 8 Pass by

    Pass through Temple Grafton, mentioned in his rhyme 'Hungry Grafton,' on the way back to Stratford.

Meeting point & pickup

Hotel pickup included for all travelers

Mini bus will be parked in Rother Market Square, opposite the One Stop shop near the clock tower. Look for the 'The Alternative Shakespeare Tour' signage.

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Cancellation & confirmation

Free cancellation

Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance
  • No refund if canceled within 24 hours
  • Tour may be canceled if there are not enough travelers

Instant confirmation

Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.

From $82.22 per person

Child Age 12–17
0
Adult Age 18–99
1
  • Free cancellation
  • Secure checkout with our booking partner

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