The Alternative Shakespeare Tour + 3 Course Carvery

Key Points

• Visit 8 villages associated with Shakespeare’s life outside Stratford-upon-Avon
• Enjoy a lavish 3-course English carvery at a historic 16th-century inn in Wixford
• Small-group experience in a comfortable mini bus, led by expert guides in English and French
• Tour duration of approximately 3 hours, including sightseeing and photo stops
• Departure times at 11:00 and 14:30 every Sunday, with flexible booking options

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Intimate Tour of Shakespeare’s Favorite Villages

The Alternative Shakespeare Tour offers an engaging experience by taking visitors outside of Stratford-upon-Avon to explore 8 charming villages that held special meaning for William Shakespeare. This small-group minibus tour is designed for those interested in a personal, relaxed journey through Warwickshire’s countryside, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and absorb the scenery. The tour features a comfortable mini bus that ensures an intimate atmosphere, avoiding large crowds and commercialism.

Starting at Rother Market Square, the journey lasts approximately 1hr 30mins. The guides provide insights into Shakespeare’s personal life, particularly focusing on the villages he frequented, places that inspired some of his poems and plays, and a few of his drinking establishments. Travelers appreciate the rich storytelling and the chance to learn about the poet’s connections to these scenic locations.

Visiting Welford-on-Avon and Other Historic Villages

The second stop is Welford-on-Avon, a village that Shakespeare was passionate about. Visitors get a photo stop, guided tour, and a chance to enjoy the local scenery. The village’s scenic views and regional food make this a delightful part of the tour. On the way, travelers can appreciate the beautiful Warwickshire countryside that inspired many of Shakespeare’s works.

This tour’s focus on villages close to Stratford highlights locations mentioned in Shakespeare’s rhymes, giving a glimpse into his personal life and favourite haunts. These stops are carefully selected to reveal the historic charm and cultural significance of the area. The guided visits often include a look at some of the drinking establishments Shakespeare visited, providing context for his social life.

The Historic 16th Century Inn in Wixford for the Carvery

The tour culminates at Wixford’s 16th-century inn, a place directly referenced in one of Shakespeare’s rhymes. Here, visitors enjoy a lavish 3-course English carvery meal, which lasts around 1hr 30mins. The meal features traditional regional dishes, offering a hearty and authentic taste of Warwickshire cuisine. The inn’s historic ambiance transports diners back in time, complementing the overall Shakespearean theme of this experience.

Guests have plenty of time to take photos of the inn’s rustic interiors and picturesque surroundings. After the meal, the group returns to Stratford-upon-Avon, passing through the last two villages visited during the tour, allowing for extra sightseeing and reflection on the day’s journey.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at the Rother Market Square, where the mini bus is parked opposite the One Stop Shop in Rother St, Stratford-upon-Avon. The activity is designed for small groups, ensuring an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a more personal experience. The total duration of the tour, including the meal, is approximately 3 hours.

Departures happen every Sunday at 11:00 and 14:30, with live guides speaking in English and French. The tour includes pick-up and return to the same meeting point, simplifying logistics. Travelers can reserve their spot with the option to pay later, and full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

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What’s Not Allowed on the Tour

To ensure safety and comfort, the tour has several restrictions. Pets, oversized luggage, baby strollers, drones, and professional cameras are not permitted. No alcohol, drugs, or glass objects are allowed in the vehicle, and the group is asked to refrain from smoking or making loud noises. These rules help maintain a calm, respectful environment throughout the trip.

Languages and Booking Flexibility

The guides speak both English and French, accommodating a broader range of visitors. The Reserve Now & Pay Later option offers flexibility for travelers planning ahead, with the assurance that they can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour without penalty.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others?

Unlike larger or more generic Stratford tours, this experience emphasizes intimate access to Shakespeare’s personal haunts outside the main town. The combination of village visits, insightful guides, and a historic meal makes it a well-rounded choice for those interested in a deeper connection to Shakespeare’s Warwickshire environment. The 3-hour duration strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation, making it suitable for those with limited time.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience Most?

This tour suits history enthusiasts, literature lovers, or anyone wanting an authentic look at the places that inspired Shakespeare. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate small-group tours and historic settings, as well as visitors eager for regional cuisine in a historic inn. Because children under 10 are not recommended, the experience is best for older families or adult groups seeking a relaxed, cultural outing.

Final Thoughts on the Alternative Shakespeare Tour with Carvery

This 3-hour journey offers a unique perspective on Shakespeare’s life through visits to 8 of his favourite villages. The small-group setting and expert guides make for an engaging, personalized experience. The highlight for many is the lavish 3-course carvery in a historic inn that directly ties into Shakespeare’s world.

While the tour doesn’t cover Stratford’s main attractions like the birthplace or Anne Hathaway’s cottage, it provides a valuable, intimate glimpse into the countryside that inspired some of his most famous works. The combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and regional cuisine makes it a rich, memorable outing for fans and casual visitors alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 10 years old are not recommended, as the tour is tailored for adult guests interested in Shakespeare’s villages and historic dining experience.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience, including sightseeing and the meal, lasts approximately 3 hours. The sightseeing portion in the villages is about 1hr 30mins, and the meal duration is also around 1hr 30mins.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. You can also reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English and French, making the tour accessible to a diverse range of visitors.

What is included in the price?
The $80.75 per person fee covers transportation in a mini bus, visits to 8 villages, and the lavish 3-course carvery meal at a 16th-century inn in Wixford.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby