Seasonal Fun in Stratford-upon-Avon
Make lasting memories together.
Whatever time of year you choose to come and stay with us at the DoubleTree Stratford-upon-Avon Hotel, there are always great things to do in and around Stratford. Here are some of our favourites for each season…
DISCOVER WHAT'S ON
SHAKESPEARE’S BIRTHDAY
Join the bard’s birthday bash.
William Shakespeare’s birthday is usually celebrated on April 23rd, or on the nearest weekend. The Royal Shakespeare Company celebrates with special performances, drop-in craft activities, storytelling sessions, and opportunities to meet artists and show creators.
WARS OF THE ROSES AT WARWICK CASTLE
25 minute drive
Let battle commence.
One of the most exciting live re-enactments you’ll see, the spectacular Warwick Castle stages an annual recreation of the fifteenth century wars between the Yorks and the Lancastrians, known as the Wars of the Roses. Choose your seat and watch the jousting and battling unfold in front of you, complete with swords, armour, charging horses, fainting ladies, and victorious knights.
THE DELL OUTDOOR THEATRE
A performance under the sun.
The RSC hosts a range of lively student, community and semi-professional productions of Shakespeare’s plays every weekend during July and August in the new outdoor theatre, The Dell. Performances cater to audiences of all ages, who are admitted free of charge – apply early and you may even be able to join in.
THE STRATFORD RIVER FESTIVAL
Party on the Avon.
Boats, sailors, and landlubbers of all ages flock to the annual river festival in July. It’s a free summer festival, with live music, food and drink, as well as a boat parade of illuminated vessels and a firework display. In the evening, the festival spills over into the town, where many of the bars and restaurants take part too. Hire a boat or just swing on by to be part of the fun.
AUTUMN COLOURS
See the wood for the trees.
Stratford and the surrounding countryside is home to many stately homes, manor houses and parks, all of which offer opportunities to see autumn colours at their finest. Stratford Park is among the most popular venues with over 800 species of mature trees.
STRATFORD LITERARY FESTIVAL
A real page turner.
The last literary festival boasted top names including Judi Dench, Brian Cox, Alexander Armstrong and George Monbiot, together with an agenda full of workshops, talks and literary activities. Keep an eye out for this year’s special guests.
MAGIC ALLEY
6 minute walk
Add some spark to your stay.
Magic Alley is a truly unique experience in the heart of Stratford. Combining shops, stalls and interactive experiences, it’s a world of all things magical, from spells, antiques, puzzles and books, to strange and wonderful gifts. Shop, play games, and visit the Enchanted Manor to complete a quest. Magic Alley also hosts a special Christmas Experience, which is sure to add even more excitement to your visit.
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS MARKET
Enjoy the spirit of Christmas past.
In the second week of December, the famous four-day Victorian Christmas Market comes to Stratford. Over 300 stalls are all set up by staff in Victorian costume in a market that extends from the idyllic Waterside through the town with plenty of food and drink to help you on your merry way.
DISCOVER MORE
Explore what else there is to do!
