Overview
Stratford's famous WalkTalkShow is a fascinating guided walk through the entire history of Stratford, from its humble 7th Century beginnings. Our guides will tell you all about the town, William Shakespeare and the buildings and events that punctuate a history spanning 14 centuries.
The tour has 12 stops - each one used to illustrate key historical details; both about the Bard and his hometown. Just how significant was the Guild of the Holy Cross [founded 1269] to local history - and who was the enigmatic Hugh Clopton?
See Harvard House (1596), the family home of the man who went on to start America's most famous University. Shakespeare frequented all five of the taverns from his day that survive to this - and you still can. You will also learn a lot about the greatest writer ever as well as the iconoclastic forces of English history that shaped the man, his home town, the British Isles - and thereafter the wider world. Full details at: WalkTalkShow.co.uk.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Experience 14 centuries of history, see buildings dating back to 1210 and chart Shakespeare's life
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Meet just below the main entrance steps to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre [also known as RSC] at the base of The Tower - unmissable. Please remain outside the building or you could miss us. If it is crowded your Guide will be holding a RED umbrella aloft to help you locate them.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Please be ready to show your ticket to the Guide on arrival for your WalkTalkSHOW
What to expect
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Royal Shakespeare Theatre
10 min
The first of about a dozen stops that are included in our 1.4km guided tour. The world famous RST has a rich history and is viewed by many actors as the pinnacle of their career. This iconic theatre is our meeting point and from here we overview the origins of this world famous town.
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Stratford-upon-Avon
5 min
At Market Cross you will see one of the original Market Halls - dating back to 1500AD and the place that John Shakespeare often used to trade his artisan gloves.
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Shakespeare's Birthplace
5 min
This is our third stop and here we showcase the living conditions of the very fortunate young William Shakespeare, born as he was into a prosperous Tudor family. The house dates from the early 1500's and is a living museum.
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The American Fountain
5 min
At this historically important site the Town's livestock market was located from 1196 when the settlement first became a Market Town. Two pubs that have survived from the Tudor period are also located on this important junction.
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Stratford-upon-Avon
5 min
Our next visit is Bell Court where you can see the Bell that was used to draw people to the towns artisan markets hanging in the main entrance. Bell Court houses a wide range of drinking and dining venues.
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Town Hall Stratford upon Avon
10 min
At the top of Sheep Street is a junction we call History Corner - as within sight are buildings that span five centuries. These include the birthplace of John Harvard, the founding father of Harvard University, as well as another Tudor era pub, now called The Garrick Inn.
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Shakespeare's New Place
5 min
Originally built in 1483, Shakespeare bought his huge retirement pad in 1597. The largest house in town with a history almost as colourful as that of William's father, John.
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Stratford-upon-Avon
5 min
Nearing the end of our tour you will visit the Guild Chapel - part of the towns original seat of power which dates back to 1269. The Guild Chapel is Free to enter and has its own absolutely fascinating history. Shakespeare's schoolroom is right next door and we'll see that too!
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Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall
5 min
The Guild, itself founded in 1269, started a school in 1295 that exists to this day. William Shakespeare attended it in the late 1500's, gaining a superb education. It is now a living museum.
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Stratford-upon-Avon
5 min
We stop briefly on Chapel Lane to take in King Edward the Sixth Grammar School, this large, modern, grammar school is today's version of the original Guild school that started in 1295; the same school that Shakespeare attended.
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Swan Theatre
10 min
Here we describe the history of the Theatre complex and explain why the facade of The Swan is all that survives of the original Shakespeare Memorial Theatre.
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Royal Shakespeare Theatre
5 min
We finish back at our our original starting point, the RST. Your Guide will be happy any questions you may have to help you to optimise your visit to our wonderful town.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/London).
Additional Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon
Can I cancel The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 1 hour 30 min.
Where does it start?
Meet just below the main entrance steps to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre [also known as RSC] at the base of The Tower - unmissable.
What's included?
- Experience 14 centuries of history, see buildings dating back to 1210 and chart Shakespeare's life
Which places does it visit?
It visits Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Shakespeare's Birthplace, The American Fountain, Town Hall Stratford upon Avon, Shakespeare's New Place, Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall, Swan Theatre.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
It is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by WalkTalkShow.co.uk
