Stratford on Avon: Home of the Bard
Taking advantage of a cheap hotel deal we went to Stratford on Avon for a couple of days. We did the usual tourist things and took the usual snaps which are here for you to see. Even without the William Shakespeare connection it is a very pretty place with many 15th and 16th Century buildings.

William Shakespeare's birth place. I did not know until this trip that his father was Lord Mayor of Stratford. William was a very well educated man, versed in Latin and the classics.

The Garrick. Reported to be the oldest inn in Stratford. Its history going back to Shakespeare's time.

Details of the carvings on the front of the Garrick.

This building became the Mercure Hotel. Very expensive.

Another Olde Inne, the Falcon

The Alms Houses

Despite all the olde worlde charm Stratford is a busy bustling town. One of the greatest assets is the River Avon and the parkland that surrounds it where you can find street entertainers and brass band concerts.

There is a complex of docks as this is where the Grand Union Canal joins the river Avon. Some of the canal boats are permanently moored art and craft galleries. The week end after we were there is a River Festival.


This view of the riverside was taken on a boat trip on the Avon. We were glad to be getting back looking at the sky. However, nothing came of it.

There are many beautiful scenes on the river and you can hire rowing and motor boats.

A very tranquil scene heading down river with the spire of the Church of the Holy Trinity peeking from above the trees.

A better view of the church. We visited the following day on foot but it was closed.

The lock that takes you past the double weirs.

The difference in height is about 5-6 feet. A novel experience for many passengers on the tour boat.


We walked the 3.5 mile 'circular route' down one side of the river and back on the other side before breakfast on Monday morning. i have never seen so many Swans. Most of the tourists share their alfresco lunch with them. As a consequence if you approach the waters edge they come from all directions. A great place to visit
- John Marsden's blog
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Great Blog John I have not been to Stratford so thank you for sharing,best wishes Julie
Julie
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Hi John, one of my favourite places and not too far from home, loved looking through the photos.
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Lovely blog John, I haven't been to Stratford for many years...brought back some fond memories
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Hi John what a smashing blog with beautiful photos well composed and Sharpe looks like you enjoyed your trip only passed through so really enjoyed your blog Martin
http://www.myfinepix.co.uk/blog/454989/496486
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Allways be prepaired you never know what shots around the corner
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Lovely blog John, and well photographed. Brought back memories of that beautiful tranquil place. Big like from me, and thanks.
Regards,
Sue
sue hurst
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Hello john, this is a cracking blog, great detailed pictures with good narrative. I have never been to Stratford On Avon myself but after seeing these beautiful old buildings and the lovely area, it will definitely have to go on my `places to see` list. A big thanks for putting this together and sharing. A definite like from me. Paul.
http://www.myfinepix.co.uk/blog/822372/496914
(My photos may not be the best but they represent a part of my life to share with those who care to look)
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Hi John, great blog..was in Stratford on my visit in "73 when I was 19 but in those days I wasn't taking so many photo's so nice to see it again as I didn't get there on my recent visit to England in May.
just saw your comment on my blog about the units...I was told the castle was now turned in to flats for people to rent or buy. I put units as I didn't know what you in UK called them. Don't know if it's true but thats what I was told and thanks for you comment much appreciated.
Sue
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Another great blog, John. Somewhere I need to put on my list for the future. Thanks for sharing your trip with us.
www.myfinepix.co.uk/gallery/627135: www.myfinepix.co.uk/blog/627135:
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An excellent blog, Jogn. I've never been to Stratford, but it certainly looks like it's worth a visit. Thanks for sharing.
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Brought back memories of my teenage days visiting with my Parents and my late Nan. Been saying for years and only last week mentioned it, that a re-visit is on my list. Great character in the buildings and a lovely place to stroll, especially on a lovely Summer's day. Thanks for sharing John and thanks for your lovely comment on my York photoblog.
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Hi John what a super photoblog of a wonderful place and so full of character and my favourite is the river picture with the chuch in the background. John a brilliant blog many thanks for sharing best wishes BoB.
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Excellent blog, John -just the thing to push waverers (like me) towards actually making the trip - I was last there in '65 or thereabouts. Fine set of photos, artfully framed, many thanks for sharing.
Best regards, Steve
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Brings back memories. Thanks for sharing.
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A Great blog John with some smashing pictures,it is now on my places to visit list.Thanks for sharing.
Ron.
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Super blog John, I havent been for quite a while and its brought back some lovely memories. Thank you for sharing xxx
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I enjoyed your blog. Stratford is such a beautiful place John I'm glad you enjoyed it. When we were there last a big Lorry took the front wing and bumper etc. off our car while we were sitting in it on the main roundabout. Lovely place, pity about the local drivers.
Christine
New blog http://www.myfinepix.co.uk/blog/1424/618870
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A terrific blog John, with a lovely set of colourful images and interesting narrative. Thanks for posting.
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Hi John sorry its late , wher i am the internet is very seldom , what a lovely blog , my favs are on the water with the church in the background stunning image , would look nice as a painting , all so colourfull thanks for sharing ,
TIM