Join Richard Taylor Travel for a wonderful day in Stratford-upon-Avon as the town celebrates the birthday of its most famous son, William Shakespeare.
The annual Shakespeare Birthday Celebrations are one of the highlights of Stratford's calendar, bringing the historic town centre to life with colourful costumes, marching bands, musicians, performers, schools, community groups and a spectacular procession through the streets.
The detailed programme for 2027 has yet to be announced, but based on previous years, the main celebrations are expected to begin around 11am, with the traditional flag ceremony and Birthday Parade making its way through the town towards Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare was baptised and buried.
Explore Shakespeare's Stratford
After enjoying the celebrations, there is plenty of time to explore Stratford-upon-Avon at your own pace. The compact town centre
is easy to explore on foot and offers something for everyone.
Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace on Henley Street, the timber-framed house where Shakespeare was born, or discover Shakespeare's New Place, where he lived during the final years of his life.
The historic Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall provides an insight into Tudor education and Shakespeare's early life, while the magnificent Holy Trinity Church is an essential visit for anyone interested in the playwright.
The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, situated beside the River Avon, is another Stratford landmark. Visitors can enjoy the riverside setting, explore the theatre area and, subject to opening arrangements, visit the RSC's exhibitions.
For those who simply want to enjoy the town, there are attractive riverside walks, gardens, historic timber-framed buildings, independent shops and boutiques to discover.
Food & Drink
There is a fantastic choice of cafés, pubs and restaurants within easy walking distance. Enjoy a traditional pub lunch, restaurant meal, afternoon tea, coffee and cake or simply grab a quick bite to
make the most of your day.
Popular central options include restaurants and pubs around Sheep Street, High Street, Henley Street and the riverside, with
plenty of choice to suit different tastes and budgets. As this is an extremely popular event, we recommend booking a table in advance if you would like a sit-down lunch.
A Special Day Out
Whether you are a Shakespeare enthusiast or simply enjoy visiting historic towns and special events, this promises to be a memorable day out.
Come and experience the atmosphere, pageantry and history of Stratford-upon-Avon as the town celebrates Shakespeare's birthday in the very place where his story began.
Please note: the 2027 programme, timings, road closures and attraction opening arrangements are subject to confirmation.
Information will be updated when official details are released.
