Shakespeare's Family Homes

Kids days out in Warwickshire should definitely include one or more of Shakespeare’s family homes and gardens. Located in and around Stratford-upon-Avon, these properties are brimming with things to do and see with children.

Study the Famous Beyond Words exhibition at Shakespeare’s Birthplace and explore the house where Shakespeare was born, lived as a child and passed the first years of his marriage. Be inspired by and even join in with theatrical performances in the garden. Costumed guides will bring the site alive for all ages.

Take the children to Shakespeare’s New Place and discover the site of William Shakespeare’s final family home, the house where he lived until he died in 1616. See the footprint of New Place before it was demolished and learn more about the playwright’s life and works as you explore the beautiful contemporary garden with displays and commissioned artwork.

Visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, just outside Stratford in Shottery, and follow young Shakespeare’s footsteps to the cottage where he courted his wife-to-be. There are also nine acres of beautiful cottage gardens to explore, a sculpture trail and a woodland walk. Imagine what it might have looked like when the sheep-farming Hathaway family lived there and the garden was a farmyard with possibly a herb garden. The family activity marquee is usually available at weekends, Bank Holidays and in school holidays from March until October.

Family-friendly activities such as trails, puzzles and quizzes bring history to life for kids at all the properties.

The website of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust has full details of all ticket options available.

Please note that Mary Arden’s Farm and Hall’s Croft are not currently regularly open to the public. Please see the website of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust for up-to-date information.