Stratford-upon-Avon

Today we spent the day in Stratford-upon-Avon. What a gorgeous little town!

Shakespeare's birthplace

First up we visited Shakespeare's birthplace. So interesting and well done. Amazing how many people lived in 1 house - we are very spoilt these days. Shakespeare's father was a glove maker: in their house were the parents, 3 or 4 children (they died and were replaced regularly, very sobering), 2 trained journeymen (glovemakers), a few apprentices, a married sister, her husband and their 4 children, and at least 2 servants. Girls slept on the floor, boys had beds which were expensive. Huh!

Hot mulled wine, yum!

We walked down the High Street, and the character and attention to detail blew our minds. Had lunch in an old tea room, Paul and Amelia finished with scones, jam and cream. I thoroughly enjoyed my glass of hot mulled wine.

Shakespeare's 2nd best bed that he left to Anne in his will, generous guy!

Then on to Anne Hathaway's cottage. Her parents were farmers. She and Shakespeare had to marry when she was 27 and he was 18. 
Their first baby was born 6 months later. The old farmhouse was built in the 1500's. Wow! Very low doors, thick black oak beams, really fascinating. Loved it.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage

Shakespeare's grave site 

On to the Holy Trinity Church where Shakespeare and Anne were buried. Amelia and I went in, Paul (bless him) stayed in the car dodging parking officers. The church was beautiful, the grave area was just awe-inspiring. I love these old churches, they carry such an aura of reverence.

Home to our little cottage for a light tea.



Our cottage is just so tiny and cute. We have a very steep and narrow staircase - I can't fit my whole foot on each step. I have about 6 inches around my bed and keep hitting the stone walls! Only slim people allowed on the loo - not much legroom beside it! There are 2 comfy couches in the lounge - we can reach each other across the intervening space. However we are warm, dry, and happy, and loving the experience.