Delve into Shakespeare's England
Known as the Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare looms large over the town of his birth. While most visitors head straight to his birthplace on Henley Street, a good start to any tour of Stratford-upon-Avon is Holy Trinity church, where Shakespeare was baptised on 26 April 1564 and laid to rest in 1616.
Couples will feel as if they are in A Midsummer Night's Dream as they stroll through the land of Anne Hathaway's cottage in Shottery. The former home of Shakespeare's wife has formal gardens that bloom in the spring, a sculpture and maze trail to lose yourself in during the summer, and an orchard, which is an autumn favourite.
Take in the romantic river
Shakespeare's Richard III would have given his kingdom for a horse, but a bicycle is the perfect way to navigate Stratford-upon-Avon. The picturesque Avon Trail leads along the river Avon from Holy Trinity church, past the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and off into the Warwickshire countryside. For those who prefer to put their feet up, Bancroft Cruisers offers daily river cruises and themed evening cruises along a scenic stretch of the Avon.
Sightseeing can be thirsty work, so visit Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, the Garrick Inn: you'll be following in the footsteps of Shakespeare's father, who was appointed the borough's ale taster in 1556.
Enjoy luxury weekend breaks
After a long day of touring the town, a box of Belgian chocolates, champagne, breakfast in bed and a late checkout will await couples who choose a stay at The Stratford, from £185 per room per night. The Arden Hotel, meanwhile, offers a romantic package that includes dinner (up to the value of £30 per person), breakfast, and flowers, champagne and chocolates in your room on arrival, from £300 per room per night.
For more short break ideas in Shakespeare's England, visit discover-stratford.com/romantic
