Car Hire Stratford-upon-Avon

While the town may be small in size, collecting a hire car in Stratford-upon-Avon is a must to fully take in the Shakespeare experience, delve into the stunning Warwickshire countryside and visit exciting locations nearby.

You can explore an attractive neighbouring town by visiting Leamington Spa - only half an hour north and featuring picture-perfect boulevards and scenic gardens – while the medieval city of Coventry, with its transport and motorcycle museums, is also just a short drive away, via the A46 route.

To the south of Stratford, head onto the A429 to reach the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural beauty. Driving in and around, you’ll discover charming rural villages, fascinating natural parks and enjoy unparalleled views. Or, for something more bustling, join the M40 west and merge onto the M42 north to reach the UK’s ‘second-city’, Birmingham.

Driving around Stratford-upon-Avon is relatively simple, as its roads provide easy access to all the main attractions and surrounding areas. There’s also ample parking within five minutes’ walk from the centre, including short stay street parking and long stay facilities and overnight garages in various multi-storey car parks.

While most of Stratford’s links to Shakespeare are within the centre, you’ll have to drive out to the outskirts of Shottery to see Anne Hathaway's Cottage, as well as the village of Wilmcote to see where the Bard grew up.

Driving rules in the UK are similar to Ireland’s, with the exception of the speed limits, which are displayed in miles per hour. In the towns and cities, these are usually 30mph (48km/h), with certain areas reduced to 20mph (32km/h).

Outside of the built-up areas, this generally increases to 60mph (96km/h) on many rural roads, and 70mph (112km/h) on motorways and dual carriageways. But always check signs as these can vary.

With over 800 years of history to its name, Stratford is steeped in outstanding architecture, fascinating museums and world-class theatre.

Whether you want to follow in the footsteps of the Bard of Avon or test your own imagination in the towns Mechanical Art and Design museum, this is an exciting place to be. With car hire in Stratford-upon-Avon, you can also embark on a road trip to see the region’s other attractions too. 

The world’s stage

A trip to Stratford-upon-Avon wouldn’t be complete without paying homage to the great playwright and poet William Shakespeare. His influences are apparent everywhere you go in Stratford – from his birthplace to his funeral monument – and can be experienced in a variety of ways.

Step back in time inside Shakespeare’s family home and learn how the family spent their days, with original furnishings and information plaques. You’ll also come across a variety of guides, dressed to impress in their Tudor and Elizabethan gear, who will put on a variety of performances to truly encapsulate the olde worlde feel.

As the evening draws near, park the car and treat yourself to a fantastic show inside the Royal Shakespeare Company theatre. It’s not just his work being performed here either, with a range of plays from various periods, inspired by Shakespeare’s evergreen work. Check the upcoming plays well in advance to secure your ticket.

Classic English gardens

After soaking up the Tudor lifestyle, travel east of Stratford to find the National Trust’s Charlecote Park. Quintessentially English, this Victorian manor is surrounded by a picturesque deer park.

Still very much influenced by their Tudor ancestors, explore the lavishly decorated rooms that are frozen in time on a guided tour – including the servant’s quarter. Afterwards, enjoy a tranquil stroll through the luscious gardens.

From here, you can drive south to reach the Hidcote Manor Gardens, situated in the quaint Cotswolds. Here, you’ll find not one garden, but a series of mini gardens all leading on to one another – each with their own unique personalities. As well as a selection of exotic plants, there’s a charming pond, colourful summer house and features and decorations lining the way.

Transport yourself to the present

Avid enthusiasts of motoring can enjoy a day trip to Coventry. It may have medieval roots, but the city is actually famous for its innovations in transport. It was the birthplace of the modern bicycle, as well as once being the home of Britain’s booming car industry.

Its wheels are still turning too, with plenty of dedicated museums and attractions. Visit the Coventry Transport Museum to discover the history of Coventry’s – and the world’s – motor and cycle industry. There’s a wealth of vehicles on display here which have helped shape automotive and cycle history, including some of the first bicycles and the world’s fastest car.

To soothe your motoring soul further, the National Motorcycle Museum has the world’s largest collection of British motorcycles – over 850 are on display here.

There’s so much to see in this part of England, so ensure you don’t miss a thing with car hire in Stratford-upon-Avon.