Stratford-upon-Avon is famously known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and everywhere in the town has a Shakespearian feel to it.
Expect to discover fine Tudor buildings set to the backdrop of the River Avon, with the sprawling Warwickshire countryside on the town’s outskirts.
Stratford is full of buzz, whether you’re sipping on a coffee at a cafe, browsing the shops or watching a show at one of the theatres. It has proven to be a popular place to live, and in this guide, we’ve got everything you need to know about moving to Stratford-upon-Avon, in the West-Midlands.
A brief history of Stratford-Upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon, commonly referred to as just Stratford, was first inhabited by the Anglo-Saxons in the 7th century. However, its history is tied to Shakspeare and the Tudor era. He was born in Hanley Street and became the most significant British writer of all time, penning Romeo & Juliet, Hamlet and Macbeth. He is still routinely celebrated around the world some 400-plus years after his death.
Where is Stratford-upon-Avon?
Stratford is a market town in the county of Warwickshire in the West Midlands. Situated on the River Avon and is around 90 miles northwest of London. And just 22 miles southeast of Birmingham and eight miles southwest of Warwick. It’s also located near the Cotswolds region.
Moving to Stratford-upon-Avon
Expect to find many period properties in Stratford, many of which are from the Tudor era. The town has become a sought-after place to live. Due to its cultural and historical significance, with the Old Town the most desired area. Thanks to its historic houses close to Stratford’s leading landmarks.
Buying in Stratford-upon-Avon
The average sold price in Stratford-Upon-Avon is £452,678, which is significantly higher than the UK national average of £251,000. Expect to pay an average of £657,500 for a detached home, £508,389 for a terraced house and £353,339 for an apartment.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Stratford-upon-Avon, with chain and independent options available to help you find a home.
Renting in Stratford-upon-Avon
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £1,000 per month in Stratford-Upon-Avon, with two-bedroom properties fetching in the region of £1,200 per month. For larger homes, expect to pay an average of £1,500 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving here you can expect to pay similar prices to the UK national average when it comes to everyday living. A meal for one person is around £10, while a cappuccino is about £2.75 and a pint of milk is £0.85p.
Utility bills are higher than the national average in Stratford-upon-Avon at around £172 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal (the UK average £155). Broadband is in line with the average at about £32 per month.
Living in Stratford-upon-Avon
Open spaces
The Warwickshire countryside is right on your doorstep if you’re moving to Stratford-upon-Avon.
There are plenty of country trails to enjoy, which comes in handy for dog owners. The expansive open spaces of Cotswolds and its quaint villages are also a short drive.
Transport links
Stratford-upon-Avon train station has links to London in around two hours, as well as Birmingham and Leamington Spa.
The M40 is close to Stratford, giving motorists convenient access in and out of the two. Jet setters will be pleased to know that Birmingham International Airport is just 18 miles away.
Shopping
There are many shops in Stratford, from stores selling Shakespeare souvenirs to The Maybird Shopping Centre with its well-known brands. You could easily spend hours wandering around the town centre, popping in and out of the independent boutiques and high-street shops.
Eateries
There is a quintessentially British feel around Stratford, which is reflected in the dining options. The Opposition serves modern dishes in a relaxed setting with exposed timber and brick. While Loxley’s Restaurant & Wine Bar is a cosy spot with an open fire, terrace seating and Sunday roasts.
Nightlife
Stratford isn’t necessarily known for its nightlife, but there are a few places where you can shake your leg. With venues offering live DJs and a dance floor. If you’re after something more relaxed, try That Little Gin & Prosecco Bar or the Rose & Crown, a traditional pub with an outside area.
Art & culture
Stratford-upon-Avon is a cultural beacon. hether you’re visiting one of the museums or spending time watching live performances at the many theatres. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is the most famous with its 1,000-plus seat thrust stage theatre. If you want to learn more about Shakespeare and Tudors, visit Tudor World, the only museum in the country dedicated to Tudor Times.
Things to do
Visit one of the five properties in the town associated with Shakespeare. These include Shakespeare’s birthplace, Halls Croft, Nash’s House, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Mary Arden’s House. They all have cultural significance relating to Shakespeare and can be visited to learn more about his life.
What’s not to like?
There’s a lot of Shakespeare, which means tourists flock to Stratford. It receives around three million visits per year!
Who lives there?
Stratford-upon-Avon has a population of more than 130,000 and a median age of 48.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed is 64mbps in Stratford-Upon-Avon, which is similar to the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
The overall crime rate in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 80 crimes per 1,000 people.
Moving to Stratford-upon-Avon?
Our property report provides an in-depth analysis of specific properties as well as details about the local area of Stratford-upon-Avon. If you’re thinking of moving, make sure you get one first!
Last Updated: October 17th, 2022
