Stratford-upon-Avon is home to one of England’s most charming historic sites – Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. For just €17.86, visitors can step back in time and explore the 500-year-old thatched-roof cottage where Shakespeare’s wife grew up. With free cancellation and a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, this is an affordable way to discover the romantic ties between the literary icon and his beloved. While the beautiful gardens and guided tours offer a delightful experience, there’s more to uncover about this captivating piece of living history.
Key Points
- Entry tickets to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage start at €17.86 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
- Visitors can secure spots without upfront payment through the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option.
- The historic cottage was the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway, featuring original 500-year-old furnishings.
- Guided tours provide insights into the Hathaway family history and Shakespeare’s romantic connection with the cottage.
- The picturesque gardens, heritage orchards, and woodland walks on the property likely inspired Shakespeare’s literary works.
Ticket Details
Although the entry ticket price for Anne Hathaway’s Cottage starts at €17.86 per person, visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy by cancelling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Tickets are also available with the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, allowing guests to secure their spot without paying upfront.
The tickets are valid for 1 day, and visitors can check availability for different starting times to find the best fit for their schedule.
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Cottage History
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is located just 1.5 miles outside of Stratford-upon-Avon in the village of Shottery. This quintessentially English thatched cottage was the childhood home of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife. For over 5 centuries, it has been home to 13 generations of the Hathaway family. Much of the original 500-year-old property is still intact, including the 4-poster Hathaway bed and courting couch. Visitors can explore the picturesque gardens, heritage orchards, and woodland walks that served as inspiration for Shakespeare’s plays.
| Built | Inhabitants | Furnishings | Setting |
|——-|————-|————-|———|
| Over 500 years ago | 13 generations of the Hathaway family | Original family furniture | Inspired by Shakespeare’s plays |
Picturesque Gardens and Walks
The picturesque gardens, heritage orchards, and woodland walks surrounding Anne Hathaway’s Cottage provide a serene and inspiring setting for visitors.
Strolling through the property’s verdant landscapes, guests can enjoy the natural beauty that likely captivated Shakespeare himself.
Tranquil pathways wind through the cottage’s grounds, leading past artfully cultivated flower beds and historic fruit trees, evoking the pastoral charm of the Bard’s rural upbringing.
Tranquil pathways wind through the cottage’s grounds, leading past artfully cultivated flower beds and historic fruit trees, evoking the pastoral charm of the Bard’s rural upbringing.
The scenic woodlands invite exploration, with opportunities to discover hidden nooks and reflect on the romantic connection between Shakespeare and his wife.
These idyllic outdoor spaces complement the historic charm of the cottage itself.
Romantic Link to Shakespeare
As Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway’s romantic connection to the renowned playwright is a central aspect of the cottage’s legacy.
The couple’s courtship and marriage are woven into the very fabric of the historic home, which was Anne’s childhood abode. Visitors can discover the story of their love by exploring the original family furnishings, including the famous 4-poster Hathaway bed and courting couch.
Through guided tours, guests learn about the Bard’s affection for his wife and the influence she’d on his literary works. This insight into their relationship adds a captivating dimension to the cottage experience.
More Great Tours NearbyGuided Tours and Visitor Experience
What truly enhances the visitor experience at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage are the guided tours led by the knowledgeable and friendly staff. They bring the cottage’s rich history to life, sharing fascinating insights into the Hathaway family and Shakespeare’s romantic connection. Guests can explore the picturesque gardens, heritage orchards, and woodland walks, all inspired by the Bard’s plays.
| Experience | Highlights |
| — | — |
| Guided Tours | – Knowledgeable staff
– Enhance historical understanding
– Romantic Shakespearean connections |
| Grounds Exploration | – Picturesque gardens
– Heritage orchards
– Woodland walks |
| On-Site Café | – Refreshments available
– Cozy atmosphere
– Locally-sourced fare |
The combination of the guided tours and the opportunity to take in the cottage’s serene natural surroundings creates a truly memorable visit.
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Accessibility and Restrictions
Unfortunately, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the historic property and its grounds present several accessibility challenges.
The cottage and its surroundings feature uneven surfaces, steps, and narrow pathways that can be difficult to navigate. Plus, the cottage itself isn’t equipped with elevator or lift access, making the upper floors inaccessible for those with limited mobility.
For the comfort and safety of all visitors, large bags and luggage are also not allowed on the premises. The cottage aims to preserve its historic charm while ensuring a pleasant experience for guests.
Customer Reviews
Visitors to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage have overwhelmingly praised the attraction, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 41 reviews. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who enhance the experience with their insights. The picturesque gardens, heritage orchards, and woodland walks inspired by Shakespeare’s plays create an enjoyable atmosphere, especially on sunny days. Many consider the cottage a must-visit attraction in Stratford-upon-Avon.
| Review Rating | Number of Reviews | Percentage |
| — | — | — |
| 5 stars | 28 | 68% |
| 4 stars | 11 | 27% |
| 3 stars | 2 | 5% |
| 2 stars | 0 | 0% |
| 1 star | 0 | 0% |
How to Book Your Visit
Booking a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is easy and convenient. Tickets start at just €17.86 per person and can be reserved now with no upfront payment.
You’ll enjoy a full day’s access, with the freedom to explore the historic cottage, stroll the picturesque gardens, and learn about Shakespeare’s connection to his wife’s childhood home.
If plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. With flexible booking options and affordable pricing, it’s simple to plan your visit to this quintessential slice of English heritage.
The Sum Up
Enjoy the captivating history of Stratford-upon-Avon by visiting Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Explore the charming 500-year-old residence, stroll through the picturesque gardens, and uncover the romantic ties between Shakespeare and his wife. With flexible booking options and guided tours available, it’s an affordable and enriching experience that promises to transport you back in time. Don’t miss the opportunity to step into the world of one of literature’s greatest icons.
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More Tickets in Stratford Upon Avon
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