One of the best ways to experience Shakespeare’s England is taking leisurely boat cruise down the River Avon. The river runs through the heart of this region and allows you to see the wonderful town of Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding area at a leisurely pace.  There is nothing more relaxing than gently gliding down the river in your own boat or letting someone else take the strain on one of the many guided boat cruises available.

Alternatively simply bring a picnic and relax riverside and soak up the atmosphere and the beautiful scenery of Shakespeare’s England.

There are a number of accommodation options near the river: here is a selection of our favourites - 

Crowne Plaza – great Riverside location in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon

The Arden Hotel – a luxury hotel, opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre overlooking the River Avon

Moss Cottage – a friendly and welcoming bed and breakfast in the wonderful town of Stratford upon Avon a pleasant 10 minute stroll from the River

Mercure Shakespeare Hotel – this 4-star Stratford-Upon-Avon hotel is in the heart of Shakespeare’s England and a 2 minute walk from the River

Avon Boating What better way to enjoy the tranquil waters of the River Avon than by boat.  For over 100 years the Boathouse has been hiring out small boats and running passenger vessels on the Avon. The river, one of the finest reaches for boating in the country, has remained virtually unchanged in all this time.

The Avon winds gently through the town of Stratford upon Avon, surrounded on both banks by green parkland and flower filled gardens.  The Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Holy Trinity Church, containing Shakespeare's tomb, stand amidst the willow trees reflected in the river's shimmering water.  The river flows under two fine old bridges and over the site of an ancient ford around which the town was founded.  

Take a trip with Avon Boating and experience the perfect way to relax and enjoy the atmosphere and beautiful scenery of Shakespeare’s England.

Bancroft Cruisers

Have a relaxing sightseeing experience and enjoy the charm and beauty of historic Shakespeare’s England with Bancroft Cruisers, Stratford’s only guided sightseeing cruises. 

Sit back and relax and take in the stunning views of the Warwickshire countryside from the comfort of the wide-beam open cruiser or heated modern cruiser.

From 45-minute, walk-on sightseeing tours to private event charters, Bancroft Cruisers provide the ultimate river cruise experience – complete with expert guides and delicious food and drink.

Canal and River Tours 

Enjoy a leisurely sightseeing river cruise on the only sightseeing passenger boat licensed to operate on both the Stratford Canal and River Avon. Take a 45 minute tour which runs regularly through the day at approximate 1 hour intervals. You will be taken from the mooring at Stratford Canal Basin, through the historic lock and down on the river Avon for a  sightseeing river cruise. 

The Leam Boat Centre

Come and enjoy boating for all the family. The Leam Boat Centre offers a variety of pleasure boating along the River Leam and a fun range of kids and adult canoe & kayak activities.

Located amidst the beautiful Jephson Gardens the centre sits alongside a children's play area and is a short stroll from the botanical glasshouse and riverside restaurant.