The Alternative Shakespeare Tour + 3 Course Carvery

If you’re looking for a different way to connect with William Shakespeare beyond Stratford’s typical attractions, the Alternative Shakespeare Tour offers a charming, intimate experience. This three-hour journey takes you through eight picturesque villages in Warwickshire that Shakespeare loved and visited frequently. The tour culminates at a cozy 16th-century inn, where you’ll enjoy a hearty three-course carvery, a perfect way to soak up local flavor and history.

What I love about this experience is how it combines a small-group mini bus tour—which means plenty of personal attention and space to ask your guide questions—with the chance to explore some of the quieter, less touristy corners that inspired Shakespeare’s poetry and plays. Plus, the historic inn provides a genuine taste of the region’s culinary traditions, with a lavish meal that feels like a true local experience.

One potential drawback is that it’s not suitable for children under 10, so families with young kids might need to look elsewhere. Plus, the tour’s relatively short duration—just three hours—means you’ll want to manage expectations about how much ground you’ll cover. But if you’re after an authentic, laid-back look at Shakespeare’s Warwickshire surroundings, this tour delivers plenty of charm and insight in a manageable time frame.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small-group experience ensures a more personalized and comfortable journey.
• Visiting 8 villages that Shakespeare loved offers unique insights into his life outside Stratford.
• The 3-course carvery meal at a historic 16th-century inn provides a satisfying and traditional British dining experience.
• Expert guides share local stories and connections to Shakespeare’s poetry, bringing history to life.
• The stunning Warwickshire countryside views make for a visually rewarding trip.
• The tour’s flexible departure times on Sundays allow for easy planning.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Rother Market Square

The adventure begins in Rother Market Square, a central, accessible location in Stratford-upon-Avon. Here, the mini bus awaits, ready to whisk you away into the Warwickshire countryside. The company typically departs at 11:00 or 14:30, giving you options depending on your morning or afternoon plans. The mini bus is described as comfortable, and the small group size means less time waiting and more time enjoying the sights.

Exploring Welford-on-Avon and Surroundings

Your first stop is Welford-on-Avon, a charming village that Shakespeare himself mentions in his rhymes. Here, you’ll enjoy a brief photo stop—perfect for snapping some picturesque shots of traditional English cottages and the gentle river that runs through the village. The guide may give a quick guided tour of the area, highlighting the historical significance and local lore.

The reviews mention that guides like “a local expert” add a warm and knowledgeable touch, making the stories of these villages more engaging. Some guests appreciated that they had plenty of time to explore or take photos, with about 20 minutes allocated—not long enough to feel rushed, but enough to soak in the atmosphere.

Visiting Iconic Villages Significant to Shakespeare

The remaining villages on the itinerary are carefully chosen for their personal connection to Shakespeare. The tour offers a glimpse into places Shakespeare visited and loved, including some of his drinking establishments and hangouts that likely inspired parts of his work. These stops aren’t commercialized attractions; they’re authentic spots that reveal a quieter, more personal side of Shakespeare’s life.

The Historic Inn in Wixford

The tour concludes at a 16th-century inn in Wixford, a village with a mention in one of Shakespeare’s rhymes. Here, you’ll find a lavish 3-course carvery—think tender meats, hearty vegetables, and traditional Yorkshire puddings—served in a historic setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Guests describe this part of the experience as “plenty of time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the regional flavors”. The inn itself adds a tangible sense of history, making the meal not just dinner but an extension of the journey into Shakespeare’s Warwickshire.

Returning to Stratford-upon-Avon

After the meal, the bus makes its way back through the last two villages, passing through the scenic countryside. The total tour lasts about three hours, with the return to Stratford approximately 1.5 hours after the meal. This timing makes it an easily digestible outing, perfect for those who want a taste of Shakespeare’s rural world without a full-day commitment.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience suits travelers who crave a personalized, relaxed exploration of Shakespeare’s Warwickshire. It’s ideal if you’re interested in literature-inspired travel, enjoy small-group tours, or simply want a peaceful way to see the countryside. The inclusion of a traditional meal adds a nice touch of local hospitality.

Families with children over 10 will find this a manageable, engaging way to introduce younger travelers to Shakespeare’s rural life. It’s perhaps less suitable for those looking for a full Shakespeare attraction experience—like visiting his birthplace or house—but perfect for those wanting to see the lesser-known villages and enjoy some genuine regional food.

Price and Value Analysis

At $80.75 per person, this tour provides a lot of value for those interested in history, literature, and local cuisine. The small-group size, personalized guides, and authentic visits mean you’re paying for quality, not crowds or commercialized attractions. The lavish 3-course meal is a highlight, allowing you to indulge in regional culinary traditions without worrying about the quality or authenticity.

Considering the duration—just three hours—this isn’t a full-day outing, but it’s enough to feel like a meaningful excursion without it taking over your entire day. For travelers with limited time, it’s a practical and enriching way to connect with Shakespeare’s world in a relaxed setting.

In Summary: Who Should Sign Up?

If you’re a literature lover eager to see Shakespeare’s Warwickshire from a local’s perspective, this tour offers a genuine, manageable way to deepen your understanding of his life outside Stratford. Fans of scenic drives and picturesque villages will appreciate the stunning views and authentic small-town atmosphere. Foodies seeking a traditional English carvery will also find this a highlight.

It’s especially suitable if you value small-group intimacy and expert guides who weave stories into your journey. However, if your preference is for longer, more comprehensive Shakespeare experiences or traveling with very young children, you might want to consider other options in Stratford.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts roughly three hours, including the village visits, the meal, and the return to Stratford-upon-Avon.

What is included in the price?
You get pick-up in Stratford, visits to eight villages, and a lavish 3-course carvery meal at a historic inn in Wixford.

Are there departure times I should know about?
Yes, departures are typically at 11:00 and 14:30 on Sundays. Check availability for your preferred time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, mainly because of the nature of the visits and meal setting.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Do guides speak other languages?
Yes, guides are available in English and French.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

To sum it up, the Alternative Shakespeare Tour + 3 Course Carvery offers a charming, authentic look at Shakespeare’s lesser-known Warwickshire villages, combined with a warm, hearty meal. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate history, scenic countryside, and small-group experiences that feel both intimate and genuine. If you want to peel back the layers of Shakespeare’s rural life and enjoy some regional culinary comfort, this tour makes a thoughtful choice.