Christmas in Stratford and the Severn Valley Railway

Make your own way to our hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, where you’ll meet an experienced Tour Manager and enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening.

This morning, we include a walking tour of Stratford-upon-Avon in the company of a local Blue Badge Guide. We will explore this medieval market town steeped in culture and history, with the influence of William Shakespeare all around. Born here in 1564 in a half-timbered house on Henley Street, the town is the birthplace of the playwright.

After the tour, there is time to explore further before we board the coach and head to Warwick Castle for an afternoon visit. The castle was developed from a wooden fort, originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068, which went on to be transformed from a fortress to a stately home. It now has over 1,000 years of history to immerse yourself in. Inside, you can explore the Great Hall and state rooms, and outside there is 64 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens, including the Peacock Garden with its sculptured topiary and manicured hedges. Why not also take the time to visit one of the cafés on site?

Our coach returns us back to the hotel where we enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.

Merry Christmas! Today is yours to soak up the atmosphere and festivities in the hotel. At lunchtime, you’ll be served a traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings.

The afternoon is at your leisure; you can relax in the hotel or walk off your Christmas Lunch along the River Avon. This evening, a light meal is served in the hotel’s restaurant.

Today, we travel by coach to Bridgnorth, where we board the Severn Valley railway and enjoy a return journey by steam. The 16-mile route follows the winding path of the River Severn, so sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning river views as the train travels across the 200-metre Victoria Bridge. Alighting at Kidderminster station, we will enjoy an included light lunch and refreshments. We board the train for the return journey to Bridgnorth, where our coach meets us and takes us back to the hotel for our evening meal.

After breakfast, say goodbye to our Shakespearean setting and make your own way home.