Saturday, August 23, 2014

Stratford-upon-Avon, the Birthplace of William Shakespeare

Stratford-upon-Avon, England, became a popular tourist destination owing to its status as birthplace of William Shakespeare (1564-1616), English poet, playwright and actor.

Other tourist attractions within the town include houses relating to Shakespeare's life:
Hall's Croft - the one time home of Shakespeare's daughter, Susanna, and her husband Dr. John Hall
Nash's House - the house next door to the ruins and gardens of New Place.
New Place - Shakespeare's final place of residence in Stratford. He died there in 1616. Though the house no longer exists.

Stratford developed as a market town during the medieval period. Hanley Street is one of the town's oldest streets filled with half-timbered dwellings and now a major tourist attraction with many cafes.

The Shrieves House on Sheep Street is one of the oldest still lived in houses in the town. Oliver Cromwell, English military and political leader, is thought to have stayed here in 1651.
Behind the Shrieves House is a museum called 'Tudor World' with recreations of 16th century life in theatrical settings.

Shakespeare's Family House