The River Avon is the beating heart flowing through Stratford. On a nice day there are so many ways to enjoy the river too. We like the walk down the river path opposite the RSC. After a while you’ll come to an interesting lock and eventually, a weir. Of course you can also take to the water. You’ll find lots of boats trips depart from opposite Cox’s Yard and they last around half an hour. You can also hire rowing boats to spend some time on the Avon. We’d also recommend that you experience the river by taking the historic chain ferry from one side to the other. The ferry takes you from the rear of the RSC to the opposite river bank and the journey costs £1 (2025 prices).
Highlights along the small section of the Avon at Stratford include…
Clopton Bridge – a 14 arch bridge dating back to 1490 which still carries traffic on the main road into Stratford.
Tramway Bridge – This used to be part of the horse drawn tramway to Gloucestershire, but is now a pedestrian bridge.
The Canal Basin – Where the canal joins the river, you’ll find a lovely marina and barges which act as retail units.
Cox’s Yard – A converted mill which houses bars, cafe’s and restaurants right next to the Tramway Bridge.
Colin P Witter Lock – An unusual lock accessed on foot from an “island” in the Avon – originally called Stratford Lock.
Boat trips on the River Avon vary in price depending on which company you use. For more information of cruise options, call the official Shakespeare’s England tourism office on +44 (0)1926 471 329. Some of the Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tickets you can buy include a short cruise in the summer. You can use this form to check latest prices and availability…
LOCATION & MAP
MORE ON THE RIVER AVON
Stratford Walking Tour – Stops alongside the River Avon
River Avon (Warwickshire) – Wikipedia page
Shakespeare’s England – Official website
Stay in Stratford-upon-Avon – Best prices from Booking.com
Stratford Upon Avon Guide Books – Amazon