Stratford & the Severn Valley 2011 

Your tour starts today when you meet your Tour Manager at the 4-star Stratford Manor Hotel. On Day 2 we learn about Stratford's history and connections with the 'Bard' and enjoy a walk through the centre of town visiting three of Shakespeare's properties - Shakespeare's Birthplace, Nash House/New Place and Hall's Croft. This afternoon is free to explore further. (Day 1-D; Day 2-B,D)

This morning we head first for medieval Warwick Castle, built in 1068 by William the Conqueror, overlooking the River Avon. We learn about the tumultuous past of this intriguing fortress from our local guide and have time to wander through its attractive gardens. We then continue to Kidderminster where we pick up the Severn Valley Railway, travelling along the riverside line to Bridgnorth, a historic, bustling market town featuring Tudor-style buildings, magnificent churches, castle ruins and lush gardens. We have time to explore before returning by vintage train through gorgeous scenery. (B,D)

Please see the note at the bottom of the itinerary regarding the 30 June departure.

We travel by coach today into the Cotswolds. Our first stop is in the delightful village of Bourton-on-the-Water, with mellow Cotswold cottages lining its streets. Take a stroll along the River Windrush, flowing through the centre of the village and spanned by picturesque stone bridges, or pick up some souvenirs from the many shops in the main street. We continue on to the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, a charming heritage railway carrying visitors from Toddington through the outstanding countryside in the Heart of England to Cheltenham. On our return we stop at scenic Stow-on-the-Wold, set on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding countryside. (B,D)

Today you are free to explore at leisure. After an early dinner in the hotel, we visit the Courtyard Theatre for a Royal Shakespeare Company evening performance of one of the Bard's plays. (B,D)

After breakfast this morning you are free to say your goodbyes and leave Stratford at your leisure. Alternatively, why not explore this delightful town further before departing later today? (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday

Our departure on 30 June 2011 coincides with the Severn Valley Railway's 1940s weekend. On Day 3 of this departure we will spend the whole day at the Severn Valley Railway enjoying the costumed re-enactments and displays. We include a day ticket for the Railway which will allow you get on and off any steam train during the day.

The excursion to Warwick Castle will take place on the morning of Day 5, giving you the afternoon at leisure.