StratforduponAvon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a market town in Warwickshire, England, situated on the River Avon. It lies in the Stratford-on-Avon district of the county and forms part of the West Midlands region. The town has a population in the tens of thousands and is best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare and as a center for the performing arts.

Historically, Stratford grew as a medieval market town with river trade links and later expanded with the arrival of the railway. It developed as a tourist destination in the 18th and 19th centuries due to its Shakespearean associations and preserved historic streets.

Key attractions include Shakespeare's Birthplace on Henley Street, the Holy Trinity Church where Shakespeare is traditionally believed to be buried, and the nearby cottages and houses preserved as museums. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre hosts performances by the Royal Shakespeare Company and forms a focal point for theatre in the town. Anne Hathaway's Cottage and Gardens in nearby Shottery are also popular visits.

Economically, Stratford relies largely on tourism, culture, and services. The town hosts heritage sites, festivals, and theatre productions that attract visitors from across the country and abroad.

Transport links connect Stratford to Birmingham, Oxford, and London via rail, with roads linking to surrounding towns. The town is served by local schools, libraries, and community facilities and serves as a regional hub for surrounding villages.