Local Stories, National Growth

English Tourism Week (13 - 22 March 2026) is a celebration of the people, places and experiences that make England such an extraordinary destination to explore.

This year’s theme, “Local Stories, National Growth,” shines a spotlight on the independent businesses, passionate people and special places that create unique visitor experiences and play such an important role in supporting UK tourism economy.

In Shakespeare’s England, local stories are everywhere. Discover historic, cobbled streets and World famous landmarks, stop for coffee and cake in family-run cafés, chic town centre bistros or cosy country pubs, and explore breath-taking countryside or charming towns and villages. Whether you are a first time visitor or a local resident rediscovering your own backyard, English Tourism Week offers you the perfect excuse to explore.

Here are just a few ways to celebrate English Tourism Week 2026 in Shakespeare's England.

Step into Shakespeare’s Story

No visit to Shakespeare's England is complete without experiencing the world of William Shakespeare, whose legacy continues to shape the town of Stratford-upon-Avon and beyond.

Walk in the footsteps of the world’s most famous playwright and rediscover his life and family at the Shakespeare Houses.  Stand in the home where Shakespeare was born and spent his early years at Shakespeare's Birthplace, and relive Shakespeare's love story at Anne Hathaway's Cottage - the childhood home of his wife (as depicted in the 2026 film biopic 'Hamnet', based on the book by Maggie O'Farrell).

Book an exclusive guided tour: Hamnet: The Shakespeare Story where you can discover the real story of grief, loss and love at the family home of Anne Hathaway. Tours are available on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7th March - 20th May 2026 and must be purchased alongside an admission ticket for Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

In Stratford-upon-Avon you can explore streets filled with independent shops and cafés, including Judith's School of Spirits, owned by the award-winning Shakespeare Distillery. Judith's was once the home of Shakespeare's daughter Judith, and is now the place to purchase the Shakespeare Distillery's own gin and rum, or attend a tasting or masterclass experience! 

Whilst in town you can take in a world-class performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, or enjoy a guided tour around the historic building to discover fascinating tales and backstage secrets.

These iconic attractions are not just part of our history, they continue to inspire visitors from across the world and support the vibrant tourism economy that surrounds them.

Discover the Local Businesses Behind the Experience

Because tourism is about much more than landmarks, it’s also about the people who bring our places to life.

Across Shakespeare’s England you’ll find passionate local businesses creating memorable experiences every day.

Enjoy a locally sourced meal at a welcoming pub, browse independent boutiques and artisan producers, or unwind at one of our luxurious countryside hotels and spas.

Many of our tourism businesses, shops, cafes and restaurants are proudly independent and family-run, meaning every visit supports the local economy and helps these stories to continue for generations to come.

Explore Our Countryside and Historic Landscapes

Beyond Shakespeare's England's towns and villages lies Warwickshire's beautiful countryside.

From rolling Warwickshire hills and peaceful riverside walks to historic estates and gardens, there are endless opportunities to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Spring is the perfect time to explore - as the days lengthen you can experience fresh seasonal produce and witness landscapes beginning to bloom.

Try Something New

English Tourism Week is also a great opportunity to discover experiences you may not have tried before.

Here are a few suggestions from the Shakespeare's England team:

  • Take a guided walking tour of Stratford-upon-Avon with Stratford Town Walk and uncover hidden stories of the historic town, or for something different join theWeird Walk of Warwick for a night time jaunt around Warwick's ancient streets
     
  • Try a local food or drink experience - like locally made gelato at Hooray's Gelato Kitchen in Stratford-upon-Avon, or a famous Henley Ice Cream in the quaint market town of Henley in Arden. For an unforgettable dining experience in a beautiful location head to The Bower House in Shipston on Stour, or the Howard Arms Pub in Illmington. Both award-winning, both offering wonderful, seasonal, locally sourced dishes. 
     
  • Visit an attraction you’ve never been to before - for instance, you can discover years of British motoring heritage at the British Motor Museum, walk amongst rare butterflies and small creatures at the Stratford Butterfly Farm, or tour around over 900 years of history in the magnificent, mediaeval half-timbered buildings of the Lord Leycester in Warwick.
     
  • Book a relaxing spa day or countryside escape - try the gorgeous Billesley Manor Hotel and Spa near Stratford-upon-Avon, or the quintessential English style of Mallory Court Hotel and Spa.
     
  • Support a local shop, café or creative business - we love exploring charm of Alcester High Street which is packed with lovely, independent cafes, bakeries, boutiques and shops.

Even if you live locally, there’s always something new to discover.

Supporting Local Stories

Tourism plays a vital role in supporting jobs, businesses and communities across Shakespeare's England.

By choosing to explore locally, you’re helping local businesses thrive. So whether it's visiting an attraction, booking a short break, or simply enjoying a day out, you are helping to protect and preserve the stories of places like Shakespeare’s England so they can continue to be shared with visitors from around the world.

Plan Your Visit

Join us this English Tourism Week and celebrate the people, places and experiences that make Shakespeare’s England so special.

Start planning your visit and discover what’s waiting just around the corner.

Explore things to do, places to stay and experiences across the region on our website or follow us on social media for regular inspiration. Don't forget to tag #EnglishTourismWeek26 and #MyShakespearesEngland in any of your own stories on social media!