Anne Hathaway's Cottage
Step into the 15th-century childhood home of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare's wife, surrounded by enchanting gardens and rich Tudor history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Anne Hathaway's Cottage
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the 15th-century childhood home of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare's wife, surrounded by enchanting gardens and rich Tudor history.
"The gardens and the little forest around the cottage are even better! One of my favourite places in Stratford-upon-Avon for sure."
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Save time and potentially money by booking 'Shakespeare's Story' tickets online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the extensive gardens and grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tudor Cottage
Interior
Step back in time in this 500-year-old farmhouse, the childhood home of Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway.
Enchanting Gardens
Exterior Grounds
Wander through picturesque cottage gardens, a tranquil orchard, and a woodland walk with Shakespearean sculptures.
Informative Stewards
Throughout the property
Engaging guides share fascinating stories and historical details about the Hathaway family and Tudor life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Save time and potentially money by booking 'Shakespeare's Story' tickets online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the extensive gardens and grounds.
📸 Capture the Charm
The cottage and gardens are incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour. 
🌳 Explore Beyond the House
Don't miss the beautiful gardens, orchard, and woodland walk; they are a major highlight.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Save time and potentially money by booking 'Shakespeare's Story' tickets online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the extensive gardens and grounds.
📸 Capture the Charm
The cottage and gardens are incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour.
🌳 Explore Beyond the House
Don't miss the beautiful gardens, orchard, and woodland walk; they are a major highlight.
🗣️ Chat with the Guides
The knowledgeable stewards bring the history to life with engaging stories.
☕ Visit the Garden Cafe
Enjoy refreshments at the clean and well-regarded cafe located across the road.
💧 Be Prepared for Weather
The area can experience rain and flooding; check forecasts before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Anne Hathaway's Cottage for its idyllic setting, charming Tudor architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. The knowledgeable and friendly guides are frequently highlighted for bringing the history to life. While some mention seasonal garden challenges or the potential for crowds, the overall experience is described as peaceful, enchanting, and a valuable glimpse into the past.
"We really loved our visit to Anne’s house. Located on the outskirts of town, it’s setting with the gardens and orchard were absolutely idyllic. In the house, there were staff at different locations, explaining and demonstrating different parts of the home and how certain items (like the oven) worked. They were highly informative and added to our visit. Rooms also had many signs with background info. They sell cider from the apples on the farm (as well as many other souvenirs). I found it to be both quiet at relaxing at the time of our visit."
Alyssa Becker
"A beautiful location and the house and grounds were lovely, especially the orchard and the sculptures.
Front garden was empty which was a shame but we think they were revamping and considering the recent hot weather doesn't difficult to keep plants going.
Susan the tour guide at the front of the house was excellent and friendly well work a listen to, to get the background story.
the Cafe opposite was super clean and had a small but excellent menu and gardens to sit in."
Annette Goodbun
"Just a short drive away from Stratford-upon-Avon is this exquisite cottage. It's an intriguing place, steeped in local history and the Hathaway family. The stewards are very knowledgeable and welcoming. There is a lovely garden cafe across the road, and a nice gift shop which also has some cottage garden plants for sale just outside. The extensive grounds are stunning and include a cottage garden, an orchard, an arboretum with several Shakespearean sculptures, a delightful lawned edge area with box hedging and so on. It's worth buying the Shakespeare’s Story tickets because they cover all three homes, and you can revisit within the year after purchase."
Christianne Cherry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anne Hathaway's Cottage is located in Shottery, just a short distance from Stratford-upon-Avon. You can reach it by a pleasant walk (about 20-30 minutes), a local bus service, or a short taxi ride. Many visitors find the walk through the countryside enjoyable.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors at Anne Hathaway's Cottage. It's convenient for those arriving by car, making it accessible for day-trippers.
Absolutely! A scenic walk from Stratford-upon-Avon to Anne Hathaway's Cottage is highly recommended. It's a lovely way to experience the surrounding countryside and adds to the overall charm of the visit.
The address for Anne Hathaway's Cottage is Cottage Ln, Shottery, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9HH, United Kingdom.
Yes, local bus services operate from Stratford-upon-Avon to Shottery, making Anne Hathaway's Cottage accessible via public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but purchasing a 'Shakespeare's Story' ticket often provides access to Anne Hathaway's Cottage along with other Shakespearean properties and is valid for a year. It's recommended to check the official Shakespeare Birthplace Trust website for the most current admission prices and package deals.
While not always mandatory, booking your tickets in advance, especially for the 'Shakespeare's Story' pass, is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, particularly during peak seasons.
Anne Hathaway's Cottage generally follows seasonal opening hours. It's best to check the official Shakespeare Birthplace Trust website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening times before your visit, as they can change.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the door, but booking online in advance is often advised to avoid queues and ensure availability, especially during busy periods.
Discounts may be available for various groups, such as families, seniors, or students. The 'Shakespeare's Story' ticket often offers better value if you plan to visit multiple properties. Check the official website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find original furniture and artifacts that offer a glimpse into Tudor life. Knowledgeable guides are stationed throughout to share stories about Anne Hathaway and her family.
Most visitors spend around 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the cottage and its beautiful gardens. However, you could easily spend longer if you wish to fully immerse yourself in the grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Assistance dogs are typically welcome at Anne Hathaway's Cottage and its grounds. For other pets, it's best to check the specific policy on the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust website, as they may only be permitted in certain outdoor areas.
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the historic cottage and the expansive gardens. The interactive elements and stories shared by guides can make it an engaging experience for younger visitors.
Take your time to wander through the different sections, including the cottage garden, orchard, and arboretum. Look out for the Shakespearean sculptures and enjoy the seasonal blooms.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a lovely garden cafe located across the road from Anne Hathaway's Cottage, offering a selection of food and drinks. It's a convenient spot to relax after exploring the property.
Yes, there is a gift shop at Anne Hathaway's Cottage where you can purchase souvenirs, including items related to Shakespeare and the cottage, as well as cottage garden plants.
Besides the garden cafe, Stratford-upon-Avon itself offers a wide range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants for dining. The cafe opposite the cottage is highly rated for its cleanliness and menu.
Yes, the property sometimes sells local produce, such as cider made from apples grown on the farm, alongside other souvenirs.
While specific picnic areas might not be designated, the extensive grounds offer many beautiful spots to enjoy a picnic. It's always good to be mindful of the surroundings and any specific rules in place.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire property is picturesque! Focus on the thatched cottage exterior, the blooming cottage gardens, the orchard, and the woodland paths. The golden hour light is particularly magical.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed and encouraged. However, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Always be respectful of other visitors.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire directly with the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust regarding drone policies.
Early morning or late afternoon, during the 'golden hours,' offers the most beautiful light for photography, creating a soft, warm glow on the cottage and gardens.
While interior photography might be restricted in some areas to protect artifacts, you can often capture the charm of the rooms, including bedrooms with antique furniture, from designated viewpoints.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for interactive elements and stories shared by the guides, which can captivate younger minds. The visual appeal of the thatched cottage and the natural beauty of the grounds make it a memorable outing. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings, and remember comfortable shoes for exploring.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
+1Strolling hand-in-hand through the blooming gardens, enjoying the peaceful ambiance, and imagining the early life of Shakespeare's wife can create a truly special experience. The nearby garden cafe also provides a charming spot for a relaxed coffee or light lunch together. Visiting during the golden hour can add an extra touch of magic to your visit.
📚 History Buffs and Literary Enthusiasts
+1The cottage itself is rich with historical artifacts and architectural details, while the knowledgeable guides provide deep insights into the Hathaway family's life and the social context of the time. Exploring the grounds, with their Shakespearean sculptures, further enhances the literary connection. Purchasing the 'Shakespeare's Story' ticket is highly recommended for a comprehensive experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Anne Hathaway's Cottage
+1Anne Hathaway lived in this wattle-and-daub cottage until her marriage to William Shakespeare in 1583. The cottage remained in the Hathaway family for generations before eventually being purchased by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust in 1892. Today, it stands as a testament to Tudor rural life, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past and the woman who inspired some of Shakespeare's most enduring works.
+1Visitors can explore the cozy interiors, which feature original furniture and artifacts, providing a vivid sense of domestic life in the 16th century. The house itself is a fascinating example of vernacular architecture, showcasing the building techniques and living conditions of the period. The presence of knowledgeable guides further enhances the experience, bringing the history to life with personal anecdotes and detailed explanations.
Exploring the Gardens and Grounds
+2A particular highlight is the woodland walk, which leads to an arboretum dotted with sculptures inspired by Shakespeare's plays. This area provides a serene environment for contemplation and appreciation of both nature and literature. The grounds also include beautifully manicured lawns and hedging, creating a visually stunning landscape throughout the year.
Social media content frequently showcases the beauty of these gardens, with creators highlighting the seasonal changes and the overall idyllic atmosphere. While the gardens are generally well-kept, some visitors have noted occasional challenges, such as deer damage or the impact of hot weather on plant life, underscoring the ongoing efforts to preserve this natural beauty.
The Role of Guides and Interpretation
Guides provide context for the artifacts, explain the historical significance of different rooms, and offer fascinating details about the Hathaway family and their way of life. They often demonstrate how historical items, like the oven, were used, adding a practical and interactive dimension to the tour. This personal touch transforms a visit from a passive observation into an immersive historical journey.
Many reviews and social media posts commend the guides for their friendliness, expertise, and ability to tailor information to different audiences. This community-driven interpretation is a vital part of understanding the heritage of Anne Hathaway's Cottage and its connection to William Shakespeare.
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