Bancroft Basin
A picturesque canal basin in Stratford-upon-Avon, offering scenic moorings and easy access to town, Shakespearean sites, and River Avon cruises.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for boating
Bancroft Basin
Best Time
Pleasant weather for boating
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque canal basin in Stratford-upon-Avon, offering scenic moorings and easy access to town, Shakespearean sites, and River Avon cruises.
"This was the end of my walk from The Gas Street Basin in Birmingham and it was lovely to see another well presented marina."
⚓ Moor with a View
Bancroft Basin offers scenic moorings, but can be busy. Consider quieter river spots if available. :boat:
🎶 Enjoy the Buskers
The lively buskers add to the atmosphere. Don't miss their performances near the basin! :musical_note:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bancroft Basin Moorings
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
A scenic artificial marina in the town center, perfect for narrowboats and offering beautiful views.
River Avon Cruise
River Avon
Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Countess of Evesham for a unique perspective of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Spring's Carousel
Bancroft Canal Basin
A charming carousel adding a touch of whimsy to the canal basin, especially delightful for families.
Buskers and Atmosphere
Bancroft Gardens
Experience the lively atmosphere created by talented buskers near the basin, adding to the town's charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Shakespearean Charm
Navigating the Waterways
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚓ Moor with a View
Bancroft Basin offers scenic moorings, but can be busy. Consider quieter river spots if available. :boat:
🎶 Enjoy the Buskers
The lively buskers add to the atmosphere. Don't miss their performances near the basin! :musical_note:
🚢 Dinner Cruise Delight
A dinner cruise on the River Avon is a unique way to see Stratford. Book in advance! 
🛍️ Explore Nearby Shops
Bancroft Basin is central to Stratford's shops, including charity shops for unique finds. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
⚓ Moor with a View
Bancroft Basin offers scenic moorings, but can be busy. Consider quieter river spots if available. :boat:
🎶 Enjoy the Buskers
The lively buskers add to the atmosphere. Don't miss their performances near the basin! :musical_note:
🚢 Dinner Cruise Delight
A dinner cruise on the River Avon is a unique way to see Stratford. Book in advance!
🛍️ Explore Nearby Shops
Bancroft Basin is central to Stratford's shops, including charity shops for unique finds. :shopping_bags:
🎭 Shakespearean Immersion
Combine your visit with Shakespeare's birthplace and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. :performing_arts:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bancroft Basin is lauded as a beautifully presented and scenic marina, perfectly situated in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Visitors praise its convenient location for town access and the picturesque views of the River Avon. While generally well-regarded, some mention occasional noise and issues with people jumping on boats.
"The Bancroft Basin has to be 5 Stars, it does everything it should.
This was the end of my walk from The Gas Street Basin in Birmingham and it was lovely to see another well presented marina.
Right at the tip of the Stratford Canal is the River Avon, very pretty views.
Stratford has everything you expect of a medium size town with the addition of having Shakespeare as a draw card 😁"
Paul Tooze (No Journey Too Small)
"Nice spot right in the thick of it. Can be noisy and occasionally issues with people jumping on boats, but very convenient location for town centre. Quieter moorings on the river available."
Leigh Kirk-Harris
"Loved the buskers, and the atmosphere they created. The barge selling coffees was so needed on a cold morning!"
Jackie Butler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bancroft Basin is located in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. There are several car parks nearby, including the Recreation Ground Car Park and the Windsor Street Car Park. From the car parks, it's a short walk to the basin.
Yes, Stratford-upon-Avon has a train station with services from major cities like London and Birmingham. The basin is a short walk from the station. Buses also serve the town center.
Absolutely! Bancroft Basin is a popular mooring spot on the Stratford Canal, offering access to the River Avon. Be prepared for potential busy periods and the assistance of lock volunteers.
Several car parks are available, with varying charges. The Recreation Ground and Windsor Street car parks are convenient options for accessing the basin and town center.
Bancroft Basin is centrally located in Stratford-upon-Avon, adjacent to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Bancroft Gardens, making it easy to find.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bancroft Basin itself is a public area and does not require tickets. However, attractions like the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or Shakespeare's birthplace will have their own admission fees and booking requirements.
Bancroft Gardens, which surround Bancroft Basin, are free to enter and enjoy. They offer beautiful views and a pleasant place to stroll.
Moorings at Bancroft Basin are managed by Canal & River Trust. Fees vary depending on the length of stay and boat size. It's advisable to check their website for current pricing.
Yes, cruises like the Countess of Evesham offer dinner packages. It's highly recommended to book these in advance, especially during peak season.
Bancroft Basin and the surrounding areas sometimes host events, such as the 'Wuthering Heights Day' tribute. Keep an eye on local event listings for updates. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy boat trips, explore Bancroft Gardens, watch buskers, visit the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and browse nearby shops and cafes. +1
Yes, families can enjoy the carousel, watching the boats, and the general lively atmosphere. The gardens are also great for a stroll.
Bancroft Basin is a public waterway and is accessible at all times. However, businesses and attractions around it will have their own operating hours.
Public restrooms are typically available in the town center, often near the main attractions and car parks.
Yes, Bancroft Basin and its surroundings offer many picturesque photo opportunities, from the boats to the gardens and theatres.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Stratford-upon-Avon has numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants within easy walking distance of Bancroft Basin, offering a variety of cuisines.
There's often a barge selling coffees and snacks, which is very convenient, especially on a chilly morning.
For a special occasion, consider the dinner cruise on the Countess of Evesham for a unique dining experience with scenic views.
You'll find traditional British pubs, international cuisine, and charming cafes offering everything from light bites to full meals.
Prices can vary, but there are options for all budgets, from affordable cafes to more upscale restaurants. The barge coffee is a good budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
The basin itself with its colorful boats, the River Avon, Bancroft Gardens, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre provide excellent photographic subjects.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Evenings can be lovely with the lights reflecting on the water.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be mindful of private property and any specific rules for attractions.
You can capture wide shots of the basin and gardens, close-ups of boats, reflections on the water, and architectural details of the surrounding buildings.
Drone usage may be restricted in town centers and near public attractions. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a short boat trip on the River Avon for a fun and relaxing experience. Many families also enjoy visiting Shakespeare's Birthplace and the Butterfly Farm, which are engaging and educational for younger visitors. The town's atmosphere, with its street performers, can also be quite captivating for children.
🛶 Canal Enthusiasts & Boat Owners
Be prepared for potential busyness and be mindful of the advice regarding people jumping on boats. However, the scenic beauty and central location make it a highly desirable spot. Exploring the Avon Navigation Trust's routes from here opens up further cruising opportunities.
📚 Literary Buffs
Dedicate time to visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and other associated properties to gain a deeper understanding of his life and times. The town's historical ambiance, enhanced by the river and canal, will transport you back to the Elizabethan era.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Waterways: Bancroft Basin and the River Avon
+1The River Avon itself offers a different perspective of Stratford-upon-Avon. Cruising along its waters allows you to pass by significant landmarks like the Swan Theatre and Holy Trinity Church. For a truly memorable experience, consider a dinner cruise aboard a vessel like the Countess of Evesham. These cruises offer a unique vantage point of the town's historic architecture as it lights up in the evening, providing a romantic and scenic dining experience.
+1For those arriving by boat, understanding the local waterway management is key. Lock volunteers often assist with passage through locks, and it's good practice to be prepared for potentially busy periods, especially during peak season. The basin can occasionally experience issues with people jumping on boats, so vigilance is advised. However, the overall experience of mooring in such a central and beautiful location is highly rewarding for canal enthusiasts.
The Shakespearean Connection
Beyond the theatre, you can explore Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage, all within easy reach of Bancroft Basin. These sites offer a deep dive into the life and times of the Bard, providing context and a tangible connection to history. The town itself is designed to immerse you in this heritage, with many shops and eateries playing on the Shakespearean theme.
Even the more casual visitor can feel the historical resonance. The charm of Stratford-upon-Avon, with its Tudor architecture and riverside setting, evokes a sense of stepping back in time. The presence of buskers often performing period-appropriate pieces further enhances this atmosphere, making the entire area around Bancroft Basin feel like a living museum.
Beyond the Basin: Exploring Stratford-upon-Avon
For a different kind of experience, consider visiting attractions like the Butterfly Farm, which provides a tropical escape with a variety of fluttering insects. The town also hosts various events throughout the year, from festivals to historical reenactments, adding to its vibrant appeal. Keep an eye on local listings to see what's happening during your visit.
Food and drink options abound, catering to all tastes and budgets. From traditional pubs serving hearty meals to charming cafes offering light refreshments, you'll find plenty of places to refuel. The barge selling coffees near the basin is a popular and convenient spot for a quick pick-me-up.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit