Shakespeare's Avon Way and Stratford Greenway Loop
Shakespeare's Avon Way and Stratford Greenway Loop
4.5
(24)
122
hikers
Shakespeare's Avon Way and Stratford Greenway Loop
01:43
6.72km
30m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along the Shakespeare's Avon Way and Stratford Greenway Loop, a pleasant 4.2-mile (6.7 km) route. You'll experience a gentle ascent of just 87 feet (27 metres) over approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes, making it accessible for most. The trail offers picturesque views of the River Avon, where you can watch boats glide by, and leads you through open countryside. You'll enjoy a mix of riverside paths and the flat, accessible greenway, providing a varied and enjoyable experience. This loop is designed for a relaxed pace, allowing you to soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the area.
This route is suitable for all ages and abilities, making it an excellent choice for a family outing. While the Stratford Greenway section is mostly surfaced and easy to navigate, be aware that some parts of the Avon Way can become muddy after rain. We recommend wearing sturdy hiking boots to ensure comfort and stability on these sections. You will find amenities like Bobby's Cafe & Wine Bar, housed in a vintage train carriage, along the route for refreshments.
This loop uniquely combines sections of two popular paths, offering a diverse experience around Stratford-upon-Avon. As you hike, you will cross the historic Stannals Bridge on the Stratford Greenway, a notable reminder of the area's railway heritage. The route also takes you past significant landmarks, including the Holy Trinity Church, famously known as the burial place of William Shakespeare. This trail provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with both nature and history.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
737 m
Shakespeare's Birthplace
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
1.40 km
Decorative Lamp Post With Sculptures
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
1.89 km
Grave of William Shakespeare, Holy Trinity Church
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
2.73 km
Gordon Gray Lock and Weir Brake Lock on the River Avon
Highlight • Bridge
Weir Brake Lock is a minor waterways place on the River Avon - Warwickshire (Upper Avon Navigation) between Offenham (15 miles and 6¾ furlongs and 7 locks to the west) and Royal Shakespeare Theatre (6¾ furlongs and 1 lock to the northeast).
The nearest place in the direction of Offenham is Weir Brake Lock Weir Exit (Channel leading to the Weir - No Access); ¼ furlongs away.
The nearest place in the direction of Royal Shakespeare Theatre is Weir Brake Lock Weir Entrance (Channel leading to the Weir); ¾ furlongs away.
Tip by
4.25 km
Stannals Bridge, Stratford Greenway
Highlight • River
Tip by
5.11 km
Bobby's Cafe & Wine Bar (Vintage Train Carriage)
Highlight • Structure
Carriage BR 34644 Mk 1 is situated on The Greenway, which follows the course of part of the Honeybourne Line, a single track railway built in 1859. Now a trail for walkers and cyclists, the route links Stratford-upon-Avon to Long Marston.
The Carriage has now been converted into a characterful Cafe, Deli & Wine Bar where diner’s relax, overlooking the Stratford Racecourse.
Tip by
6.72 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.83 km
2.11 km
537 m
159 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
1.86 km
1.84 km
1.19 km
930 m
841 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 6 May
16°C
4°C
13 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike this loop?
The full loop is approximately 6.7 kilometers (4.2 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete at a steady hiking pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the sights.
Is this trail suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, this loop is rated as easy and is suitable for beginners and families. It combines the largely flat and accessible Stratford Greenway with sections of the Shakespeare's Avon Way, offering a gentle experience. The Greenway section is particularly good for all ages and abilities.
Where does the trail start, and is there parking available?
The loop starts and ends in Stratford-upon-Avon, making it convenient to access. While specific parking isn't detailed in the tour data, Stratford-upon-Avon has various public car parks throughout the town. You can typically find parking near the town center or closer to the River Avon to begin your hike.
What can I see along the route?
The route offers a blend of historical and natural sights. You'll pass by significant landmarks such as Shakespeare's Birthplace and the Grave of William Shakespeare, Holy Trinity Church. Other points of interest include the Decorative Lamp Post With Sculptures, Gordon Gray Lock and Weir Brake Lock on the River Avon, and the historic Stannals Bridge, Stratford Greenway. You might also spot the unique Bobby's Cafe & Wine Bar (Vintage Train Carriage) on the Greenway.
What is the terrain like on the loop?
The terrain is varied, offering a mix of experiences. The Stratford Greenway section is largely flat and surfaced, following an old railway line, though it can be uneven or muddy in places. Sections along the Shakespeare's Avon Way are more natural, encompassing riverside paths, open fields, and some woodlands. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended, especially after rain, as some parts can become muddy.
Is the Shakespeare's Avon Way and Stratford Greenway Loop dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. Both the Stratford Greenway and sections of the Shakespeare's Avon Way are popular with dog walkers. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially in areas with livestock or near other trail users, and always clean up after your pet.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The best time to hike this loop is generally between May and October. This period helps avoid serious winter flooding that can affect riverside sections of the Shakespeare's Avon Way. Spring offers vibrant bluebells in wooded areas, while summer and early autumn provide pleasant conditions for walking.
Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for this hike?
No, you do not need a permit, and there are no entrance fees to hike this loop. The paths are publicly accessible footpaths and greenways.
Does this loop intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the route incorporates sections of the official Shakespeare's Avon Way and the Stratford Greenway. It also briefly overlaps with parts of the National Cycle Network Route 5 and the Rail Trail: Shakespeare’s Stratford.
Are there places to get food or drinks along the way?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Stratford Greenway features cafes, including the unique Bobby's Cafe & Wine Bar (Vintage Train Carriage). Additionally, as the loop passes through and around Stratford-upon-Avon, you'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the town center.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The Stratford Greenway is known as a wildlife-friendly corridor, offering opportunities to spot diverse plant life and hear various birdsongs. Along the River Avon sections, you might see waterfowl and other riverine wildlife. The open countryside views also provide chances to observe local fauna.
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Trail Reviews
A decent walk but not one of my favourites. Too much of it takes place on busy roads. And I may be treating it unfairly due to the weather and the fact that I took a bit of a tumble in the mud. The 'light drizzle' that was forecast turned into a steady downfall. This made the relatively short public footpath a bit tricky. In places there's barely enough room for one person to stand with their feet together. In other places, on the elevated section between Stratford Marina and the railway bridge, the hand rail is rickety or missing altogether. The steps leading to the elevated section (just past the marina) are of a sturdy timber construction but steep. The steps back down are equally as steep but not so sturdy. A walk that would probably be much nicer in the dryer summer months.