Warwickshire is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of arguably the world’s most famous playwright however, it’s not only Shakespeare fans who come to this part of England. You can also learn about the sport of rugby in its birthplace, see medieval castles in varying states of repair and explore the Nazi-bombed ruins of an old cathedral.
Make a literary pilgrimage to Stratford-Upon-Avon, the Tudor-style town which served as home to William Shakespeare. See Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and his humble grave at the Holy Trinity Church. Attend a show at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or the Swan Theatre, both of which are run by the highly acclaimed Royal Shakespeare Company.
Sports fans won’t want to miss Rugby. This pleasant market town is hallowed ground for followers of the game, which was said to have been invented here at Rugby School. The school is closed to the public so head to the World Rugby Hall of Fame instead to find out more about the evolution of the sport.
Another major settlement in the region is Coventry. Although much of the city was destroyed during Nazi bombings in World War II, some pre-war sites still remain intact. Among the most poignant is the bombed-out remains of St. Michael’s Cathedral, which stands alongside the modernist-style Coventry Cathedral.
History enthusiasts will feel at home in Warwickshire, where many centuries-old buildings remain standing. Enter the well preserved Warwick Castle to observe jousting tournaments, shows and themed events. Also of note are the atmospheric ruins of Kenilworth Castle, a former royal castle that was first built in the 1120s.
For a retreat into nature, stroll or cycle around the 600-acre (242-hectare) Kingsbury Water Park. Pedal or walk by the edge of the park’s 15 lakes, ride a miniature railway, rent a pedal boat or take the kids to the children’s farm.
Warwickshire is located to the east and south of Birmingham. Most of the main towns here have train stations, including Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwick and Rugby but if you want to explore the surrounding area at your own pace, renting a car is the most convenient option.