The Midlands, England
Initiate planning well in advance for a relaxed trip.
What to do 3 months, 1 month, 1 week before.
Check passport validity. Research and apply for any necessary UK visas, beginning the online application process and scheduling your visa application center appointment.
Especially during peak season or school holidays, booking flights well in advance often brings better rates and availability. Search for flights here.
Reserve your preferred hotel, B&B, or vacation rental, specifically if visiting during peak tourist times or a major RSC performance run.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance From World Nomads covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation/interruption, and baggage loss.
Book Royal Shakespeare Company theatre tickets, which sell out quickly. Purchase the Shakespeare's Story Ticket online for discounted entry to the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust properties.
Plan day trips and book any necessary train tickets or tours. Identify restaurants you want to try and make dinner reservations for popular spots.
Double-check flight times, accommodation bookings, theatre tickets, and any pre-booked tours. Check weather forecast for packing.
Arrange for mobile phone roaming or local SIM/eSIM. Inform bank of travel plans to avoid card issues. Consider NordVPN for secure internet access while traveling.
Organize essential documents: passport, visa (if applicable), travel insurance policy details, and copies of all reservations. Store digital copies. Charge all electronics.
Flights (international and domestic if connecting), accommodation, Royal Shakespeare Company theatre tickets, Shakespeare's Story Ticket (for the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust properties), and popular day tours or train journeys during peak times.
Familiarize yourself with UK currency (Great British Pound) and exchange rates. Understand local tipping etiquette and basic driving laws if you plan to self-drive. Reading up on William Shakespeare's life and works can notably elevate your visit to his hometown.
A well-organized checklist for preparation, creating a smooth and stress-free journey.
Create digital and printed copies of all important documents, and keep them separate. This grants backup if one set is lost or stolen.
These steps make for a quick settlement upon reaching Stratford-upon-Avon.
Clear immigration and customs efficiently. Have your passport and supporting documents ready.
Locate an ATM or currency exchange to obtain local currency (Great British Pounds) if you require cash. ATMs generally yield better exchange rates than airport exchange kiosks.
Activate your local SIM card or confirm your mobile roaming works correctly.
Locate the Tourist Information Centre in Stratford-upon-Avon for local maps, brochures, and advice.
Familiarize yourself with the immediate vicinity of your accommodation, noting nearby shops, restaurants, and transport links.
Follow your pre-planned route via train, coach, or taxi from your arrival airport or train station to your accommodation in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Clear immigration and customs efficiently with documents ready.
Activate local SIM or roaming. Locate ATM for local currency or exchange small amounts.
Locate Tourist Information. Familiarize yourself with accommodation area. Follow pre-planned transport route.
Download any essential apps before your trip. This includes navigation, transport, or translation apps, all ready for use.
Prepare for your departure from Stratford-upon-Avon for a smooth journey home.
Allow time for any last-minute souvenir shopping. If purchasing large or fragile items, inquire with retailers about shipping services to your home country.
Create digital and printed copies of all important documents, and keep them separate.
This grants backup if one set is lost or stolen.
