Shakespeare Express

Immerse yourself in Shakespeare Country on this charming and very special new tour. Staying in a smart 4* hotel within walking distance of the town centre, take in the best of Stratford Upon Avon, celebrating the life of William Shakespeare who was born and is buried here. Drift along the River Avon on a relaxing cruise, walk in the playwright's footsteps and explore Shakespeare's birthplace and enjoy a lovely Sunday lunch on the vintage steam-hauled Shakespeare Express
A historic market town with more than 800 years of history, Stratford upon Avon contains not only many buildings that have survived and would have been familiar to Shakespeare, but is also a thriving community offering a wide variety of leisure, accommodation and shopping experiences.

Departure points to suit you...
Crusader Holidays uses an interchange system, taking place at either Beaconsfield Services (M40), South Mimms Services (M25/A1M) or Thurrock Services (M25).

Here you may have to change to your holiday coach and we are renowned for ensuring that this is smooth and efficient.

The holiday coaches typically depart from Beaconsfield Services at 11.15, Thurrock Services at around 09.30 and South Mimms Services at 10.30. Some customers find it more convenient to join direct at the interchange, please let is know when booking if this is the case.

*Due to increased operational costs, from Monday 16th October 2023 Dover, Folkestone, Canterbury & Ashford joining points will be subject to a £25.00 per person supplement on all 2024 UK Tours.

NOTE: Pick up points are a guide so please refer to your holiday confirmation for specific locations as details are subject to change.Explore charming Stratford Upon Avon
Day 1 After joining your holiday coach head to Stratford Upon Avon pausing en-route for refreshments. Check in for 3 nights and enjoy a welcome drink on arrival whilst porters take your luggage to your room. DBB

Day 2 - 3 At leisure in Stratford Upon Avon with two included excursions
Stratford upon Avon is a wonderful treasure trove waiting to be explored. Stroll along charming streets lined with independent boutiques and gift shops, as well as more familiar household names. As a busy British market town visited by tourists from across the world, Stratford upon Avon offers a wide range of local restaurants, pubs, and cafes in the town, both independently run and more familiar brands. Enjoy a stroll along the banks of the River Avon and watch the swans glide by and row boats gently splashing in the water.

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
Stratford upon Avon - Cruise & Shakespeare's Birthplace
Begin the day aboard a relaxing 45-minute river cruise complete with an engaging live commentary bringing Shakespeare's Stratford to life as you drift along the Avon. After disembarking, there is time at leisure for a stroll through the bustling town and have a spot of lunch, before getting ensconced in the town's eminent history at Shakespeare's Birthplace. Enjoy a fascinating visit where you can walk in the playwright's famous footsteps, exploring his childhood home at our own pace, hear tales of family life in the playwright's early years, and learn about life as a glove maker's son in an Elizabethan market town. Discover objects that tell the story of Shakespeare's life, and hear the origins of some of the English language's most unusual sayings and myths.

Sunday Lunch aboard the Shakespeare Express
Enjoy a leisurely start to the day with a relaxed morning in the hotel or a Sunday morning stroll through town. Today's highlight is the return journey on the epic Shakespeare Express with lunch onboard. Travelling from Stratford upon Avon to Birmingham and back again along the scenic Shakespeare Line, the journey is approximately an hour in each direction through city townscapes and the pretty Warwickshire countryside. The Shakespeare Express is typically hauled by express steam locomotive (or occasionally heritage diesel locomotive particularly at times of high fire risk) at speeds of up to 75 mph via Solihull non-stop to Birmingham Moor Street. You will be seated at a table for up to 4 people in stylish Pullman carriages where a 3-course Sunday lunch (set menu) is served as you admire the beautiful passing views. (Tables for 2 are on request and subject to supplement and availability). Tea and coffee are included after lunch (additional drinks at your own expense). There are toilet facilities on board (not to be used whilst the train is stationary in a station). Return to Stratford Upon Avon by mid-afternoon

Day 4 After a leisurely breakfast, drive to interchange with a stop en-route and ample time for refreshments

Highlights
- Hotel for 3 nights with breakfast & dinner- Porterage- Welcome tea / coffee on arrival- 45-minute sightseeing cruise on the River Avon- Entrance to Shakespeare's Birthplace- 3-course Sunday lunch with tea/coffee aboard The Shakespeare Express (Stratford Upon Avon - Birmingham return)- Time at leisure in Stratford Upon AvonCrowne Plaza Hotel, Stratford Upon Avon
This modern 4* hotel is ideally situated just off the M40 motorway and within walking distance of central Stratford-upon-Avon and its many attractions. It enjoys a picturesque setting amid landscaped gardens, located beside the River Avon. The welcoming bedrooms are bright and contemporary and come equipped with TV and tea/coffee making facilities and all mod cons. Guests can enjoy lovely views from the riverside restaurant or relax with a drink at the terrace bar and lounge. Leisure facilities include a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa pool, steam room and gym. There is a lift. All single rooms are double for sole use