Anne Hathaway’s Cottage Guide & Reviews (2026)

Time Needed

1.5 - 2 Hours

Built

1463

Best For

Shakespeare, Tudor History & Gardens

Address & Navigation

The cottage sits in Shottery, about a mile from Stratford-upon-Avon town centre. For sat nav, use CV37 9HH. If you are walking from town, the last stretch feels wonderfully village-like, with hedgerows and older cottages before the thatch comes into view.

A 1463 Farmhouse

Originally built as a farmhouse in 1463, the oldest surviving rooms include the kitchen and parlour. The cottage grew over time, but the character stays unmistakably Tudor.

The Hathaway Family

The Hathaway family lived here for generations, working as successful tenant sheep farmers when the site was known as Hewlands. Anne Hathaway was born here in 1556.

Shakespeare’s Courtship

This is the house Shakespeare is believed to have visited during his early relationship with Anne. Later expansions (completed by 1624) helped turn a working farmhouse into the larger home you see today.

Typical Admission Rates

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage tickets are sold by Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. You can visit with a standalone ticket, or pay a reduced add-on price when purchased with the Shakespeare’s Birthplace ticket. Pre-booking is recommended for the smoothest entry.

• Adult (18+): £15.00 (or £5.00 with Shakespeare’s Birthplace ticket)
• Child (3-17): £7.50 (or £2.50 with Shakespeare’s Birthplace ticket)
• Concession: £12.75 (or £4.25 with Shakespeare’s Birthplace ticket)
• Under 3s: FREE

Bundle Value

If you are also visiting Shakespeare’s Birthplace, look at the reduced add-on price for Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. It is often the best value route if you are doing more than one site.

Residents Go Free

If you live in the CV37 postcode area, check the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust Residents Go Free ticket. It can provide free access across selected Shakespeare family homes.

Gift Aid Option

If you are a UK taxpayer and you choose Gift Aid at checkout, it helps support conservation and collections at no extra cost to you. Handy if you want your ticket to do a bit more.

WHO WILL LOVE IT

• Shakespeare fans: This is one of the most atmospheric sites tied to his personal life.
• Garden lovers: The orchards and cottage gardens are easy to lose track of time in.
• Photo people: Thatched roofs, timber frames, and an orchard backdrop almost do the work for you.

WHO MIGHT HATE IT

• Anyone who dislikes tight historic spaces: Expect low doorways, narrow passages, and uneven floors.
• People rushing a day trip: It is best enjoyed slowly, especially in the gardens and orchard.

Gardens and Orchards

The outdoor space is a lifesaver with kids. Let them burn off energy in the gardens, then head inside once they have had a proper run around.

Sculpture Trail

There is a sculpture trail inspired by Shakespeare’s plays. Turning it into a quick scavenger hunt keeps the mood light between the historic rooms.

Garden Café Break

The Garden Café opposite is a handy reset. A hot drink, a sweet treat, and suddenly everyone is cheerful again.

🪵 The Original Rooms

The kitchen and parlour are the oldest surviving rooms. Take a second to notice the worn thresholds and the feel of the timber work up close.

🛏️ The Hathaway Bed

One of the most talked-about objects on site is the Hathaway bed and other original furniture, which makes the house feel lived-in rather than staged.

🍎 Orchard and Trails

Do not rush the outside. The orchard paths and sculpture trail are where the visit turns from a quick tour into a proper, peaceful wander.

🟢 Early Mornings

Calm and unrushed. Arrive close to opening at 10:00 am for the quietest rooms and the best chance to linger in the gardens without feeling squeezed.

🔴 Late Morning to Midday

Busy. The cottage is popular with day-trippers, so late morning can feel packed, especially at weekends and during school holidays.

🟡 Mid to Late Afternoon

Better again. Crowds often ease later in the day. Just keep an eye on last admission times (seasonal), so you do not get caught out.

🏠 Shakespeare’s Birthplace

🚶 20 - 25 mins
(About a mile, depending on your route and pace)

⛪ Holy Trinity Church

🚶 30 - 35 mins
(Continue through town towards the river)

🚆 Stratford-upon-Avon Station

🚶 35 - 45 mins
(Allow extra time if you are navigating busy town centre pavements)

Stratford Town Centre

Most convenient for restaurants, riverside walks, and other Shakespeare sites. You can still walk to the cottage, or take a short taxi if the weather turns.

Old Town

Quieter and characterful, with lovely streets and easy access to Holy Trinity Church and the river. Great if you like early morning strolls.

Shottery (Local Stay)

If you find a nearby B&B, it is wonderfully peaceful in the evenings. You are right on the doorstep of the cottage, and town is still close.

Nearest Parking (Postcode)

There is visitor parking in Shottery near the cottage. It is typically pay and display / camera-operated, and it is a short walk from the entrance:

• Cottage Lane, Shottery: CV37 9HH - visitor car park near Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.
• Blue Badge parking: there are Blue Badge spaces nearer the visitor reception area. If you use the camera-operated car park, remember to follow on-site instructions to avoid a fine.
• Coaches: free coach parking is available on site (follow site signage on arrival).

If you are staying in Stratford town centre, it can be easier to park once and use taxis, buses, or a walk for individual sites, especially at peak times.