If you are footsore and weary from shopping or sightseeing, why not see Stratford-upon-Avon from a different perspective? Hop aboard one of the modern passenger boats operated by Bancroft Cruisers from the wharf at the Stratford Moat House and take a 35 minute sightseeing cruise down river. Note that there are spaces on the larger boats for up to three wheelchairs. Bancroft Cruisers are also available for charter bookings, complete with on board bar facilities.
This handy service provides and delivers bicycles in Stratford, Warwickshire, and the Cotswolds. At the end of your journey, your bike will be collected. This allows travelers to tour Shakespeare's birthplace in an environmentally friendly way. They also will direct visitors to attractive tours, accommodations, and local activities. If you enjoy your bike, they also sell bicycles at The Cycle Studio. Stratford Bike Hire has a cycle hire centre, and five miles of traffic free path that is perfect for a day's ride. You can also enjoy a drink in the cafe located in refurbished railway carriages.
It's nice to know that battles with developers can sometimes be won. This park covers nearly 30 acres of land some five miles to the north-east of Birmingham city centre; land that was to have been built on until the council finally purchased it a few years ago. The site comprises ponds, woodland and a wildflower meadow providing a home for various species of wildlife. Various events are held at the park throughout the year, including birdwatching, conservation workshops and nature rambles. Call ahead for more information.
Tewkesbury Abbey was built in 1091 and it became a focal point of the town of Tewkesbury, near the Cotswolds. Although a victim of the Reformation, the people of the town bought the abbey from Henry VIII to save it from further damage. Now it is open as a tourist attraction; there are elaborate chapels, medieval tombs and relics, and fine stained glass and roof bosses. There is a shop selling souvenirs, gifts and cards and a restaurant as well.
Arbury Hall is an Elizabethan mansion that has been in the Newdigate family since 1586. In Victorian times, the house was adapted to the Gothic style and nowadays it is admired for its striking Gothic architecture which includes examples of fan vaulting and filigree tracery. Arbury also has fine collections of glass, china, paintings and furniture.