You literature lovers out there will want to add Stratford-upon-Avon to your geek-out England vacay itinerary, if you haven't already. About 95 miles northwest of London, the slice of merry olde England is most well known for being Shakespeare's hometown. Tourists crowd the streets here to be closer to the Bard, but the place still retains its charm with brick pedestrian-only roads lined with little shops and tearooms, and there's the lovely river where everyone hangs.
Arguable the first spots to hit are the five buildings cared for by The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, all places with major Shakespearean ties. The main draw is the Bard's birthplace, where he also spent the first five years with his lady love Anne Hathaway (not that Anne Hathaway). His home gives you a good glimpse into 16th-century life and you also can wander through the gardens outside. ]]>