Tucked away in the hamlet of Shottery, just a short distance from the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon, sits perhaps the most photographed cottage in England. Anne Hathaway's Cottage was the childhood home of William Shakespeare's wife, and it remains a beautiful monument to Elizabethan romance. Read our essential Anne Hathaway's Cottage visiting tips to help plan your romantic trip back in time, just a 15-minute drive from Kings Court Hotel.
A Romantic Elizabethan Love Story
Before their marriage, William Shakespeare walked the footpaths from Stratford to Shottery to court his future bride, Anne Hathaway. The cottage itself is a spacious, nine-roomed Tudor farmhouse dating back to the 15th century. It features original timber framing, low ceilings, and the actual 'Hathaway Bed' and courting settle where William and Anne would have sat together.
The house remained in the Hathaway family for generations, which preserved the unique furniture, household utensils, and historical layout of the home.
Stroll Through Walled Gardens and Orchards
The cottage is set within nine acres of stunning grounds, including formal cottage gardens, orchards, and woodland trails. Highlights of the gardens include:
- The Shakespearean Sculpture Garden: Explore bronze sculptures depicting characters from Shakespeare's plays hidden amongst the foliage.
- The Waved Garden Trail: Follow the path lined with traditional cottage flowers, lavender, and herbs that Anne would have grown for cooking and medicine.
- The Heritage Orchard: A peaceful orchard growing old English varieties of apples and pears.
"Anne Hathaway's Cottage is the epitome of the quintessential English thatched cottage, wrapped in the history of one of the world's most famous marriages."
Essential Anne Hathaway's Cottage Visiting Tips
- Book Online: We recommend buying tickets online in advance to secure your entry slot. Joint tickets are available if you plan to visit Shakespeare's Birthplace on the same day.
- Allow Enough Time: Allocate at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore both the cottage interior and the expansive gardens.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring and summer are particularly beautiful when the roses and cottage flowers are in full bloom.
After your stroll through these romantic gardens, head back to Kings Court Hotel to enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea in our private walled gardens.
