Shakespeare's Grave, Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare is one of the best known, and loved, playwrights of the Tudor (or indeed any) age, and Stratford has become synonymous with his name. So, a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon really should include a visit to the great man’s grave. Shakespeare's grave can be found near the altar in Holy Trinity Church, and visitors can expect to be charged a £2 entrance fee to get into the church to see it (although there is a ticket for entry into all of the Shakespeare-related houses in Stratford, which includes entry into the church, and what’s more, it is 2 for 1 for English Heritage members).

There are two very simple problems I have with this attraction: firstly I object to being charged to enter something that should be free. If there was an additional building or other tourist attractions at the site, then this might be different. But it is, after all is said and done, just a crypt in a church building. Secondly, the church provides ‘information’ on a few boards lined up towards the altar, although there is very little on these boards but supposition, and they are written in such glowing terms of his religiosity that one could be forgiven for thinking he had been a model of piety and correctness. Bias such as this should be kept away from history, wherever it’s based.

So, in summary despite the draw to see the bard’s grave, it really isn’t worth visiting, unless as part of the full ticket tour. Go and take a few pictures of the grave stone, but don’t expect to learn anything useful whilst your there.

To find out more about Shakespeare's grave, click here.