Anne Hathaway's Cottage is a historic house associated with Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway. It is located in Shottery, a village just outside Stratford-upon-Avon in the United Kingdom. The cottage is a popular tourist attraction because of its connection to the famous playwright and poet, William Shakespeare.
The cottage is famous for being the childhood home of Anne Hathaway, the wife of William Shakespeare. It is a well-preserved example of a 16th-century English farmhouse with traditional gardens. Its connection to Shakespeare and the picturesque setting make it a significant site for history and literature enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore the thatched cottage where Anne Hathaway lived before she married Shakespeare, including original furniture and family items. The property also features beautiful gardens, orchards, and woodlands, as well as a sculpture trail. Informative displays exhibit the life and times of Anne Hathaway and the Tudor period.
The cottage often hosts events throughout the year, including garden tours, seasonal festivities, and educational programs designed to engage visitors with Tudor history, Shakespeare's works, and Elizabethan life.
Visitors can reach Anne Hathaway's Cottage via public transport, including local bus services from Stratford-upon-Avon town center. Those driving can follow signposts from the town to Shottery. There is a car park available for visitors. Some tourists prefer walking or cycling from Stratford-upon-Avon, enjoying the scenic route.
Yes, there is an admission fee to visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage. The fee supports the maintenance and preservation of the property. Prices vary for adults, children, and concessions, and there are often family tickets available. Visitors can also purchase a combined ticket for multiple Shakespeare family homes in the area.
Opening hours vary depending on the season, usually with longer hours during the spring and summer months and shorter hours off-season. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the property directly for current opening times before planning a visit.
Guided tours are not always necessary since the site is self-explanatory with plenty of informative signage. However, staff and volunteers are available to answer questions and sometimes offer informal talks. Audio guides are also available for those who wish to learn more during their visit.
Typically, the gardens and grounds are only accessible with admission to the cottage. The admission fee includes access to the house, gardens, and any exhibitions on the property.
While the ground floor of the cottage is accessible to visitors with mobility issues, the upper floors are not due to the age and design of the building. The gardens are partly accessible, but some areas may present challenges due to natural terrain. It is best to check in advance for any specific accessibility needs.