Stratford upon Avon's Historic Canal Basin
Discover the beating heart of Stratford's Industrial past
This is certainly the most beautiful and picturesque part of Stratford. It has open public areas by the water to relax and enjoy, located between the main theatres and shopping areas, being a just a 'stones throw' away from both. As well as great place to start sightseeing, there are many good options for food and refreshment. Why not try a freshly made baguette followed by coffee and ice cream, all of which can be purchased from the various canal barges that now trade as unique and imaginative food outlets!
History of the Canal
In 1816 a 25-mile long canal had reached Stratford from Birmingham. It forged a link between Birmingham and the Black Country to Stratford. Coal supplies and industrial goods could then be brought here taking a minimum of 2 to 3 days on barges.
As the canal joined the River Avon, a huge variety of goods could be brought back and forth from the far reaches of the world via the sea-port of Bristol. The canal wharfs at Stratford were a hive of activity. They lined 2 large canal basins and the banks of the River Avon.
The original canal basin remains to this day, the other was filled in to form Bancroft Gardens, the area in front of The RST. Find out more here from the Canal and River Trust .
Today, thousands of local families and visitors from all over the world flock here to enjoy our beautiful open spaces including all the joys the water has to offer.
This is certainly the most beautiful and picturesque part of Stratford. It has open public areas by the water to relax and enjoy, located between the main theatres and shopping areas, being a just a 'stones throw' away from both. As well as great place to start sightseeing, there are many good options for food and refreshment. Why not try a freshly made baguette followed by coffee and ice cream, all of which can be purchased from the various canal barges that now trade as unique and imaginative food outlets!
History of the Canal
In 1816 a 25-mile long canal had reached Stratford from Birmingham. It forged a link between Birmingham and the Black Country to Stratford. Coal supplies and industrial goods could then be brought here taking a minimum of 2 to 3 days on barges.
As the canal joined the River Avon, a huge variety of goods could be brought back and forth from the far reaches of the world via the sea-port of Bristol. The canal wharfs at Stratford were a hive of activity. They lined 2 large canal basins and the banks of the River Avon.
The original canal basin remains to this day, the other was filled in to form Bancroft Gardens, the area in front of The RST. Find out more here from the Canal and River Trust .
Today, thousands of local families and visitors from all over the world flock here to enjoy our beautiful open spaces including all the joys the water has to offer.