A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Bath for Attractions, Couples, Old Town, and Food

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a idyllic, peaceful, and park-filled town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food and theater.

Bath

Bath is a beautiful, architectural, and charming spa town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Family-friendly
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Historic Roman Baths


Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bath. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath are popular destinations, Bath has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bath is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions and small town charm. Bath is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums. It is also well known for The Historic Roman Baths. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

The Historic Roman Baths
The Historic Roman Baths

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Bath?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bath and Stratford-upon-Avon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Bath are world-renowned. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Stratford-upon-Avon is an unbeatable place for theatre. However, Bath is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Stratford-upon-Avon is world-class. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Bath is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath can be an enjoyable experience.

Stratford-upon-Avon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bath area. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath Better for Nightlife?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bath. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is a very popular place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bath. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively atmosphere.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bath is well-known for its shopping. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath Better for Families?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly town. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bath. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath Better for Couples?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Bath has plenty to offer. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Bath is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath Better for Students?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Bath is very popular with students. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Bath has some public transit options. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath

Bath is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Bath. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Bath Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bath or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bath than in Stratford-upon-Avon. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bath.

Families should spend more time in Bath than Stratford-upon-Avon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bath, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bath than Stratford-upon-Avon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bath that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bath than Stratford-upon-Avon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bath.


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Bath 1-3

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bath, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the theater. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Bath for a weekend. Lots of people come for the museums. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bath, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The beautiful destination of Bath offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Because Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bath. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This spa town offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Bath or Stratford-upon-Avon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Stratford-upon-Avon is £144, while the average daily cost in Bath is £141. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Bath £79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Bath £158
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon


Hotels in Bath


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Stratford-upon-Avon Hotel Prices and Bath Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Bath £26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also for Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Stratford-upon-Avon To London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $274

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bath

Also for Bath, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bus Transfer to/from Bristol Airport: $21

Is it cheaper to fly into Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Prices for flights to both Bath and Stratford-upon-Avon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £39
    Bath £43
Typical Food Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Cheese & Crackers
    £7.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Shakespearean Cooking Experience in Stratford-upon-Avon: $164
  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $178

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Bath £17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Stratford-upon-Avon's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Warwick Castle (2)
    £59
  • Lunch
    £12
  • Lunch for 2
    £17

Tours and Activities in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Day Tour Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon : $256
  • 2-Hour Alpaca Farm Experience in Kenilworth: $33
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter: $5.59
  • Bath & Stonehenge Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $128
  • City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • Clay Shooting Experience in Warwickshire: $45
  • Cotswold Walks & Villages Tour from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh: $109
  • Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh: $83
  • Cotswolds Electric Bike Tour- Public Tour max 6 persons: $255
  • Cotswolds Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $96
  • Coventry’s Rich Heritage: Godiva Quarter Private Walking Tour: $238

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bath

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Bath's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thermal Bath Spa
    £35

Tours and Activities in Bath

For Bath, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Fully Guided Bath Ghost Tours: $21
  • Spa Experience with Massage Treatments: $154
  • 'Hidden Cotswolds & Dark Age England' tour for 2-8 from Bath: $334
  • 'Stonehenge & Secret England' from Bath for 2-8 curious adventurers: $288
  • "Stonehenge & Secret England" Tour for 2-8 guests from Bath: $372
  • Awesome Bath – Family Walking Tour: $432
  • Awesome Family Walking Tour: $219
  • 2-Hour Bath Walking Tour of Bridgerton Filming Locations: $256
  • Private Walking Tour | Blue Badge Guide, 2h, £200 per group: $256
  • Bad of Bath fun Walking Tour of Bath: $20
  • Bath & Oxford Day Trip from London - Self-Guided Audio Tours: $19
  • Bath & Stonehenge City Break from London - Self-Guided Tours: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Bath £14
Typical Alcohol Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Stratford-upon-Avon from other travelers:


  • Beers
    £8.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also in Stratford-upon-Avon, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket: $25
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 1pm Ticket: $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Bath

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bath:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $48


When comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Bath Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Bath?

Bath has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.