A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Bristol for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol?

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 Bristol can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a park-filled, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and theater.

Bristol

Bristol is a friendly, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bristol. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol are both popular with visitors, Bristol has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bristol is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Bristol is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. It is also home to The Bristol Harbour. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Bristol?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bristol 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 Bristol?

Bristol is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Bristol specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

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 Bristol Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Bristol is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Stratford-upon-Avon that are not to be missed. 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.

Bristol is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol 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 Bristol area. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

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

Bristol is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Bristol has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

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

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon has an old town worth visiting. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.

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

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

Bristol is well-known for its shopping. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

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

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

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol.

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 Bristol. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

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

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Stratford-upon-Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Bristol is a good town for couples to visit. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

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

Bristol is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Bristol. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

Bristol 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.

Bristol has some public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

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 Bristol a more walkable city?

Bristol is a very popular 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.

Bristol is a very walkable city. The city center is well designed for walking.

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 Bristol Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bristol 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 Bristol.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bristol 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 Bristol.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town with plenty to do. One reason most visitors come is for the theater. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bristol, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Bristol?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the theater. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer.

Many people visit Bristol for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bristol, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The destination of Bristol offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Since Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the theater. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bristol. This city 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. And not only is Bristol much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bristol would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bristol and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Stratford-upon-Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stratford-upon-Avon than you might in Bristol.

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 Bristol Expensive?.

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

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol, 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.

When is the best time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bristol in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Bristol. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Bristol averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more rain than Bristol. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Bristol. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn for the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Bristol. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Bristol fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Bristol. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol in the Winter?

Both Bristol and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bristol because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon is much colder than Bristol in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Bristol fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Bristol. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bristol in the Spring?

Both Bristol and Stratford-upon-Avon during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bristol this time of year.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Bristol. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Bristol averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets more rain in April than Bristol. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bristol and Stratford-upon-Avon