A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a park-filled, charming, and historic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's also popular because of the food and theater.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Cairngorms National Park are both popular with visitors, Stratford-upon-Avon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm, while Cairngorms National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. It is also home to Shakespeare's Birthplace.

Shakespeare's Birthplace
Shakespeare's Birthplace

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Stratford-upon-Avon is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Stratford-upon-Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park area. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Stratford-upon-Avon is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cairngorms National Park is very family-friendly. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. 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.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cairngorms National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

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

Cairngorms National Park is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Cairngorms National Park.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Cairngorms National Park

Stratford-upon-Avon is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park.


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Cairngorms National Park, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people visit Cairngorms National Park for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Cairngorms National Park, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cairngorms National Park, five days is sufficent for most.


A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Cairngorms National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park 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.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is £119. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Cairngorms National Park £56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Cairngorms National Park £112
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Cairngorms National Park £53

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: $272

Is it cheaper to fly into Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park £30
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: $163
  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $176

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Cairngorms National Park £26
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 : $254
  • 2-Hour Alpaca Farm Experience in Kenilworth: $33
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter: $6.99
  • Bath & Stonehenge Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $127
  • City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • Clay Shooting Experience in Warwickshire: $44
  • Cotswold Walks & Villages Tour from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh: $108
  • Cotswolds : 30 Minute Flight Experience: $224
  • Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh: $95
  • Cotswolds Electric Bike Tour- Public Tour max 6 persons: $250
  • Cotswolds Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $31
  • Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $95

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222
  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Cairngorms National Park £8.41
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 Gin Distillery Tour & Taste: $24
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket: $25
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 1pm Ticket: $25


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. And not only is Cairngorms National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cairngorms National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park.

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 Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Cairngorms National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stratford-upon-Avon 17°C (63°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Stratford-upon-Avon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cairngorms National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stratford-upon-Avon 11°C (52°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Cairngorms National Park. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Cairngorms National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Stratford-upon-Avon. Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cairngorms National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stratford-upon-Avon 3°C (38°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets more rain in April than Cairngorms National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stratford-upon-Avon 9°C (48°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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