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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a quaint, idyllic, and peaceful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Other popular activities here include food and theater.

Dover

Dover is a breathtaking, iconic, and rustic town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Dover: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Dover?

Both Dover and Stratford-upon-Avon have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm, while Dover is known for its museums, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dover is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Dover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

Dover is very good for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Dover offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

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 Dover Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

Stratford-upon-Avon is a world-class destination for its shows and theatre. However, Dover 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.

Dover is not a theatre destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Dover 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 Dover area. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

Dover is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

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


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

Stratford-upon-Avon is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Dover does not have a historic old town.

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

Dover does not have a historic old town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover Better for Hiking?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

Dover 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 Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

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

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 Dover. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

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

Dover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

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 Dover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

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

Dover is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

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 Dover Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Dover.

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 Dover. There are public buses through the district.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Dover

Stratford-upon-Avon and Dover are good when it comes to walkability.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Dover is a somewhat walkable town. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover?

It's fun to spend time in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dover due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dover.

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

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


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Dover 2-4

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover?

Even though Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Lots of people come for the theater. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Dover, many people enjoy the food and museums 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 Dover?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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


Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a fun place to experience. Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the theater. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The beautiful destination of Dover offers food and museums. 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. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the theater. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Dover. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This 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 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, Dover 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 Dover is £124. 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 Dover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Dover £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Dover £124
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Dover

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dover? 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 Dover


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 Dover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Dover £39

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: $270

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $208
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $146
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $54
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $65
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $54
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $130
  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $252

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

Prices for flights to both Dover 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
    Dover £38
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: $162
  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Dover £20
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:

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter: $6.99
  • Warwick Self-Guided Immersive Audio Walking Tour: $8.80
  • Stratford-Upon-Avon Audio Walking Tour: Shakespeare's Life: $8.83
  • Shakespeare’s A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • City Exploration Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Tudor World Museum Entrance Ticket: $9.90
  • Shakespeare & Hathaway TV Sites Tour: $11
  • Shakespeare and Hathaway 2-Hour Self Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Historical Walking Tour: $12
  • The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour: $12
  • The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon: $13
  • The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Canterbury Landmarks Private Walking Tour: $217
  • Canterbury Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $275
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Canterbury's World Heritage Sites Guided Walking Tour: $227
  • Christmas Tales in Canterbury – Private Walking Tour: $216
  • Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles: $208
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $28
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $175
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $170
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $107
  • Literary & Cultural Heritage: Canterbury Private Walking Tour: $217
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Dover £7.71
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

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $176


When comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Dover, 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 Dover Expensive?.


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

Dover has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Dover, 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 Dover?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

The summer brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Dover. The summer months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dover this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dover. In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Dover. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 212 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Dover. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dover receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stratford-upon-Avon 17°C (63°F) 
    Dover 17°C (63°F)

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

Both Dover and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dover for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Dover. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Dover fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Dover during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 119 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dover. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dover receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stratford-upon-Avon 11°C (52°F) 
    Dover 12°C (54°F)

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

Both Dover and Stratford-upon-Avon during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dover in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Dover can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Stratford-upon-Avon. Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Dover in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Dover fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Dover. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 57 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets more rain in January than Dover. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dover receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stratford-upon-Avon 3°C (38°F) 
    Dover 4°C (40°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Dover. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Dover for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Dover. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Dover averages at about 9°C (47°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Dover during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dover. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stratford-upon-Avon 9°C (48°F) 
    Dover 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dover and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Dover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)