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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Inverness?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the food and theater. See Stratford-upon-Avon travel costs.

Inverness

Inverness is a traditional, local, and historic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Inverness travel costs.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Inverness: 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 for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to Loch Ness


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Inverness than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Inverness is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Inverness is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. Also, Inverness is famous for Loch Ness. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Inverness?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

Inverness 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 Inverness specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

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 Inverness Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

Stratford-upon-Avon is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness is not a theatre destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

Inverness is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Inverness has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

Inverness is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Music and theater are what make this nightlife interesting.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

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

Many people head to Stratford-upon-Avon to see the old town. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

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

Inverness is well-known for its shopping. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

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

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Inverness.

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 Inverness. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Inverness are notable 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.

Inverness is a good town for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Inverness.

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 Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness

Inverness 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.

Inverness is a very walkable city. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town 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 Inverness Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Inverness?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Inverness?

Even though Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Inverness, 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 Inverness?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Inverness 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 Inverness, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Inverness?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the theater. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The destination of Inverness 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 Inverness?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Inverness. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


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

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Stratford-upon-Avon Prices
    UK Prices
    Inverness Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £144
    Inverness £204

The average daily cost (per person) in Stratford-upon-Avon is £144, while the average daily cost in Inverness is £204. 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 Inverness in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Inverness £91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Inverness £182
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Inverness

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


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 Inverness Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Inverness £33

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: $282

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Private Transfer from Invergordon Port to Aberdeen Airport (ABZ): $116
  • Private Inverness Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $59
  • Private Inverness Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $59
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct Transfer: $1,231
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Ullapool : $197
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Fort William : $231
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $133
  • Inverness Airport and Hotels Private Transfers: $99
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $67
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Glasgow to Inverness Direct Transfer: $1,231

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

Prices for flights to both Inverness 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
    Inverness £85
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:

  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $183

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Inverness £44
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
  • app-based walking tour: $7.13
  • Ghosts, Crime & Legends Quest Experience in Warwick: $7.13
  • Stratford-upon-Avon Self Guided Walking Tour with App: $7.31
  • How Ancient Gloucester Helped Change the World Audio Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Stratford-Upon-Avon Audio Walking Tour: Shakespeare's Life: $9.22
  • Warwick Self-Guided Immersive Audio Walking Tour: $9.22
  • Tudor World Museum Entrance Ticket: $10
  • Museum Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Stratford-upon-Avon Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $12
  • Coventry Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $12
  • Warwick Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $12

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • Inverness Tour-Cawdor Castle,Culloden Battlefield,Clava Cairns : $145
  • 1 Hour Shared Rewilding Walking Tour at Dundreggan: $20
  • 1-Day Moray Coast Tour with Speyside Whisky from Inverness: $102
  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour in Inverness City Centre with a Guide: $197
  • 2-Day Tour to Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles: $197
  • 2-Hour Private Celtic Handfasting Ceremony Experience: $112
  • Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour: $170
  • Chauffeur driven sightseeing Edinburgh to & from Inverness: $1,037
  • Clan Tour - OUTLANDER series and Loch Ness: $180
  • Clan Tour - of Speyside Distilleries: $218
  • Craigs Luxury Speyside Private Whisky Tour: $906
  • Day tour to Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools from Inverness: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Inverness £23
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:

  • Gin Tasting for Two at Judith’s, Shakespeare Distillery: $19
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour & Tasting (Gin & Rum): $25
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket: $26
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 1pm Ticket: $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

Also in Inverness, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Distillery and Brewery Tour in Inverness Scotland: $46
  • INVERGORDON PORT Tour Dunrobin, Dornoch & Distillery : $118
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,167


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Inverness, we can see that Inverness is more expensive. And not only is Stratford-upon-Avon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Stratford-upon-Avon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Inverness would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Inverness than you might in Stratford-upon-Avon.

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 Inverness Expensive?.


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

Inverness has a larger population, and is about 81% larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Inverness, 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 Inverness?

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 Inverness in the Summer?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Inverness in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Inverness fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 147 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Inverness. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

Both Inverness 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 Inverness for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Inverness. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Inverness averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Inverness during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Inverness. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

Both Inverness 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 Inverness in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Inverness can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Stratford-upon-Avon. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Inverness. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Inverness fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 42 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Inverness. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Inverness in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Inverness fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Inverness during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more rain than Inverness. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Inverness and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Inverness
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)