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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Lake District 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 Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a enjoyable, unique, and beautiful national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Lake District 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 Lake District National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Lake District 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 Lake District National Park is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. 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 Lake District National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Stratford-upon-Avon is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Stratford-upon-Avon is a world-class destination for its shows and theatre. However, Lake District National Park is not a theatre destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is considered to be a world-class theater destination. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

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 Lake District National Park Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Lake District 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, Lake District National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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 Lake District National Park Better for Couples?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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 Lake District National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lake District National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Lake District 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 Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Lake District National Park

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.


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

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lake District National Park?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Lake District National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Stratford-upon-Avon. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lake District National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lake District National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Lake District National Park 3-7

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lake District National Park?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town with plenty to do. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Lake District National Park?

Many people visit Stratford-upon-Avon for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people visit Lake District National Park for a weekend. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Lake District National Park?

Because Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In Lake District 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 Lake District National Park, five days is sufficent for most.


A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lake District National Park?

Stratford-upon-Avon, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This national park offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer.


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, Lake District 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 Lake District National Park is £81. 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 Lake District National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Lake District National Park £39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Lake District National Park £78
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Lake District National Park

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lake District 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 Lake District 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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Lake District National Park £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: $272

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33
  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44

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

Prices for flights to both Lake District 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
    Lake District National Park £21
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
    Lake District National Park £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:

  • 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 Lake District National Park

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

  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Lake District National Park £4.64
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 Lake District National Park, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District 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 Lake District 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 Lake District National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Lake District 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 Lake District National Park in the Summer?

Both Lake District National Park and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 159 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stratford-upon-Avon 17°C (63°F) 
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F)

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

Both Lake District National Park and Stratford-upon-Avon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 69 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Lake District National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stratford-upon-Avon 11°C (52°F) 
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Lake District National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lake District National Park in the winter. The weather in Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold. Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Lake District National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

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

The spring brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Lake District National Park. The small town charm are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 134 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Lake District National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stratford-upon-Avon 9°C (48°F) 
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Lake District National Park and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Lake District National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)