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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Nottingham?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming, historic, and quaint town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for food and theater.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a livable, cultural, and authentic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Nottingham: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nottingham. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Nottingham are popular destinations, Nottingham has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nottingham is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Nottingham is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also well known for Old Market Square. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Nottingham?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

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 Nottingham Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is very popular for theatre. However, Nottingham is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Stratford-upon-Avon that are not to be missed. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Nottingham is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Nottingham 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 Nottingham area. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

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

Nottingham is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Nottingham. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

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

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Nottingham Better for Music?

Nottingham is very good for its live music scene. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

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

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

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

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

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

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

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

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

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

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Nottingham.

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 Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

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

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Nottingham are nice 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.

Nottingham is a good town for couples to visit. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

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

Nottingham is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Nottingham can get you around easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

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

Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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 Nottingham Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Nottingham?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Nottingham to fill your time. In our opinion, Nottingham has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nottingham than Stratford-upon-Avon. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Nottingham?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stratford-upon-Avon, one day is sufficent for most.

In Nottingham, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music 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 Nottingham?

Even though Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

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

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Nottingham?

Stratford-upon-Avon, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The destination of Nottingham offers food and shopping. 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 Nottingham?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Nottingham. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.

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

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 Nottingham Expensive?.

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

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Nottingham, 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 Nottingham?

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 Nottingham in the Summer?

Both Nottingham and Stratford-upon-Avon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nottingham in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Nottingham. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 17°C (63°F), and Nottingham fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nottingham. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nottingham receives 196 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Nottingham. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Nottingham. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn for the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Nottingham in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Nottingham fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nottingham during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Nottingham receives 112 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more rain than Nottingham. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Nottingham. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Nottingham. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Nottingham averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Nottingham. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nottingham receives 61 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Nottingham. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Nottingham and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Nottingham. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 9°C (48°F), and Nottingham fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nottingham during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Nottingham receives 151 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nottingham. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nottingham and Stratford-upon-Avon