This delightful English town is most famous for being the birthplace of Shakespeare. The Shakespeare sites are, of course, a big attraction but winter brings a Christmas shopping spirit to the town with everything from high street brands to local independents, you'll also find a great choice of quirky cafés and restaurants when you're ready to rest your legs. The High Street, Sheep Street, Wood Street and Henley Street are lined with medieval timber-framed buildings that make for a window shoppers' paradise.

Perhaps visit The Bard's 16th century childhood home at Shakespeare's Birthplace, combine this with a visit to Anne Hathaway's Cottage and Shakespeare's New Place and you'll get a wonderful insight into the life of the world's greatest storyteller (entry fees apply). Download a free Walking Guide from Visit Stratford-Upon-Avon and choose between their self guided River Walk or Historic Walk.