Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

Anne Hathaway Cottage Stratford History

Step into the historic family home of Anne Hathaway and discover a fascinating glimpse into sixteenth-century life. Located near Stratford upon Avon, this charming farmhouse cottage dates back more than five centuries and offers visitors an intimate connection with the woman who became William Shakespeare's wife.

The earliest section of the cottage was built around 1463, originally consisting of three rooms across a single floor. Anne Hathaway was born here in 1556, and the property remained within her family for thirteen generations. The young Shakespeare is believed to have visited Anne at the cottage during the early years of their relationship.

Visitors can explore all twelve rooms of the historic cottage while discovering original furniture and household belongings that reveal how Anne and her family lived. Among the treasured objects is Anne's bed, offering a tangible connection to the home's remarkable history and the generations who lived there.

Outside, beautiful gardens surround the cottage with colourful plants and flowers connected to Shakespeare's works. A sculpture trail inspired by his plays adds another layer of interest to the visit. Together, the historic interiors, gardens and literary connections create an engaging journey through five centuries of family and Shakespearean history.