Summary
22 Cottage Lane, Shottery, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9HH, UK
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Phone: +44 1789 338532
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The Childhood Home of Shakespeare’s Bride
Imagining a visit to a picturesque, half-timbered, white-washed, thatch-roofed cottage likely leads you to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. This iconic site remains one of the most photographed thatched cottages globally, recognized on calendars, book covers, and more. However, beyond its aesthetic charm, the cottage is central to a family narrative infused with intrigue.
About the Cottage
Anne Hathaway, the wife of William Shakespeare, was born in this historic cottage in 1556. Constructed in 1463, the original structure comprised merely three rooms. Anne’s grandfather was the first resident, and during her youth, the family thrived as sheep farmers. Following her father’s death, Anne’s brother acquired the property, a significant move indicating true ownership.
The cottage is expertly built with naturally curved timber beams and walls of wattle and daub, giving it a unique character. While scholars debate if Shakespeare ever lived there, he is believed to have courted Anne during her time in the charming abode.
Occupants descended from Anne’s family continued to inhabit the cottage until 1911, preserving many rare family artifacts dating back to the 16th century. Though it’s romantic to envision the ornate, intricately carved Hathaway bed as Shakespeare’s, historical records suggest it may have belonged to Anne’s brother, valued in his will.
Love Match or Shotgun Wedding?
The marriage between Anne and Will sparked curiosity in the quaint market town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Shakespeare’s father, John, was an influential figure in the community, thus shaping expectations for his son. As an educated youth, Will was anticipated to seek a respectable companion to build a future in his father’s business.
Conversely, Anne was a farmer’s daughter from Shottery, slightly older at 26 while Will was only 18. Their whirlwind marriage raised questions, particularly as it unfolded hastily without banns and required a special license. Six months post-wedding, Anne gave birth to their first child, Susanna.
This brings forth contrasting theories: Was it a shotgun wedding, or was Anne the more socially established partner? During that era, marrying slightly older was not uncommon, allowing her some societal status. After her father’s passing, a modest inheritance awaited her upon marriage, juxtaposing John Shakespeare’s waning fortunes.
Additionally, early modern British customs, such as handfasting, implied that couples could be bound even before official ceremonies, resulting in pregnancies like Anne’s. While common tales suggest Shakespeare fled to London for fortune, it’s likely he left well after they had already established a life with three children, only to return for a peaceful retirement alongside Anne in Stratford-upon-Avon.
What to See At Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
- Explore the house: Knowledgeable guides from the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust provide insights into the various rooms and the history of the Hathaway family and their connection to Shakespeare. Don’t miss the stunning Hathaway bed, the original kitchen, and parlor.
- Visit the idyllic gardens: Anne Hathaway’s cottage is surrounded by a quintessential English garden filled with diverse flora, complemented by a fruit orchard with heritage varieties, a maze, and even a willow house inspired by literary works.
- Retail therapy: The gift shop offers unique souvenirs and merchandise inspired by the cottage, ensuring a memorable shopping experience.
- Have a cream tea: The onsite café provides traditional English cream teas and light meals, boasting lovely views of the cottage.
What to See Nearby
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is conveniently located within a 10-minute drive of other notable Shakespeare family homes, managed by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, such as:
- Shakespeare’s Birthplace offers exhibits and live performances centered around the legacy of Shakespeare’s family.
- Mary Arden’s Farm, showcasing the authentic Tudor farming experience with costumed guides and heritage livestock.
- Hall’s Croft provides fascinating insights into Jacobean medical practices within the home of Shakespeare’s daughter.
- Shakespeare’s New Place details his later years and includes an Elizabethan garden and exhibition center.
- The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is a premier venue for outstanding Shakespearean and contemporary performances on the River Avon.
Essentials
- Where: 22 Cottage Lane, Shottery, Warwickshire, CV37 9HH
- Directions: Located roughly a mile west of Stratford-upon-Avon town center, easily accessible via public transport such as CitySightseeing’s Hop on Hop Off bus.
- Hours: The Shakespeare houses are open daily, but hours vary seasonally; it’s recommended to check ahead for timings.
- Admission: A full-price adult ticket for Anne Hathaway’s Cottage costs £12.50, with discounts available for seniors and children. For substantial savings, purchasing a “Full Story” ticket can provide unlimited access to all five Shakespeare houses within a year.
- Telephone: +44 (0)1789 204 016
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