Stratford-upon-Avon is relatively easy to get around in, since the town is laid out in a grid pattern and there are very few winding streets. There are also plenty of distinctive landmarks to help guide visitors if they get lost.  The Shakespeare birthplace is in a pedestrianised street, but vehicles are allowed at certain times, so be careful.

There are local bus services available, as well as open-top tourist buses that run daily with tour guides providing commentary on the various sites along the way.  You can hop on and hop off these buses at the Shakespeare properties but be warned that the tourist buses charge for the ride only, entry to the sites is an extra. 

There are some guided ( Stratford Town Walk) and self-guided walking tours available, or visitors can rent a bicycle and explore the town on their own. This can be a great way to maneouvre through back alleyways and lesser-known areas of town. 

Those who choose to drive to Stratford-upon-Avon will usually have problems finding a place to park. There is on-street parking of only 20 minutes in most areas of town. There are several longer-term parking lots as well, with high charges. The new park-and-ride is excellent, just a short distance away from town on the north side, with frequent buses.  Unfortunately, these finish running before the theatre evening performance starts, so don't leave your car there.   While some people prefer the freedom that a car allows, Stratford-upon-Avon has enough alternative transportation options to accommodate anyone, and a stroll through the streets of town or along the riverwalk is an experience not to be missed.  Try the chain ferry, halfway between the theatre and Holy Trinity Church - it may not be there for much longer.  An ideal view of Stratford-upon-Avon can be gained by walking across the tramway bridge, along the side of the river, past the weir and lock to Lucy's Mill bridge, then over to the other side and back along the river through the theatre gardens, passing Holy Trinity Church on the way.  Shakespeare is supposedly buried in the Church itself - however, you may be asked to pay if you wish to visit his grave site.

The present riverside theatre, built 1932, is now closed for refurbishment for three years.  However, the "temporary" theatre nearby  is a tremendous asset and far more comfortable with better views of performances.