Royal Shakespeare Theatre

Standing on the banks of the Avon with its distinctive red-brick tower, this is where Shakespeare's plays get the treatment they deserve. The Royal Shakespeare Company's main venue puts on everything from the classics to bold new interpretations, and frankly, if you're going to see Hamlet anywhere, this is the spot. The theatre itself is a proper modern space - they rebuilt it in 2010 - with excellent sightlines and that thrust stage that brings the action right into the audience.

Shakespeare enthusiasts will be in their element, obviously, but the productions here work for anyone who enjoys good theatre. The RSC doesn't do stuffy - expect inventive staging and performances that make 400-year-old text feel immediate. Book ahead though, especially for the big-name productions.

Ticket prices vary wildly depending on the show and seats, but there are often cheaper options if you're flexible. Most performances run around three hours including intervals.

For families staying at nearby sites like Rayford Caravan Park or Stratford Parks, it makes for a brilliant evening out after a day exploring the town. The theatre sits right in Stratford-upon-Avon's centre, so you can easily combine it with the other Shakespeare attractions and a proper pub dinner.