Why I dream of living in this charming West Midlands market town named best place to live by Muddy Stilettos

I currently live about 45 minutes away, but Stratford-upon-Avon has become our go-to spot for family days out.

It’s one of those towns that just has it all - the buzz of a market, riverside walks, proper pubs, and shops you actually want to browse in.

My husband, kids and I often pile into the car on a Saturday morning, and before we know it, we’re wandering past the timber-framed buildings and soaking up the lively market scene. 

It has once again been hailed as one of the best places to live in the country, according to the latest 2027 guide by lifestyle experts Muddy Stilettos.

Read more: The 8 best places to live or move to in Warwickshire in 2027, according to Muddy Stilettos

Based in Warwickshire - and considered part of the West Midlands region - this lovely town is in easy reach from many parts of the country.

We’ll usually grab a bite at one of the cafés or food stands (the wood-fired pizza is a must) before taking a stroll along the River Avon or letting the kids run wild at the Recreation Ground. Stratford has that perfect mix of things to do without ever feeling hectic.

And once the exploring’s done, we’ll tuck ourselves into one of the town’s many cosy pubs for a pint and a proper meal before heading home.

The team at Muddy Stilettos says: “ Welcome to Bard country! Shakespeare’s birthplace is a buzzy riverside tourist town where culture and community thrive – from food festivals and workshops to world-class theatre at the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Read more: The 8 best places to live in the West Midlands in 2027 according to Muddy Stilettos

“Not to mention top schools, classy restaurants, historic hotels and more stunning Tudor-style architecture than you can shake a stick at. You’re also minutes from windswept walks in the countryside.”

Also named the happiest place to live in the region - and one of the happiest in the UK - by Rightmove and The Guardian over the years.

It’s easy to see why people travel from all over to visit, but for us, it’s simply our favourite local escape. Just 45 minutes away, yet it feels like a world apart — relaxed, welcoming, and full of character. 

Stratford-upon-Avon might be famous for Shakespeare, but it’s the modern magic that keeps us coming back.

In summer, Stratford really comes alive. The riverside is buzzing with picnics, open-air theatre, and boat trips on the Avon. You can rent a rowing boat, watch street performers outside the RSC, or just stroll through Bancroft Gardens with an ice cream in hand. The markets spill onto the streets, and every corner feels festive and full of life.

Come winter, the town takes on a completely different charm — twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and cosy pubs with open fires. The shop windows glow, the mulled wine flows, and a crisp walk along the river feels magical when the frost hits the rooftops. 

Average house prices overall are around £442,447. Detached homes sold for an average price of £669,644, semis £422,185, and terraced properties £371,617. London is around 2.5 hrs by train, changing at Leamington Spa – manageable for the occasional office day, rather less tempting five days a week.

It’s the kind of place that feels made for both seasons — bright and lively in summer, snug and storybook-perfect in winter.

Here’s what Muddy Stilettos hails about the town:

On food, Muddy says: “With a prime riverside perch on the Avon, The Boathouse is Stratford’s ultimate alfresco hotspot. Set in an 18th-century working boathouse with dreamy views of Clopton Bridge, the Tramway Bridge and the RSC, it’s all about long lunches on the riverside terrace and standout seafood dishes worth making a detour for.

“For something slicker, try No. 44 Brasserie at The Arden Hotel – a Muddy fave with two AA Rosettes, a gorgeous sun-trap garden and a refined menu perfect for lazy lunches or afternoon tea. Or head sky-high to the RSC Rooftop Restaurant for pre-theatre dining with a bird’s-eye view of the Bard’s hometown. Foodies should also book into The Woodsman at Hotel Indigo for seasonal, foraged flavours and cocktails with a twist, or pop into The Townhouse, a charming 400-year-old building serving up classic comfort and boutique rooms.

“For relaxed vibes, The Dirty Duck on Waterside is a legendary actors’ haunt (Kenneth Branagh and Charles Dance have both dropped by), while Loxleys is a cosy, family-run gem with a stellar wine list. Café Cocktail keeps the indie spirit alive with live music and artsy socials, and for a final flourish, head to Billesley Manor – the atmospheric country retreat where Shakespeare is said to have written As You Like It and wooed Anne Hathaway.”

It also hails the historic town for its top schools, high number of GP surgeries, and cultural events.