Hello, dear explorers! Today, we embark on Day 5 of our captivating UK road trip, journeying from the Bard’s Town, Startford-Upon-Avon to Bethesda. Just a reminder for new readers that this post is part of a series of posts which go through our road trip in England and Wales. You can see start from Day 1 (Oxford and Bath) if you like or just jump from here. Now, let’s set forth into the heart of Shakespeare’s country and onward to the serene landscapes of Bethesda, ready to uncover the stories and sights that await!
Evening Arrival in Stratford-Upon-Avon
Settling into a Cozy Airbnb
Our journey through the Cotswolds brought us to a delightful conclusion in Stratford-Upon-Avon. Here, we checked into what turned out to be the most charming Airbnb of our trip. It felt like hitting a small jackpot, especially with the bonus of a laundry facility. There’s something about fresh clothes on a road trip that just lifts your spirits!
A Stroll and Dinner in Stratford
We took a leisurely 10-minute walk into Stratford-Upon-Avon for dinner. Most restaurants were closed or full, but we managed to dine at ‘Thespians’, a South Asian restaurant. As someone familiar with Indian cuisine, I found the food average. The most intriguing part of our dinner was not the meal itself, but the ancient house across the street, built in 1485. It’s one thing to see such old buildings as protected sites, but quite another to see them in everyday use!
Morning Exploration in Stratford-Upon-Avon
Discovering Shakespeare’s Birthplace
We checked out early the next morning and parked in a lot in town. The streets were just waking up, and we began exploring. We wandered past souvenir shops and cafes, eventually reaching William Shakespeare’s childhood home. The house was well-maintained, its white facade and dark timber framing speaking of a bygone era. Unfortunately, we couldn’t go inside, but just being there was special, thinking about the great playwright who once lived there.
The Essence of Stratford
Despite missing out on a live play – something I’d recommend to any visitor – the town itself put on quite a show. Stratford is more than just a place; it’s a living, breathing piece of history. From the potential of a riverboat dinner to the view from the Ferris wheel, this town begs to be experienced in full.
The Drive to Bethesda
A Stop at Witley Court & Gardens
Around 1 pm, we left Stratford and set off for Bethesda in North Wales. On the way, we stopped at Witley Court & Gardens. The gardens, built in the 17th century, were grand and elegant. The highlight was the large fountain, and we even saw a couple having their wedding photoshoot there. The manor was impressive too, showcasing 17th-century Italian architecture.
En Route to Bethesda
The drive to Bethesda was scenic and required our full attention with its curvy, narrow roads. As we got closer, the landscape changed dramatically, with mountains and a misty atmosphere adding to the magic. We passed through Betws-y-Coed, a charming town worth a stop if you have time.
A Magical Stop at Llyn Ogwen
Just 15 minutes from Bethesda, we came across Llyn Ogwen, a mystical lake right by the road. We stopped to take in the breathtaking sight – the dark, silent lake with a layer of mist and a mountain backdrop. It was a moment of serene beauty.
Evening in Bethesda
A Perfect Airbnb in the Mountains
We reached our Airbnb in Snowdonia before dark, finding ourselves in a picturesque setting surrounded by mountains and a river, with sheep grazing nearby. It was the perfect end to a day that had its own charm and adventure.
Checkout the highlights of the Day 5 below:
After dinner at a local restaurant, we prepared for the next day’s excitement: riding the Snowdon Mountain Railway, visiting a town with an extraordinarily long name, and exploring a 13th-century castle. Join us as we continue our journey through the UK, filled with wonder at every turn.
