Avon Boating

Established in 1898, Avon Boating is one of England’s oldest and largest traditional boating companies, offering boats for hire on one of the finest rivers in the country, the Avon at Stratford-upon-Avon.

It operates a fleet of classic Edwardian passenger vessels on regular public cruises from the Bancroft Gardens next to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and offers a variety of private cruises for groups.

Come and relax and enjoy the town’s iconic riverside setting and the tranquil waters of the Avon by boat on one of the 40 minute public cruises, as customers have done for over 100 years.

Cruise downstream past the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Holy Trinity Church (the site of Shakespeare’s tomb) and upstream passing under the 15th Century Clopton Bridge. Once through the bridge, the scenery changes as we discover peaceful river-banks and meadows with glimpses of large secluded houses and beautiful river-side gardens.

Included on the 40 minute river cruise is a digital audio guide for your use, free of charge. It will give you information of the famous sights along the river along, and is available in five languages. English, French, Spanish, Italian and German. See the crew onboard the boat for further information.

Please note – Avon Boating close over the winter from November to March.