After the Shakespeare Marathon: Warwick and Leamington Spa

The Route: Stratford-upon-Avon → Warwick → Leamington Spa Logistics: By car or train; both towns sit a short distance from Stratford. Marathon Month: April Duration: Day trip

Stratford-upon-Avon ──(short journey)──> Warwick ──> Leamington Spa

Warwick and Leamington Spa, both a short distance from Stratford-upon-Avon, offer a genuine change of architectural character: medieval castle grandeur followed by Regency elegance. April in Warwickshire: settled spring weather, well suited to a day split between two very different towns.

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle, one of England's best-known medieval castles, dominates the town and offers a full day's sightseeing in its own right, from the towers and ramparts to the surrounding grounds.

Leamington Spa

Leamington Spa, a short distance further on, is known for its wide Regency streets and formal gardens, a gentler, flatter walk suited to legs recovering from the marathon.

Where to eat: Leamington Spa's town centre has a good range of cafés and restaurants, a pleasant end to a day split between the two towns.

Getting Back

The return journey to Stratford-upon-Avon by car or train retraces the same short route.