5 Best Restaurants in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Heart of England, England

Business moguls and sophisticated foodies alike can be found sampling an aperitif in a comfy armchair before moving to the sleek contemporary, slate-floor dining room at this Michelin-starred establishment. Located in a Victorian terra-cotta and redbrick building, this is where chef Glyn Purnell creates his adventurous Modern British fare. In addition to a reasonable set menu, theràe is a bigger and more adventurous tasting menu that might haddock and eggs served with cornflakes, alongside monkfish masala. Chef Purnell is also turning his hand to vegan cooking. Price quoted is for three courses.

The dark-wood paneling, antique furniture, thick curtains, and intimate lighting of this 16th-century hall make this a distinctive dining spot for Modern British cuisine. Chef Adrian Badland and his partner Miriam Lawley (the keen eye behind the exquisite and tasteful makeover) offer a cracking roast dinner and other hearty but elevated dishes featuring local Shropshire produce. It has some charming, luxe guest rooms, too, that are very well priced.

Theatergoers tucking into an early supper to the strains of the piano in the bar, grandmothers enjoying afternoon tea, and couples lingering over candlelit suppers can all happily be found at this restaurant with rooms. Chefs source the best ingredients locally where possible, including meat from Stratford's own Barry the Butcher, and serve up hearty dishes such as pork loin, rib-eye steak, or a signature fish stew.

Hearty, warming meals are offered at this informal, family-style restaurant in a 16th-century building on the main dining street near the theaters. The updated English and international dishes win praise from the locals. There’s a good range of light options and fixed-price menus as well. Make reservations a month ahead in summer.

Plain wood floorboards, comfy sofas, sturdy wooden tables, and solidly good food and drink set the tone at this contemporary gastropub with rooms on the town’s main square. It’s popular with locals, and the owners take pride in offering seasonal food with a focus on sustainability, mixing British and international influences. The set menu from noon to 6 pm is very good value. There's a good area for outdoor dining too. Moderately priced bedrooms provide stylish lodging in the pub and across the lane.