Stratford-upon-Avon, the heart of this small region, is neighbor to a number of villages with Shakespearean connections, and plenty more that date from his time. Complementing these humble hamlets, and often in the midst of them, are impressive country houses open to the public, each of which requires a half day to explore and is easily reachable from Stratford. To the north lie two magnificent castles, Warwick and Kenilworth. Warwick has much to offer besides its castle, and it's worth a protracted jaunt.
After years of complaints and controversy, the Royal Shakespeare Company is building a new main stage in Shakespeare's hometown. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre will close from spring 2007 until 2010 for major reconstruction, but performances will continue. During that time, the main home of the RSC will be the Courtyard Theatre, a prefabricated, temporary 1,000-seat theater, down Southern Lane toward Holy Trinity Church. The stage configuration will be similar to what is planned for the new space.