As we all know, Stratford has a lot to offer and so it is very easy to forget that the surrounding area has its own unique attractions.
With this in mind we decided to visit Alcester last weekend - possibly not the best weekend to chose due to the fact that the high street was being resurfaced!
Alcester is a small Roman town situated on the river Arrow with a population of approximately 9,000 people. The town is dominated by St Nicholas' Church with its 14th century tower. The church looks down upon a variety of medieval streets. Alcester is made up of a selection of old and new. There is a wide selection of independent retailers and eating establishments which encompass the ethos of 'the best of Stratford'.
An added bonus, and a surprise, was that there is plenty of free parking both in car parks and on the road. In this day and age when local councils are charging for on street parking it is very encouraging to see a council trying to draw people in, rather than potentially putting people off with the ever increasing parking costs.
Free car parking was clearly a surprise to the lady who asked us when we were returning to our car where the ticket machine was!