Basin Canal

Those who have visited Stratford-upon-Avon will know that the city is not only the birthplace of England's greatest writer, it is also a city of water. In addition to the River Avon, the city is crossed by the Grand Union Canal, which connects the River Thames to the Midlands. The Canal Basin borders the Bancroft Gardens, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre is located on one side. Today, the old river port has been converted into a marina for houseboats, but in the nineteenth century held a vital role in its commercial function.