Anne Hathaway’s Cottage: Where William Shakespeare and Anne’s Love Bloomed

Anne Hathaway, the wife of William Shakespeare, grew up in a 15th-century farmhouse (Anne Hathaway’s Cottage) in the village of Shottery, just outside of Stratford-upon-Avon. The “cottage” is a 12-room home, set amidst beautiful gardens, showcasing the early wealth of the early Tudor family.

I love visiting places where historical figures once roamed. We walked where Shakespeare walked and stood where he asked Mr. Hathaway for Anne’s hand in marriage. The lovely English home is a must-visit for Shakespeare fans. Even though William and Anne did not live at the cottage, it is part of Shakespeare’s story.

The Shakespeare’s marriage license dates November 1582, when William was 18 and Anne was 26. 18 was young for a man to get married at that time, but it didn’t stop the two lovebirds. Six months after they were married, a baby girl was born, which probably explains why William got married so young. Even though the marriage was in haste, the husband and wife remained married for William’s entire life.

However, there is speculation that all was not happy in the Shakespeare home, but that is only speculation. William spent much of his early years in London, while Anne stayed in Stratford-upon-Avon tending to their three children. William returned to Stratford later in life, and he purchased a large home nicknamed “New Place.” Anne lived there until she died in 1623.

Even if you’re not a lover of all things Shakespeare related, walking the grounds and touring the home is a lovely way to spend a day. An entry ticket gets you into the New Place and the Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust.