Located in Statford-upon-Avon, New Place is the name of Shakespeare’s final home. He retired here after acting for years in London.The house was located just steps away from the Holy Trinity church and the school he is believed to have attended.

Once one of the largest homes in Stratford, William Shakespeare purchased New Place in 1597. And, it is here, in 1616, that Shakespeare died. Upon his death, the house was given to his daughter Susanna.

To be honest, I was disappointed to find that little remains of New Place -- only a well and a portion of the foundation still exist.

A vicar named Francis Gastrell purchased the house in the 1700s and had it torn down. As the story goes, he was tired of having so many people come to see where Shakespeare once lived. While it’s sad that the house isn’t here anymore, I can imagine how frustrating it could be having people poking around your house all the time!

There is, however, a knot garden on the site, which is laid out to create intricate patterns and shapes. I wish I could have spent more time wandering the garden, but there are other stops along the Shakespeare trail for us.

Follow the Paper Trail: Visit the archives.

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