The River Avon at Stratford

The Avon winds gently through the town, surrounded on both banks by green parkland and flower filled gardens. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Holy Trinity Church, containing Shakespeare's tomb, stand amidst the willow trees reflected in the river's shimmering water. The river flows under two fine old bridges and over the site of an ancient ford around which the town was founded. The ford gave the town its name (street–ford) but Stratford's endearing charm is to be 'upon-Avon'.

The Boathouse, Boat Hire and River Cruises

The river naturally draws people down to its grassy banks, and what better way to enjoy its tranquil waters than by boat. For over 100 years the Boathouse has been hiring out small boats and running passenger vessels on the Avon. The river, one of the finest reaches for boating in the country, has remained virtually unchanged in all this time. It is still a real delight, a pleasure to be out on its peaceful waters. Come and relax and enjoy it with us.

Outboard Centre, Chandlery and Boat Services

The Chandlery at Stratford Marina offers a wide range of boating goods and comprehensive outboard servicing. Our Boat Safety Scheme Examiner can issue Boat Safety Certificates and undertake Marine Surveys for all types of small craft in steel, GRP and timber. Our Team of Boat Builders specialise in the repair and renovation of traditional river craft as well as the building of new bespoke commissions.

Small Boat Hire

Rowing Boats, Self Drive Motor Boats, Punts and Canoes are available for hire from our Boathouse, Chain Ferry and Marina.

In our hire boats you can explore over 3 miles of peaceful river, enjoy a quiet picnic under the willows or simply laze on the river and have fun. Our experienced staff will give basic lessons in rowing or punting if required...

River Cruises

Enjoy a cruise aboard one of our traditional Edwardian passenger launches. Our Boats, originally from the Lake District and Loch Lommond represent some of the finest boat building of the Edwardian Era. Our Boats are lovingly maintained to ensure that you enjoy the boat, just as much as you enjoy the River.

The Chandlery

Our Chandlery at Stratford Marina is well stocked with everything you need for your boat. As a stockist of most major marine brands, we are able to cater for almost any requirements. With good supplier links, any goods not in stock can usually be ordered on a next day basis. We stock a wide range of brands and our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to give our advice. As a main dealer for Mariner/ Mercury Outboard engines, we are able to advise on, service and repair Mariner Outboard Engines and stock and supply a number of craft ideal for enjoying life on the water. We are also an approved service centre for all Yamaha Outboards and can supply all parts you may require. New for 2012, we are now a main dealer for Yanmar and Mercruiser engines... For further details on what we can offer please contact us directly.