Stratford-Upon-Avon hosts the birthplace of the renowned playwright William Shakespeare, as captured in a photograph by eye35.pix, Alamy.

Cycling Through Shakespeare's England: A Journey of Discovery

England is celebrating the enduring legacy of William Shakespeare, who was born 450 years ago, and one way to immerse oneself in the Bard's world is by pedaling through Shakespeare's Way, a self-guided bike route developed by the family-owned Carter Company.

The author, a casual yet devoted cyclist, found themselves in the heart of the English countryside, experiencing the charm of thatched roofs, fragrant gardens, and stone walls while traversing this picturesque route. The route includes stops at classic sites such as Shakespeare's birthplace, grave, and his wife Anne Hathaway's childhood home.

The author visited Daylesford Organic Farm, a leader in England's sustainable farming movement, and found the landscapes of the Cotswolds and the Chilterns to be memorable and energizing. The route also includes views of the Long Walk to Windsor Castle, Dorney Lake where Eton College boys row, and the entrance to the famous boarding school.

A mid-day stop at the Hind's Head in Bray-on-Thames, owned by avant-garde chef Heston Blumenthal, was a memorable respite. The author spent a night in Oxford, taking in the city's historic charm before continuing the journey.

Shakespeare's Way promotes "gentle cycling," a slower approach that allows riders to really drink in their surroundings. Wendy Carter, who has built up a remarkable familiarity with England’s bicycle trails over 25 years, assured the author that the trip wouldn't be intense like the Tour-de-France.

Biking into London along the Thames provided an insider's welcome to the capital. The author visited Shakespeare's Globe, a reproduction of the historic theater built by the bard's playing company, before reflecting on the joy of bike riding as a vehicle for discovery.

As biking as a sightseeing mechanism has risen in popularity worldwide, England is embracing the trend. The government of England recently announced it would be devoting £94 million to improve its cycling infrastructure, making it easier and more enjoyable for tourists and locals alike to explore the country by bike.

Annie Fitzsimmons, Intelligent Travel's Urban Insider, gives tips on cities worldwide, and her journey through Shakespeare's Way is a testament to the beauty and charm that can be found when exploring England by bike. Whether you're a Shakespeare enthusiast or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Shakespeare's Way is a must-do for any cycling enthusiast.

Stratford-Upon-Avon hosts the birthplace of the renowned playwright William Shakespeare, as captured in a photograph by eye35.pix, Alamy.