Getting Oriented

Stratford-upon-Avon is northwest of London in the midland county of Warwickshire, known as Shakespeare Country. Tiny villages surround it; to the north lie two magnificent castles, Warwick and Kenilworth. A little farther northwest is the region's main city, Birmingham. To the southwest, along the Malvern Hills, lie the peaceful spa town of Great Malvern and the prosperous agricultural city of Hereford. The western part of the region, bordering Wales, is hugged by the River Severn. The small city of Shrewsbury is here, close to Ironbridge with its

industrial-heritage museums. To its south lies Ludlow, an architectural and culinary hot spot; at the northwestern edge of the region is the ancient city of Chester.