The Gower Memorial was commissioned by Lord Ronald Gower and gifted to the town in 1888.
The bronze figures surrounding the central Shakespeare statue represent Lady Macbeth, Hamlet, Prince Hal, and Sir John Falstaff.
The garden overlooks the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal basin, which marks the southern terminus of the canal route.
The park was designed to incorporate the alignment of the riverside promenade that connects the Swan Theatre to the historic Clopton Bridge.
Bancroft Gardens is a public park located along the banks of the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon, serving as a primary link between the town center and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The gardens feature a network of paved footpaths, ornamental flower beds, and mature trees maintained by the local district council. A prominent feature is the Gower Memorial, an elaborate bronze sculpture depicting William Shakespeare surrounded by figures from his plays. The park provides direct views of the canal basin where narrowboats frequently moor. It serves as a focal point for outdoor performances and public gatherings throughout the warmer months. The site underwent significant landscaping in the early 21st century to improve accessibility and riverfront connectivity. It currently functions as a central green space for pedestrians transitioning from the historic town core toward the river.
The elevated viewing point near the Gower Memorial providing a framed shot of the statue with the river and theatre in the background.
Follow the riverside path from the gardens toward the church to find quieter seating areas away from the main tourist footfall.
Check the notice boards near the canal basin for schedules of local artisan markets or outdoor theatrical events.
Use the provided benches near the water to observe the operation of the canal locks nearby.
Feeding the swans and geese, as signage specifically prohibits this to maintain water quality and bird health.
