The Almshouses

The Almshouses are Grade I listed buildings constructed with timber and stone, featuring individual residential units arranged around a central courtyard. The complex now contains 11 modernized apartments, each with its own kitchen and bathroom, plus shared access to a garden and lounge area.

The Guild of the Holy Cross built these residences between 1417 and 1428 to house elderly and needy guild members. Following the Reformation, they passed to the Stratford-upon-Avon Corporation in 1553, which continued their role as accommodation for senior citizens.

The buildings have long served as homes for elderly local residents and remain a central part of this historic streetscape. Their layout and shared spaces show how communities once looked after their members.

The buildings are located on Church Street, within easy walking distance of the town center, and can be viewed from the exterior. Access to the courtyards and residential areas is limited, as these remain private living spaces for current residents.

Census records document the diverse lives of former residents, including a 96-year-old basket maker named Ephraim Pulley. These personal details reveal the everyday stories of ordinary people who once lived within these walls.

Location: Stratford-upon-Avon

GPS coordinates: 52.19020,-1.70835

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:42