NEWLY REFURBISHED & INTRODUCING NEW CHEF MATT BARNES
Creating Memories
Our Legacy
Since 1990, The Countess has been Stratford-upon-Avon’s only iconic dining cruise, offering a one-of-a-kind culinary experience on the serene waters of the River Avon. Combining fine dining, handcrafted cocktails, and breathtaking scenery, we create an atmosphere of elegance and romance, perfect for special occasions, celebrations, and unforgettable evenings.
At the heart of The Countess is our exceptional dining experience, curated by acclaimed Chef Matthew Barnes. Our menu is crafted with the finest locally sourced ingredients, offering seasonal gourmet dishes that elevate riverside dining to new heights. Whether you’re enjoying a lunch or dinner cruise, an exclusive chef’s table event, or a private dining experience, every dish is designed to delight.
The Countess Cruise Options
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Most Popular
Most Popular
Embark on Stratford-upon-Avon’s most renowned 3-hour dining cruise along the picturesque River Avon, gliding through historic canal locks to the charming village of Luddington. Step ashore to savor a drink with breathtaking Cotswold views before returning to a magical riverside setting, where enchanting floodlights illuminate the water in the evening. Indulge in a luxurious 3-course gourmet meal, expertly crafted by Chef Matthew Barnes using the finest locally sourced ingredients, perfectly paired with fine wines and handcrafted cocktails. A five-star fine dining experience that blends exquisite cuisine, scenic beauty, and a serene river journey for an unforgettable night on the Avon.
£55 p/p
Blissful Escape
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Most Popular
Experience a blissful 90-minute escape on our Countess Lunch Tour, a serene dining cruise through the tranquil waters of the River Avon. Glide past Warwickshire’s breathtaking landscapes, drifting through two charming canal locks, while immersing yourself in the natural beauty and wildlife of Stratford-upon-Avon. Savor a delicious 2-course light lunch, featuring fresh, locally sourced sharing platters, expertly crafted by Chef Matthew Barnes to complement the relaxing riverside ambiance. A perfect midday retreat, blending scenic cruising, gourmet flavors, and peaceful surroundings, for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
£35 p/p
Arrange Your Blissful Escape Today
The Countess Afternoon Tea
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Breathtaking Unique Weddings
A delightful riverside escape. Indulge in a luxurious Afternoon Tea experience aboard The Countess, a 90-minute serene River Avon cruise designed for 15 or more guests. Savour freshly brewed tea, delicate finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of sweet treats, all crafted to perfection. For an extra touch of indulgence, elevate your experience with a glass of Bubbles or a handcrafted cocktail. As you glide past stunning Warwickshire landscapes, soak in the tranquil riverside views for an unforgettable afternoon of relaxation, elegance, and gourmet delight.
£30 p/p
Reserve Your Afternoon Tea Date Today
Breathtaking Unique Weddings
Exclusive Private Events Aboard
Breathtaking Unique Weddings
Celebrate your dream wedding aboard The Countess, Stratford-upon-Avon’s most stunning and unique wedding venue. Exchange vows on the tranquil waters of the River Avon, arriving from your religious venue to a grand red carpet entrance. Step into our elegantly styled interiors, where every detail is designed to create a romantic and unforgettable experience.
Enjoy exquisite dining options, expertly crafted by Chef Matthew Barnes, tailored to your tastes with locally sourced gourmet cuisine. Our professional photographer and videographer will capture every moment, while our expert wedding planners ensure that your day reflects your personal style and vision.
With customisable cruising options, luxury entertainment, and a breathtaking riverside backdrop, your wedding will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. No wonder 80% of our wedding couples return to celebrate their anniversaries each year!
Reserve Your Dream Wedding Date Aboard The Countess
Countess Tapas & Cocktail Club
Exclusive Private Events Aboard
Exclusive Private Events Aboard
Unwind in style at The Countess Tapas & Cocktails Club, a vibrant dockside dining experience perfect for lazy afternoons or after-work relaxation. When The Countess is not cruising, she transforms into a stunning riverside venue opposite the Royal Shakespeare Company and gardens. Serving mouthwatering tapas, handcrafted cocktails, and refreshing drinks in a laid-back yet elegant atmosphere. Enjoy the iconic heart of Shakespeares Swan as you sip and savour delicious small plates with friends or colleagues.
Available weekly from 1 PM to 11 PM on select days—please call ahead for availability as spaces fill quickly.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening of Tapas & Cocktails!
Call us to book in your time & date
Exclusive Private Events Aboard
Exclusive Private Events Aboard
Exclusive Private Events Aboard
Host an unforgettable private event aboard The Countess, Stratford-upon-Avon’s most unique and elegant venue on the River Avon. Enjoy a truly special experience, whether you would like to join us us for an exclusive Chef’s Table Cruise, where you’ll indulge in tasting plates perfectly paired with fine wines, or a corporate event, staff party, tour group gathering, birthday, anniversary, or private celebration. Our expert team curates every detail, from gourmet dining and handcrafted cocktails to breathtaking river views, ensuring a seamless and memorable occasion. With flexible venue hire options, we create bespoke experiences for groups of all sizes.
Call us today to discuss your requirements and let us craft an extraordinary event just for you.
Sample Cruising Menu
Starters/Appetisers
Home-made Seasonal Soup (V)
Our spring soup is spiced butternut & coconut, served with toppings & a bread roll
Smoked Salmon
Torched Cucumber, Pickled Cucumber, Avocado, Dill & Horseradish Cream
Braised Beef Tortelloni
Beech Mushrooms, Torched Shallot, Parmesan & Herb Crisp, Tomato Concasse, Beef Broth
Mains Courses
Slow Roasted Blade of Beef
Braised Pulled Shin of Beef, Potato Mille-Feuille, Heritage Carrot, Red Wine Sauce.
Roasted Cod Loin
Confit Cherry Tomato and Fennel, Sautéed Spinach, Romesco Sauce
Baked Aubergine Parmigiana (V)
Micro- Herb Salad, Red Pepper Sauce, Parmesan & Dijon Mustard Cream
Desserts
Chocolate Delice
Honeycomb, Faux Bee Pollen Crumble, Mocha Cream, Honey Tuile Biscuit
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Pecan Toffee Sauce, Burnt White Chocolate Cream
Cheese Plate £7.00/£12.00
Chefs Selection of Cheeses, Pickles, Fruits and Crackers.
For 2 or 4
Sides £6.00
Tender Stem Broccoli (Serves Two)
Green Beans (Serves Two)
Artisan Bread Rolls (Serves Two)
Artisan Flavoured handmade Butter
Marinated Mixed Olives (Serves Two)
Mixed Salad of the Day
Children's Menu
Penne alla Bolognese with Mozzarella
Penne alla Pomodoro with Mozzarella
Dessert
Mixed Fresh Fruit with Milk Chocolate Mascarpone
Please Note
Dietary Restrictions, Allergy Free, Vegan, GF Options available on request at booking .
We cannot guarantee we can meet dietary needs without notice as all product it brought on board daily.
Seasonal Dishes & Menus May Vary
V/GF & Allergies Accommodated For. PLEASE ADVISE STAFF & RESERVATIONS 48 HOURS PRIOR. As we can't guarantee special requests after boarding.
Sample Lite-Lunch Cruising Menu
Ideally Suited to Grazing in a Relaxed Environment
Antipasti Sharing Platter for 2
Selection of: Cheese, Charcuterie (Cured Meats)
Vegetables, Pickles, Oils, Fruits, Nuts, Pesto’s.
Offering different tastes textures to both satisfy and amuse the tastebuds.Seasonal changes define platter options.
Small Plates for Two
£7 / 3 for £20
Italian Meat Balls Arrabbiata
Mushroom Arancini
Patatas Bravas
Spanish Tortilla Squares
V/GF & Allergies Accommodated For. PLEASE ADVISE STAFF & RESERVATIONS 48 HOURS PRIOR. As we can't guarantee special requests after boarding.
Tapas & Cocktails Club Sample Menu
Non-cruising
Dates announced weekly. Walk on or bookings taken for weekday lunches & evenings
Sharing small plates
£7 / 3 for £20
Countess Olives
Prosciutto wrapped Peach, Caramelised Brie
Grilled Aubergine with Feta and Pesto Rolls
Spanish Meatballs with Chill Jam
Potato Pave, Sour Cream, Caviar
Patatas Bravas
Mussels Rockefeller
Smoked Mackerel Pate & Beetroot Mousse with Horseradish Bruschetta
Smoked Salmon Bruschetta
Glazed Chorizo Bites
Prosciutto, Mozzarella & Sun Dried Tomato Chutney Bruschetta
Feta and Honey Baked Fig
Brown Shrimp Butter with Sour Dough Bread
Weekly Cocktails Sample Selection
£10
Expresso Martini
Cold Espresso Coffee Liqueur, Vodka
Mimosa
Prosecco & Fresh Orange
Aperol Spritz
Aperol, Prosecco and Soda
Passion Fruit Martini
Vanilla Vodka, Passionfruit, Lime, Prosecco
Pink Raspberry Lemonade Mocktail
Raspberry, Lemonade with a hint of Rose & Rose Petals
Press for Champagne
From £40.95
Specially Selected Wines, Lagers, Ales & Beers of the Week
V/GF & Allergies Accommodated For. PLEASE ADVISE STAFF & RESERVATIONS 48 HOURS PRIOR. As we can't guarantee special requests after boarding.
Treat Your Loved Ones to The Countess!
Looking for the perfect gift? The Countess gift cards are the perfect way to show your loved ones how much you care. Treat them to a unique cruising experience with delicious food and drinks!