The 2026 Birmingham International Tattoo promises to be an amazing spectacle of military precision and musical prowess. Britain's biggest indoor tattoo features gun racing, dog racing, standard bearers, dance teams and more, including a spectacular Grand Finale with over 1,000 performers.
Day 1 This morning we make our way to Marlborough with time to explore and get lunch, before continuing our journey and arriving at our hotel late afternoon.
Day 2 Today, we explore Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare’s world. We visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and childhood home to hear tales of Shakespeare’s family life and get up close to objects from the Trust’s unique collections. The afternoon is free in town, or you could relax at your hotel, or join your driver on a drive through some pretty Cotswold villages.
Day 3 After a leisurely breakfast, we travel into Birmingham, where you have free time to explore. At 2pm we take our seats for the International Tattoo, which will bring together massed marching bands, pipes and drums, Field Gun displays and Fly Ball exhibitions. The spectacular Grand Finale features over 1000 performers, including the Parade of Massed Standards, as well as the Royal Air Force Cosford Queen’s Colour and Escort, for a fantastic celebration of pomp and pageantry.
Day 4 Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we make our way down to Painswick Rococo Gardens, which should be resplendent with carpets of beautiful snowdrops. Early afternoon we continue home, arriving in the local area late afternoon.
Situated only a few miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, this modern hotel has an elegant and spacious interior. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, ironing facilities, hairdryer, and hospitality tray. There is a games room, and a Leisure Club complete with heated pool, gym, sauna, and steam room. The hotel has Wi-Fi and a lift.
