Joe D.
Yelp
After the disappointment with the touristy and expensive visit to Shakespeare's house, I thought I would have a similar feeling visiting his grave. It was like night and day. Went on a beautifully sunny spring afternoon, a week before the wedding of Will and Kate. Some force was watching over me on that trip because everything just seemed to fall into place.
Paid my pound fifty and entered the chancel. After snapping a few obnoxious photos, I stood there and simply absorbed the scene. I never tried to look up any pictures or youtube clips prior to this visit, and I'm glad I didn't, else it would have ruined the experience. Sunlight pouring through the stain-glass window left a little kaledescope of color on Shakespeare's slab. The epitaph, incredibly worn, was reproduced in a little sign on top of the grave.
I kept vigil for a good five minutes before a large group of students entered and crowded me out. I slowly backed away, letting them have their moment, then I left.
I walked out and admired the church, then moved on with the rest of my vacation. I doubt I'll ever return. You can only make a trip like that once in your life.
Anyway, highly recommended, especially if you're a fan of literature. This is like the holy grail for authors, aspiring authors, or simple admirers. May you all have as memorable an experience as I did.