Visit Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Claim to Fame

Shakespeare’s Globe is a meticulous reconstruction of the original 1599 theatre where many of William Shakespeare’s plays were performed — a living monument to England’s literary legacy.

📌 Navigating Shakespeare's Globe Theatre : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Admission Fee: Admission for performances and tours varies; booking in advance is recommended.
How Long to Visit: Visitors typically spend 2-3 hours for tours; performance lengths vary.
Washrooms: Accessible restroom facilities are available for guests.
Hours of Operation: Theatre tour and exhibition hours vary; performance times are scheduled in advance.
Important Information: Check the schedule for special events, workshops, and educational programs.
Handicap Accessible: The theatre offers wheelchair access and facilities for those with disabilities.
Pets: Only assistance dogs are permitted within the theatre.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, offering insights into the theatre's history and Shakespeare's plays.
Restaurant or Cafe: Dining options include an onsite restaurant and café.
Gift Shop: The gift shop offers a range of Shakespearean books, memorabilia, and theatre-related products.
Parking: Limited parking in the area; public transport is the best option.
Family Friendly: Family-friendly performances are available, but suitability varies by show.
Photography: Photography is not allowed during performances, but is permitted at other times.
WIFI: WIFI is available in the theatre's public areas.
Picnic Area: No picnic areas on site, but the Southbank has plenty of public spaces nearby.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Situated along London’s South Bank, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in the city. Combining historical authenticity with modern theatrical excellence, it offers visitors a unique chance to experience plays in a faithful replica of the open-air Elizabethan stage.

What to Expect

Visitors can attend live performances of Shakespearean classics such as Hamlet, Macbeth, or A Midsummer Night’s Dream in the circular wooden theatre, complete with its open roof and standing yard for "groundlings." Productions blend traditional and contemporary interpretations, creating engaging experiences even for newcomers to Shakespeare.

The Globe Exhibition and Guided Tour provides insight into Elizabethan stagecraft, architecture, and the life of Shakespeare himself. Costumes, props, and interactive displays enrich the experience, and the guides are known for their entertaining storytelling.

Background and Cultural Context

The original Globe Theatre was built in 1599 and destroyed by fire in 1613. The current reconstruction opened in 1997, spearheaded by American actor and director Sam Wanamaker, who devoted decades to bringing Shakespeare’s vision back to life. The Globe is now an active educational charity and performance venue.

The architecture replicates the original as closely as possible, using period techniques and materials. It stands just a few hundred feet from the original site and has become a cornerstone of London’s literary and theatrical identity.

Best Time to Visit

During the theatre season (typically April to October), attend an evening performance for an atmospheric experience. For tours and exhibitions, mornings and early afternoons on weekdays are less crowded. Book performance tickets in advance, especially for popular plays.

How to Get There

The Globe is easily accessible from Blackfriars, Southwark, or London Bridge stations. It’s also a scenic walk along the Thames Path from other South Bank attractions like the Tate Modern or Millennium Bridge.

Photo Opportunities

The theatre’s iconic round exterior and thatched roof
Inside the wooden galleries and open-air stage
Actors in period costume (during performances or tours)
Exhibition displays of props, instruments, and Shakespearean lore

Travel Tips

Groundling tickets (standing in front of the stage) are inexpensive and offer an immersive view, but be prepared to stand for the whole performance.
Seating in the galleries is wooden — consider renting a cushion or bringing your own.
Check the weather forecast — the roofless stage area means performances happen rain or shine.
The onsite café has great views of the Thames and Tower Bridge.

FAQs

Is photography allowed?
Photography is allowed during tours but not during live performances.

Is the Globe accessible to those with mobility issues?
Yes — the site has lifts and accessible seating areas.

Can I visit without seeing a play?
Yes — the exhibition and guided tours are available year-round, even outside performance season.

Final Thoughts

A visit to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is more than just a cultural outing — it’s a journey into the past where the world’s most famous playwright brought his stories to life. Whether you attend a performance or take the tour, the Globe delivers unforgettable insight into Elizabethan theatre and Shakespeare’s enduring genius.

Things To Do near Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Tate Modern

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to Tate Modern is 0.3 Kilometer(s) / 0.2 Mile(s)

Tower of London

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to Tower of London is 2.4 Kilometer(s) / 1.5 Mile(s)

Tower Bridge

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to Tower Bridge is 2.4 Kilometer(s) / 1.5 Mile(s)

London Eye

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to London Eye is 2.6 Kilometer(s) / 1.6 Mile(s)

West End Theatre District

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to West End Theatre District is 2.9 Kilometer(s) / 1.8 Mile(s)

Churchill War Rooms

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to Churchill War Rooms is 3.7 Kilometer(s) / 2.3 Mile(s)

British Museum

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to British Museum is 3.9 Kilometer(s) / 2.4 Mile(s)

Buckingham Palace

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to Buckingham Palace is 5.2 Kilometer(s) / 3.2 Mile(s)

Hyde Park

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to Hyde Park is 7.2 Kilometer(s) / 4.5 Mile(s)

Harrods

The Distance from Shakespeare's Globe Theatre to Harrods is 7.6 Kilometer(s) / 4.7 Mile(s)

📘 London Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: London operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during the winter and British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT +1, during the summer months.

Weather: London has a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round. Summers are generally warm with average highs around 22°C (72°F), while winters are cool with temperatures averaging 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Rain is frequent but typically light.

Population: London has a population of over 9 million people, making it the largest city in the United Kingdom. It is one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse cities in the world, with more than 300 languages spoken.

Size: London spans an area of about 1,572 square kilometers (607 square miles) and is divided into 32 boroughs plus the City of London. The River Thames flows through the city, shaping its layout and history.

Language: English is the official language in London. Due to its diversity, many other languages are spoken across the city, including Bengali, Polish, Arabic, French, and Urdu.

Currency: The currency used is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common across public transit and shops.

Safety: London is considered safe for tourists, though petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Police presence is strong in central and tourist-heavy areas.

Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, a 10–15% tip is common if service is not included. Tipping is less expected in pubs, but appreciated for exceptional service.

Electricity and Plugs: The United Kingdom uses 230V electricity at 50Hz. Plug type G is standard. Visitors from countries with different plug types will need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

Water: Tap water in London is safe to drink and meets strict quality standards. It is treated and monitored regularly, and commonly served in restaurants upon request.

Annual Visitors: London welcomes over 20 million international visitors each year. It is one of the most visited cities in the world, with landmarks such as the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and the West End theatre district.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries, including EU and Commonwealth nations, can enter the UK for short stays without a visa. Others may require a Standard Visitor visa. A valid passport is required for all visitors.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into the UK. Travelers should ensure routine vaccines like MMR, flu, and COVID-19 are up to date. Healthcare is excellent, but visitors may need insurance to cover treatment.

Transportation: London has a vast and efficient public transportation system including the London Underground (“Tube”), buses, overground trains, and river ferries. Contactless cards and the Oyster system are widely used for payment.

Food: London’s food scene is incredibly diverse, offering everything from classic British fare like fish and chips to world cuisines. Street food markets, fine dining, and multicultural neighborhoods make the city a global culinary hub.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Londoners value politeness, queuing, and personal space. A simple “please” and “thank you” go a long way. Public behavior is generally reserved, and loud conduct is discouraged in shared spaces like public transport.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public areas. Mobile coverage is excellent, and prepaid SIM cards with data are easy to obtain at airports and shops.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended for visitors to London. While the NHS provides excellent care, non-residents may be charged for services. Insurance also helps with trip interruptions or lost belongings.

Did You Know? - Facts About Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

The current Globe Theatre, which opened in 1997, was The vision of American actor and director Sam Wanamaker.

The Theatre is an open-air circular structure, faithful to The original design, allowing viewers to experience Shakespeare's plays in a dynamic and historically resonant setting.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is a modern reconstruction of The Globe Theatre, an Elizabethan playhouse for which William Shakespeare wrote his plays.

The Globe Theatre today not only stages plays but also serves as an educational resource, offering workshops, lectures, and exhibitions about Shakespeare and his work.

The original Globe Theatre was built in 1599, destroyed by fire in 1613, rebuilt in 1614, and finally demolished in 1644.