Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Rated 4.6 out of 5 Read Reviews

Take a step back in time with a visit to Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Entrance to Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
Entrance to Shakespeare's Globe Theatre cc licensed photo by Tom Bastin

The present day theatre is a faithful replica of the original which was constructed by the banks of the Thames River in 1599, only to be burnt down during an accidental fire in 1613. It was rebuilt the next year but was destroyed again in 1644 due to opposition from the Puritans.

Opening in 1997, it is located just a short distance from the original site on the edge of the Thames River. The theatre has been recreated completely form English oak using construction methods similar to those of the original. Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is open to the outdoors with only the spectator seating and stage areas being under cover.

Plays are held at the theatre from May until the beginning of October, however tours are available year round. The plays are performed without the use of electronic sound amplification, with all of the music being live.

Under a new program called Globe on Screen, many of the plays are filmed in high definition and subsequently shown at cinemas throughout the UK and several other countries.

For more information about the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre as well as shows and schedules visit their official website.



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Varies by show. See the official website for details.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT, UK

Phone: 020 7401 9919

Official Website: Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating Took the history tour and thoroughly enjoyed every minute! Fascinating detail and about the Globe. Even more fun details about theater in the 16th century. I also went to a play in the adjacent theater that is open during winter. I can’t wait for the spring/summer season to begin so I can come back for an open-air performance. Tour lasted one hour.
Mark Melin - a week ago

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5 Star Rating A must-see for any theatre lover!! Went on one of the guided tours/talks (with Janet as the guide), which was highly engaging and very informative. Lots of opportunities for photos inside the theatre itself on the tour. The self-guided part of the exhibition was interesting and very easy to follow with a nice balance of text/information and activities/artefacts. Again, would definitely recommend doing a guided tour for some extra information and profound insight into the theatre’s history.
Cam Halcomb - a month ago

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5 Star Rating A must see for theatre lovers and Shakespeare fans. I booked tickets for the tour when I arrived. There was a 15 minute wait before the tour started, but that gave me time to take in the wonderful exhibition. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and funny. Though it is heavily highlighted that this isn’t the original globe, nor is it built in the exact same spot, it was amazing to see a theatre built in the same style and to see how thing would have worked in Shakespeare’s time. The gift shop is amazing! It took all my willpower not to spend every cent I had there! The staff was also very kind and all around amazing! Worth the visit!
Jessica Doiron - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Took the guided tour of the rebuilt Globe Theater and highly recommend it. My tour guide was knowledgeable of not only the history of the Globe, but British history and how the theater's history is woven into it. He had a very interactive style that accommodated the several native languages in our small group. His talk was not only informative but also entertaining. The Globe exhibit is well laid out, though because I did the tour first much of it was a repeat so I moved through it pretty quickly. I recommend that order (tour first, then exhibit) if you're wanting to optimize your time. Next time I'm in London I want to see a show, will wait for warmer weather though, to have a more pleasant outdoor theater experience.
Peridot Nelson - a week ago

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5 Star Rating During our recent visit to London, we decided last minute to experience a performance at Shakespeare’s Globe and managed to get standing tickets—what an incredible atmosphere! As ‘Groundlings’ in the open-air yard, we stood just feet away from the stage, completely immersed in the action, just as audiences would have in Shakespeare’s time. The energy of the performers and the interaction with the crowd made for an unforgettable experience. Shakespeare’s Globe is a faithful reconstruction of the original 1599 theatre, which was famously associated with the Bard himself. Destroyed by fire in 1613 and later demolished, the current Globe was rebuilt in the 1990s near its original site, thanks to the vision of American actor and director Sam Wanamaker. The design stays true to the Elizabethan era, with its thatched roof, wooden structure, and open-air setting—so be prepared for the British weather! Standing tickets (just £5) offer not only the most authentic experience but also the best views, with the action happening all around you. Unlike traditional theatres, there’s no barrier between actors and audience, making it an incredibly dynamic and engaging performance. If you love theatre, history, or just want a unique London experience, seeing a play at Shakespeare’s Globe is a must. Whether you book in advance or grab a last-minute standing ticket, you’re in for a magical night of storytelling in one of the most atmospheric venues in the city.
I. Morgan - 3 weeks ago

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Directions

Tube Line Nearest Station Walking Time
District and Circle LinesMansion House10 Minutes
Northern and Jubilee LinesLondon Bridge10 MInutes
Central LineSt. Pauls12 Minutes

How to get to Shakespeare's Globe Theatre by Tube

From Mansion House Station exit onto Cannon Street and follow it to your left (west) continuing onto Queen Victoia Street until you get to Peter's Hill. Go left on Peter's Hill and walk across the Millenium pedistrian bridge. The Globe Theatre is right at the far end of the bridge on the Southbank.

From St. Paul's Station exit onto Cheapside and go right (south). Bear right onto New Change to Cannon Street. Cross Cannon and continue on Distaff Lane, then right on Queen Victoria Street and left on Peter Hill and walk across the Millenium pedistrian bridge.

From London Bridge Station exit onto Borough High/Southwark Street and go to your left, then stay right on Southwark Street, then right on Stoney Street, then left on Park Street, then left on Park Street (yes Park Street has a turn in it) then right on New Globe Walk.

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Photo Gallery

Video


2013 trailer for Globe On Screen

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