A tour for theatre lovers, literary explorers and history buffs! Embark on a journey through Shakespeare’s London, a vibrant world that inspired the Bard’s immortal works. Your London Blue Badge Tourist Guide will transport you back to the 16th & 17th centuries, exploring the life and times that shaped Shakespeare’s plays.
Shakespeare’s plays were not just entertainment – they held a mirror to the society of his day. Your London Blue Badge Tourist Guide will bring to life the context of Shakespeare’s plays as well the man on this highlights tour, which includes:
Shakespeare’s Globe: Visit the site of the original Globe Theatre, and further along, visit a faithful reconstruction of the original. This open-air theatre really does give your an insight into the main stage where many of Shakespeare’s plays were first performed. As you stand in the Globe’s unique, circular structure you’ll imagine the energy of Elizabethan audiences crammed shoulder-to-shoulder, cheering and heckling the actors. Take a moment to appreciate the reconstructed thatched roof and the absence of artificial lighting – a stark contrast to modern theatres.
Bankside: a neighbourhood once notorious for its taverns, brothels, and bear-baiting pits. This was the heart of London’s entertainment district, and Shakespeare himself lived and worked here for a time. Learn about the context of Shakespeare’s plays the bustling crowds & rowdy patrons!
Rose Playhouse: A short detour will take you to the Rose Playhouse, another Elizabethan theatre that rivalled the Globe. While only archaeological remains exist today, standing here allows you to hear more about Shakespeare’s contemporaries like Marlowe, Jonson and Dekker and you’ll get a sense of the fierce competition between commercial playhouses in Shakespeare’s era.
The Anchor Bankside: The Anchor Bankside, rebuilt in 1676 following the Great Fire of London, is the sole survivor of the river taverns of Shakespeare’s time. The hub of the London’s district and the inn of choice for the local river pirates. Step inside (perhaps for a refreshing beverage) and soak in the atmosphere. Imagine playwrights like Shakespeare himself downing a pint and discussing his latest works with thespians and playwrights.
For a glimpse into the religious life of Londoners and the significant societal influence of the church at the time, you can also visit Southwark Cathedral where Shakespeare’s brother is buried.
City of London: Heading into the Square Mile, you’ll see the church where Shakespeare worshipped. You’ll also be able to explore The City of London’s Guildhall, dating back to 1411, it was then and still is today the the administrative and ceremonial hub of the City. Drop into the The Guildhall Library, home to a surviving copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio. Here you’ll also visit St John’s Gate, once the office of the Master of the Revels, where Shakespeare’s plays were inspected and licensed and, if necessary, censored.
Remember, as with all tours with Blue Badge Tourist Guides, this is just a starting point. You might like to combine this tour with a visit to Westminster Abbey, where you’ll see the Shakespeare Memorial and the royal tombs of some of the monarchs featured in Shakespeare’s history plays.
For the ultimate Shakespeare experience you may like to take an extended tour to Stratford-upon- Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace where you’ll discover further tantalising traces of the life of ‘The Bard’. Your London Blue Badge Tourist Guide can design a tour which suits your preferences and the time you have available.
