Shakespeare's Globe

Shakespeare's Globe on the South Bank is a faithful reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre where many of Shakespeare's plays were first performed, built within 230 metres of the original site and opened in 1997. It works both as a theatre — running a full season of Shakespeare and other productions from April to October — and as a visitor attraction with tours running year-round.

Theatre Tours

Guided tours of the theatre run daily and last around 40 minutes, covering the history of the original Globe, the reconstruction process and the mechanics of staging Shakespeare outdoors. When the theatre is in use for a matinee, tours shift to the indoor Sam Wanamaker Playhouse instead. Adult tickets run around £17–20 — check the official site for current prices and available time slots.

Seeing a Performance

The outdoor performance season runs April to October, with Shakespeare and other plays performed in an open-air setting without amplification — as close to the original experience as you can get. The cheapest tickets are for "groundlings" — standing in the yard directly in front of the stage from around £5–10. Book well in advance for popular productions, particularly midsummer weekends. The indoor Sam Wanamaker Playhouse runs performances year-round by candlelight.

Getting There

Southwark station (Jubilee line) is about a 10-minute walk. The Globe sits on the South Bank walk between Tate Modern and Borough Market, making it a natural stop on a riverside walk.

Tips for Visiting

• Groundling tickets (standing in the yard) are the cheapest way to see a performance — from around £5.
• Book performances well in advance; popular summer shows sell out quickly.
• The tour is worth combining with a Tate Modern and Borough Market walk on the South Bank.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you're groundling — you'll be standing for the full performance.

Tour times and performance schedules change seasonally — check the official Shakespeare's Globe site before booking.