Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

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 This tour was amazing, by far one of the best things we did in London and that was definitely thanks to our tour guide Michael! He was SO fun, very knowledgeable and so eager to show us around with plenty of jokes, interesting facts and stories. He was absolutely fab! There are no more than 24 stairs to climb in one go and you get regular times to sit down in the theatre seats while he talks so you’re not stood around - helpful for mobility impaired. I advise booking. They had tours available for walk in visits but these were limited, and booking ensures you can skip any wait times. On entry you are offered a headset you can use to hear the tour guide from further away so you don’t miss anything as you walk around. There is a well stocked gift shop with merch from all your favourite plays at the end and toilets with a Cafe on site. The Globe is located right on the river Thames so if you want there is opportunity for a lovely walk up and down around the globe. Thanks Michael!
Kira-Louise Rouse - a month ago

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5 Star Rating A fabulous experience at Shakespeare’s Globe! Shakespeare’s Globe, originally built in 1599 as an Elizabethan playhouse where Shakespeare’s plays were first performed, has been beautifully reconstructed in 1997. The architecture and atmosphere are stunning, transporting you back to there time. The live performances are powerful and immersive, a must see destination for anyone interested in history, theatre, or Shakespeare’s timeless works. Finally the area around the globe is very beautiful especially at the night.
MUSTAFA FARAJ - 2 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating We went for the tour. The theater buff in me really enjoyed the tour and the history behind this modern replica of Shakespeare's Globe. We had a great time visiting the building. An added bonus was being able to see Judy Dench while she was having her picture taken in the lobby. We will get tickets for a play the next time we're in town.
Juan Gonzalez - a week ago

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5 Star Rating I absolutely love Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Visiting this iconic venue is like stepping back in time, and the rich history surrounding the theatre adds an extra layer of magic to the experience. The architecture, inspired by the original 16th-century design, creates an authentic and immersive setting that makes every visit unforgettable. The performances here are consistently spectacular. The actors are incredibly talented, breathing new life into Shakespeare’s works with passion and precision. Whether you're a die-hard Shakespeare fan or a newcomer, there's something deeply moving about watching these timeless plays performed in such an atmospheric space. What’s also exciting is the variety of alternative and modern performances on offer. A standout for me was “Queening Shakespeare”—a bold, innovative take on classic material that brought a fresh perspective while still honoring the spirit of the original texts. It was creative, thought-provoking, and really cool to witness. Overall, the Globe offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The energy in the open-air theatre, especially on a warm evening, is simply unbeatable. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting London or looking to reconnect with the power of live performance.
Nicola - a month ago

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5 Star Rating We couldn't make the tours in the morning. The receptionist suggested that we go to the 2:00 show of Arthur Miller's The Crucible for 5 pounds for the standing area to see the theater and leave anytime we wanted. Because the actors were riveting and the play so well written, we decided to stay for the whole play, instead of finishing our sightseeing on our last day in London.
Sabrina Sam - a week 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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