Whether you’re a full-on Bard buff or just fancy seeing where they used to throw rotten veg at actors (spoiler: not really a thing), Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on London’s Bankside is one of the capital’s most fascinating, atmospheric and joyfully nerdy places to explore.
I recently visited on a gloriously sunny day and can confidently say this is one of those cultural experiences that’s just plain fun – even if you haven’t opened a copy of Macbeth since school.
Here's everything you need to know before your visit...
Whyfore should one visit this noble playhouse?
First off, it’s beautiful. Thatched roof, timber-framed, nestled right along the Thames – it’s an Instagrammer’s dream and a history lover’s heaven. But looks aside, this place is a celebration of live theatre, creative rebellion and Elizabethan innovation. It’s not just a replica – it’s a working theatre, museum and living memorial to one of the greatest writers in the English language. Plus, where else can you hear someone explain why Elizabethans chewed garlic to ward off the plague?
Our stage is set...
A brief telling of times past: fire, theft, and fortune
The original Globe was built in 1599 by Shakespeare’s playing company, after they literally stole a theatre, plank by plank, from across the river (sustainable king). The South Bank was a bit of a dodgy area back then, nicknamed the sink of sin, it was full of brothels, bear-baiting pits and was the perfect home for the newly emerging entertainment industry.
Tragically, in 1613, during a performance of Henry VIII, a stage cannon misfired and set fire to the thatch. Fire in a building made of wood and straw, who saw that coming? The theatre burned down in under two hours, but miraculously, no one died.
It was rebuilt but then demolished again by Puritans in 1644. Marking the end of the Globe for over 300 years. Cheers, Puritans.
Sam Wanamaker, a most stalwart champion of the Bard
Fast forward to the 1970s: American actor and director Sam Wanamaker visits London and is outraged to find no real memorial to Shakespeare. So, naturally, he spends the next two decades obsessively campaigning, fundraising, and building the Globe we know today.
It finally opened in 1997, a labour of love and historical obsession. It's the only thatched-roof building allowed in central London since the Great Fire of 1666. That’s commitment to authenticity, and some pretty impressive sweet-talking of the London Fire Brigade.
Enter stage right
Hie thee hither: how to reach the Globe
You’ll find the Globe on the South Bank, not far from Borough Market and Tate Modern. The nearest tube stations are Blackfriars, Mansion House and London Bridge – all around 10–15 minutes’ walk. And honestly? The walk along the river is half the joy of the journey.
Thy pass doth grant thee entry (aka how to visit with a London Pass)
If you’ve got a London Pass, you’re in for a treat. Head around the side of the building to the Tours Entrance on the riverfront (there’s a helpful sign). Check in at the desk and book yourself onto the next available tour – then spend the wait exploring the interactive exhibition downstairs, bravo!
Attend me now: a tour most wondrous
The guided tour is a highlight. They normally last around 45 minutes and our guide was part historian, part stand-up comedian. You’ll sit in the different galleries and hear all about how the original theatre worked – and how it doesn’t quite work the same anymore (fire exits, for example).
You’ll learn about why rich people paid more for worse views, why the penny stinkers in the pit chewed garlic to avoid catching the plague and why Elizabeth I accidentally invented secular theatre when she banned religious plays. Shakespeare, as you’ll find out, was an artist and a businessman, writing plays not just to inspire, but also just to bring in the crowds.
We're serious, you'll want a cushion!
All the world’s a stage... but what lies behind the scenes?
Don’t skip the downstairs exhibition – especially if you like a bit of hands-on learning. You’ll see:
- A working replica of a printing press.
Fun fact: the terms uppercase and lowercase come from where the letters were stored in the trays. - Original instruments and costume try-ons.
- A timeline of Shakespeare’s life.
- Fascinating info on how actors got their lines back in the day – spoiler: each had their own handwritten roll, with only their part and cues included, no full scripts!
To stink or not to stink: the Globe in its riper days
Imagine it: no distinctive sets, no microphones and no roof. The audience stood in the mud, chewing garlic, possibly (definitely) weeing on the floor, while the actors yelled to be heard over the chaos. Plays changed daily and the stage was the Elizabethan version of Netflix, cheap, fast and always something new. And at the end? A jig, just to make sure no one left traumatised.
It was colourful, chaotic, loud and packed with social commentary. And, much like now, the theatre was about entertainment and making a bit of cash. Shakespeare knew how to please a crowd and how to keep the lights on.
Sadly, this is England so we can't promise the sky will look like this when you visit!
To stand or not to stand: a guide to performances at the Globe
If you’re up for a play, check out the schedule in advance. Performances aren’t included in the London Pass, but they’re very affordable – especially if you embrace your inner groundling and stand (bring comfy shoes and maybe a raincoat).
If you decide to go for the more regal option and sit in the benches, remember they too are true to the originals. We’re talking flat wooden seats, so you may want to bring a cushion or rent one on the day.
Watching Shakespeare’s work performed in the space it was written for? Unforgettable.
What else lies beyond this wooden O? Nearby wonders to explore
Make a Bankside day of it!
- The Golden Hinde – a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s ship you can clamber aboard.
- Southwark Cathedral – Shakespeare's brother is buried here!
- Wander the river path up to Tate Modern.
- Cross the Millennium Bridge to St Paul’s Cathedral.
Not quite the Sink of Sin it was in Shakespeare's time!
Now fare thee well, til next we meet
Shakespeare’s Globe isn’t just for theatre kids or English Lit graduates.
It’s lively, fascinating, funny and full of surprises. Whether you’re here for the exhibition, the stories or just to stand in a building that’s defied centuries of history – it’s a London must-do. And if you leave humming a Tudor-style tune or quoting a sonnet? Even better.
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Brush up your knowledge with our cheat's guide to Shakespeare for adults or check out which London attraction matches your fave play!
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