Shakespeare's Globe: Tickets and Tours

Shakespeare’s Globe Theater is located about 120 meters from the site of the original theater that was built in 1599. This modern reconstruction opened in 1997 and stands alongside the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, an indoor venue.

The aim of this reconstructed theater was to recreate the iconic structure that was originally built rather than its 1614 replacement. The theater stages plays every summer, while in winter the location is used for educational purposes.

Tours of this remarkable replica are offered throughout the year, giving visitors a chance to step back into Old England and envision the world of the great playwright William Shakespeare.

Here's all you need to know about Shakespeare’s Globe Theater tickets, one of the most exciting attractions in London.

How much do Shakespeare’s Globe tickets cost?

There are several types of guided tours available. The primary tour prices are as follows:

• Adult: £25 per adult
• Children aged 5 to 16 years: £18 per child
• Children under the age of 5 years: Free when accompanied by an adult

Additionally, you can book to watch one of the performances at this iconic venue. Performance ticket prices are:

• Seated: £25 to £65 per person
• Standing: £5 to £10 per person

Should you book in advance?

It is essential to book online in advance to guarantee your space on a tour. If you have specific accessibility requirements, you can enquire whether these are available on the tour or performance of your choice.

What are the best Shakespeare’s Globe tours?

There are a variety of guided tours that include or focus on Shakespeare’s Globe Theater. Not all tours include a tour inside the theatre itself. Here are a few of the most popular tours available:

Shakespeare’s Globe story and tour

On this 2-hour tour, you will not only spend time in the Globe’s exhibition space for immersion in the sights and sounds of Shakespeare’s era, but also venture into the theatre itself. Your expert guide will tell you the story of the theater’s origins and how it has been rebuilt through the ages.

Shakespeare’s Walking Tour

This 2 hour activity includes a 1-hour walking tour that includes Bankside, the area around  the famed Globe Theater followed by an hour to wander through the immersive and interactive exhibition space which traverses 400 years of Shakespearian history.

Family guided tour

If you have younger children, ideally aged 7 to 11 years, you can book a family guided tour. This slightly shorter experience introduces Shakespeare, and his life and works in an age-directed way, ensuring an enjoyable experience for participants of all ages.

What will you see inside?

On a guided tour of Shakespeare’s Globe, what you will see, depends on the type of tour you have booked. If your tour includes access into the venue, you will be able to enter the stalls and even maybe stand on the stage. You will be able to observe production teams at work, try on original costumes from past shows and explore the exhibition’s interactive displays.

A walking tour traverses the streets of Bankside and delves into the history of the area including tales of the Thameside Ferrymen, and the rise of The Rose, possibly the first playhouse to show performances of Shakespeare’s works.

How to get there?

Located on Bankside, a riverside area in Southwark, London, the Shakespeare’s Globe lies adjacent to the Tate Modern and on the opposite bank to St. Paul’s Cathedral. It can be reached on foot or by bike along the river side paths and several bus, train and underground stations are within a short walk of the venue.

What are the opening times?

Tours operate at specific times as per the official website and these times may change depending on the season and the weather. The box office is open from 11 AM to 6 PM daily for performance bookings and the New Globe shop is open daily from 10 Am to 5 PM.

Is it accessible and wheelchair friendly?

The Shakespeare’s Globe is an inclusive attraction and staff are prepared and trained to be of support and assistance to visitors with disabilities. Wheelchairs can access both theaters on the site, but accessible tickets for performances must be reserved in advance.

Assistance dogs are welcome but it is advisable to notify the theatre in advance if you are bringing a dog to a performance. Induction loops are available as are hearing enhancers. Certain performances include a British Sign Language interpreter and some performances are captioned.  Touch tours and audio described tours are available.

For those with sensory sensitivities or other needs, relaxed performances offer an open door policy, a preshow information pack, trigger warnings, gentle lighting and a dedicated quiet space.

When is the best time to visit the Shakespeare’s Globe?

The best time to visit Shakespeare's Globe is during the performance season from April to October, with summer being particularly appealing for live open-air performances. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds. Check the event schedule for specific interests and consider matinee or evening performances.

Which other attractions can be visited in London?

• Harry Potter Studio
• London Eye
• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace
• Hampton Court Palace
• Tower Bridge
• Kew Gardens
• The Shard
• Kensington Palace
• O2 Climb
• London Dungeon
• Churchill’s War Room
• Arsenal Stadium
• Wembley Stadium
• Cutty Sark
• Regent’s Canal
• Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
• Houses of Parliament
• Stamford Bridge
• Old Royal Naval College
• Wimbledon Museum

Travel tips

• Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot for a Shakespearean play at the Globe.
• Arrive early to explore the Globe Exhibition, learn about its history, and select better seats for the performance.
• Respect theater etiquette during the performance, maintain silence, turn off mobile devices, and refrain from photography or recording.
• After the show,  take a stroll along the Thames River and visit nearby landmarks like the Tate Modern or Borough Market, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the South Bank.