Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Shakespeare's Globe is a stunning, faithful reconstruction of the open-air playhouse where William Shakespeare wrote many of his greatest plays. Located on the south bank of the River Thames, the current building opened in 1997, just a few hundred yards from the original 1599 site. It features a unique thatched roof and a circular wooden structure made of English oak, crafted using traditional techniques. Visitors can step back in time to experience the vibrant atmosphere of early modern theatre. Whether you are there to see a masterpiece performed under the sky or to explore the timber-framed galleries, the Globe offers a powerful connection to the history of English literature and the living legacy of the Bard in London.

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Alles über Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Was Sie erwartet

To explore the Globe, you can book a guided tour or buy tickets for a performance. In 2026, guided tours run daily and cost approximately £27 for adults, offering a deep dive into the theatre's history and construction. If you wish to see a play, standing tickets in the yard—known as groundling tickets—are famously affordable, starting at just £5 to £10. Gallery seats with backs are more expensive, ranging from £25 to £80. The site is largely cashless, and pre-booking is essential for tours and popular shows. Facilities include a well-stocked gift shop and the Swan Bar and Restaurant, which serves everything from quick snacks to elegant afternoon tea with views of the river.

Warum diese Tour buchen

Because the Globe is an open-air theatre, it is important to dress for the weather; performances and tours go ahead rain or shine. Umbrellas are strictly prohibited inside the auditorium as they block the view of others, so a waterproof jacket is a must. If you choose a groundling ticket, be prepared to stand for the entire performance, which can last up to three hours. You can rent cushions for a small fee to make the wooden gallery benches more comfortable. Security is high, and the maximum bag size allowed is 40cm x 35cm x 19cm. Large luggage is not permitted and must be stored off-site, as the cloakroom has very limited capacity and focuses on smaller items.

Die richtige Tour auswählen

The theatre is centrally located in Bankside and is easily accessible by various modes of transport. The nearest Underground stations are Blackfriars on the District and Circle lines and London Bridge on the Northern and Jubilee lines, both about a 10-minute walk away. If you prefer the train, Blackfriars and London Bridge stations are the closest rail links. For a more scenic arrival, take the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers to Bankside Pier, located just seconds from the theatre entrance. Numerous bus routes, including the 11, 15, and 17, stop at nearby Mansion House or Blackfriars Bridge. Walking across the Millennium Bridge from St Paul’s Cathedral also provides a beautiful approach to the site.

Wissenswertes vor der Abreise

The main theatre season runs from mid-April to October, which is the only time you can watch plays in the open-air Globe. During the winter months from November to March, performances move indoors to the candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. Tours are available year-round, though they are most frequent in the morning before rehearsals begin. For tours, Monday is often the best day as it typically has more afternoon slots. If you are attending a show, arrive at least 30 minutes early to clear security and find your place. Midweek matinees are usually less crowded than weekend evening performances. Always check the schedule in advance, as rehearsals can occasionally restrict access to certain parts of the stage.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre