The Globe Theatre

Stepping Back in Time: A Tourist’s Guide to the Globe Theatre

London’s Globe Theatre is more than just a building; it’s a portal into the world of Shakespearean theatre. Stepping into its open-air courtyard, you’ll be transported back to Elizabethan London, where the Bard himself once graced the stage.

But The Globe isn’t just about the past! While a visit offers a glimpse into Shakespeare’s time, it’s also an opportunity to experience live theatre in a unique and immersive way.

A Brief History:

Built in 1599 on the banks of the Thames, the original Globe Theatre was a legendary venue for Shakespeare’s plays. This iconic structure, sadly destroyed by fire in 1613, has been beautifully reconstructed and stands proudly today as Shakespeare’s Globe.

Located in Southwark, London, this historic theatre is a must-visit for anyone interested in Shakespeare, Elizabethan history, or just enjoying a unique theatrical experience.

Why Visit The Globe?

  • Immerse yourself in Shakespearean history: Walk the same stage and stand in the same space as audiences did centuries ago.
  • Experience a historical reconstruction: See how Shakespeare’s plays were originally performed and staged, and imagine the excitement of the Globe Theatre during its heyday.
  • Enjoy open-air theatre: The Globe is renowned for its open-air design, allowing you to enjoy performances under the sun or stars, just as Shakespeare’s audiences would have.

Visiting the Globe:

  • Location: Shakespeare’s Globe is located on the banks of the Thames in London, England, near the original site of the theatre.
  • Tours: Immerse yourself in the history of The Globe with a guided tour. Explore the stage, learn about the architecture and construction of the theatre, and even see the “pit” where the audience would stand during performances.

Tips for Tourists:

  • The Globe Theatre Tour: A must-do for any Shakespeare fan! Immerse yourself in the history of the theatre with a fascinating tour that explores its unique design and the world of Elizabethan theatre.
  • Shakespeare’s Globe Performances: Experience theatre in its purest form. Enjoy Shakespearean plays performed in the original Globe Theatre style, with an open stage and standing room for the audience.

Activities:

  • Attend a performance: The Globe offers a variety of performances throughout the year, from Shakespeare’s classics to modern interpretations.
  • Take a tour: Learn about the history of the Globe and its role in the Elizabethan era.
  • Visit the Globe Theatre Exhibition: Explore the theatre’s past with artifacts and information about the original building and its historical context.

The Globe: A Unique Experience

Accommodation:

  • Nearby Hotels: When planning your visit, consider staying in a hotel near Shakespeare’s Globe, such as the Globe Inn (a historic inn on the Southbank), for a truly immersive experience.
  • Shakespeare’s Globe Tours: Want to learn more about the theatre itself? The Globe offers a range of tours and experiences, from backstage tours to workshops on Shakespearean performance techniques.

Dining:

  • The Swan at Shakespeare’s Globe: Enjoy a delicious meal with a view of the Thames at this restaurant located right next to the Globe Theatre.
  • Shakespeare’s Globe Gift Shop: Stock up on souvenirs and grab a light snack or drink.
  • Local Pubs and Restaurants: The Southbank is full of charming pubs and restaurants, many offering stunning views of the river and iconic landmarks.

Other Things of Interest:

  • The Thames Path: Take a leisurely walk along the river and soak up the atmosphere.
  • Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tours: Learn about the history of Shakespeare’s plays and the unique “groundling” experience offered at the theatre.
  • Shakespeare’s Globe Exhibition: Explore the story of Shakespeare’s life and times in a fascinating historical context.

Experience the Past, Enjoy the Present:

  • Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre: The theatre itself is a masterpiece. Built with authentic Elizabethan techniques and materials, it offers a unique opportunity to see Shakespeare’s plays in a setting that resembles the original Globe Theatre.

Standing Room Only (Groundling Experience):

  • The Globe’s “Yard” Experience: For a truly immersive experience, consider booking tickets for a performance in the “yard,” the area in front of the stage where groundlings (audience members who paid a penny for admission) would have stood during Shakespeare’s time.

  • Shakespeare’s Globe Shop: This is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts related to Shakespeare’s works, such as:

    • Play Scripts and Books: Original-style replicas of playbills, quill pens, and other theatrical memorabilia are available for purchase.
    • Clothing and Accessories: You can purchase clothing inspired by the Elizabethan era, including dresses, shirts, breeches, and even “groundling” costumes.

A Truly Unique Experience:

  • Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tours: These tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. You’ll learn about Shakespeare’s life and times, from his early years in Stratford-upon-Avon to his later plays performed in London.
  • Standing Room Tickets: The Globe Theatre offers a variety of “standing room” tickets for those who want to experience theatre as Shakespeare’s audience did.

Other Tips:

  • Book in Advance: Especially if you’re interested in the “groundling” experience, book your tickets online beforehand.
  • Dress for the Weather: The Globe is an open-air theatre so dress accordingly. Layers are key!

A Day at the Globe:

  • Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre: Enjoy a historical setting and a unique theatrical experience.
  • Embrace the “Groundling” Culture: Standing in the “yard” puts you right in the middle of the action, just like Shakespeare’s original audience.

Enjoy the Atmosphere:

  • Shakespeare’s Globe: The open-air design allows you to see and hear the actors as they perform.
  • Southbank: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural hub. Take a walk along the Thames Path, enjoying the views and the many restaurants and pubs.

A Note on Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre:

The Globe Theatre is renowned for its historical accuracy and unique setting. The open-air design allows you to see and hear the actors as they perform in a space similar to the Elizabethan era.

  • Consider the “Groundling” Experience: This is a fantastic way to experience the intimacy of Shakespeare’s original theatre.

A Unique Experience: Standing on the groundlings floor puts you right at the heart of the action.

Shakespeare’s Globe and the Globe Theatre Experience:

The Globe is a great place to experience Shakespearean theatre in its most immersive form. You can:

  • Stand in the “Pit”: The open-air standing area offers a unique perspective on the plays, allowing you to truly feel like part of the audience during Shakespeare’s time.
  • Attend a pre-show talk: Learn about the play and its historical context before the show begins.

Enjoy the Show:

The Globe Theatre is known for its immersive performances, which are often enjoyed by audiences standing in the “pit” area.

This is a unique opportunity to experience Shakespeare’s plays in the way they were originally intended: performed in a space that resembles the open-air theatre of Shakespeare’s time.

Enjoy the Atmosphere:

The Globe Theatre offers a variety of tickets and seating options for performances, including “standing” tickets that allow you to experience the play from the perspective of an Elizabethan groundling.

  • Standing Room: The Globe offers “groundling” tickets which allow you to stand in the yard during the performance. This is a great option for those on a budget and offers a unique perspective on the plays, allowing you to see the action up close and experience the energy of the crowd.
  • Shakespeare’s Globe: The Globe Theatre is a reconstruction of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, which was originally built in 1599 and destroyed by fire in 1613.

Enjoy the “Groundling” Experience:

The Globe Theatre offers a truly immersive theatrical experience. You can stand in the yard and feel the energy of the crowd (as it’s a “standing room” venue) or sit on the groundling benches for a more intimate experience.

  • Shakespeare’s Globe: The theatre is a replica of the original Globe, which was built in 1599 and destroyed by fire in 1613.

Nearby Restaurants:

  • The Swan: Enjoy traditional English fare at this popular restaurant on the Southbank.
  • Globe Tavern: A cozy pub with a great selection of food and drinks, located near Shakespeare’s Globe.

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre: The Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a unique opportunity to experience theatre in a way that has been lost for centuries. Enjoy!

Enjoy the “Groundling” Experience:

  • The Play’s the Thing: The Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original Globe, which was a 16th-century open-air theatre.

Shakespeare’s Globe:

The best part about the experience? You can stand in the “yard” and be part of the play’s energy. Just like Shakespeare’s audience, you’ll be standing at the front and center of the action, enjoying the performance from a unique perspective.

  • The Globe Tavern: Enjoy a delicious meal with a view of the Thames.

Shakespeare’s Globe:

  • Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre: The Globe is a great place to enjoy a theatrical experience in a way that Shakespeare’s audience would have enjoyed it.

Beyond the Stage:

London’s theater scene offers a variety of experiences for visitors, from traditional plays and musicals to more experimental performances.

  • Shakespeare’s Globe: Enjoy the open-air theater experience at the “ground” level with a standing ticket.

Shakespeare’s Globe: The Shakespeare’s Globe is a unique venue that allows you to experience theater in its purest form.

Beyond the Stage:

  • Globe Theatre:

The Globe is a fantastic place to see a Shakespeare play.

  • Experience Shakespeare:

Enjoy the “groundling” experience with standing room tickets.

  • Shakespeare’s Globe:

Enjoy the “groundling” experience from the groundlings’ yard.

Beyond the Stage (cont.):

  • Immerse yourself in history: Enjoy the atmosphere of a historical playhouse.
  • Experience Shakespeare’s Globe: Experience the theater experience as it was intended to be enjoyed.

The Globe:

Let me know if you have any questions about the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre!