Shakespeare in the City Walk – In Shakespeare’s footsteps North of the Thames

Explore William Shakespeare’s London with a Literary Walking Tour

For anyone interested in Shakespeare’s life and influence, the Shakespeare in the City Walk offers a fascinating journey through London’s historic sites connected to the Bard. Priced at $24.84 per person, this 2-hour tour is expertly led by a professional actor who brings Shakespeare’s words and stories to life. The tour departs from Blackfriars underground station and features live entertainment, memorable landmarks, and lesser-known facts about the playwright’s London years.

This walking experience is perfect for literature enthusiasts, history buffs, and London locals and visitors alike. While the pace is moderate and suitable for most fitness levels, it’s best suited for those willing to walk for around 2 hours and enjoy engaging storytelling. The tour is highly rated—5.0/5 from 95 reviews—and consistently recommended for its insightful guide, rich content, and unique stops.

Key Points

• Price: $24.84 per person, making it an accessible cultural experience
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours with live storytelling
• Start Point: Outside Blackfriars underground station on the Circle & District Lines
• Led by: A professional actor delivering Shakespeare soliloquies and anecdotes
• Highlights: Hidden landmarks, Shakespeare’s memorials, and rare insights into his London life
• Suitable for: All ages 10 and above, with moderate walking involved

The Starting Point: Meeting Outside Blackfriars Underground Station

The tour kicks off right outside the Blackfriars underground station, a central location on the Circle & District Lines. The guide, easily recognizable by a Shakespeare face sign on his rucksack, ensures a straightforward gathering spot. The walk begins at 11:00am, giving plenty of time to settle in and get ready for the literary adventure ahead.

A mobile ticket system simplifies entry, and the meeting point’s convenient location makes it easy to reach from different parts of London. The tour proceeds rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for the weather is recommended, especially given the outdoor stops along the way.

Visiting a Little-Known Shakespeare Statue Near EC4Y 0JP

One of the first stops highlights a rare Shakespeare statue at EC4Y 0JP—a monument often overlooked by visitors. This statue symbolizes Shakespeare’s enduring popularity and cultural influence. The guide explains why certain conspiracy theories about Shakespeare’s life are unfounded, providing clarity and insight into his true legacy.

This brief stop is a chance to see a lesser-known memorial, setting the tone for the tour’s focus on hidden and intriguing London sites associated with the Bard. The 5-minute visit is free of charge, making it a quick but meaningful introduction.

Discovering the Site of the Original Blackfriars Theatre

Next, the tour takes you to Church Entry, the location of the original Blackfriars Theatre. Here, it’s explained why attending performances there was reserved for the wealthy and how Shakespeare himself became wealthier over time. These details reveal the social and economic context of Elizabethan theatre and Shakespeare’s rising fortunes.

This 10-minute stop gives a glimpse into Elizabethan entertainment culture and the prestige associated with the Blackfriars Theatre. It’s an essential spot for understanding Shakespeare’s theatrical world beyond the stage.

Exploring the Remnants of Blackfriars Monastery at Ireland Yard

At Ireland Yard, the tour uncovers the remaining fragment of the Blackfriars Monastery. The guide discusses Shakespeare’s thematic obsession with religion, morality, and power—elements reflected in his plays and personal history. This 5-minute visit connects history and literature, giving depth to Shakespeare’s London environment.

Standing near these ancient ruins offers a tangible link to Shakespeare’s spiritual and cultural landscape, enriching the storytelling with historic context.

Connecting Shakespeare and King James at Carter Lane

Moving to Carter Lane, the tour reveals a hidden, peaceful spot that links Shakespeare to King James. This quiet area provides a serene setting to consider Shakespeare’s influence on royal patronage and societal change during his time. The guide explains how this location symbolizes Shakespeare’s social mobility and connection to power.

A 5-minute stop, this site offers a lull in the walking but deepens understanding of Shakespeare’s social network and his role in Elizabethan and Jacobean England.

The Site of a Shakespeare House and the Play Likely Written There

At Saint Andrew’s Hill, the guide discusses Shakespeare’s London residence and the fate that befell this house. The area is also linked to the play “Richard III”, believed to be written in this vicinity. Visitors see a church with a hidden sculpture of Shakespeare praying and learn about an influential document linked to his life.

This 15-minute stop offers historical intrigue and introduces Shakespeare’s personal life, including the stories of his daughters and how their futures differed.

The Hidden Totem Pole Made from a Shakespeare Speech

On Queen Victoria Street, a fascinating hidden monument captures attention: a totem pole crafted from a famous William Shakespeare speech. The guide, a former professional actor, recites the entire speech, making it a vivid highlight. The monument demonstrates Shakespeare’s linguistic influence and the power of his words.

Nearby, the College of Arms displays the Shakespeare family coat of arms, with explanations about why honor was delayed. The guide also shares a joke by Ben Jonson about Shakespeare, adding humor. The stops here also include insights into Shakespeare’s children and their fates.

Celebrating Shakespeare’s Generosity and Family Life

Back on Carter Lane, the tour reveals a plaque honoring Shakespeare’s generosity. The guide discusses his two daughters, contrasting their fortunes and how his generosity extended beyond his plays. This stop underscores Shakespeare’s personal kindness and family ties.

This 7-minute visit emphasizes Shakespeare’s character outside his literary achievements, showing his human side.

The Magnificence of St. Paul’s Cathedral and His Sonnets

The tour visits St. Paul’s Cathedral, standing as an iconic London landmark. While not going inside, the guide shares a stunning revelation about its construction and significance. This is also where many of Shakespeare’s sonnets are discussed, touching on his sexuality with respectful candor. Declan, the guide, shares his favorite words—a four-word phrase by Shakespeare that is cosmic.

This 10-minute stop provides a visual and literary contrast—connecting Shakespeare’s poetry to London’s spiritual heart.

Insights into Shakespeare’s Vocabulary and Personal Life at Cheapside

At Cheapside, the focus shifts to Shakespeare’s vocabulary, illustrating how his wordsmithing transformed English. The guide explains why his vocabulary wasn’t enough and shares stories about a pub Shakespeare drank in, along with his religion and feelings of loneliness and reclusiveness.

This 12-minute segment offers fun facts about his language and a glimpse into his personal struggles.

The Site of Shakespeare’s Second House and Marriage Stories

Near London Wall, the tour discusses Shakespeare’s second residence and explains why he ended up in this neighborhood. The guide recounts his marriage, which he later regretted, offering a personal look into his marital life and choices.

This 7-minute stop ties personal stories to the physical locations, adding depth to Shakespeare’s biography.

The Church of St. Giles Cripplegate and the Sad Tale of Edmund

Finally, at St. Giles Cripplegate, the tour features two famous actors from Shakespeare’s era and tells the story of his brother Edmund. The guide concludes with a haunting speech from Shakespeare’s last play, about saying goodbye—a fitting end that resonates with cosmic themes.

This last 7-minute stop leaves a lasting impression of Shakespeare’s legacy and personal connections.

Optional Walk to Barbican Station

For those wishing to continue exploring, the guide walks to Barbican underground station, on Circle, Metropolitan, and Hammersmith & City Lines. This provides a convenient end point and helps visitors plan their onward journey.

The Sum Up: A Rich Journey into Shakespeare’s London

The Shakespeare in the City Walk offers a rich, engaging look at London’s Shakespearean past. Led by a knowledgeable actor, the tour combines historical landmarks with entertaining storytelling, making Shakespeare’s legacy tangible and accessible. At just $24.84, it provides excellent value for a culturally immersive experience.

While the moderate walking pace and outdoor stops require comfortable attire, the tour’s depth of content and unique sites truly stand out. It appeals most to literature lovers and history enthusiasts who want a personalized, storyteller-led exploration of Shakespeare’s London. Its glowing reviews and full 5-star rating reflect its quality and appeal.

This walk is a fantastic choice for anyone eager to see lesser-known Shakespeare sites and enjoy live storytelling in an intimate group setting. It enhances understanding of Shakespeare’s life, works, and London roots all in one memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 10 years and above are recommended; the tour involves moderate walking and engaging storytelling.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering multiple stops and offering plenty of storytelling and viewing opportunities.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It begins outside Blackfriars underground station and concludes near Barbican underground station.

Is the tour accessible in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions; dressing appropriately is advised.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked about 3 weeks in advance, and space is limited to 15 participants per booking.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket includes a professional guide and live entertainment during the walk.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Is there a specific guide for the tour?
Yes, the guide, Declan, is a former professional actor known for his passion and storytelling skills.

Are there any special features or hidden sites?
Absolutely. Stops include hidden statues, monuments made from speeches, and rare historical fragments connected to Shakespeare.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It requires moderate physical activity; comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and the route is suitable for most people with average fitness.