Shakespeare in London Private Tour

Discover the Shakespeare in London Private Tour: An Intimate Journey into Elizabethan England

For those fascinated by William Shakespeare and the world he inhabited, the Shakespeare in London Private Tour offers a detailed, personalized experience that highlights the historic sights of Southwark and the legendary Globe Theatre. Priced at $330.01 per person, this 195-minute tour provides an in-depth exploration of Shakespeare’s London with a private guide, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and lovers of theatre alike. Whether you’re a Shakespeare aficionado or simply interested in Elizabethan London, this guided journey promises a combination of heritage, architecture, and local stories all in a manageable half-day format.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on key sites connected to Shakespeare’s life and work, including the original Globe Theatre site, the official in-house Globe Theatre tour, and the Stained glass Shakespeare window in Southwark Cathedral. The tour’s manageable length, engaging guide, and exclusive access to significant landmarks make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a detailed yet intimate look at Shakespeare’s world. However, it’s important to note that this is a walking tour requiring moderate fitness and comfortable shoes, as it covers a variety of historic locations across South Bank.

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Key Points

• Private guided experience focusing on Shakespeare’s life, works, and Elizabethan London.
• Includes admission to the original Globe Theatre site and the official in-house Globe Theatre tour.
• Visiting Southwark Cathedral to see the famous Shakespeare stained glass window.
• Stops at historic sites like the site of the original Globe, Winchester Palace ruins, Clink Prison, and Borough Market.
• Duration of 195 minutes, starting at the Globe Theatre on South Bank.
• Designed for lovers of history, theatre, and London’s past, with a relaxed, private group setting.

The Starting Point at the Globe Theatre on South Bank

The tour begins precisely at the Globe Theatre on South Bank, at large glass doors on the east side of the building, directly across from Starbucks. This location is central and easily accessible, making meeting easy for participants. From the start, the guide leads you through the historic Bankside area, setting the scene for Shakespeare’s London.

The tour is scheduled to run daily from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., offering flexibility for morning plans. It’s a private group, which means a more personalized and engaging experience, with all admissions included in the ticket price. The tour can be booked with the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travel plans.

Exploring Shakespeare’s Southwark Cathedral and the Shakespeare Window

One of the first stops is Southwark Cathedral, a significant place where Shakespeare is believed to have worshipped. The highlight here is the stained glass Shakespeare window, which vividly depicts scenes from his plays. This window offers a visual connection to the Elizabethan era and enhances the historical atmosphere of the tour.

The cathedral’s interior and the window itself are worth spending time on, as they connect Shakespeare’s theatrical world with his spiritual life. The guide explains how the church played a part in his community and discusses the notable figures buried there, including Shakespeare’s youngest brother.

Walking through Historic Southwark and Borough Market

The tour then shifts to the lively Borough Market, where the guide takes you past the largest and oldest fruit and public meeting place in London. This market has served locals and visitors since the Elizabethan period, making it a lively backdrop to learn about London’s food and social history.

The walk continues past the site of the original Globe Theatre, where Shakespeare’s plays were performed for audiences in the 16th and 17th centuries. While the original Globe no longer stands, the site’s footprint is marked, and the guide offers insights into its past.

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Visiting Winchester Palace Ruins and Clink Prison

Next, the group visits the ruins of Winchester Palace, once a grand medieval residence of the Bishops of Winchester, offering a glimpse of the opulence and architecture of the time. The Clink Prison, infamous for its harsh conditions, provides a stark contrast to the grandeur of Winchester Palace, emphasizing the varied social landscape Shakespeare and his contemporaries experienced.

These sites enrich the understanding of Elizabethan London’s social fabric, adding layers to Shakespeare’s personal and theatrical environment. The guide shares stories about the notorious Clink Prison and its significance in London’s history.

Mid-Tour Break at Southwark Cathedral Café

Halfway through, the tour pauses at the Café in Southwark Cathedral. Here, visitors can enjoy a refreshing break with tea, coffee, and pastries. This pause offers a chance to reflect on what has been seen so far and to chat more informally with the guide.

This relaxed stop also provides a moment to appreciate the surrounding architecture and soak in the historic ambiance of Southwark. It’s an optional but recommended part of the experience, especially for those who appreciate a bit of downtime amid sightseeing.

The Official Globe Theatre Guided Tour and Exhibition

After the break, the tour moves towards Sam Wanamaker’s Globe Theatre—a remarkable reconstruction of Shakespeare’s original playhouse. Here, the official in-house tour is included, offering a detailed look at the theatre’s architecture, history, and behind-the-scenes secrets.

Visitors can explore the exhibition area at their leisure after the guided tour, which showcases costumes, scripts, and historical artifacts related to Elizabethan theatre. The guide provides context on the Globe’s design and its role in Shakespeare’s performances.

Walking Through Old London: Pubs, Churches, and Historic Streets

The guide then shows you the lanes traveled by Shakespeare in Southbank’s pleasure district. Stops include church pews where he worshipped and pubs where he drank with fellow actors. These stories bring the area’s lively past to life and connect the physical sites with Shakespeare’s daily life.

This segment emphasizes personal stories and local lore, making history feel tangible and relatable. The guide’s knowledge ensures a vivid picture of London’s social scene during Shakespeare’s era.

Visiting the Gift Shop and Shakespeare Museum

Before wrapping up, visitors have time to browse the Globe Theatre’s gift shop and the permanent Shakespeare museum located in the theatre’s basement. These areas offer souvenirs, books, and detailed exhibits about Shakespeare’s life and plays, perfect for those wanting to extend their experience or find memorabilia.

End of Tour and Return to the Meeting Point

The tour concludes back at the Globe Theatre, where participants can explore the theatre at their leisure. This flexible ending allows for additional sightseeing or revisiting favorite spots in South Bank.

Practical Details and Tips for Participants

The Shakespeare in London Private Tour requires moderate fitness, as it involves a walking route across historic streets and sites. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended. The tour’s private group format ensures a tailored experience, and all admissions are included in the price.

The activity is suitable for those who want a comprehensive, guided exploration of Shakespeare’s London with an emphasis on historical sites and theatrical history. For families with children, note that children under 5 participate free, but the walking and historical nature may suit older children better.

The Experience: Personalised and Engaging

One of the key strengths of this tour is its private format, allowing the guide to tailor the experience to your interests. As noted in reviews, guides like Lesley are praised for their extreme knowledgeability and ability to make the stories come alive.

The duration of 195 minutes strikes a good balance—long enough to cover the main sites without feeling rushed. The inclusion of the official Globe Theatre tour and exhibition enriches the experience, offering both visual and contextual insights into Elizabethan theatre.

Honest Reflection: Strengths and Considerations

This tour offers a wealth of historical and theatrical highlights in a single, manageable morning. The private guide ensures a personalized touch, making it ideal for those who appreciate detailed storytelling and exclusive access.

However, since it is a walking tour, participants should be prepared for a fair amount of outdoor activity, possibly in variable weather. The cost of $330.01 per person reflects the private nature and inclusive admissions, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is perfect for Shakespeare enthusiasts, theatre lovers, and history buffs interested in Elizabethan London. It suits those who value personalized attention and want to explore significant sites at their own pace. It’s especially recommended for visitors who wish to deepen their understanding of Shakespeare’s London beyond the usual landmarks.

Final Thoughts on the Shakespeare in London Private Tour

This tour combines historical sites, engaging storytelling, and exclusive access into a compelling package. The knowledgeable guides, especially those like Lesley, help bring Elizabethan London to life, making it a highlight for visitors with an interest in Shakespeare.

While the walking and moderate pace require some physical effort, the in-depth content and private setting make this a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to explore Shakespeare’s world intimately and authentically.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Shakespeare in London Private Tour?
The tour lasts 195 minutes, including stops and the Globe Theatre tour.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Globe Theatre on South Bank and ends back at the same location.

What sites are included in the tour?
Stops include Southwark Cathedral with its Shakespeare stained glass window, Borough Market, the site of the original Globe Theatre, Winchester Palace ruins, and the Clink Prison.

Is the Globe Theatre tour included?
Yes, the official Globe Theatre in-house guided tour and exhibition are included in the ticket price.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $330.01 per person, with discounts available for larger groups.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 5 and under participate free, but the walking and historical nature may be better suited for older children.

Are all admissions included?
Yes, all entry fees to sites are included in the tour price.

Are refreshments available during the tour?
No, café refreshments are not included, but a mid-tour pause at Southwark Cathedral Café allows for purchasing drinks and snacks.

What is the recommended attire?
Comfortable walking shoes and season-appropriate clothing are advised due to the outdoor walking route.

How is the guide selected?
The tour features a live English-speaking guide who is knowledgeable and can tailor the experience to your interests, as praised in reviews.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve and pay later to keep plans flexible.

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