Shakespeare Walks

Discover Shakespeare’s London with an Expert-Guided Walk

The Shakespeare Walks tour offers a captivating journey through London’s literary and theatrical past for $27.55 per person. With a duration of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, this walking experience takes you through the areas of London most closely linked to William Shakespeare, beyond the well-known Stratford-upon-Avon. Starting at St. Olaf House and ending near a Shakespeare bust just a short walk from St Paul’s Underground Station, this tour provides a well-paced exploration of London’s Shakespearean landmarks.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour is designed for literature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Shakespeare’s life in London. The small group size—limited to 30 travelers—ensures plenty of interaction, questions, and personalized storytelling. The mobile ticket makes checking in simple, and the free cancellation policy offers flexibility for planning.

While the tour does not include transportation to or from attractions, it compensates with detailed insights into the city’s Shakespearean spots that are easy to explore on foot. The cost-effective price and glowing reviews make it a worthwhile addition to any London itinerary focused on literary history.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $27.55 per person for an engaging and informative experience
• Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes of guided walking through London sites linked to Shakespeare
• Start at St. Olaf House and finish near the Shakespeare bust close to St Paul’s Underground Station
• Expert guide delivers detailed stories, dressed in Shakespearean costumes, bringing history to life
• Small group size of up to 30 people enhances interaction and storytelling intimacy
• Tour is free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility

The Meeting Point at St. Olaf House

The tour begins at St. Olaf House, located at 15 Tooley St in London’s Southwark district. This historic building sets the tone for a literary journey through Shakespeare’s London. Meeting here, travelers can easily access the starting point via public transportation, ensuring a smooth start. The tour concludes near 1 Love Lane, just a 5-minute walk from St. Paul’s Underground Station, making return travel straightforward. The opening hours run daily from 9:00AM to 5:00PM, offering flexibility for morning or afternoon bookings.

Visiting Southwark Cathedral and its Shakespearean Ties

One of the key stops is Southwark Cathedral, a site with deep connections to Shakespeare’s London. This historic church has witnessed centuries of London’s history and is a significant location in the Bard’s life in the city. The guide sheds light on its role during the Elizabethan era, enriching your understanding of Shakespeare’s environment. Its proximity to the original Globe Theatre remains makes it a fitting starting point to explore Shakespeare’s world.

Viewing the Remains of the Original Globe Theatre

A highlight of the tour is a view of the remains of the original Globe Theatre. While the actual structure no longer stands, the guide explains its history, architecture, and importance in Shakespeare’s career. This stop offers immersive storytelling, with the guide often dressed in Tudor costume, which adds a lively, theatrical element to the experience. Visitors get a sense of the theatrical scene that shaped Shakespeare’s plays, and the guide’s passionate storytelling keeps the history engaging.

Following Shakespeare’s Footsteps across the Thames

The tour takes you north of the River Thames, tracing Shakespeare’s steps through historic parts of London. This movement across the city allows visitors to see key London landmarks linked to the playwright, providing context for his life and influence. The walk reveals many hidden details and stories that travelers might overlook when exploring alone, thanks to the guide’s expertise.

The Guide’s Approach and Theatrical Flair

The guide, notably Robert, is praised for his knowledgeable and engaging storytelling. He frequently dresses in Shakespearean costumes, such as Tudor attire, which adds authenticity and fun to the experience. His use of microphones ensures everyone in the small group can hear clearly, and his passion for history and Shakespeare shines through every story and fact shared. This personal touch makes the walk both educational and entertaining.

The Literary and Historical Highlights

Throughout the tour, visitors learn about Shakespeare’s influence on the English language and discover London’s theatrical history. The guide covers the founding of the theatres in London and details about the area around The Globe. These stories deepen appreciation for the city’s role in shaping Shakespeare’s plays and the broader theatrical landscape of Elizabethan England.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as the tour involves walking through historic streets and sites over the course of a little over two hours. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with light walking, and service animals are allowed. The route is designed to be accessible for most visitors, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy the storytelling.

Booking, Cancellation, and Group Size

Reservations for the Shakespeare Walks are typically made 55 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The free cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before the start time, offering peace of mind. The tour maintains a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate and engaging environment, ideal for those who prefer a smaller group experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this tour apart is the expert guide’s storytelling style, who dresses in period costumes to bring Shakespeare’s London to life. The small group size enhances interaction, and the focus on lesser-known sites adds depth to London’s Shakespearean history. The affordable price combined with high praise from past participants highlights its value for lovers of literature and history.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This guided walk appeals to literature enthusiasts, history buffs, and theatre fans. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy personalized storytelling and interactive tours. Visitors looking to avoid large, crowded attractions will appreciate the small group size and detailed insights. Its flexible timing and accessible route make it a convenient choice for a wide range of visitors.

Final Thoughts on Shakespeare Walks

The Shakespeare Walks tour delivers a well-paced, engaging, and informative exploration of London’s Shakespearean locations. The expert guide’s storytelling and costuming add a theatrical flair that makes the history lively and memorable. While the tour does not include transportation, walking between sites provides a comfortable way to soak in London’s historic atmosphere.

Priced at just over $27, this experience offers excellent value for anyone eager to learn about Shakespeare’s London connections. It’s an ideal choice for literature lovers and those wanting a personalized, small-group tour with a knowledgeable guide. The combination of history, storytelling, and London landmarks makes it a standout activity in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Shakespeare Walks tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at St. Olaf House, 15 Tooley St, and finishes near the bust of Shakespeare at 1 Love Lane, close to St Paul’s Underground Station.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness. The route involves walking but is designed to be accessible for most.

Does the tour include transportation between sites?
No, transportation is not included, but the walk between stops is part of the experience.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.

What makes this tour different from other London Shakespeare tours?
The costumed guide, small group size, and focus on hidden or overlooked sites set this experience apart.

Is prior knowledge of Shakespeare necessary?
No, the guide provides engaging storytelling suitable for all levels of familiarity with Shakespeare.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The data does not specify age restrictions, but the moderate physical activity suggests it is suitable for older children and adults.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and participants should be prepared for outdoor weather conditions.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is typically recommended 55 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.