Shakespeare’s Globe is a working reconstruction of the 1599 Globe Theatre on London’s South Bank, built a short walk from the Thames.
Why stay near Shakespeare's Globe
Shakespeare’s Globe is a working reconstruction of the 1599 Globe Theatre on London’s South Bank, built a short walk from the Thames. The modern theatre opened in June 1997, founded by Sam Wanamaker after decades of research into Elizabethan playhouses. People come for one clear reason: to watch Shakespeare performed much as it was four centuries ago, in daylight, in an open‑air wooden theatre. You can stand as a “groundling” directly in front of the stage, exposed to the weather, closer to the actors than in most modern venues. It’s not a museum piece — it’s a functioning theatre with a busy performance schedule.
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Where they sit around Shakespeare's Globe
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About Shakespeare's Globe
The original Globe Theatre opened in 1599, built by Shakespeare’s company, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men. It burned down during a performance of Henry VIII in 1613, was rebuilt the following year, and was finally demolished in 1644. The present‑day Globe is an academic reconstruction based on archaeological evidence and historical records, designed to show how plays were staged in Shakespeare’s time. The building uses oak framing, wooden pegs, and a thatched roof, while meeting modern safety standards. Capacity is about 1,400 people, far fewer than the roughly 3,000 spectators the original held. Alongside the open‑air Globe Theatre, the site includes the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, an indoor candlelit theatre used mainly outside summer, plus a guided tour route and exhibition explaining the theatre’s history and mechanics.
Best time to visit
Late spring through summer is the main season, when the open‑air Globe Theatre hosts regular performances, often in daylight. Summer evenings are popular and can be busy, while weekday matinees tend to be calmer. In autumn and winter, performances move largely to the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, an indoor, candlelit space that operates during the colder months.
Getting there
Shakespeare’s Globe is at 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT. London Bridge Underground station, on the Northern and Jubilee lines, is about a 10‑minute walk along the river. Blackfriars and Mansion House stations are also within walking distance. Parking nearby is limited, so public transport or walking the South Bank is the practical option.
Things worth knowing
Book tickets in advance for performances, especially summer evenings and weekends.
Standing groundling tickets are cheapest but leave you exposed to weather.
Arrive early if you’re standing to secure a better spot near the stage.
Guided tours run even when no performances are scheduled.
Dress for the conditions — the open‑air theatre isn’t covered.
Staying near the Globe means basing yourself on the South Bank or just across the river. Bankside and Southwark suit guests wanting to walk to the theatre, Tate Modern, and the Thames path without relying on transport. London Bridge offers faster connections across the city, making it practical if you’re fitting theatre around wider sightseeing. Blackfriars and the western edge of the City of London are slightly quieter at night, trading nightlife for easier access and calmer evenings.
Common questions
Is Shakespeare’s Globe the original theatre?
No. The original Globe opened in 1599 and was demolished in 1644. The current building is a modern reconstruction based on archaeological and historical research, designed to show how Shakespeare’s plays were originally staged.
Do you have to see a play to visit?
No. You can visit on guided tours and see the exhibition even when performances aren’t scheduled. Theatre access outside tours or shows is limited, so pre‑booking a tour is recommended.
What are groundling tickets?
Groundling tickets are standing‑room tickets in the yard directly in front of the stage. They’re usually the cheapest option and place you close to the actors, but you’ll be standing and exposed to the weather.
How long should I allow for a visit?
A guided tour and exhibition typically take about an hour. If you’re attending a performance, allow additional time before the show and plan on several hours total, depending on the play.
Is the theatre open year‑round?
The site operates year‑round, but the open‑air Globe Theatre is mainly used from late spring through summer. In autumn and winter, performances shift to the indoor Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.
