Shakespeare's Globe

Shakespeare's Globe offers families an unforgettable journey back to Renaissance England with its authentic recreation of the famous theater. Children can experience live performances tailored for young audiences, explore backstage areas where actors prepare, and learn about Elizabethan theater through hands-on exhibits. The combination of education and entertainment makes this a magical introduction to Shakespeare and historical London.

• ✓Standing as a groundling in the open-air yard just like audiences did 400 years ago
• ✓Backstage tours revealing theatrical secrets, costumes, and special effects
• ✓Interactive exhibition with Elizabethan clothing to try on and historical artifacts to explore
• ✓Special family-friendly Shakespeare adaptations designed for young audiences during school holidays
• ✓The stunning handcrafted theater itself, built using traditional methods with oak timbers and a thatched roof

1. 1.Book the guided tour in advance, especially during summer and school holidays when they sell out quickly. Tours run daily and last 40 minutes.
2. 2.For performances, consider standing as a 'groundling' in the yard for the authentic experience, but book seated tickets if you have younger children who may tire during longer shows.
3. 3.Check the family workshops and special kids' performances scheduled during school holidays. These interactive sessions are designed specifically for children and include costume activities.
4. 4.Arrive 30 minutes early to explore the exhibition space below the theater, which features interactive displays about Shakespeare's world that kids can touch and try.
5. 5.The outdoor theater can be chilly even in summer. Bring layers and rain gear as performances continue in light rain, staying true to Elizabethan tradition.

Visit during spring or summer (April to September) when the theater season is in full swing and weather is pleasant for the open-air venue. Weekday mornings are ideal for tours with fewer crowds, while matinee performances work well for families. Avoid evening shows for younger children as they can run late.

Tours cost around 17 pounds for adults and 10 pounds for children (ages 5-15), while performance tickets range from 5 pounds for groundling standing tickets to 25-60 pounds for seats. There's a cafe on-site, and the nearest Underground stations are London Bridge and Southwark. The venue is mostly accessible, though the historic nature means some areas have limited wheelchair access.

The outdoor theater season runs from late April to mid-October. Winter months (November to March) offer indoor performances at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse and year-round tours of the Globe. Special Christmas productions and holiday workshops are popular with families. Book well ahead for summer performances and school holiday events.

The Swan at the Globe restaurant offers pre-theater dining with river views and a children's menu. For quick bites, Borough Market is a 5-minute walk away with dozens of food stalls offering international options that kids enjoy, from fresh pizza to crepes.