Shakespeare's New Place: The Historic Home and Gardens of England's Greatest Playwright

A Legacy Rooted in Stratford's History

Shakespeare's New Place was acquired by William Shakespeare in 1597, marking a significant milestone in his life as a successful playwright and actor. The house was the second largest in Stratford at the time and the only family home he ever bought. Originally built in the late 15th century by Sir Hugh Clopton, a wealthy London mercer and Lord Mayor, the property had a rich history before Shakespeare’s ownership. The house featured ten hearths, indicating between 20 and 30 rooms, and included a large medieval hall and a courtyard, reflecting its status as an impressive residence. Shakespeare invested in repairs and enhancements, including orchards and gardens, which supported both leisure and practical household needs.

The Home of Shakespeare’s Later Years

New Place was Shakespeare’s family home for 19 years until his death in 1616. It is believed to be the place where he wrote his will and some of his later plays, including The Tempest. The house passed to his daughter Susanna Hall after his death, and his wife Anne Hathaway died there in 1623. The property remained in the family for several decades before eventually returning to the Clopton family. Despite its demolition in 1702 and again in 1759 by later owners, the site retains immense cultural significance as the place where Shakespeare spent his final years.

The Tragic Demolition and Its Aftermath

The original house was demolished in 1702 by Sir John Clopton, who built a new house on the site. However, in 1759, Reverend Francis Gastrell, frustrated by disputes with the town council and the attention from visitors, destroyed the house and famously cut down the mulberry tree said to have been planted by Shakespeare himself. This act of spite led to public outrage and the eventual sale of the site. The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust acquired New Place and the adjoining Nash's House in 1876, preserving the site as a place of historical remembrance.

A Garden of Memory and Inspiration

Today, New Place is a registered garden designed to commemorate Shakespeare’s life and legacy. The foundations of the house are marked out on the ground, surrounded by beautifully restored gardens including the Knot Garden, inspired by designs Shakespeare would have known. The Great Garden, once part of Shakespeare’s estate used for growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs, now offers a tranquil lawn with flower beds and sculptures that evoke his family life and literary works. Visitors can explore the adjoining Nash's House museum, which houses exhibitions bringing to life the story of New Place and Shakespeare’s enduring influence.

Experiencing Shakespeare’s New Place Today

Visitors to Shakespeare's New Place can immerse themselves in a peaceful setting that blends history, art, and nature. The site is open daily during the warmer months with varying opening hours in the off-season, and it is recommended to pre-book tickets. The gardens provide a contemplative space for reflection on Shakespeare’s life and works, enhanced by specially commissioned artworks that connect visitors with the playwright’s timeless legacy. The adjoining Nash's House offers further insight into the family history and the cultural context of the era.

Preserving a Cultural Treasure

Shakespeare's New Place remains a vital cultural site managed by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. It attracts visitors worldwide who seek to connect with the life of England’s greatest playwright. Despite the absence of the original building, the site’s gardens, artworks, and museum exhibitions create a rich, sensory experience that honors Shakespeare’s contributions to literature and his personal story within Stratford-upon-Avon.