Shakespeare's Globe Theatre: A Living Legacy of Elizabethan Drama
Experience the timeless magic of Shakespeare’s plays in the iconic open-air Globe Theatre on London’s historic South Bank.
Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London is a meticulously reconstructed open-air playhouse that revives the spirit of the original 1599 Globe, where many of Shakespeare’s greatest plays premiered. Located on Bankside by the Thames, it offers a unique theatrical experience with its circular design, thatched roof, and close audience-actor interaction. This cultural landmark celebrates the enduring legacy of Shakespeare and Renaissance theatre through performances, education, and historical preservation.
A brief summary to Shakespeare's Globe
- 21 New Globe Walk, London, SE1 9DT, GB
- +442074019919
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Dress appropriately for the weather as the Globe is an open-air theatre and performances continue rain or shine.
- Book tickets in advance for popular Shakespeare productions, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the Globe’s fascinating history, architecture, and theatrical traditions.
- Explore nearby South Bank attractions and dining options to enrich your visit to the Globe Theatre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to London Bridge Station (Northern and Jubilee lines), then walk approximately 15 minutes along the Thames South Bank to the Globe Theatre. The total journey takes about 25-35 minutes. Oyster cards and contactless payments are accepted; fares typically range from £2.50 to £4.00 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 381 and RV1 serve the South Bank area near the Globe Theatre. From central London, buses run every 10-15 minutes, with a journey time of 30-40 minutes. Use contactless payment or Oyster card; single fares cost around £1.75.
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River Boat
The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers service stops at Bankside Pier, a short walk from the Globe Theatre. Services run frequently during the day, with travel times from central piers around 20-30 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £6-£10 one way.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking along the scenic Thames Path to the Globe Theatre is a pleasant option. The terrain is flat and accessible, with a walk of about 15-25 minutes from London Bridge or Borough areas.
Shakespeare's Globe location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Shakespeare's Globe
Origins and Historical Foundations
The Globe Theatre was originally built in 1599 by the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, the acting company to which William Shakespeare belonged as playwright and part-owner. Constructed on the south bank of the River Thames in London’s Bankside area, the Globe was designed as a round, open-air amphitheatre with a thatched roof, accommodating up to 3,000 spectators. It quickly became the primary venue for Shakespeare’s plays, including Julius Caesar, Hamlet, Macbeth, and King Lear, shaping the course of English drama and Renaissance theatre. The theatre embodied a social melting pot, welcoming audiences from all classes to experience live performance in an intimate setting where actors and spectators shared a dynamic connection.Destruction and Rebirth
The original Globe met a fiery fate in 1613 during a performance of Henry VIII when a misfired cannon ignited the thatched roof, burning the theatre down within an hour. Undeterred, the company rebuilt the Globe a year later with a tiled roof and more elaborate decorations. This second Globe remained active until 1642, when Puritan-led parliamentary forces ordered the closure of all theatres, and the building was eventually demolished in 1644-45. Centuries later, inspired by a passion to revive Shakespeare’s theatrical heritage, American actor and director Sam Wanamaker founded the Shakespeare Globe Trust and campaigned to reconstruct the Globe as authentically as possible near its original site.The Modern Globe: Architecture and Experience
Opened in 1997, the modern Globe Theatre is a faithful recreation based on extensive research, using traditional materials such as green oak and a thatched roof. It preserves the open-air, circular design that fosters immersive performances where the audience surrounds the stage on three sides. The theatre seats approximately 1,400 spectators, blending historical accuracy with modern safety standards. Visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, as performances continue rain or shine, maintaining the Elizabethan tradition. The Globe also serves as a vibrant cultural centre, hosting not only Shakespeare’s works but also contemporary plays, concerts, film screenings, and educational workshops.Cultural and Educational Significance
Beyond being a performance venue, Shakespeare’s Globe functions as an educational hub dedicated to exploring Shakespeare’s legacy and Renaissance theatre practices. It offers guided tours that delve into the theatre’s history and architecture, alongside workshops and seminars that engage students, scholars, and theatre practitioners worldwide. The Globe’s motto, "Totus mundus agit histrionem" (All the world’s a playhouse), reflects its mission to connect audiences with the universal human themes in Shakespeare’s work and the enduring power of live theatre.Setting and Atmosphere on Bankside
Situated on London’s lively South Bank, the Globe Theatre is surrounded by a rich cultural landscape including galleries, restaurants, and the Thames River walk. The area’s historic character as a once-thriving entertainment district—home to theatres, taverns, and more—adds to the immersive experience. The theatre’s open design invites natural light and ambient sounds, creating a sensory connection to the environment that echoes the original Elizabethan performances. The atmosphere buzzes with anticipation and reverence, making every visit a journey into the past and a celebration of theatrical artistry.Legacy and Continuing Influence
Shakespeare’s Globe stands as a testament to the transformative power of theatre and the timeless relevance of Shakespeare’s plays. It preserves a unique architectural form and theatrical tradition that revolutionized audience engagement and dramatic storytelling. The Globe continues to inspire artists and audiences alike, fostering a global appreciation for Shakespeare’s genius and the cultural heritage of Renaissance England. Its presence enriches London’s cultural fabric, bridging centuries of theatrical history with contemporary creativity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.2 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.5 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.5 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Historic England
0.5 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Queen Anne Statue
0.7 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.7 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
Victoria Embankment
0.7 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
113 Cannon St
0.7 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
Temple Bar London
0.7 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
South Bank Community Area
0.8 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.8 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Ludgate Circus
0.8 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
The Shard
0.8 km
Experience London’s tallest landmark with breathtaking 360-degree views, luxury dining, and iconic cityscapes from The Shard’s sky-high observation decks.
Roupell St
0.8 km
Explore Roupell Street, a picturesque Victorian lane in London offering charm, history, and perfect photo opportunities.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
0.0 km
Experience Shakespearean drama by candlelight in this intimate, Jacobean-inspired indoor playhouse on London’s historic Bankside.
Bankside
0.1 km
Explore Bankside in London for a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning riverside views amid a vibrant city atmosphere.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.2 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
Tate Modern
0.2 km
Discover groundbreaking modern and contemporary art in London's iconic former power station, featuring world-class collections and stunning river views.
Millennium Bridge
0.2 km
Explore the Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural gem in London, linking iconic landmarks with stunning river views and cultural experiences.
The Clink Prison Museum
0.4 km
Step back into England’s darkest prison history at The Clink Prison Museum, where medieval justice and infamous inmates come alive.
St James Garlickhythe
0.4 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of St James Garlickhythe, a serene Anglican church in the heart of London.
Queen Victoria St
0.4 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
Menier Chocolate Factory
0.4 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
Borough Yards
0.4 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Winchester Palace
0.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Winchester Palace, a medieval bishop’s grand London residence with a stunning rose window by the Thames.
College of Arms
0.5 km
Explore centuries of heraldic tradition at the historic College of Arms, London's official authority on coats of arms and genealogy.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.5 km
Historic Thames dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde II and steeped in medieval and maritime heritage.
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
0.5 km
A poignant garden and memorial in London honoring the outcast dead, transforming a forgotten paupers’ graveyard into a place of remembrance and community.
Borough Market
0.5 km
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.7 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.9 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.1 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
14 Hills
1.2 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.3 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
1.3 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.3 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.3 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
La Dame de Pic London
1.3 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
The Archduke
1.4 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.4 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
St. John
1.4 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Strada Southbank
1.4 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
1.4 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.4 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.7 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.8 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
0.8 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
0.9 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
The Royal Exchange
0.9 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Hay's Galleria
1.0 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Twinings - The Strand
1.2 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Tower of London Shop
1.3 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
1.3 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Smithfield Market
1.3 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
The Store X
1.3 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Barbican Shop
1.3 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.4 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
London Silver Vaults
1.5 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.5 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
0.7 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Black Parrot
0.8 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.8 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Punch Tavern
0.9 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Bootlegger
1.0 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
The Old School Yard
1.1 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.1 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Understudy
1.1 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.1 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nine Lives
1.2 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Old Bank of England
1.2 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.4 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
1.4 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
1.4 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
1.2 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
1.5 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Corsica Studios
1.6 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
London Best Night Clubs
1.7 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.8 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Carwash Nightclub
1.8 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Heaven
1.9 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.9 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
2.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
XOYO LONDON
2.1 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Roxy
2.1 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
