A faithful reconstruction of the open-air Elizabethan theatre where Shakespeare's own company performed, rebuilt close to its original Bankside site in the 1990s. The thatched, timber-framed circular building has no roof over the central yard, and the standing 'groundling' tickets put you right at the edge of the stage as the original audiences would have stood. Performances run seasonally in a way that stays close to the original staging conditions, with natural light and no amplification.
Shakespeare's Globe stands on Bankside in Southwark, London, a faithful reconstruction of the open-air, thatched-roof playhouse where Shakespeare's company performed from 1599, rebuilt in 1997 close to the original site. Performances run outdoors from May to October, with standing 'groundling' tickets placing the audience directly in front of the stage for an experience close to how Elizabethan playgoers watched the plays. Outside the performance season, the exhibition and guided tour operate year-round, covering the history of Elizabethan theatre, the reconstruction project, and access to the auditorium and backstage areas when not in use. The timber-framed, thatched structure, built using traditional construction techniques and materials, is itself part of the exhibit. A visit takes one to three hours depending on whether it includes a tour or a full performance, and the open-air design means performances can be affected by weather, so visitors should dress for the conditions. The terrace overlooking the Thames offers views toward St Paul's Cathedral across the river, and the venue connects easily to Tate Modern and Borough Market along the Bankside riverside walk.
| Admission | Globe Tour: adults £21 / approx USD 27; children (5–15) £13 / approx USD 17. Performances: £5 / approx USD 6 standing (groundlings) to £57 / approx USD 72 gallery. Book at shakespearesglobe.com. |
|---|---|
| Hours | Museum and Globe Yard: Daily 10:00–17:00 (closes during matinees). Performances May–October. |
| Typical visit | 1–3 hours |
| Best time | See a performance as a 'groundling' (£5 / approx USD 6 standing ticket) for the most authentic Globe experience |
| Getting there | Tube: Southwark (Jubilee line) or Mansion House (Circle/District); walk across Millennium Bridge |
| Address | 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT |
Location
21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
51.5081, -0.0972 View on map
Highlights
- Open-air thatched-roof theatre modelled on the 1599 original
- Standing 'groundling' tickets in front of the stage
- Guided tour of the auditorium and backstage areas
- Exhibition on Elizabethan theatre and Shakespeare's London
- Riverside terrace with views toward St Paul's Cathedral
Tips for visiting
- Groundling standing tickets from £5 / approx USD 6 are the cheapest and most authentic way to see a performance
- Performances run outdoors May to October and can be affected by weather, so dress accordingly
- Book guided tours in advance as they sell out
- The exhibition and tour operate year-round, even outside the performance season
- Combine with a walk to Tate Modern and Borough Market along the Bankside riverside path
When to visit
Seeing a performance as a 'groundling' offers the most authentic experience; visiting the exhibition and tour on a weekday morning outside performance season is quietest.
Accessibility
Step-free access is available to the yard and most seating areas; some upper gallery seats are reached by stairs only, so contacting the box office in advance is recommended for specific access needs.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Shakespeare's Globe take?
A tour takes about an hour, while a full performance runs two to three hours.
Is Shakespeare's Globe worth it for kids?
Yes, some seasons include family-friendly productions, and the exhibition is engaging for older children studying Shakespeare.
Is photography allowed at Shakespeare's Globe?
Photography is allowed in the exhibition and during the tour, but not during live performances.