Shakespeare in London Private Tour

If you’re a fan of William Shakespeare or simply curious about London’s theatrical past, the Shakespeare in London Private Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Bard’s world. While we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a thoughtfully curated experience that combines history, culture, and a bit of London’s lively atmosphere.

What we appreciate about this tour is its focus on theatre history and the insider access to the Globe Theatre, along with the chance to wander through historic sites along the South Bank. Plus, with the tour capped at just five people, you’re likely to enjoy a more personal, less rushed experience. However, one thing to consider is the overall value—some reviews mention it feels a little hurried or that the stops prior to the Globe could be more substantial.

This experience suits those who love Shakespeare, enjoy walking tours, and appreciate a mix of history and vibrant city life. If you’re after a deep dive into London’s Shakespearean roots with a bit of scenic exploration, this could be a good fit. But if your goal is a comprehensive, leisurely day, you might want to consider whether the itinerary’s pace and price match your expectations.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Group size capped at five, creating a more personalized journey.
• Inside Access: The tour includes an official in-house visit to the Globe Theatre.
• Historical Context: Stops include both famous sites and lesser-known ruins connected to Shakespeare’s era.
• Location and Atmosphere: The South Bank offers lively views and a historic backdrop.
• Duration and Pacing: About 3 hours 15 minutes, so it’s a manageable half-day experience.
• Price and Value: At $336 per person, it’s a pricier way to see a few key sites, but the insider access offers a special angle.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Inside the Globe Theatre

Starting at the New Globe Walk, your guide takes you to the original Globe Theatre site, just a couple of blocks away from the replica. What makes this part of the tour stand out is the inside visit to the Globe, which includes a guided tour of the theater itself. This experience is especially valuable for Shakespeare fans because you get to see where the plays originally took place, learn about Elizabethan staging, and hear some behind-the-scenes stories.

One reviewer, Kristen, mentioned that the Globe tour “met expectations” and appreciated the guide’s knowledge. She also expressed a wish she could see a play to get the full experience, which hints at how little of the actual theatre experience you get here, but the historical insight is definitely worthwhile.

The Golden Hinde

Next, you’ll head to a life-size model of Sir Francis Drake’s Golden Hinde, which offers a tangible connection to the era. This is a quick stop—just 10 minutes—but it’s a fun, visual reminder of the Elizabethan age and the maritime adventures that coincided with Shakespeare’s time. It’s free to visit, so it’s an easy add-on that enriches your understanding of London’s history.

South Bank Exploration

As you walk along the South Bank, this area was once a lively, somewhat rowdy part of London, known for activities like bull-baiting and theatre, away from the more regulated City of London. Today, it’s a bustling hub full of street performers, restaurants, and historic sites. The tour takes about 3 hours in total, giving you a good sense of the area’s vibrant past and present.

Winchester Palace Ruins

You’ll see the ruins of Winchester Palace, once owned by the Bishop of Winchester. This site offers a glimpse into medieval London’s grandeur and the power of the church back then. The ruins are a brief stop, but some reviews note it’s an interesting piece of history that many visitors might overlook.

Southwark Cathedral and Shakespeare’s Connection

The Southwark Cathedral stands as a significant spot, especially because Shakespeare and his brother Edmond would have worshipped here. Today, it hosts concerts and community events, and your guide will show you the stained-glass window dedicated to Shakespeare. This part of the tour offers a quieter, reflective moment amid the lively streets.

Borough Market

Finally, the tour winds through Borough Market, a place with roots tracing back to Elizabethan times. This market is filled with delicious food stalls—from gourmet coffee to organic produce—and it’s an ideal spot to soak in the local flavor. The tour allocates about 30 minutes here, giving you a chance to explore and maybe grab a snack.

What Does the Tour Offer in Practice?

The guides seem to be a highlight, with reviews praising their knowledge and friendly attitude. Kristen called her guide “great,” and Kelly E appreciated the small group size that allowed for more personalized insights. This personal touch can make a significant difference, especially in a city like London, where history can sometimes feel overwhelming without a good storyteller.

The Globe Theatre tour is the crown jewel, offering a behind-the-scenes look that’s hard to replicate on your own. Many visitors value the insider perspective, which adds depth to their understanding of Elizabethan theater and Shakespeare’s world.

However, some reviews hint at the pace of the tour being somewhat rushed. Dan mentioned it felt “a little hurried,” and that the stops before the Globe weren’t as engaging as they could be. If you’re someone who wants to linger longer or explore at your own pace, this might not be the best fit.

Pricing-wise, at $336 per person, the tour leans toward the expensive side for what’s primarily a walking experience with limited entries. The value hinges on how much you appreciate the guided insights and the included Globe tour. For fans of Shakespeare or those interested in theater history, it’s a worthwhile splurge; for others, it might seem a bit steep.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

• The tour begins at New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DS, at 9:00 am.
• It lasts approximately 3 hours 15 minutes, making it a manageable half-day activity.
• The tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, which can enhance comfort and interaction.
• You need to book at least 87 days in advance on average, so plan ahead if you’re set on this experience.
• Group discounts are available, and tickets are mobile, adding convenience.
• The tour requires moderate physical fitness—it involves walking and some standing, but no strenuous activity.
• Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring along some snacks or enjoy Borough Market afterward.
• Free cancellation within 24 hours offers some peace of mind if your plans change.

Authentic Voice from Reviews

Many who’ve taken this tour appreciate the personal attention and the knowledgeable guides, making the experience feel special. Kristen said she “met expectations” and enjoyed the guide, while Kelly loved the small group setting. Conversely, some found the stops before the Globe less engaging, with Christine describing the earlier part of the tour as a “pathetic” disappointment, lamenting the lack of commentary.

The Globe Theatre visit gets consistent praise, with visitors saying it’s a highlight that deepens their appreciation of Shakespeare’s plays and Elizabethan staging. The Borough Market stop is also well-liked, especially for those wanting a taste of local flavors.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal if you are passionate about Shakespeare, theatre, or London history. It offers a unique blend of site visits and inside access to one of the world’s most famous theatres. It’s best suited for those comfortable walking for several hours and who enjoy a more personalized, small-group experience.

If your main goal is to see every Shakespeare-related site in detail or take your time exploring each stop, you might find the pace a little brisk. Conversely, if you’re after an introductory overview with some insider knowledge, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not specifically geared toward kids, but children with an interest in history or Shakespeare can enjoy the walk and site visits. The tour involves walking and standing, so keep that in mind.

Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a set itinerary, customization isn’t typically available. However, the small-group setting might allow for some flexibility with questions or minor adjustments.

How long is the Globe Theatre tour?
The internal tour of the Globe Theatre is about one hour, and it’s included in the price, giving you a deep dive into Elizabethan theatre.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking well in advance is recommended—on average, 87 days before—especially if you want a specific date or a private experience.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour starts at a specific meeting point, and transportation to and from the sites is not included.

What is the walking distance?
Expect a moderate walk around central London’s South Bank area, with some standing and short stops.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but you’ll visit Borough Market, where you can buy food and snacks to enjoy during the tour.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it’s a walking tour outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Are there any age restrictions?
There aren’t specified age restrictions, but the tour requires moderate physical activity, so consider children’s stamina.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

Final Thought

The Shakespeare in London Private Tour offers a compact, engaging way to explore Shakespeare’s London with an insider’s perspective. Its strengths lie in the guided access to the Globe and the opportunity to soak in the historic South Bank scene. While it might feel a bit rushed or pricey for some, it’s a solid choice for Shakespeare enthusiasts and those craving a personalized cultural experience.

If you’re looking for a half-day, relatively intimate tour that balances history, scenery, and a dash of theatre magic, this could be just what you need—especially if you enjoy walking and discovering on foot. For those who desire a leisurely pace or more in-depth exploration, you might want to consider how the tour’s structure aligns with your travel style.