Shakespeare in London Private Tour

Explore Shakespeare’s London: An In-Depth Review of the Private Tour

If you’re passionate about William Shakespeare, this Shakespeare in London Private Tour offers a rare chance to walk in the Bard’s footsteps through the heart of historic London. For about 3 hours and 15 minutes, you’ll visit iconic sites on the South Bank — from the original Globe Theatre to the bustling Borough Market — all in a small, intimate group for just under $340 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour combines historical insight with lively storytelling, tailored to those who love immersive experiences.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the focus on authentic Shakespearean locations, coupled with an inside tour of the Globe Theatre, which is quite special. Plus, seeing sites like Southwark Cathedral and Winchester Palace adds layers of local history that many visitors overlook. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that some parts of the tour, such as the stops at Winchester Palace or the initial walk through South Bank, may feel a bit rushed or less detailed according to some reviews. Still, if your main focus is the Globe and Shakespeare’s London, this tour offers a compelling and well-rounded experience.

This tour is best suited for Shakespeare enthusiasts, history lovers, and those wanting a personalized look at London’s literary past. If you’re eager to explore the sites where Shakespeare lived and worked, and enjoy engaging storytelling, this could be a highlight of your London visit.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to five people, ensuring personalized attention and a more engaging experience.
• Inside Globe Tour: Includes an official in-house visit to the Globe Theatre, providing a deeper understanding of its history and architecture.
• Historic Locations: Visits to Southwark Cathedral, Winchester Palace ruins, and Borough Market, connecting Shakespeare’s London with its broader history.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The tour walks through lively South Bank, historically known for theatre and entertainment, offering a vivid sense of the area’s past.
• Price and Duration: Priced at $336, with a 3-hour 15-minute itinerary, offering a good balance of depth and pace for serious Shakespeare fans.
• Review Highlights: Guides are knowledgeable and the Globe Theatre experience is appreciated, though some found certain stops less engaging or rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Globe Theatre Experience

The tour’s highlight is visiting Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, a replica built to resemble the original. Your guide, whose name might come up as friendly and well-informed, will escort you to the site of the original Globe, just a couple of blocks away, and then lead you into the current in-house tour. Expect to see the stage, yard, and perhaps hear stories about Elizabethan theater—a genuine behind-the-scenes look that many visitors miss when touring solo.

Several reviewers, like Kristen, mention that the Globe tour was a major highlight: “Met my expectations, great guide, wish I had time to see a play too.” It’s worth noting that the Globe admission is included, which adds to the value, given how much more enriching an inside visit can be compared to just viewing from outside.

The Golden Hinde

Next, you’ll visit a life-size model of Sir Francis Drake’s Golden Hinde, a ship that circumnavigated the globe in 1577. While the visit is brief—around 10 minutes—it’s free to explore. It’s a fascinating visual reminder that Shakespeare’s era coincided with England’s age of exploration, and you’ll appreciate the link between Drake’s voyages and Elizabethan England’s global ambitions.

Walking Through South Bank

The tour continues in South Bank, a lively stretch of London that during Shakespeare’s time was known as a “Las Vegas” of sorts, filled with theatres, taverns, and entertainments—mostly rowdy and lively. Today, it remains vibrant, with street performers, cafes, and historic sites. Walking here gives you a sense of the area’s lively history, contrasting with the more formal City of London on the other side of the Thames.

Winchester Palace Ruins

A quick stop at Winchester Palace ruins offers a glimpse into London’s medieval past. The palace belonged to the Bishop of Winchester, who owned much of South Bank and many of its establishments, including pubs and theatres. Although only ruins remain, it’s a tangible connection to the area’s historic significance.

Southwark Cathedral

Perhaps the most meaningful stop for Shakespeare fans, Southwark Cathedral was a spiritual home for William and his brother Edmond, both of whom worshipped here. The guide will show you the beautiful Shakespeare stained-glass window and mention the cathedral’s vibrant role today, hosting concerts and community events. Spending about 45 minutes here, it’s a peaceful moment amidst the busy tour.

Borough Market

Finally, your tour concludes at Borough Market, a bustling hub that dates back to Elizabethan times. Shakespeare would have known this lively food market, which still offers everything from gourmet coffee and organic vegetables to ready-to-eat snacks. It’s a perfect place to soak in local flavor, and many travelers, like Kelly, enjoy the small group setting that allows for more personal browsing and tasting.

The Value and Experience

At $336, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a well-curated experience with inside access to the Globe, historical sites, and engaging stories. The small group size makes it particularly appealing for those who prefer a more personal, less rushed experience—something repeatedly praised in reviews.

However, some found certain parts of the tour, especially early stops at Winchester Palace or the walk through South Bank, less engaging or hurried. If your main interest is Shakespeare’s theatrical legacy, especially the Globe Theatre, you’ll find this tour provides a solid, immersive introduction.

It’s important to note that the tour is not a theatrical performance; it’s a walking exploration, so comfortable shoes and moderate physical fitness are advised. The tour starts at 9:00 am, making it a good way to begin a day full of sightseeing, especially if you plan to see a show later.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for literature buffs, history lovers, and those who want a behind-the-scenes perspective on Shakespeare’s London. If you enjoy storytelling, authentic historic sites, and a manageable group size, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially good for those who want more than just a surface-level visit and appreciate insider details about the Globe and surrounding sites.

Final Thoughts

The Shakespeare in London Private Tour offers a unique, intimate view into the Bard’s world. The combination of inside Globe Theatre visits, historical site stops, and the lively South Bank area creates a well-rounded experience for those eager to connect with London’s literary past.

While it may feel brief and at times rushed, the personal attention and access to key locations make it worthwhile, especially for serious Shakespeare fans. We loved the way guides shared stories that brought the sites alive and appreciated the inclusion of lesser-visited spots like Winchester Palace.

If your goal is to see the heart of Shakespeare’s London in a relaxed, personal setting, this tour hits the spot. Just be prepared for some pace, and consider if you’d like to combine it with a Shakespeare play or a longer visit to the Globe later on.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness and involves walking, so it’s best for those able to stand and walk for several hours. It’s suitable for adults and older children interested in Shakespeare and London history.

What does the tour include?
It includes a guide and an in-house Globe Theatre tour. The admission to the Globe is part of the package, offering a more comprehensive experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the tour ends at Borough Market, where you can enjoy a variety of options.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What’s the best time to start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, ideal for early risers or those wanting to maximize their sightseeing day.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 87 days in advance is common, ensuring you secure a spot in this popular small-group experience.

By focusing on historic sites, theatrical insights, and authentic London atmosphere, this tour offers a wonderful way to experience Shakespeare’s London. For lovers of theatre, literature, and history, it’s a chance to bring the Bard’s world to life—one step at a time.