Shakespeare's Birthplace
Where the story began
Visit the house where the world’s most famous playwright was born and grew up.
Shakespeare's Birthplace has been welcoming visitors for over 250 years. This is the house where William Shakespeare was born, grew up and played. He ate meals in the hall and he slept and dreamt in these rooms. Shakespeare also spent the first five years of married life in this house with his new wife, Anne Hathaway.
See how his father, John, earned his living as a glove maker and explore The Shakespeare Exhibition, before entering the house and it's outstanding gardens.
For millions of Shakespeare enthusiasts worldwide, this house is a shrine. Here you will discover the world that shaped the man and find out what other famous writers thought when they visited here. Follow in the footsteps of not only Shakespeare, but other well-known visitors such as Charles Dickens, John Keats, Walter Scott and Thomas Hardy.
Shakespeare's Birthplace is a fascinating house that offers a tantalising glimpse into Shakespeare's early world. It's a special place that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.
- Explore his life story at the fascinating Famous Beyond Words exhibition
- Journey back in time with captivating tales by our costumed guides
- Enjoy live performances with Shakespeare Aloud!, our resident acting troupe
- See treasures from the archives
Gift shop and cafe
Tickets, Directions and Opening Times
Why not buy a Shakespeare Five House Pass for entry to Shakespeare's Birthplace and all the other Shakespeare Family Homes, which now includes a visit to Shakespeare's grave. You can save between £7.00-£29.50 compared to a Shakespeare Birthplace Pass plus tickets to Anne Hathaway's Cottage & Gardens and Mary Arden's Farm.
5 House Pass Prices:
Adult: £26.25 Child: £17.00 Concession: £24.75 Family: £69.50
Shakespeare's Birthplace is situated on Henley Street in the town centre of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Dogs are welcome in the gardens at Shakespeare's Birthplace, provided they are accompanied and on a lead.
Contact information and location
Opening Times
Autumn 201629 Aug - 30 Oct
9am – 5pm
Winter 2016 / 2017
31 Oct - 19 Mar
10am – 4pm
Admission
5 HOUSE PASS
Adult: £26.25
Child: £17.00
Concession: £24.75
Family: £69.50
Events at this venue
Poetry Fest - 2018
From Sat 23rd Jun
The 65th Stratford-upon-Avon Poetry Festival celebrates the best local and international talent. From open mics and hands-on workshops to performances from world renowned artists.
Find out more
'Truth hath a quiet breast' Exhibition
From Sat 23rd Jun
Escape the hustle and bustle of town and visit the lovely oasis of our cafe at Hall's Croft where you can enjoy a coffee and cake or a light lunch whilst admiring a new exhibition by Eve Parnell. Find out more
'Hear the Ambassadors'
From Sat 23rd Jun
Discover the little known history of Henry Wotton, ambassador to James I Find out more
Shakespeare's Ale
From Sat 14th Jul
Sample hand crafted ales from Tunnel Brewery. Part of our After Hours programme. Find out more