Shakespeare's Southwark

Joining one of our knowledgeable Cathedral Guides, Southwark Cathedral invites you to commemorate the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare's death in 1616 with a fascinating, informative and revealing tour of Bankside and the Southwark Church that he and his actor friends knew so well. 

Begin by exploring the many Shakespeare links with Southwark Cathedral, known to the Bard as St Saviour's parish church. Here you will see the famous Shakespeare memorial and stained glass window and visit the ledger stone marking the burial in 1607 of William's actor brother Edmond.

From the Cathedral you will explore atmospheric Bankside, visiting the site of the original Globe Theatre for which Shakespeare wrote many of his most famous and accomplished plays. Pass the Rose, Bankside's oldest theatre, on the way to the replica Globe where Shakespeare's works have been performed for almost 10 years in an authentic open-air arena.

Return to Southwark Cathedral via some of the other riverside streets trod by Shakespeare and see the ruins of a grand medieval palace he would have known very well.

This walk will take approx 90 minutes.

There is a limit of 15 people per tour. 

Meet at Southwark Cathedral’s Welcome Desk situated in Lancelot Link at the West Doors entrance.

We highly recommend you book your places in advance although if these walks do not sell out places may be available on the actual day. 

We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes or trainers and be prepared for all weather conditions.

Please show your ticket at the Cathedral Shop to receive 10% off any purchases on the day.

FAQs

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Yes please.

What is the refund policy?

Any tickets purchased are non-refundable unless the walk is cancelled.

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

The Cathedral is a 5 minute walk away from London Bridge Mainline and Tube Station.  There are also a number of buses which pass close by stopping at London Bridge and Borough High Street. 

There is no parking available at the Cathedral.