Shakespeare’s Birthplace is a beautiful half-timbered 16th century house that was the childhood home of playwright and author, William Shakespeare. Family descendants then remained in the house until the middle of the 19th Century. Today, the house is a museum dedicated to the writer’s life and work. The house is situated in the delightful market town of Stratford-upon-Avon, around 48 kilometres south from Birmingham city centre.At the Life, Love and Legacy exhibit, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of the writer by following his life story from childhood beginnings in Stratford-upon-Avon to his later life which was spent in London. There is a selection of informative displays and original artefacts exploring what inspired him. There is an original copy of the First Folio published in 1623, which contains 36 of the writer’s plays. In the Treasure Exhibition, there are more points of interest including the famous Cobbe Portrait believed to be the only portrait of the writer completed whilst he was alive. Another feature of note is the Glover’s workshop which is a replica of the workshop in which the writer’s father John Shakespeare used to practise his trade of glove making. From there, head outside into the grounds. These beautifully-kept gardens host regular performances by Shakespeare Aloud!, a theatre company which performs scenes from some of the writer’s plays. There are performances on most days, although it’s best to check on the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust website for exact details.Shakespeare’s Birthplace takes approximately 45-minutes to reach by car from Birmingham city centre. A direct, regular train service runs from Snow Hill and Moor Street stations in Birmingham city centre to Stratford-upon-Avon station from where the house is a ten minute walk away. You should give yourself a whole day to enjoy the best that this pretty market town on the banks of the River Avon has to offer. If you are driving, paid car parking is available nearby. The museum is open daily except for major public holidays and there are free talks about the writer’s life and works in the museum café. Opening hours and a schedule of events can be found online.
Shakespeare's Birthplace Tours and Activities
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Popular places to visit
Guild Chapel
Find out about the history of Stratford-upon-Avon when you spend time at Guild Chapel. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed theatre scene in this relaxing area.
Town Hall Stratford upon Avon
You can learn about the history of Stratford-upon-Avon with a visit to Town Hall Stratford upon Avon. Discover the lively bars and entertainment choices in this family-friendly area.
The Gower Memorial
Take the family on an outing to The Gower Memorial during your trip to Stratford-upon-Avon. Discover the area's entertainment choices or seek out its local tours.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
The home of the renowned British acting company devoted to William Shakespeare has restaurants, bars, guided tours and two main theaters.
The Jester
Learn about the local history of Stratford-upon-Avon when you take a trip to The Jester. Discover the top-notch restaurants and entertainment choices in this family-friendly area.
American Fountain
Learn about the local history of Stratford-upon-Avon when you take a trip to American Fountain. Discover the entertainment choices in this relaxing area or seek out the local tours.