Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall

Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall Discover how and where the world's greatest playwright, William Shakespeare, spent his school years and first experienced theatre

On 23 April 2016 the Schoolroom where William Shakespeare was educated and the Guildhall where he first experienced live theatre opened as a visitor attraction.

The story of a father and son is told at Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall – a building that was central to the lives...
18/06/2026

The story of a father and son is told at Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall – a building that was central to the lives of both.

🏛️ From the 1550s to 1570s John Shakespeare served the town in a variety of roles, including as Ale-taster, Constable, and Alderman.

🎭 It was because of his position as Bailiff (Mayor) that his son William would have his very first experiences of professional theatre; with each performance of travelling actors requiring a licence.

⚖️ Years later, John would stand before the Guildhall’s Court of Record, accused of illegal money lending and wool dealing.

All of this created a colourful backdrop for young William, who would go on to become the world’s greatest playwright.

Discover more with our award-winning Guides during your visit this Father’s Day.

19/05/2026

Ten years since the opening of this remarkable building as a visitor attraction.

A weekend of celebrations awaits for Shakespeare’s birthday. Join us as we mark the bard’s 462nd birthday. On Saturday...
24/04/2026

A weekend of celebrations awaits for Shakespeare’s birthday.

Join us as we mark the bard’s 462nd birthday.

On Saturday 25 April enjoy the spectacle of Shakespeare’s Birthday Parade making its way through Stratford-upon-Avon.

The full parade programme is available here tinyurl.com/3h9eaft5

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall opened its doors as a visitor attraction exactly ten years ago today – symbolically...
23/04/2026

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall opened its doors as a visitor attraction exactly ten years ago today – symbolically on the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death.

Over the past decade, we’ve welcomed visitors from near and far to step into the shoes of a young Shakespeare and to be inspired by the setting in which he wrote his first works.

Still a part of King Edward VI School, as it has been for centuries, the transformational restoration project that made this possible is thanks to the work and dedication of the Trustees of King Edward VI School and to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Bringing the fascinating stories of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall to life are our wonderful team and volunteers whose passion, knowledge and enthusiasm create unforgettable experiences for our visitors.

Join us in our anniversary year as we celebrate this remarkable milestone and look ahead to inspiring future generations.

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall is marking its ten year anniversary as a visitor attraction in 2026. As part of th...
17/04/2026

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall is marking its ten year anniversary as a visitor attraction in 2026. As part of the celebrations, architectural historian Dr Jonathan Foyle is joining us to explore the fascinating story of Tudor England’s lost palaces 👑

Experience this fascinating talk in the atmospheric setting of our historic Tudor building.

📅 Tuesday 21 April
⏰ 6.30pm
📍 Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, Stratford-upon-Avon
🎟️ tickets available now at: https://tinyurl.com/2kxc6pnu

More information here: https://tinyurl.com/5hbkhpjw

“I know a bank where the wild thyme blows,Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows…” Step into Shakespeare’s springtime...
07/04/2026

“I know a bank where the wild thyme blows,
Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows…”

Step into Shakespeare’s springtime world this Easter at Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall. Inspired by the flowers and imagery woven through his plays, our Violet: Shades of Shakespeare activity invites families to decorate a terracotta pot and plant your own violet seed. Take it home and enjoy the beautiful shades of purple as it grows and brightens your windowsill.

This Family Friendly activity runs until 12 April and costs £2.50 in addition to an entry ticket. Pick up your craft pack at the welcome desk. All materials will be provided.

ℹ️ https://tinyurl.com/mx282np7

Did you know that William Shakespeare mentioned Violets in his plays and poems? He wrote about their delicate beauty and...
31/03/2026

Did you know that William Shakespeare mentioned Violets in his plays and poems? He wrote about their delicate beauty and sweet scent. 💐

Join us over the Easter holidays to decorate a terracotta pot and plant your own violet seed. Take it home and enjoy the beautiful shades of purple as it grows and brightens your windowsill.

This Family Friendly activity runs until 12 April and costs £2.50 in addition to an entry ticket. Pick up your craft pack at the welcome desk. All materials will be provided.

Address

Church Street
Stratford-Upon-Avon
CV376HB

Opening Hours

Monday 11am - 5pm
Tuesday 11am - 5pm
Wednesday 11am - 5pm
Thursday 11am - 5pm
Friday 11am - 5pm
Saturday 11am - 5pm
Sunday 11am - 5pm

Telephone

+441789868262

Website

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