London: Shakespeare's Globe

Shakespeare's Globe is a great place to experience British culture both past and present. Here's what you need to know -

Step 1: What is it?

Shakespeare's Globe is a faithful reconstruction of the original 16th century Globe theatre which was co-owned and run by Shakespeare and a consortium of actors called The Lord Chamberlain's Men. Every known detail has been carefully replicated - from size and layout to the materials used to build and decorate it, to its thatched roof - the first allowed in London since the Great Fire of 1666.

Watching a play at the new Globe transports you back to Shakespeare's time. You can stand in the open air pit, or sit in the stalls and imagine yourself as one of over a thousand rowdy audience members, seeing one of the first performances of Hamlet, King Lear, Macbeth or Othello.

Step 2: History

The old theatre opened in 1599 and burnt down in 1613 during a performance of Henry VIII when a cannon ball fired from the stage set fire to the thatched roof. It was rebuilt but shut down by the Puritans in 1642.

The new Shakespeare Globe opened in 1997. It took over 20 years to raise the necessary funds, and 10 years to build.

Step 3: What's on?

The Shakepseare Globe stages plays from May to October. The programme includes the plays of Shakespeare and his contemporaries, and also the work of modern playwrights. It's a good idea to book ahead, but you can usually get a standing space in the yard if you just turn up.

Educational events and tours run all year round. Underneath the theatre there is an exhibition on Shakespeare's London, Elizabethan theatre and the building of the new Globe which is also open all year.

Step 4: Where is it?

The Shakespeare Globe Theatre is on the south bank of the River Thames between Blackfriars and Southwark Bridges, next door to the Tate Modern. It's a five minute walk from Blackfriars tube station.

Step 5: Further information

To find out more and to book tickets, go to www.shakespeares-globe.org or phone 0207 902 1400.