Shakespeare's Birthplace

Widely recognised as the world’s greatest writer, poet and playwright William Shakespeare has had an astounding impact on literature. Born and raised in Stratford-upon-Avon in the 16th century, Shakespeare’s childhood is still there to this day as a museum.

Step inside the historic family home and admire items from the Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust collection. Home to multiple generations of the Shakespeare family, the house is a must-visit for fans of both literature and history.

Shakespeare was born in the house in 1557 and spent his childhood there. At the age of 18, in 1582, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, and they lived in the home with his parents. Their three children, Susanna, Judith and Hamnet were also born in the house, and when Shakespeare died in 1616, he left the property to Susanna.

After being passed down to children and relatives for centuries, the house was eventually purchased by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust in 1847 who has cared for it ever since.

Step inside the walls of the sacred building and get a glimpse into the life of the writer. See signatures of famous visitors such as John Keats, Charles Dickens and Walter Scott, as well as John Shakespeare’s glove-making workshop, and enjoy the walled garden which has been specially planted with flowers and herbs that would have been known in Shakespeare’s time.