The restoration of this fantastic medieval building will give visitors for the first time ever the chance to discover how and where the world’s greatest playwright, William Shakespeare, spent his school years and first experienced theatre.

Located in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, a five-minute walk from Shakespeare’s place of birth, Stratford’s Guildhall was completed in 1420, with the school moving to the upper floor of the building in the mid-1560s. It was attended by Shakespeare during the following decade and is where, as the town’s only theatre space at that time, he would have encountered his first theatrical performances.

[quote=Michael Wood, historian]“It is nothing less than a memory room for the town and the nation.”[/quote]

The opening of the Schoolroom and Guildhall will mean that visitors to Stratford will be able to enjoy an experience that takes them from Shakespeare’s place of birth, where he grew up and had his own family (Shakespeare Birthplace Trust) to his school (King Edward VI School), the church where he was baptised, worshipped and is buried (Holy Trinity Church) and then into the world that celebrates the legacy of his work (Royal Shakespeare Company).

Historian and broadcaster Michael Wood said: “The opening of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall will provide new insight into Shakespeare’s world. There are few more evocative buildings in Britain than this simple timber-framed one. It is nothing less than a memory room for the town and the nation.”

Vanessa Harbar, Head of HLF West Midlands, said: “We are thrilled that, thanks to National Lottery players, we are able to support this wonderful project to be part of Shakespeare's 400th anniversary commemorations. It is wonderful that people and local students will have the chance to explore where Shakespeare spent his formative years, and get under the skin of the world’s greatest playwright.”

Following its opening to the public, the Schoolroom will continue to be used for teaching each morning by King Edward VI School as it has done for centuries, maintaining its role as a place of learning and inspiration.