With 154 sonnets, 38 plays and 2 narratives to his name, William Shakespeare will forever be known around the world for his incredible contributions to the literary and theatrical worlds.

In Stratford-upon-Avon memories of the world’s greatest playwright are also ever present in historic buildings connected to him, from the place he was born to the last house he lived in.

Join us on a journey through Shakespeare’s life as told by the places left behind.

The very beginning

William Shakespeare was born in the second largest house on Henley Street to parents John and Mary. Visitors to the birthplace today can visit bedrooms as they would have been in Shakespearian times, a glovers workshop and performances in the courtyard. It is looked after by Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust which has received several HLF grants.

School and theatre

Shakespeare was taught in the town’s Guildhall, now part of King Edward VI Grammar School. As the town’s first theatre this is also where he would have seen his first theatrical performances. A £1.4m restoration scheme will secure the future of the building and enable schoolchildren to sit and learn where Shakespeare did.

Last home

Described in Shakespeare’s will as ‘the house wherein I dwell’, New Place was the Bard’s final home. Despite long being demolished, the site has attracted literary pilgrims for centuries. Now, work has started to restore the house and Great Garden and uncover heritage currently hidden underground and in archives.

A legacy left behind

Shakespeare’s descendants are also remembered in Stratford-upon-Avon. Hall’s Croft, where his daughter Susanna lived is currently home to an exhibition telling the story of the town during the First World War and the importance of the links to Shakespeare.

Nash’s Place, once home to Shakespeare’s granddaughter is being conserved and equipped with an exhibition space as part of the transformation of New Place, which is just next door.