Royal Shakespeare Theatre Guide & Reviews (2026)

Time Needed

45 - 90 minutes (longer with tour)

Reopened

2010

Best For

Shakespeare & Theatre Lovers

Address & Navigation

Right on the River Avon in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. For sat nav, use CV37 6BB.

Early Days

The original Shakespeare Memorial Theatre opened in 1879. A devastating fire in 1926 destroyed much of it, leading to the iconic 1932 rebuild.

Major Transformation

Between 2007 and 2010 the theatre underwent a £112 million transformation, creating the thrust stage that brings audiences closer to the action than ever before.

RSC Legacy

Today it is the flagship home of the Royal Shakespeare Company, staging world-class productions that continue the tradition started over a century ago.

Typical Admission Rates

Public areas of the building are free to explore. Guided tours and performances require tickets, which can be booked online or by phone.

• Public areas & riverside: FREE
• Guided Theatre Tour (adult): £13.50
• Performance tickets: from £10.00

Family Tickets

RSC family tickets and under-18 concessions make performances more affordable for groups.

RSC Membership

Members enjoy priority booking, discounts on tickets and tours, plus invitations to special events.

Local Resident Offers

Residents of Stratford District often qualify for special discounted rates on selected performances.

WHO WILL LOVE IT

• Shakespeare Fans: The ultimate pilgrimage site with performances that honour the Bard.
• Theatre Enthusiasts: The thrust stage design creates an intimacy you will not find in most venues.
• History Buffs: The building itself tells the story of over 140 years of theatre in Stratford.

WHO MIGHT HATE IT

• Those Seeking Thrills: This is cultured, thoughtful theatre rather than high-octane entertainment.
• Anyone in a Rush: The experience is best savoured slowly, especially if catching a full performance.

Family Shows

The RSC stages brilliant family-friendly productions and relaxed performances throughout the year.

Guided Tours

Kids love the backstage stories and seeing costumes up close on the theatre tours.

Riverside Fun

After exploring inside, feed the swans or picnic on the lawns beside the Avon - perfect for little legs.

🎤 The Auditorium

The intimate thrust stage puts you right in the heart of the action - no bad seats in the house.

🗼 The Tower

Climb for panoramic views over Stratford, the Avon and the surrounding countryside (small additional charge).

☕ Riverside Terrace

Grab a coffee and watch the river life - one of the most peaceful spots in town.

🟢 Early Mornings

Peaceful Start. Arrive at opening for a quiet wander before the tour groups arrive.

🔴 Pre-Show Rush

Busy Energy. One hour before evening performances the foyer fills with excited theatregoers.

🟡 Late Afternoons

Gentle Pace. After 3pm the public areas quieten, perfect for relaxed exploration.

📖 Shakespeare's Birthplace

🚶 10 mins
(Pleasant walk through the town centre)

⛪ Holy Trinity Church

🚶 15 mins
(Along the river path past the theatre)

🌳 Bancroft Gardens

🚶 2 mins
(Literally next door along the riverside)

Town Centre

Everything within easy walking distance. Perfect if you want to combine theatre with all the Shakespeare sites.

Riverside

Quiet and scenic with direct paths to the theatre. Many boutique hotels overlook the Avon.

Old Town

Historic streets just minutes from the theatre and Birthplace. Great for a truly immersive stay.

Nearest Car Parks (Postcodes)

The theatre has no on-site public parking but several excellent options are within a short walk:

• Bridgeway Multi-Storey Car Park: CV37 6YX - Recommended for RSC visits, just a 5-minute walk.
• Rother Street Car Park: CV37 6JP - Another convenient central option.
• Church Street Car Park: CV37 6HB - Good for longer stays and evenings.

Blue Badge parking is available on Waterside and in the nearby car parks - check signs on arrival.