Best Time to Visit Shakespeare’s Globe

Discover the best seasons, days, and times to experience the Globe with fewer crowds and better weather.

Shakespeare's Globe is a popular attraction, and performances almost always sell out. Choosing the right time to visit can significantly enhance your experience, whether you're looking for a quieter tour or the unique atmosphere of an evening show. Pair this advice with our opening hours page for detailed schedules.

Choosing Your Moment

By Season

Best for Performances (May to October): The main summer season offers the full, open-air Globe experience. July and August are the busiest months. For pleasant weather and slightly smaller crowds, consider May, June, or September.

Best for Tours (November to April): The off-season is ideal for guided tours. With no performances in the main theatre, tour availability is better and the site is generally less crowded.

By Day of the Week

Performances are popular every day, but weekday matinees (Tuesday to Friday) can sometimes be slightly less crowded than weekend shows. For tours, weekdays are always quieter than weekends.

By Time of Day

Tours: The first tour of the day is often the quietest. Midday tours tend to be the busiest.

Performances: Afternoon matinees offer the authentic daylight experience, as plays were originally performed. Evening performances have a magical atmosphere as the sun sets and the stage lights come up, finishing with a walk across the Millennium Bridge with St Paul's lit up.

The Magic of an Evening Performance

While daytime shows are historically authentic, many visitors find evening performances to be the most atmospheric. A show in late summer or early autumn will begin in daylight and end under the stars. The transition from day to night within the "wooden O" is a unique experience.

After the show, a walk along the beautifully lit South Bank or across the Millennium Bridge towards St. Paul's Cathedral is a perfect end to a London evening. It's a memorable experience that combines world-class theatre with stunning city views.

Best Time to Visit FAQ

Tips for planning your visit.

When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets for the summer season usually go on sale several months in advance, often in late winter or early spring. It is best to book as early as possible, as popular shows and dates sell out quickly.
Is there a quiet day to see a play?
No, performances are almost always sold out. Your best bet for a slightly less crowded experience is a weekday matinee early or late in the season.
Should I choose a matinee or evening show?
It's a matter of preference. Matinees offer the authentic daylight experience. Evenings offer a magical atmosphere as day turns to night. If your visit is between May and mid-August, an evening show will start in daylight and finish in darkness, giving you the best of both worlds.
What if the weather is bad?
Performances and tours go ahead in all weather. The galleries are covered, but the yard is not. Remember that umbrellas are not allowed. Check our rules page for more information.
Book Tickets & Tours