Stratford: Shakespeare’s Schoolroom Entry & Tudor Lesson Tour

Summary

Walk in young Shakespeare’s footsteps at his old schoolroom

You’ll sit at Shakespeare’s old school desk in Stratford-upon-Avon, join a playful Tudor lesson with real quill and ink, explore the medieval Guildhall where his father worked, and hear stories from a local guide who brings it all to life. Expect laughter, odd facts, and moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous just sitting at an old wooden desk, but there I was—inside Shakespeare’s Schoolroom in Stratford-upon-Avon, hands folded like a kid again. The place smells faintly of chalk and something older, maybe the centuries of ink and dust. Our guide (I think her name was Mrs. Ellis?) had this way of telling stories that made it easy to picture little Will fidgeting here, probably bored out of his mind during Latin drills. She laughed when I tried copying some Latin phrases—let’s just say my pronunciation was tragic.

We wandered through the Guildhall next, which dates back to 1420—hard to wrap your head around that many years stacked up. There are these faded wall paintings you can almost miss if you’re not looking close; Mrs. Ellis pointed them out and told us how Shakespeare’s dad worked right here as Bailiff. You could almost hear the echo of shoes on those old floorboards (or maybe that was just another group coming up behind us). The air felt cool inside, even though it was muggy outside.

The best bit for me? The Tudor lesson. They handed out quills and ink—I got more on my sleeve than the paper—and we all had to stand up straight while “Master” read out our names. It was silly but fun, especially when some kids in our group tried on those ruffled collars for photos. I still think about how strange it is to be somewhere so ordinary-looking but know it shaped someone who changed the world with words. Anyway, I left with ink-stained fingers and a grin.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Shakespeare's Schoolroom and Guildhall

• Explore Shakespeare's Schoolroom building
• Watch films about Shakespeare's school days
• Tour Stratford-upon-Avon's medieval Guildhall
• See the Council Chamber and Bailiff's room
• Witness where Shakespeare saw early performances
• Participate in a Tudor lesson and Latin practice
• Dress up in Tudor-style for a selfie
• Play Tudor games and use quill and ink
• View medieval wall paintings

Top questions

Is entry to Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall included?

Yes, your ticket includes entry to both the Schoolroom and Guildhall.

Do tours include a Tudor lesson?

Yes, every visit includes participation in a Tudor-style lesson.

Are guides available during the tour?

A knowledgeable local guide is included with your ticket.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is the building wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible via elevator.

Are there interactive activities for visitors?

You can try writing with quill and ink, dress up in Tudor clothes, and play games.

How old is the Guildhall building?

The Guildhall dates back to 1420.

Will I learn about Shakespeare's family here?

Yes, guides share stories about Shakespeare's family involvement with the Guildhall.

What’s included

Your day includes entry tickets for both Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall in Stratford-upon-Avon, a guided walk through the historic rooms with plenty of stories from your local guide, plus an interactive Tudor lesson where you’ll get hands-on with quill and ink before heading off into town again.