United Kingdom: Places that Inspired Shakespeare and his History

Be sure to check part one out first.

Shakespeare was a genius of the English language, and his legacy is still celebrated today. He was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, famously known as the birthplace of Shakespeare, but he travelled all around England to write his plays. In this blog post we will share with you some places that inspired him from across the country so you can learn more about where he lived and what he experienced while writing some of his most famous works!

Shakespeare was inspired by the city of Gloucester for his play King Lear. The story is set in the fictional kingdom of Britain, and many believe that Shakespeare based it on Gloucester which was a major port at the time. There are plenty of tourist attractions to see in Gloucester today that will give you an idea of what Shakespeare experienced while he was writing the play. The city is home to beautiful architecture and historical landmarks, such as the Gloucester Cathedral.

Another place that inspired Shakespeare was London. He spent a lot of time in the city and it’s where many of his most famous plays were written, including Macbeth, Richard III, and Romeo and Juliet. London is a city full of history and culture, so there’s plenty to see and do here. Some popular tourist attractions include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey.

You also have to make sure you check out the iconic theatre: The Globe Theatre, that still show shows through out year. I recently went to see Romeo and Juliet and it was on of the best part of theatre I’ve ever since, managed to grab the charm of Shakespeare through the language but also having a modern twist on it which touches everyone in the audience.

While also in London you should check out Hall’s Croft, the house that Shakespeare bought for his daughter and her husband.

Another special mention would be The George Inn in London this 16th century pub is the last galleried coaching inn in London and is where Shakespeare is rumoured to have enjoyed a drink or two.

Moving to his house place of Stratford-Upon Avon here you can see Shakespeare’s Birth place and family home, which has been turned into a museum. TO list a number of places you can see would be Macbeth Trail, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Mary Arden’s Farm.

If you can make sure you check out the Royal Shakespeare Theatre while your in the area, it’s a must for any theatre lover. There is also Shakespeare Country Park, which is a great place to have a picnic and enjoy the outdoors.

There are also other places in the UK that have Shakespearean ties, such as Dover Castle which was used for scenes from King John and The Two Gentleman of Verona. So if you’re looking to explore more of Shakespeare’s history, be sure to check out some of these places in the UK!

Moving a little more north we have the Kenileworth Castle which is where Richard III was killed, discovered in 2012 this castle has now been turned into a tourist attraction.

Last but not least we have the Edinburgh Castle which is said to be haunted by the ghost of Lady Macbeth so if you’re looking for some thrill while being inspired by Shakespeare’s work then this is the place for you!

Shakespeare is at the rout of British culture and is considered to some to be the best writer to have ever lived, and I am blessed to live in a country that can still show off his work, and inspiration five hundred years later.

So there you have it, a few places in the UK that are sure to inspire you while learning more about Shakespeare and his works! Be sure to check them out on your next trip here.